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An ITP Business Publication November Vol.8 Issue 11 JUMEIRAH STAYS TRUE TO ITS PHILOSOPHY Brand power ST. REGIS AND BENTLEY TEAM UP FOR NEW SUITE Big question WHY THE BIG 5 IS RELEVANT FOR INTERIOR DESIGN 1FSGFDU kU FIT OUT CONTRACTORS YOU SHOULD KNOW Suitably different

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Page 1: Commercial Interior Design2

An ITP Business Publication November Vol.8 Issue 11

JUMEIRAH STAYS TRUE TO ITS PHILOSOPHY

Brand powerST. REGIS AND BENTLEY TEAM UP FOR NEW SUITE

Big questionWHY THE BIG 5 IS RELEVANT FOR INTERIOR DESIGN

FIT OUT CONTRACTORS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Suitably different

Page 2: Commercial Interior Design2

Great workspaces for great work places.Come and experience the new unique office solutions just for you at your nearest Alshaya Office showroom.

Office furniture I Partitions I Workstations I Conference I Seating I Storage units I Auditorium seating I School furniture I Lab furniture

UAE: +971 4 6074200 | Kuwait: + 965 22242780 | Qatar: +974 44569229KSA (Riyadh): +966 1 2570920 | KSA (Jeddah): +966 2 2611914 | KSA (Dammam): +966 3 8984889

Page 3: Commercial Interior Design2

ÆWO�«— qLŽ s�U�_ WFz«—  UŠU��

+974 44569229 ∫dD� | +965 22242780 ∫X¹uJ�« | +971 4 6074200 ∫ «—U�ù«+966 3 8984889 ∫©ÂU�b�«® W¹œuF��« | +966 2 2611914 ∫©…bł® W¹œuF��« | +966 1 2570920 ∫©÷U¹d�«® W¹œuF��«

VðUJ*« s� WK�UJ²�Ë …b¹d� ÎôuKŠ «uHA²«Ë UM{—UF� …—U¹eÐ «uKCHðÆ…b¹b'« UM²KOJAð s� rJðUłUO²Š« lOLł VÝUMð w²�«

 «d³²��  «eON& I ”—«b�  «eON& I  «d{U×� ·džË Èd³�  UŽU� wÝ«d� I s¹e�ð  «bŠË I  «d9R�Ë  UŽUL²ł« ·dž YOŁQð I WO³²J� q�«u I w³²J� ÀUŁ√

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CONTENTS

www.designmena.com6 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

77

96

11 DESIGN UPDATEA round up of the latest design news in the MENA region and abroad, including the new Costa Coffee concept store in Dubai

INDUSTRY SPEAKLEDs spark debate about influences in the retail market

Q&AGeoff van Wijk, partner at Furnish Hospitality, talks about the benefits of Innspec.com

INTERVIEWLaura Bielecki from GAJ relives her roller-coaster journey from Canada to Dubai

CASE STUDYJumeirah Creekside Hotel, The Total Office and The St. Regis Bentley Suite in focus

INTERVIEWKhurshid Vakil discusses how important brand identity is in today’s challenging marketplace

SHOW STOPPERS30 years on and The Big 5 is stil continuining to be a hit with industry players

DESIGN TRENDSDomotex 2012 spots new trends in the world of flooring

SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOWAn in-depth look at specialist fit out suppliers

OPINIONSarka Olivova, senior interior designer, Preciosa expresses her passion and opinions on how best to design light

34

11 22 24

58

November 2012VOLUME 8 ISSUE 11

22

24

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58

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… W H E R E T H E S T Y L I S H , I N N O VAT I V E D E S I G N

I S B O R N O U T O F T H E C R A F T S M A N S H I P

O F W H O L E G E N E R AT I O N S O F G L A S S M A K E R S

Hilton Hotel Bursa | Turkey, 2012

PRECIOSA GULF, FZCOJAFZA View LB 19Offi ce 2407 Jebel Ali Free ZoneP. O. Box 18185Dubai, United Arab Emirates

P + 971 – 4 – 884 8234, Ext. 202F + 971 – 4 – 884 8235M + 971 – 50 – 551 9086E [email protected]

www.preciosalighting.com

Page 10: Commercial Interior Design2

COMMENT

www.designmena.com8 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

Receive Commercial Interior Designevery month. To subscribe, pleasevisit: www.itp.com/subscriptions

Registered at Dubai Media CityPO Box 500024, Dubai, UAETel: 00 971 4 444 3000 Fax: 00 971 4 444 3030Web: www.itp.comOffices in Dubai & London

Walid AkawiNeil Davies

Karam Awad Matthew Southwell

David Ingham

Stuart Matthews Mario Hajiloizis

Tel: +971 4 444 3148 email: [email protected] Aidan Imanova

Tel: +971 4 444 3497 email: [email protected]

Yazan RahmanTel: +971 4 444 3351 email: [email protected]

Teri ClarkeTel: +971 4 444 3679 email: [email protected]

Rabih NaderiTel: +966 1 2068697 email: [email protected]

Daniel Prescott Simon Cobon

Jovana ObradovicIsidora Bojovic, Efraim Evidor

Lester Ali, George Dipin, Juliet Dunne, Murrindie Frew, Verko Ignjatovic, Shruti Jagdeesh, Mosh Lafuente, Ruel Pableo, Rajesh Raghav

Kyle Smith Matthew Grant

Nelly PereiraPatrick Littlejohn

Karima Ashwell Nada Al Alami

Gaurav Gulati

Daniel Fewtrell Michelle Meyrick

Peter Conmy Mohammed Affan

Meghna Rao

Andrew Neil Robert Serafin

Toby Jay Spencer-DaviesK M Jamieson, Mike Bayman,

Walid Akawi, Neil Davies, Rob Corder, Mary Serafin

Circulation Customer Service Tel: +971 4 444 3000Certain images in this issue are available for purchase.Please contact [email protected] for further details or visit www.itpimages.com

Printed by Atlas Printing Press L.L.C. Dubai

Subscribe online at www.itp.com/subscriptions

Audited by: BPA WorldwideAverage Qualified Circulation7,097 (January – June 2012)

The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstances.

The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review.

Magus Designs

lobby design

at Jumeirah

Creekside Hotel

Published by and © 2012 ITP Business Publishing, a division of the ITP Publishing Group Ltd. Registered in the B.V.I. under Company number 1402846.

I think it’s safe to say that exhibition season is well and truly in full swing.

With many of us still trying to recapture our breath from INDEX and believing, ever so

we’ve been given a stark reminder to think again!Being able to bring together countless relevant

individuals and organisations under one roof at the same time is the magic behind such events.

Many of you speak about how great they are to build and enhance relationships and use them as a platform to introduce and launch your various products and talents.

Amongst the most notable events to capture our attention since September’s ‘main event’ include Light Middle East and, where most probably many of you are reading this now, The Big 5 International Building & Construction Show.

I am sure some of you, upon reading the latter event, are asking how such an exhibition, which is heavily geared towards the construction industry, is relevant for you? Well we have answered exactly that question within our Show Stoppers section so please read on and enjoy the issue which also includes all your familiar favourites and more.

Impressive displays

MARIO HAJILOIZIS, [email protected]

Page 11: Commercial Interior Design2

Geberit concealed cisterns

Safely hidden behind the wall, with a Geberit concealed cistern only the actuator plate is visible. Geberit‘s in

formance and with a wide range of design solutions give you the aesthetic freedom to create the bathroom you have always wanted.

Hidden

vation

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DESIGN UPDATE

www.designmena.com Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 11

COSTA COFFEE LAUNCHED ITS FIRST METROPOLITAN STORE IN DUBAI WITH A FRESH LOOK

Some like it hot

UAE: Dubai was the location for Cos-

in 1999 and over a decade later,

Located in the residential area of

offers a modern ambience which

“It all started in London where -

suburban stores which had a more

in Dubai seem to want the latest

-

-

to maintain that with the addition

“We’ve built in some different

-

Renato Buhain, senior interior -

natural: “We used distressed oak

-other café, which is different to the

make that work with more furniture

“This is the latest version of

Page 14: Commercial Interior Design2

DESIGN UPDATE

www.designmena.com12 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

DUPONT CORIAN IS EXPANDING ITS PRODUCTS THROUGHOUT THE MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA THROUGH A VARIETY OF INTERESTING PROJECTS

Smoothly carved

that, according to management,

in the world which encloses a

Galeries Lafayette, one of only the

worldwide.“Galeries Lafayette was

-

only along its entrances, making the store an almost freestanding

in-store façade. In fact, the façade

having ‘the largest in-store façade

and 21st

dome of the original store on the

-

-

and entices visitors to stay in

their living room.”

Morocco: 2

-

--

entertainment, and is designed to

its elements.

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DESIGN UPDATE

www.designmena.com14 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

UAE: Petit Palais or ‘little palace’, a new interior design and furniture

doors in Dubai. The concept is the brainchild of Emirati entrepreneur, Meera Mohamed Al Bowardi who is the venue’s founder.

Located in the heart of Jumeirah, Petit Palais, has been designed to

hand-crafted European furniture.“Petit Palais opened its doors

commented Al Bowardi.

visualise their homes or palaces.

guests can witness vibrant colours and craftsmanship. The candela-bras, which are made out of bronze

shades, are designed to add height to an entrance or majlis. Sofas come in different shapes and sizes and some are gilded with gold. Bronze pieces, ranging from vases,

in different colours. Furthermore, the three-tier stands at Petit Palais are tailored for fruits and desserts

piece on dining or coffee tables.

Wallpapers from brands such as De

available as are a wide selection

different materials and can be cus-tomised. Gilded with gold, console

“The store has been decorated with famous brands and museum reproductions in the European clas-

different areas. We have created the dining room, bedrooms and living

materials. Each room has been

detail. We want to show our clients

have an entire room or their entire

Al Bowardi spent time in Paris, Geneva and also completed an

Angeles before deciding to start her own business.

-cause clients here appreciate high

be decorated in opulence, richness

MEERA MOHAMED AL BOWARDI HAS RETURNED HOME TO OFFER THIS NEW CONCEPT STORE

Little palace opens its doors

Page 17: Commercial Interior Design2

The World’s Finest Water Feature

The Harmonic Cascade®

Waterfall

Custom Designed • Precision Crafted • Available Worldwide

Exclusively from Harmonic Environments®

Page 18: Commercial Interior Design2

DESIGN UPDATE

www.designmena.com16 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

ICONIC NIGHTSPOT, 360 BAR, LOUNGE AND CLUB IS NOW OPEN WITH A FRESH FACE

A 360 turn

UAE: After closing its doors for the summer as the venue is known to do, the 360 bar, lounge and club has again opened its gates to the anticipating public, complete with a newly refurbished design by Dubai-based interior design rm, Broadway Interiors.

Sitting on the tips of the shore, the location is surrounded by water with impressive views of the city and the Burj Al Arab landmark. 360 is one of the oldest nightlife venues in Dubai, known for its signature location and set up that is somehow distinct from other similar spaces in the city. So, what was the entire purpose of the revamp?

“The new 360 has two oors, both indoors and outdoors which means it can be open to the

public throughout the year even during the summer months,” said Peter Avram, director of F&B, Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

“The availability of the club all-year round and its enhancements is keeping it in line with the brand promise which always empha-sised on providing an iconic night-spot in the city,” he added.

360’s new look includes a new contemporary colour scheme, with new seating and nishes as well as coloured lights.

“There are indoor and outdoor bar facilities with enhancements including an air-conditioned indoor lounge with increased seating capacities, two new staircases, new bars and toilet facilities on the upper oor,” said Avram, further pointing out that

the essence of the previous con-cept has been retained and that the feedback from their guests was a vital aspect to always keep in mind.

“The new design and enhance-ments were really inspired by our guests’ experience and feedback,” he continued. “We listened intently to our guests in order to pave the way for the new 360 design.”

Lighting is also an element within this new concept and was thoroughly thought out and con-sidered by the designers.

“Throughout the design we introduced eco-ef cient energy saving lighting. This provides full exibility to transform from a muted colour palette of a lounge bar to a highly coloured fast

moving night club environment,” Avram described.

“As with any lighting solu-tion, when attempting to create ambiance, it is not simply about the content used but also the stra-tegic placement as well.”

Avram explained the im-portance of keeping the new materials in the bar as robust as possible due to its proximity to the sea, enabling the ability to withstand the climatic conditions. In addition to that, the choice of materials was also in uenced to tease the eye and compliment the colour scheme.

“The ground oor is a mono-lithic nish which is organic in its design, made from a combination of different resinous products,” Avram concluded.

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DESIGN UPDATE

www.designmena.com18 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

DESIGNER KARIM RASHID CREATES A LAMP THAT FUSES MUSICAL INSPIRATION INTO SHAPES

Fear of the dark

When music is the root of inspira-tion, it isn’t surprising to see the result taking on the shape of an in-strument. The Na r pendant lamp is the creation of Cairo-born designer, Karim Rashid and Italian lighting company, Axo Light.

“Na r is imagination, pure and simple,” said Rashid. “I started to do the rst sketches, thinking of light as a complement to sound. For 20 years I have been fascinated with the idea of at surfaces which can transform and create uid shapes.”

The name ‘Na r’ is attributed to a North American trumpet (the reason for its trumpet-like appearance) which is used to obtain distinctly shrill sounds. It was chosen by both parties, a tribute to the North African roots of the designer, explained Lo-renzo Traunt, art director, Axo Light,

The lighting xture can also be ar-ranged into different compositions, either singly or in groups of three. Made from white plastic injection material, Na r is a sculpture piece as well as a lamp.

“What I wanted was a lamp which is also a sculpture piece, lovely even when the lights are off,” said Rashid.

Additionally, he described the lamp as a functional sculpture that is dynamic with uid shapes that become the expression of light itself. They are intentionally designed to become a ‘family’ of lamps that could be grouped to create a surreal panorama effect.

“A lamp as an object can repre-sent a symbolic extension of the function. Over the last 10 years, no household element has changed so radically as lighting: the shapes

can be purely expressed as design, while light sources are more ef cient and exible than in the past.”

The type of lighting to use for the illumination of Na r stirred a debate: a battle between halogen and LED.

Describing the process of the illumination of Na r as a light that is concentrated downwards, Traunt ex-plained that it is a light that gathers in around itself and does not diffuse to other parts of the space. “We decided to choose the light source which looks to the future,” clarifying their choice to use LED spotlights. “Apparently it’s more expensive but the life of these spotlights is over 35,000 hours and therefore the initial outlay is soon recovered.”

Rashid added: “When it comes to lighting, the new LED and OLED

technology has enabled designers to expand their ideas on shapes. We are no longer subject to the limita-tions of halogen lamps and so they can take on new shapes, completely different from those from the past.”

“I nd this extremely exciting as I can now work solely on inspiration,” he said.

Inspiration comes to Rashid when he travels around the globe as they have given him a clearer under-standing of hotel lighting.

“It’s surprising, but it would appear that many hotels think of lighting as a secondary requirment and very often the lighting is inad-equate. I travel for most of the year so I spend a lot of time in hotels, thinking about these environments and how I can change or improve them,” Rashid concluded.

Page 21: Commercial Interior Design2

Score

LEEDCertified

LEEDSilver

LEEDPlatinum

Certification Levels

MIN MAX

Page 22: Commercial Interior Design2

DESIGN UPDATE

www.designmena.com20 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

WINNERS OF THE OFFICE INTERIOR DESIGN OF THE YEAR AWARD, THE INTERIOR’S GROUP HAS REVEALED PLANS TO EXPAND

A perfect fit

UAE: Celebrating its recent win at the 2012 Commercial Interior Design Awards, in collaboration with archi-

The Interiors Group has once again successfully completed the second

-quarters from Beirut to Abu Dhabi

Working with BDP, The Interiors

The reception area has been

lit glass, adding colour and comple-

The dominant material used for the

doors and walnut furniture to con-

Natural lighting is another ele-ment that has been manipulated in order to maximise it throughout the

used to create the illusion of height

Andrew Black, CEO, The Interiors Group added: “We are currently

The Interiors Group has been growing in the region since its entry into Abu Dhabi three years ago with

2

are part of Mubadallah; a massive development next to Sowwah

“What we did, two and a half

their headquarters which allowed

actual Cleveland Clinic facility was

three months of being in Abu Dhabi

The Interiors Group have also

Abu Dhabi including the contract win with consultants, Accencture

been targeting expansion into Oman, which has now become an

General Electric, a 560m2

“Through my local partner in Abu Dhabi, there are strong family con-nections in Oman that are pushing us to succeed there with a lot of introductions coming through so it’s a very positive and busy period

For The Interiors Group, design-

continue to remain an important aspect of the company’s long-term

“Establishing a business here is

our local partner is a 25 year com-mitment and everything that we’re

The intention is to expand in the

“We are also about to open

formally established by the end of December this year, in Doha,

Page 23: Commercial Interior Design2

E-mail: [email protected], Web: www.almazrouicas.com

The KNX Compact room controller with display combines the functions of a temperature controller and the JUNG

push-button sensors. With this small device you control temperature, illumination and blinds conveniently via its

large buttons. The clearly arranged display indicates the operation mode, temperature and the actual time.

Compact Performanceontroller with display combines the functions of a temperature

this small device you control temperature, illumination and b

arranged display indicates the operation mode, temperature a

ALBRECHT JUNG GMBH & CO. KG | P.O. Box 1320 | D-58569 Schalksmühle | Germany

United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi:

P.O. Box 36223, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.

Phone: +971- 2 448 1846

Fax: +971- 2 448 1845

United Arab Emirates Dubai – Garhoud:

P.O.Box 77391, Dubai, U.A.E

Phone: +971- 4 282 6070

Fax: +971- 4 286 5626

United Arab Emirates Al Ain:

P.O. Box 68566, Al Ain – UAE

Phone: +971 3 764 6648

Fax: +971 3 764 6628

Doha – Qatar:

P.O.Box 22652

Phone: +974 4441 9459

Fax: +974 4442 9659

Kuwait:

Fahed Al Salem Street,

Panasonic Tower, 7th floor, office no. 21

32052 Kuwait City

Phone: +965 2224 0144

Fax: +965 2224 0145

Sultanate of Oman:

P.O.Box: 475, PC: 133

AI Khuwair, Muscat

Phone: +968 2448 6699

Fax: +968 2448 2299

Page 24: Commercial Interior Design2

Maryrose Sylvester

Sergio Padula

Paul Bishop

www.designmena.com22 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

INDUSTRY SPEAK

WITH THE ADVANCEMENT OF LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY TO LED’S, IT IS TIME TO OBSERVE WHETHER THE DEVELOPMENT HAS CAUGHT ON IN THE RETAIL MARKET. CID ASKED EXPERTS IN THE FIELD OF INTERIOR DESIGN: “WHAT IS THE DOMINANT LIGHTING SOLUTION IN RETAIL DESIGN?”

Trick of the light

is the new thing; “There is still a very high demand in the retail sector for conventional lamps, such as halogen lighting and metal halide.”

However, according to Syl-vester, these forms of lighting solutions do not possess the

that LED lighting provides. En-

the moment, but it still always depends on the retailer.

This is also taken into consid-eration by Padula who added: “We need to consider that parts of the world where energy is very expensive, investing in LED solution can be an investment to save economic resources. Talking about retail spaces, the general decrease of heating in the space in also a crucial factor.”

Paul Bishop, founder, Bishop Design, stated that the idea of LED lighting being an emerging trend in the retail sector is some-what misleading.

“Although LED lighting is now becoming increasingly popular and more utilised within all interior environments, it is specu-lative to say that it is the best solution for a complete retail solution,” he said.

Padula also considered the drawbacks of LED lighting but stated that with the latest advancements in the solution, it has now actually overcome most of its downsides.

“There were limitations to how faithfully LEDs represented the

“The world is going through a steep change in lighting driven by

technology, from incandescent

lighting,” said Maryrose Sylves-ter, president, GE Lighting, during the roundtable in Light Middle East. “This is really opening up a new world of possibilities in the area of lighting.”

According to Sylvester, LED lighting has been developing and is now being activated in many sectors including street lighting, outdoor lighting, commercial and retail lighting.

“We recently did the Marriott hotel and relit their headquarters with new indoor LED luminaires,” Sylvester stated. “We did their exterior lighting and their under-ground parking garage where we put sensors and occupancy controls as well. As a result they have saved over $120,000 a year, just at their headquarters in terms of energy costs and main-tenance costs.”

Sylvester also mentioned GE’s work with the Wawa stores, a chain of convenience stores in the USA.

lighting in the refrigerating cases where food and drinks are kept cool. We changed that into LED lighting which will save them around $1 million in energy costs,” she explained.

Sergio Padula, technical manager – Middle East, iGuzzini stated that although LED lighting

Page 25: Commercial Interior Design2

www.designmena.com

INDUSTRY SPEAK

Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 23

colour of the displayed merchan-

took place way back in the late 1990s due to poor CRI and low intensity,” he commented.

“But in this day and age, manufacturers have invested heavily in LED technology, and as such, a wide range of products are available not only with high CRI, but also with a high enough intensity to rival conventional lamps such as halogen and metal halide lamps.”

“As my grandmother used to tell me everytime I had to buy a tie: you need to go out of the shop and look at the real colour under the sunlight,” he joked.

lamps are a really great way to approach indoor lighting espe-cially in department stores and boutique stores where they are really showcasing the shoes, the purses or the clothing. You get great CRI, great control and great

Bishop also agreed that with the advancement in LED technol-

to say how much. “Although technology within

advanced over the years and is currently being very widely used, many do believe that LEDs will be the most dominant selection as it becomes even better aligned within the retail environment. However, at this present time, there are very few total LED solu-tions currently within the retail sector,” he stated.

The advancement is lighting technology, Padula believes, is somewhat aligned with the importance of retail design itself. “You can have the most innova-tive and award-winning designed space, but without light, it can pale into nothingness. Light gives life to displays; retail spaces are no longer just a space with mere displays, they are in fact interactive,” he commented.

“Due to the advancement of lighting technology, new material and new sources, retail spaces can be as extravagant or mini-malist in design as the concept requires, because light can be integrated seamlessly into the smallest spaces.”

Giving an example of these movements in lighting, Padula spoke of the what he called an ‘old school concept’ of backlight-ing merchandise on shelves and how it has been further devel-oped to the point where: “Light boxes are the norm, drawing the eyes of the observer and giving a completely unique experience to all customers.”

He explained that the retail sector has gone beyond being a

mere destination to buy products but has now become a past time.

“Shopping is no longer a means to an end. It has devel-oped into a hobby, a past time. Friends stroll arm in arm to take in the visions that retail stores have to offer; and it is not only the design of the interior spaces that has made this possible, but in fact, light as well in terms of design and ultimately, technol-ogy,” Padula added.

Bishop also agreed, stating that: “Ultimately the philosophy in retail lighting is to light the merchandise in as a dramatic as way as possible.”

Sylvester added that GE Light-ing has only recently signed a deal with Ace Hardware to be their branded lighting partner across the Middle East region as

lighting increasingly being a

more important part of their customer experence.

She also stated that with the growing popularity of LED technology, that was once mostly dominant in outdoor lighting, this is now rapidly moving indoors.

Padula said in agreement that: “LEDs are already applicable in

the progression as it allows the

language in terms of new product design and concept application.

A ‘natural progression’ is how Bishop described the move of LED lighting from outdoor to indoor, stating that: “Technology itself has improved dramatically superseding that of conventional lamp sources, making it a more

viable solution.”One of the reasons that LED

lighting is taking such a huge turn in the industry is its numer-

lighting solutions. LED lighing has longer life, re-

duces operating costs as well as

has an instantanous switch- on, has low thermal radiation, no U.V or I.R radiation and has dim-mable versions.

lighting over other types are that they offer a more user friendly solution to most situations,” Bishop stated.

“They are also extremely

high level of performace through life,” he added.

Although pushing towards the domaniance of LED technology in all sectors, Sylvester admits

that with the retail sector, GE still work with ceramic metal hide for retail spaces on a global scale.

However, she also comments that retail lighting is catching on faster than many other indoor interior lighting spaces.

“I think retail lighting, if you look indoors, is activating more quickly than other interior light-ing towards LED because we spend, typically, 30 to 40% of the retail establishment costs in lighting, so it’s great payback. Especially if you have more than one site,” Sylvester explained.

Speaking of LED technology as a trend in retail lighting may

asking the experts the different types of lighting they use in their

retail projects, LED lighting and new technology appeared as one of their solutions.

“It really depends on the type of space and the kind of ambience it requires but with all spaces, the general consensus is, rather than just washing the whole space with uniform light, an ambience is created by hidden lights which is achieved through general recessed lights, either those which are rectangular or round in shape.

“Additionally, we use back-lighting in order to enhance outlines and merchandise by us-

T5 lamps or LED strip lighting in little grooves in shelving units,” Padula contributed.

“As with everything, the process is always slow but effec-tive,” he concluded.

Although LED lighting is becoming increasingly popular and more utilised within all interior environments it is speculative to say that it is the best solution for a complete retail solution.

Page 26: Commercial Interior Design2

Supply and demand

Q&A

24 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

GEOFF VAN WIJK, PARTNER AT FURNISH HOSPITALIT Y, TALKS ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF INNSPEC.COM AND ITS SUCCESS AT THE PRESENT MOMENT

HOW MANY INTERIOR DESIGN AND ARCHITECT FIRMS HAVE SIGNED UP TO YOUR SERVICE?

This is where we are lagging in our desired subscriber numbers. We have about 25 designers listed

just as welcome. Some of them include; Beau McClellan Lighting Design, LDC Lighting Design and Studio Lumen Lighting design.

WHAT ELSE IS COMING UP FOR FUR-NISH AND INNSPEC?

We’re working with WATG on new restaurant outlets at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates and have been contracted to provide services on the Messilah Jumeirah, Kuwait. We are also working on some exclu-sive palace projects. With Innspec, we are adding exciting features to

CAN YOU GIVE US A FEW EXAMPLES OF THE KINDS OF SUPPLIERS WHO HAVE SIGNED UP?

There are about 350 suppliers registered – as individuals or with

-amples of local and international subscribers include; Indel B- Mini-bars, Renarte Hotel Supplies – The GCC distributor for Indel B, J.T. Kal-mar – 130 year old Austrian chan-delier makers – supplied the Qatar National Convention Centre and St. Regis Saadiyat Island amongst many others, as well as Prodital Leather – Italian manufacturers of beautiful leather products.The network also includes Cam-eron Peters Lighting – Kalmar's agent in the UK and a well-known lighting supplier and consultant, Dotzauer – an Austrian manufac-turer of custom project lighting – supplied the Park Hyatt Dubai and the Shangri-La Abu Dhabi.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS FOR DESIGN-ERS AND HOTELIERS TO USE THE NETWORK?

Hoteliers and designers will be

easily via the local representation

locations). They will also be able to

browsing – and product browsing is coming soon.

-ple, distributors to not only show all their categories of products (we have a very extensive category listing of everything that goes into a hotel) but also connect with the

This way, a distributor carrying a wide-range of internationally acclaimed brands can widen their online presence by partnering up on Innspec. Designers can also

via the network.

WHAT KIND OF FEEDBACK HAVE YOU RECEIVED FROM THE MARKET AFTER LAUNCHING INNSPEC?

The feedback has been very good. Because of our work as a hospitality procurement agent, we have a considerable database of suppliers of all kinds of hospitality commodities and services. Many of the suppliers we work with have reacted very positively to Innspec and have been quick to sign up. Despite a launch that has not been very public, and directed solely at our supplier colleagues and industry peers, we’re happy with almost 400 companies listed already. There has also been quite a bit of surprise from our industry peers that a procurement company would build a public, and largely free, platform for the industry – a reaction that tells us we’re on the right track to offering something new to the market.

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BENEWORKSWITH INTERNATIONAL DESIGNERS.

Motivated employees are the key to the success of an organisation and motivation increases when the workplace becomes a living space. Bene works with customers

solutions which provide employees with

comes a management tool and also a contributing factor to the success of an organisation. The Filo product family by EOOS shows what an impact a strong

space. www.bene.com

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INTERVIEW

26 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

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Flamboyant

P-

-

-

AT JUST 27 YE ARS OF AGE, L AUR A BIELECKI HA S ALRE ADY C ARVED OUT AN IMPRESSIVE C AREER. HERE, SHE RE VE ALES HER JOURNE Y

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28 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

INTERVIEW

1

Private residence -

powder room sinks

with Andres Escobar

& Associates

2

White Orchid

Restaurant Palm Tree

Court Jebel Ali with

GAJ

2

1

-

fundamentals teacher who focused her

won, it was then that the decision was made to take the leap into interior de-

-

Montreal to work with Andres Escobar

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FotosferaCarpet tiles made from plants?

Fotosfera is a pioneering collection made

from a yarn with 63% bio-based content.

The key ingredient? Oil from the seeds of

the castor bean plants.

Fast-growing castor bean plants are

rapidly renewable, and grow in hot, dry

climates, in sandy loam soil. Hardier than

many other crops, they can thrive in land

prone to erosion, and only require water

once in up to 25 days.

www.interface.com

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30 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

& Associates, a very up and coming

3

& Associates

4

Associates

5

Associates

4

3

5

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as the renovation and extension of the White Orchid Restaurant at Palm Tree Court, Jebel Ali. Hospitality, in particu-lar, is an area where the young interior designer thrives in due to its variety: “I love doing hospitality because working on a hotel you get to do the rooms, lobby, corridors, restaurants, the cafes and spa, so you get a little bit of every-

a big range.”This year’s 2012 'Young Interior

Designer of the Year' at the Commercial Interior Design Awards has certainly reaped the rewards for her hard work

recognition, stated: “I felt incredibly humbled by it because I did not expect it at all. When I heard certain names come up I was like oh boy! I thought I was out,

-ment coming from a place like Canada which isn’t really known to be ‘design savvy’ so I feel like I’m representing my country in the Middle East. I haven’t done much work since because so many

people have been calling and e-mailing me to say congratulations.”

Now, with her ever constant eye on the future, Bielecki continues to set herself impressive goals to accomplish: “Ultimately, if I could have my own inte-

would also like to make something a bit more from my blog. I don’t know what

7

6

6

Palm Tree Court Jebel

Ali - Suite Living &

Dining Room with GAJ

7

Golf clubhouse -

formal dining with GAJ

I’ll do with it, maybe get together with some other bloggers from around the world and create one blog together, that would be interesting.”

If this past year was anything to go by maybe the only way that is possible to regularly keep an eye out for Bielecki’s rapid rise to stardom would be from her

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CASE STUDYCASE STUDY

1

Spotless detailsJUMEIR AH GROUP ’S ‘STAYING DIFFERENT ’ PHILOSOPHY HA S BEEN DESIGNED TO BE FE AT URED IN ITS L ATEST PROPERT Y, JUMEIR AH CREEKSIDE HOTEL

34 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

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CASE STUDY

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Hot off the Dubai hospitality pipeline Jumeirah Creekside Hotel has recently opened its doors for business.

Bringing together a fusion of contem-porary design and distinct architectural features, with exposed concrete walls, high glass ceilings, culturally inspired carpet designs and a glass bottomed

480 pieces of art; six restaurants and

a dedicated press room; screening room; meeting academy and ballroom. Housing a museum-quality art collec-tion, that was specially commissioned for the property, the hotel is committed

showcasing it throughout the hotel and its grounds allowing guests to connect, engage and experience a great selection of artwork during their stay.

1

Contemporary

2

Sheena Abraham2

Explaining the reasoning behind this, Sheena Abraham, managing director, Magus Designs stated: “It was a whole process. My client brief was discussed

asked me what I thought about them. I said that they were nice but he then

said to me that they could be from any-where in the world. He told me that he wanted a contemporary boutique hotel,

essence of the local culture. The sense -

ing the creek was to be tangible.”Jumeirah’s motto to ‘stay different’

certainly seems apt and common

hotel, which is managed by Jumeirah

Dubai Duty Free. “It’s a fantastic addition to our leisure

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in a different way. Magus Designs re-sponded well to the brief.

“One of the major features of the hotel is its collection of Middle East art, which ranges from massive installations to smaller paintings. The art collection, named ‘Dreamcore’, was commissioned by Dubai Duty Free and was curated by l’Atelier Camelia in Dubai. It consists of 482 works by 51 contemporary artists

a collection from the Middle East has

a hotel.”Furthermore, Magus Designs’ focus

with the interiors was on exposed con-crete walls, dark walnut timber panels, high glazed ceiling, grey honed quartz-

bottom overlooking the atrium.The carpet used throughout the hotel

rug patterns in coordination with Ulster Carpets, Ireland.

“The carpet was, without question,

because most carpet suppliers and

manufacturers don’t use too many colours,” added Abraham.

than 20 to 25 colours so we found Ulster Carpets with their award winning tech-

designed the whole concept which was a very long process.”

Meanwhile, when looking at the main atrium design it is dominated by a

-graphic installation, which was advised and commissioned by Camelia Esmaili of l’Atelier Camelia from internationally acclaimed artist Halim Al Karim who said: “I am very happy with this work and the complimentary surroundings is an ideal home for one of my most impor-

one in this scale and shape. The scale, the natural light, the unusual building shape and grand space in which this is displayed, while challenging, is satisfy-ing that so many visitors and guests see

Other choices of furnishings from

selected to be amongst the best in their

“Everything in this hotel concept is unique and has not been copied from anywhere else. All the furnishings are from renowned designers so you get what you paid for.”

The Zaha Hadid designed sofas in the

in Milan are cardinal red complimented

Knoll in charcoal grey with red high-

pieces featured throughout the hotel. From the Foster sofas and benches by

classic from the sixties, the FK chair.

award-winning design trio from Vienna. The colours and textures of the fabrics and leathers chosen by Magus Designs

3

Various room designs

are incorporated

4

Colourful furnishings

5

vary in design

3 4 5

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an extremely inspiring and eclectic com-bination. We are really happy that our range is so well represented throughout the whole project and that the public can see the quality we are famous for.”

Meanwhile, Abraham added that her focus was on giving the best overall design, value and longevity to each product throughout the property. “When you choose quality in materials it always works out cheaper in the long run. However, of course our clients need to

above their expectations across the range of services from the core of our business, which is design right through

“We manage to get more for less by dealing directly with our long held and extensive range of supplier contacts removing as many intermediary steps and costs as possible in our process. Our clients are always the winner and I am happy to say most of them become repeat customers over the years,” out-lined Abraham.

Looking back at the project, Abraham revealed that the main highlight for her were the Persian rugs, artwork and the corridors. “They are so different in the way that we played with the ceilings and the rug patterns,” she continued.

However, an element of regret does exist due to time constraints which

arose during the design of the hotel. “We had this very special idea of enclos-ing the bathtubs with electrically oper-ated plexiglass louvers and that was taking time so the client came in and changed them with curtains. If we had gone along with it that idea would have been very unique.

“There was also the case that we wanted to unify the whole area with Persian rugs but because of time constraints again and procurement problems we were unable to do that.”

Nevertheless, despite such regrets, Abraham can very well look back at this

it was truly a job well done.

6

Trees are visible

throughout

7

Lifts provide a view of

the lobby

8

Dark walnut timber is

heavily visible

9

Modern seating areas

are found throughout

6 7

8 9

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CASE STUDYCASE STUDY

1

Clean practicesSUSTAINABLE OPER ATIONS ARE INCRE A SINGLY BECOMING MORE OF A NECESSIT Y IN TODAY ’S WORKING ENVIRONMENT. THE TOTAL OFFICE RE VE AL S ITS IMPRESSIVE STANDARD

42 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

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T2

1

2

3

4

52

3

4

5

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and so, in response, we have a varied range of green products in store which include ergonomic chairs and energy-saving LED lighting.”

The LEED Green Building Rating System for Commercial Interiors is a set of performance standards for certifying a building's design and construction

6

Glass tables are

proving to be popular

7

Wood is a very

common material

6 7

“The reality is that every person that walks into our showroom has the op-portunity to see a new green building in action and more importantly we get to practice what we preach.

partner with are also committed to cre-ating sustainable working environments

in order to promote healthy, durable, affordable, and environmentally sound practices in tenant space design and construction. In line with The Total Of-

the showroom follows the regulations of U.S. Green Building Council LEED version 3.0 for Commercial Interiors for

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ww

w.a

rman

iroca

.com

A new bathroom concept

ROCA SANITARIO S.A. (Representation Office - Middle East)Gold & Diamond Park, Bldg 5-111, Sheikh Zayed Road P.O. Box 282337 Dubai, UAE.

Tel. +971.4.347.64.00 E-mail: [email protected]

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high-performance green interiors that are healthy, productive places to work; are less costly; and have a reduced envi-ronmental footprint. On average, The To-

less energy than a typical showroom of the same size according to Peters.

-

-tinued Peters. “There are a lot of plans moving forward on how we want to go

process reveals that the project has

lighting power density was achieved

addition, ENERGY STAR-rated equipment

project. Furthermore, the HVAC system

exposure has a separate control zone, interior spaces are separately zoned,

occupancies have active controls, which

and modulating the HVAC system in response to space demand.

“Having worked extensively with EMS

safely say with certainty that operating

continued Peters.

in a unique position to advise and help

environmental goals. The process of -

measure the impact our actions have on our employees, suppliers, community,

the latest products from international

Teknion, Codutti, Emmegi, Blumohito,

features new designs from a vast prod-uct portfolio that support in creating healthy, productive work environments. The showroom also gives architects and

interior designers a view of quality solu-

emerging workplace trends and causing minimum environmental impact.

Furthermore, the showroom features

glass allowing natural light to penetrate. There are also a series of temporary and shared workstations typical of open,

-

“Overall from our standpoint the green initiative is more of a necessity

simply running out of resources. As long

fast as some of the larger advocates of

8

role in the company's

profucts

9

Seating arrangements

vary in shapes

10

Modern designs

9

10

8

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CASE STUDY

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It’s a man’s worldA NE W CONCEPT BY WIMBERLY INTERIORS IS UNVEILED WITH THE ADDIT ION OF THE BENTLE Y SUITE AT THE ST. REGIS NE W YORK

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“St. Regis and Bentley are very similar brand identities,” said Liana Hawes, creative director, Wimberly Interiors. “They both

have a rich heritage as well as an amaz-ing past to draw inspiration from.”

US-based Wimberly Interiors has de-signed the new Bentley concept suite for The St. Regis New York, using elements from the renowned motors brand to cre-ate a truly authentic space.

However, the ‘amazing past’ men-tioned by Hawes did the opposite of creating an overwhelming challenge to the design. She stated that drawing from such a strong history did not create

with the process. “The brands were wonderful and

we got to so much information,” said Hawes, adding that the team felt com-fortable with both brands as far as what they needed.

“Once we had our visit and emergence in both brands, the design came out

rich history provided by both,” she said.

1

Entry room at Bentley

Suite, St. Regis

2

Bentley art wall in the

dining room

3

Liana Hawes, Wimbely

Interiors

2

3

The suite is almost complete with an entry room, living room, dining room and bedroom area, however, the only lagging part are the bathrooms, which have been put on hold due to St. Regis’ major renovation with plans to complete all bathrooms in the hotel at the same time, according to Hawes.

In addition, Hawes explained that, in

to keep the space as subtle as possible with exaggerated references to the Bent-ley brand removed from the project.

“What we really wanted to accomplish was someone to come in and have vari-ous experiences. We didn’t want every nod to the Bentley brand to be experi-enced every time. Instead we aimed for more subtle nods. We didn’t want it to feel themed or be an in-your-face design at all,” she remarked.

Still, the references are all there. With Bentley leather used on 95% of the pieces, it is the most dominant material applied in the suite.

“All the leather used in the suite is Bentley leather so certainly a Bentley

client would know that, while somebody else might need to be told,” said Hawes. “But the quality and the stitching and the details and the contrasts that Bentley does with their cars, we tried to

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Simply a matter of fine taste: Miele built-in appliances in brilliant white

Miele Appliances Ltd.,T : 800 - MIELEE : [email protected] : www.miele.ae

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CASE STUDY

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incorporate into the design.” In addition to the Bentley leather, all

veneers used in the suite are Bentley veneers as well.

“We made a really sleek dining table

is the newest Bentley veneer offered as one of the options on their newest cars,” said Hawes.

She went on to explain that although the main focus for Wimberly Interiors was designing the interior space of the suite, they had ended up with more product design exclusive to the suite.

“One of the most signature features would be the entry wall which is a diamond stitched leather upholstery panel completed in Bentley leather with Bentley thread that the brand use in its diamond stitching. So it is extremely bespoke and very distinctly Bentley.”

Along with the use of Bentley materi-als, the brand’s vehicles were a great inspiration for many of the signature pieces in the suite.

“The console that sits in front of the stitched leather wall was inspired by

a sketch that we saw at our Bentley headquarters tour. The sketch was of the preliminary dashboard design and we took the lines from the sketch and developed it into the console table. It’s not something that is overt, but if you look closely, you can see the lines and you can see how a dashboard would evolve from it,” she continued. “Another signature piece would be the nightstand in the bedroom.

“We were fascinated with the Bentley SUV vehicles that haven’t even been introduced, still in the concept phase. At the back, it is exquisitely designed for picnicking and tailgating. It’s beautifully detailed out into compartments and leather lined so we took the inspiration from the lines of that and developed it into very aerodynamic nightstands that are leather lined with lacquered interiors and leather door pulls, covered in one of the Bentley veneers.”

The lighting was another aspect that

dining room, living room and entry hall.

The bedroom lights were left with St. Re-gis’ heritage Swarovski crystal baskets.

“In the dining room we have a really

locking rings of cut crystal,” said Hawes. “With the rings, you can easily come up with several references to Bentley but the way that the light sparkles refers to the way you see the light refracted out of a headlight.”

She continued: “In the living room we did a crystal sputnik type chandelier and that is incandescent lighting with a soft, warm glow and in the entry way

lighting which is a sort of glass and has a beautiful refraction of the light. Once you’ve seen the beautiful headlights on a Bentley, certain glass pieces start to resonate that.”

However, not all parts of the suite contain subtle suggestions. There is an art wall above the dining buffet with old pictures from Bentley’s history including racing cars and the Bentley Boys along with archival images from St. Regis as well. Bentley had also commissioned

4

Living room in Bentley

Suite, St. Regis

4

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leather bound books containing the full history of the brand.

One thing about Bentley that St. Regis seriously wanted to establish with de-tails was the masculinity of the brand, according to Hawes.

“They already have an extremely beautiful Tiffany’s and Dior suite but they didn’t yet have a distinctive masculine suite so this particular one is designed to be just that - distinctly masculine,” explained Hawes.

Saying that, the designer described how the choices of materials and the colours were selected with such a brief in mind.

“The drapery fabric in the living room and the bedroom is small scale herring bone as we wanted to use a masculine style like a menswear chic fabric on the drapery panels,” she stated.

“Then we took that menswear fabric and added seat belts. Bentley sent us seat belt material, being the only car manufacturer that custom colours its own seat belts. We took a look at them and picked colours that worked with our scheme and added it as a tape trim detail on the drapery,” she added.

Furthermore, masculinity continued on in the colour scheme as well with neutral and dark tones in various differ-ent areas of the suite.

“As you go in, we tried to give it a gradation of colour but the living room is light. The walls are light grey and we used a grey and ivory palette with bright orange and aubergine.”

“Then in the dining room we went a bit darker and richer. We always refer to the dining room as the ‘man cave’ because we have a big 60 inch TV built into a leather cabinet.”

The bedroom, however, remained lighter in tones with the use of softer blues and grey’s with an accent wall

that changes colour in correlation to the lighting. The purpose was to make it feel even more comfortable for a woman, especially as the space includes an impressive bed that is created in refer-ences to a race car.

At the end, the root of it all is the bespoke quality and rich design that al-lowed the two brands to blend so well.

“The St. Regis is high design and Bentley is high design so we wanted it to come out that way in the interiors,” Hawes concluded.

5

Living room in Bentley

Suite, St. Regis

6

diving room

7

Bedroom in Bentley

Suite, St. Regis

5 6

7

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Textile passion meets profession

Explore innovations from all over the world. Experience how the year’s hottest trend – Being, the search for authentic surroundings – is pushing forward the industry. And find out how the future is becoming the present.

Information and tickets at advance sales prices at www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.commary.ann.oliva@uae.messefrankfurt.comTel. +971 4 389 45 00

9 – 12. 1. 2013Frankfurt, Germany

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TAKING SENSIBLE STEPS FORWARD FOR PROGRESSION, KHURSHID VAKIL , CO -FOUNDER, M ARINA HOME INTERIORS E XPL AINS HIS STR ATEGY

Evolutionnot revolution

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SHOWROOMS ANTWERP BARCELONA DOETINCHEM HONG KONG ISTANBUL LISBOA LOS ANGELES MADRID MALLORCA MIAMI MILANO NEW YORK OORDEGHEM PORTO VALENCIA

Flat design Mario Ruiz

Cristal Box design José A. Gandía-Blasco

www.gandiablasco.com

Finasi LLC

AI Ittihad Road P.O. BOX 118508 Dubai, United Arab Emirates T. +971 (4) 2971777 www.finasi.ae

OUTDOOR&PASSDOOR

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1

Colourful mixtures are

visibly evident

2

A wide variety of sofas

are available

3

Wood plays a heavy

role in many products

4

combined together

ot on the heels of the recently held 2012 Commercial Interior Design Awards, Marina Home Interiors (Re-tail Network) has been revelling in the limelight as a

result of its presence as the Platinum sponsor of the event. According to Khurshid Vakil, co-founder, Marina Home Interiors (Retail Network) this represents a shift in strategy with the store now clearly looking to attract more trade business.

“Interior design services are a large chunk of the regional market and we will continue to target them regardless of the recent challenges the market is facing,” he commented.

“There are always people who need, or seek, help in doing their spaces whether they be commercial or residen-tial. Our association with these presti-gious awards was part of our strategy to be in the eyes and ears of the region’s best talent of interior designers and to be associated with these awards was a step forward in the direction that we are taking. We will continue to pursue that because we believe, as we evolve and as the brand evolves, we would need to have more of a productive association with interior designers.”

With a long history of customers utilising the services of interior design-ers, particularly the higher income group within the region, Vakil outlined how,

1

2

43

H

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6

7

6 7

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SHOW STOPPERS

with the UAE market size for these materials in 2012 reaching nearly $1.2bn, a 3.5% increase from 2010. Exhibitors include RAK Ceramics, Emirates Ceramics, Por-cellan, Sanipex, Bold International, DuPont and Saudi Ceramics.

Last year’s event saw a move towards a product sectorised show, making it simple to access products and services of interest.

Amongst the sectors with an increased presence this year is Kitchens, Bathrooms & Surfaces,

There is currently an estimated $4.2 trillion of ongoing construction projects in the MENA region, with the UAE representing the biggest slice of that, at $698 billion accord-ing to organisers at this year’s Big 5 International Building & Construc-tion Show.

With sectors such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning, expecting to see annual growth of nine per cent over the next three years, the opportunities being pre-sented across the region continue to remain at the forefront of the world’s construction industry.

Countries from around the world

from 30 countries including Italy, Germany, USA, Turkey, UK, Spain and France.

WITH MORE THAN A 30 YEAR PRESENCE WITHIN THE INDUSTRY, THIS YEAR’S BIG 5 EXHIBITION IS SET TO BE THE BIGGEST YET

Bigger than ever

SHOW FEATURES

TRAINING & WORKSHOPS5 - 6 November

FREE SEMINARS5 - 8 November

PLATINUM CLUB5 - 8 November

BUSINESS MATCHING5 - 8 November

GAIA AWARDS7 November

GREEN BUILD CONFERENCE7 - 8 November

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SHOW STOPPERS

audience is architectural compa-nies who will always send their interior designers to source new products from around the world. To make it easier for interior designers to source the products they are looking for, this year we have intro-duced dedicated product sectors including kitchens, bathrooms, sur-faces and marble as well as a host of free to attend product seminars.

WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS YOU HAVE BEEN WITNESSING THROUGH-OUT THE INTERIOR DESIGN INDUSTRY AND WHAT ROLE CAN THE BIG 5 PLAY IN RESPONDING TO THEM?

From the regular research we un-dertake with architects and contrac-tors, we know there is a real need to source products that have a posi-tive impact on the environment.

to see the expansive range of in-novative products available from all over the world.

This year’s event will feature over 2,000 exhibitors, the vast majority of whom are from overseas with many introducing products never seen in the Middle East.

HOW SUCCESSFUL HAS THE BIG 5 EXHIBITION BEEN WITH INTERIOR DESIGNERS IN THE PAST AND WHAT CAN THEY EXPECT AT THIS YEAR’S EDITION?

Thousands of interior designers regularly visit The Big 5 because the focus of the event is on internal

WHY IS THE BIG 5 EXHIBITION RELEVANT FOR THE INTERIOR DESIGN INDUSTRY?

The Big 5 covers every sector of the building and construction industry, including many interior design related products such as kitchens, bathrooms, marble, ceramics, archi-

IS IT MORE BENEFICIAL FOR INTERIOR DESIGN COMPANIES TO ATTEND AS EXHIBITORS OR VISITORS?

The Big 5 is primarily a product exhibition so interior design com-

ANDY WHITE, EVENT DIRECTOR, THE BIG 5 REVEALS WHY THIS YEAR’S EXHIBITION IS A ‘MUST ATTEND’ EVENT FOR THE INTERIOR DESIGN INDUSTRY

Exclusive benefits

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SHOW STOPPERS

Locally sourced or produced products can help add to the green credentials of a project and are very popular with our visitors who ensure they meet strict guidelines and regulations which are now in place throughout the region.

HOW CAN THE BIG 5 PLATINUM CLUB BE BENEFICIAL FOR INTERIOR DESIGN COMPANIES?

The Platinum Club is an initiative where we identify the region’s largest buyers of construction and interior products and invite them to join our VIP programme. To qualify for inclusion, a buyer must be able to prove they are working on current projects valued at more than $100 million. If any interior designer meets these criteria then they can be considered for inclusion in the

that accompany it.

HOW CAN THE BIG 5 PROMOTE SUS-TAINABLE DESIGN PRACTICES WITHIN THE INDUSTRY?

Sustainability has been an impor-tant topic at The Big 5 for a number of years, with numerous elements at the event dedicated to the topic.

be staging a live demonstrations theatre on the main concourse, which will feature specially chosen products from exhibitors, giving

hand how products work and the opportunity to ask questions. Many of these products are designed to focus on sustainability, with items such as non-toxic paint and recycled plastic wood.

We will also have the Green Build Conference, which will host a range of regional and international speak-ers to discuss the way forward for sustainability and best practice for

green buildings. The conference will be free-to-attend but invite only; those who wish to attend can apply for an invitation via The Big 5 website. Places are reserved exclu-sively to industry professionals with extensive experience, seniority and

Finally, we will once again organise the Gaia Awards, the region’s leading and most credible award recognising those companies who manufacture an impressive product that makes an outstand-ing contribution to the green built environment.

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www.designmena.com68 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

the general construction industry such as materials and trends,” he adds.

-nitely not a big pull. I would think that this does not have the edge for designers to want to attend,” he says.

Papastefanou argues:“I think that’s where it’s a little short-sighted from some designers. How else are you going to know what’s going on? We may not be in the construction industry itself but even as consultants you need to know how all this stuff works otherwise what are you designing around?”

The big questionE XPERTS IN THE F IELD OF INTERIOR DESIGN DISCUSS THE RELE VANCE OF THE BIG 5 SHOW FOR THE INTERIORS M ARKE T

“We need to understand how it’s all put together and as we implement a lot of the general construction methods into in-terior design as well. It’s just to broaden horizons and broaden your knowledge of

Both Francois Papastefanou, in-terior designer, Bluehaus and Paul McElroy, partner, Kin-nersley Kent Design state their

plans for attending the Big 5 show this year. But where exactly does the interiors industry overlap with the construction trade show?

“Relevance is probably not that high on interior design per say,” says McElroy. “The show is geared more towards large scale architectural works and engineer-ing, however, there should be some good materials suppliers and manufacturers there that make it a possibility to attend.”

To Papastefanou, knowledge of the construction market is a vital part of an interior designer’s understanding of the entire industry.

“It’s really specialised and focused on construction but as interior designers, we obviously need to know what’s going on in the construction industry because that’s what we work around,” he states.

1 & 2

department store in

Beirut by Kinnersley

Ket Design

3 & 4

Bluehaus in Dubai

1

2

SHOW STOPPERS

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SHOW STOPPERS

However, both designers believe in the strong ties between the interior design and construc-tion industries.

“Our work is almost exclusively as lead designer from beginning of brief throughout design process to construction/implementation working closely with the contrac-tor to maintain the design vision to the end. We see a huge educa-tion in the GCC to moving clients to engaging professional design-ers and separate professional contractors,” says McElroy.

Papastefanou agrees: “The relationship between contractors and interior designers needs to be very strong and the way that the Big Five helps with that is it helps to get everybody thinking in the same wavelength. Shows like the Big Five bring those two elements, designers and contractors all together in a central meeting spot and everybody gets on to that same wavelength.”

He adds: “Us and contractors and construction – we’re not worlds apart at all! We need to understand them, they need to understand us and understand how these different elements come together.”

McElroy voices some concerns regarding the missing elements in the trade fair that fails to create an easier means for the two indus-tries to link.

“Ideally there would be a closer relationship between the ethos of the two parties through work-shops or introductions here but we fear it tends to revolve around a stand and where is the next big contract rather than ‘let’s look at the industry and how we can engage with designers as well as just the clients.’ Perhaps design-ers need to approach this with a more open mind too though when visiting,” he comments.

An open mind is the approach that Papastefanou is going for. To him, it’s more about exploring and understanding, rather than having a direct purpose.

“I don’t think that we go there

around with a clear mind about what we’re going to see there,” he says.

away with a handful of different things but if you can get only one or two really good connections then I think that’s a job well done!” he concludes.

You demand high standards. The most important consumer goods trade fair in the world meets your expectations – with an internationally unique offer, presented by over 4,500 exhibitors. Come and enjoy an impressive array of ideas, pioneering trends and promising encounters. And discover great prospects for future business success.

Information and tickets at advance sale prices available at www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com

[email protected]. +971 4 389 45 00

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15 – 19. 2. 2013Frankfurt, Germany

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SHOW STOPPERS

THE BIG 5 KUWAIT: 16-18 SEPTEMBER 2013The Big 5 Kuwait is due to launch in September 2013, taking place at Kuwait International Fair. There

across the Kuwaiti construction market; with a projected spend of $30.5 billion on building and in-frastructure over the coming years, and the country’s ambitious $125

already underway.

THE BIG 5 CONSTRUCT INDIA: 2-4 SEPTEMBER 2013Launching in September 2013 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai, The Big 5 Construct India will provide access to a construc-tion industry worth in excess of

projects planned in the country across real estate, railways, roads, ports and airports over the upcom-

Working closely with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Ministry of Urban Development & the Ministry of Urban Employment and Poverty Alleviation, the event is expected to attract thousands of buyers eager to check out the very latest products and technologies from the market.

THE BIG 5 SAUDI: 9-12 MARCH 2013The Big 5 Saudi was launched in 2011, surpassing all expectations to host more than 10,000 building and construction professionals. The 2012 event continued to grow, doubling in size with over 500 exhibitors and a purpose built pavilion having to be assembled on the grounds of Jeddah Centre for Forums and Events in order to meet with demand. More than 75% of exhibitors represented international companies in 2012, highlighting the need for a forum where profes-sionals can meet to understand more about the Saudi market and network on-the-ground.

As well as the exhibition, the 2012 event also launched a series of educational elements, which will return in 2013.

THE BIG 5 SHOW HAS PROVEN TO BE SO POPULAR THAT TWO NEW EDITIONS HAVE BEEN LAUNCHED TO COMPLEMENT THE DUBAI AND KSA EVENTS

Around the world

Building and construction related companies will have a dedicated platform to introduce their product or service to a market that is ac-tively sourcing new and innovative technologies.

Alongside the exhibition will be a number of added value elements, with accredited workshops and a dedicated concrete zone, showcas-ing the latest products and tech-nologies from one of the industry’s most important sectors.

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The point of focus in the entrance area – GEZE Revolving Doors

Revolving doors are a component of a façade and also the point of focus of the entrance area of a representative

building. Here, it is important for the visitor to make a good „first impression“ with the help of an architecturally

perfect revolving door which continues to function reliably and safely despite high frequencies of operation.

GEZE enables almost unlimited design freedom when it comes to the various materials and colours.

Revolving doors made by GEZE enthuse architects, planners and processors. Starting with hotels, shopping cen-

tres and banks and going right through to airports and museums, many famous buildings across the world are

fitted with door solutions from GEZE.

BEWEGUNG MIT SYSTEM

GEZE Middle East | P.O. Box 17903 | Jebel Ali Free Zone | Dubai U.A.E. | Tel: +971 4 8833112 | Fax:+971 4 8833240 | [email protected] | www.geze.ae

SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEEDS

Door Technology | Automatic Door Systems | RWA and Ventilation Systems | Safety Technology | Glass Systems

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Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 73www.designmena.com

DESIGN TRENDS

With the close of this winter’s Domotex 2012, design trends in

Partitions

Stainless steel, solid plastic, powder

coated steel, phenolic, color-thru

phenolic and plastic laminate partitions.

THE ASI GROUP... Your Single Source Solution

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with most other sectors in the

WALKING ON SUNSHINE

Along with this trend comes the

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74 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

DESIGN TRENDS

Every year sees one fashion off the scene while another steps on to

scheme, with tiling taking on a more earthy appearance.

-

--

-

ever, graphic patterns are a strong -

-

shapes of 30x60 or the slicker -

-

-

we can expect to see tiles with a

ABDULLA MAHMOOD DARREN CLANFORD

EXPERTS IN THE FIELD OF TILING, ABDULLA MAHMOOD OF RAK CERAMICS AND DARREN CLANFORD OF JOHN-SON TILES, SPEAK OF TRENDS IN THE TILE INDUSTRY

-

-

Linear tiles are perfect examples of

-

people are more aware of the impact their choices make on the

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Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 75www.designmena.com

DESIGN TRENDS

on sustainable development in the Middle East region, tiles which are ‘green’ are set to become a top choice for contractors who really want to lead the market with great environmentally friendly building schemes,” said Clanford.

In agreement to this statement, Mahmood added that: “Tiling reduces digging of natural stones, cutting of wood and saves natural habitats. It is the best and value-for-money alternate available for

advantages such as durability, low

resistance, ease of maintenance and cost effectiveness which make it a superior alternative.”

He continued: “There is a lot of focus on eco-friendly products that can be termed as green building solutions and accordingly, RAK Ceramics has introduced its latest product range which includes the

range contains up to 28% recycled material without having to compro-mise the style of the product.

RAK Ceramics, being a founding member of the Emirates Green Building Council, take inot consid-eration the issue of sustainable design as seriously as possible.

“RAK Ceramics has also intro-duced a wide range of eco-friendly products, which includes the RAK Slim – a revolutionary 4.5mm thick eco-friendly tile, the RAK

Stone Art Collection, the Orion Collection and the Wood Art Col-lection produced using the latest Nanopix digital printing technol-ogy. These eco-friendly products are better alternatives over consuming natural resources and encourage end users to conserve natural green environment.”

Johnson Tiles are also answer-ing these demands with tiles that contain recycled ceramic material.

Timeless Elegance Modern Design Royal Touch Simplicity

UK Tel: +44 7976 659763 Dubai Tel: +971 555 702412

Email: [email protected] www.m-marcus.com

THE STUDIO RANGEDecorative Electrical Accessories with Concealed Fixing

Conforming to British Wiring Standards

Antimicrobial tile – that reduces microbial contamination, RAK Luminous tile – that glows in the dark and saves energy, and RAK Bathware – with 33% water saving capabilities,” said Mahmood.

Trends are also taking over in terms of different sectors in the tiling industry where spaces are starting to lose their distinctive style and are beginning to clash with one another.

“What we’ve noticed is that the transition between commercial spaces and residential living is

up ideas for their own spaces from what they see around them and what that space represents,” Clanford observed.

-sonal stamp on things, and this is usually achieved through the use of colour schemes and choice of tiles,” he concluded.

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“UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES WITH

CFLORS INDUSTRIES INC.Hudson’s Bay Centre, 2 Bloor Street East, Suite 3500, Toronto, Ontaria,Canada I M4W 1A8, Tel: +1-416-915-4222, Fax: +1-416-929-3174 GLP #2115

Laminate floorings

Carpet Tiles

PVC floorings

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 77www.designmena.comwww.designmena.com Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 77

A recent study has shown that the overall GCC interior contracting

expected to increase by 87% in value this year, the highest

“The sector in the GCC is now

healthcare, education and other

There could be a series of projects

The interiors sector in Qatar and

nounced that all sectors in the

stated that the only way to truly see

digging into the details by sector because obviously a big shopping

SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

for the largest spend on interiors,

Spend on additional projects, including social and business infra

With all the advances in the

FIT OUT CONTRACTORS

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

78 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

DESIGNERS HUBWhat sets you apart? Our services include the following:

-

Tell us about your company?

-

-ing:

RIAD SOFA BY META

BELL TABLE BY CLASSICON

FLAP SOFA AND PAESAGGI ITALIANI BRASILIA BY EDRA

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 79www.designmena.com

GOLDEN ARROW INTERIORSProducts? The company does high-end furni-ture, custom made furniture, FF&E fabrication, joinery, upholstery, metal works, amongst many others.

Projects? Commercial: Emirates Headquar-ters, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Cisco Systems, Deutsch Bank.Educational: Zayed University.

Hospitality: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

public areas and the guestrooms),

Radisson Blu.Residential: Prestigious Villas and buildings.Retail: Burjuman Center, Al Reef

Please visit: www.gai.ae for all

the latest news on our current and future projects.

Recent news?In view of the current market growth within the hospitality sectors, Golden Arrow Interiors is building new 120,000ft2 state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities to cater to all local and regional requirements which are located in Sajja, Sharjah.

How do we contact you? Tarek E. AminDirector, Commercial & Business Development

Dubai, UAE

E: [email protected]

FAIRMONT BAB AL BAHRMONARCH HOTEL

STEAK RESTAURANT - FAIRMONT BAB AL BAHR

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

80 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

Tell us about your company?Innov8 Group is a leading interior

-ing in delivering turn-key solutions for

-

-

professionals in key positions in order

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Innov8 Group

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 81www.designmena.com

and process’, is the underpinning force of the group and over time, has created a winning culture, generating a high level of success and repeat business.”

What projects have you worked on?The Innov8 Group has provided turnkey solutions for a variety of brands and companies, both commercial and retail. From public sector projects such as the design and build of the 40,000ft2 headquarters of the Federal Authority Nuclear Regulation in Abu Dhabi and

through to globally known brands such as Etihad Airways, Jaguar Land Rover, Roche, Kellogg’s and the expansive 25,000ft2 space of the Hamley’s retail store in Dubai.

Innov8 is now working on a variety of projects that includes the Ministry of Economy in Abu Dhabi, Emirates LNG, Bayer and Kraft Foods.

Recent news?Innov8 Group has been approached by several multi-national clients request-ing design and build services in various locations throughout the greater GCC region. Innov8 is currently developing strategies to deliver services in these locations, acknowledging the chal-lenges of maintaining or further improv-ing the level of service delivery.

With the expansion of the organisation, Innov8 Group has recently implemented a training programme for select design interns from the American University in Dubai. The objective is to further develop the intern’s skills whilst providing expo-sure to the industry and real life design challenges, with the end goal for the intern to potentially gain fulltime employment. It also enables Innov8 to continue to develop fresh and innova-tive ideas from students whose design instincts have not been acclimatised to reality.

Furthermore, the Innov8 Group has recently obtained the respected ISO Accreditation 9001 (for Quality Process), ISO Accreditation 14001 (Environmental) and ISO Accreditation 18001 (OHS Standards), which shows the groups continued commitment to

environmental impact and the dedi-cated implementation of a top health and safety management system.

How do we contact you?

help with your commercial or retail

[email protected] or call 800-IN-NOV8(466688).

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

82 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

About us BABILI, as part of Arch. Radhwan Babili group of companies, was established in 2000 in Jeddah, KSA.

BABILI, now, has six registered branches in the Middle East and four international joint ventures worldwide.

It is a ‘design and build’ company for medium to big scale projects and provides turnkey solutions under one single contract and one team that follows work from conception to operation in term of design, build, sale and design and operation, taking into consideration time, budget and quality.

These solutions are provided by part, or all, of our available services, responsive to your particular needs and situation. At the core is our design-build team, delivering the fastest, most cost effective quality product for you and avoids expensive mistakes and lost opportunities.

Whatever challenges your project throws, we are there to meet them.

Our Mission - Enhance quality of life- Enrich the human potential- Inspire Spirit through design

Our Vision - Increase employee satisfaction and their productivity

client relationship

Our Value- Excellence in integrated design-build project delivery, producing high value quality outcomes- An environment of trust characterised by integrity and honest communication- Mutual respect for and appreciation of diverse perspectives and ideas- A commitment to innovation and creativity to drive quality, value and sustainability- Professionalism, extreme fairness and equality and the highest levels of ethical behavior

Services- Real Estate Development - Engineering Consultant- Property Management- Project Management- Supervision - Construction - Finance Study

How do we contact you?T: +966 2 6978272F: +966 2 6973937P.O. Box 112956Jeddah, 21371www.babili-group.com

BABILI

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 83www.designmena.com

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

84 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

Summertown InteriorsTell us about your companySummertown Interiors offers superior

contractor and supplier of bespoke join-ery works. With specialist experience

retail projects for global Fortune 500

is often selected as the preferred UAE

interior architects.

What projects have you worked on?

Have there been any recent develop-ments at your company?

ments to our operational processes under the ISO quality management system will enable us to become more

ers to create tailor- made platforms. In

are trained on the latest products and installation methods.

Big Hair Audacious Goal – to be carbon

We were also recognised at the Green

What are the key challenges facing your industry?

all the time in construction which

most commonly followed standard for

region. We feel that it is only a matter of time before greening interiors becomes mandatory for new buildings and retro-

are in a position to face such changes whereas many are not yet up to speed. How do we contact you?

[email protected]

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 85www.designmena.com

TELL US ABOUT YOUR COMPANYAMBB Interiors is part of AMBB Group and has been operating in the GCC region for over a decade. We have well

Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha as well as various factories and manufacturing facilities. We have implemented many prestigious projects since our inception, such as Zuma Restaurant, Le Petit Mai-son, Mahiki Nightclub and Restaurant, Linklaters and Barclays Wealth among many others.

and retail as well many residential and villa projects.

WHAT SETS YOU APART? Since our inception we have focused our efforts on delivering the highest level of service and quality workmanship through our team of dedicated project managers and site operatives. It is our main aim to maintain a manageable level of projects focusing on quality, rather than quantity. In conjunction with our in-house development strategies, we continue to invest in factories and facilities which underpin our ability to

the market.

WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN?AMBB Interiors have an unparalleled track record of delivery of projects to the highest standard of quality and service. We have been integral to the develop-ment of the Interior industry through

our implementation of many benchmark projects in the region.

We are currently involved in exciting new projects for Tiffanys and Co as well as various other prestigious projects for Majid Al Futtaim Healthcare and MAF Properties amongst others.

WHAT’S NEW?We have added additional manufactur-ing facilities for joinery, upholstery, glass and metalworks. This has supplemented our existing joinery and marble divisions and has enabled us to expand our services successfully over the last year. We have also added to our workforce by new appointments in our projects division and have expanded and upgraded our health and safety practices through the appointment of additional managers and staff training.In addition to this we have signed up to sustainable work practice with regards

and factories and continue to support local initiatives such as Dubai School for Special Needs. We are also delighted to have recently become a supporter of DMX and hope to partner them in their growth over the coming years.

AMBB is extremely proud to have received the Commercial Interior Design Award for ‘Best Interior Contractor for 2012’.

HOW DO WE CONTACT YOU?PO Box 51445, Dubai, UAET: +971 (0) 4 339 2911F: +971 (0) 4 3392916www.ambbinteriors.com

AMBB Interiors

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SUPPLIERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

86 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

Tell us about your company?With over 40 years of experience, SAS International is a manufacturer of high

work solutions.

What sets you apart? SAS International works with clients

acoustic metal ceilings to projects across the region. We are able to offer

SAS International ensures that solu

What are your best selling products?

acoustic performance which is a major

occupant comfort.

What’s new?

How do we contact you?

W: www.sasint.ae SAS International

Tell us about your company?

What projects have you worked on?

Recent news?

to represent their range of high quality

Key challenges in the industry?One of the major challenges lies in

following comprehensive research on all

they continuously strive for innovation

How do we contact you?

FINASI

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PRODUCTS

88 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

VOLNA

The Volna door in the Maestra collection is made from ash wood and is one of Trade Mark New

different elements and varies in

allows it to be detached from the

TM NEW STYLE

Tel: +38 0552 413598

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DELIVERING LONG TERM VALUEIntegrating design and performance

For more information on our comprehensive range of design and performance led interiors please visit www.sasint.ae or call us on +971 (0)4 885 5545

manufacturing world-class interiors metal ceilings | partitioning | doors | room comfort | architectural metalwork

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RAK Ceramics is exhibiting ‘Westwood’ at this year’s Big 5. Westwood is durable and eco-friendly and the product is avail-able in three colours, belonging to RAK’s Gres Porcellanto range of tiles which are developed through the use of high digital

resistant, has low water absorp-tion, and is both easy to handle and cost effective. It can be used in not only in spaces such as living and dining areas, bedrooms, patio’s, but ex-ternal wall restaurants, window displays and lobby entrances.

WEST WOOD

RAK CERAMICS

TEL: 072445046

WWW.RAKCERAMICS.COM

A181, RASHID HALL

AVANT FLOORING

Avant Flooring, a high-quality composite laminate, is now avail-able in the Middle East following success across 13 countries internationally.

and groove panels, makes it wa-

-ing is sustainable and recyclable.

cool air, as opposed to absorbing it, meaning lower air-conditioning costs for homes and business. Additionally, the product is able to offer 16 grain and stain options

perfectly into residential or com-mercial settings.

AVANT FLOORINGTEL: +971 4 3431 645

www.avant-enterprises.com

H116, Zabeel Hall

PRODUCTS

www.designmena.com90 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design

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Up to the minute reports on the latest industry news and events Interviews with leading figures in the interiors, design and architecture sectors The latest case studies, market trends and developments for the Middle East market

Visit www.designmena.com todayand sign up for the twice weekly eNewsletter

to stay up to date with your industry

For information on advertising please contact:

YAZAN RAHMAN, Sales Director - Tel: +971 4 444 3351 - GSM: +971 56 778 3824 - Email: [email protected]

TERI CLARKE, Sales Manager - Tel: +971 4 444 3679 - Email: [email protected]

Online News for Architecture, Interiors and Industrial Design Professionals

Page 94: Commercial Interior Design2

FOR ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES,PLEASE CONTACT:

D i a r m u i d O ’ M a l l e yPublishing Director

Tel: +971 4 444 3568E-mail: [email protected]

T H E D I G I TA L H O M E F O R H O S P I TA L I T Y P R O F E S S I O N A L S I N T H E M I D D L E E A S T

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EMIRATES CERAMIC

Emirates Ceramic labels itself as amongst the most reputable and lead-

EMIRATES CERAMIC

TEL: +971-2-6715500

WWW.EMIRATESCERAMIC.AE

Rashid E191

PRODUCTS

Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 93www.designmena.com

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CRYSTALON

-

-

-

SWAROVSKI

TEL: +971 4 881 65 62

www.architecture.swarovski.com

PRODUCTS

94 NOVEMBER 2012 | Commercial Interior Design www.designmena.com

ALTREFORME

-

MOSCHINO

TEL: +39 0341 6381

www.altreforme.com

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Commercial Interior Design | NOVEMBER 2012 95www.designmena.com

HANSGROHET: +971 4 3326565

www.hansgrohe-middleeast.com

AXOR STARCK ORGANIC A collaboration between Axor, the design brand for Hansgrohe and designer Philippe Starck brought the revolutionary Axor Starck Organic collection which took three years to develop.

The range combines elements that set it apart from other bathroom products including its organic-minimalist design, its 3.5 litres per minute, beating

seven litres, and separate controls for water volume and temperature.The Axor Starck Organic collec-tion is due to be made available in Dubai and Abu Dhabi at the begininng of 2013.

PRODUCTS

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OPINION

Light is a fascinating element that can transform anything and turn even the darkest corner into a bright space full of interest and life. Designing custom-

made chandeliers is enabling me to harvest the beauty of light and let its spirit shine through a uniquely designed piece of art.

Having worked as a senior lighting designer for Preciosa, I have many great opportunities to work on interesting projects where I can push the limits of the ordinary and bring to life distinc-tive new concepts. It is always very exciting to see the shift towards new trends and become a part of it.

In recent years there have been many new emerging trends, which are shaping the way we design chandeliers. These trends are not only bringing out new designs and styles, but they are also changing the way we perceive the func-tion of a chandelier.

CHANDELIERS OR SCULPTURESImagine large open public areas in a hotel, they are made for signature designs which can be visually strong and memorable. A chandelier

with glass and crystal. Interior designers are raising the bar everyday and are coming up with interesting concepts, which are moving away from the traditional way of seeing a chandelier. They are enabling us to design unique creations – sculptures suspended in the air, making the whole design process a great challenge and the end result very interesting. We see a move away from metal frames and increasingly components are suspended on metal wires directly from the ceiling, using spot lights at the top to illuminate the glass components.

Fibre optics with projectors are also being used to introduce additional light, changing moods to the chandelier. Our project, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, where we were worked with Hirsch Bedner Associates in Atlanta

on the designs, showcases what can be done

features of each component in an innovative way makes a great design.

EMERGING GREEN ENERGY There is a very clear change towards the impor-tance of green build and its positive impact on the environment. We are no longer designing chandeliers with incandescent or halogen lamps, consuming high amounts of energy. A vast majority of the interior designers we work with are highly concerned not only about the design and lighting effects, but the energy consumption. During the design development it is therefore critical to consider different ele-ments such as additional engineering, cooling, lighting control and the interaction with other materials. We also always recommend check-ing the compatibility of the electrical control system and diming system. All those aspects are then incorporated into the design, ensuring we create a chandelier that has retained its original concept, but at the same time meets the required environmental standards.

GLASS OR GLASS DEPENDING ON THE BUDGETBeing able to meet the budget without com-promising the design intent is an art. Over the years we have seen both scales of the spectrum in Dubai, but no matter where we are now, the budget is always a critical aspect. We embrace this challenge and as a reward it brought us many interesting projects and discoveries of new materials and ways to manufacture.

I am a big fan of optical glass; it is cost effec-tive, a great material to work with, easy to shape and the effects can be stunning especially for large areas. Becoming innovative and creative with materials is the way forward as it helps us

on budget.

BY SARK A OLIVOVA

Designing light

Regardless of the challenges one has to face when giving life to glass, it is a labour of love. Being aware of all that is happening and incorpo-rating it to an actual design is a natural process, but a critical one as it ensures your design is the one that shines most in the eyes of your client.

Sarka Olivova is the senior interior designer at PRECIOSA

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Quality wins every time and everywhere. No wonder, then, that more and more architects, designers, crafts-men and users around the world choose to build on sliding hardware systems and solutions from Hawa. And therefore on innovative technology, first-class workmanship and durability. Can we open up a few doors, windows or shutters for your ideas with wood, glass and metal? We look forward to seeing you at www.hawa.ch.

Hawa sliding hardware: open for 1001 applications.

Hawa Middle East FZE, Jebel Ali, Dubai, UAE, Tel. +971 4 887 36 94, Fax +971 4 887 36 93, www.hawa.ch

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