COVER IMAGE

COURTESY:
BRIGITTE LACOMBE

APRIL 20, 2016

26 THE FOCUS

QUALITY IS THE ONLY THING

THAT MATTERS

The architect duo behind Peia

Associati talk about the direct
relationship between space and
material in their body of work
that spans continents while it
takes centre stage in Qatar.

32 GID REGIONAL FOCUS

TALES OF DESIGN

Known for his ingenious

combinations of traditional
elements and contemporary
product design, UAE-based
designer Khalid Shafars
approach encompasses a
personal expression of form,
movement, emotion and the tale
of objects.

38 GID REGIONAL FOCUS

DUBAI DESIGN DAYS SPOTLIGHT

GID takes its picks of the best

from the regions most popular
design extravaganza.

PAGE 26
PAGE 48

PAGE 14
PAGE 38

12 GID MIX

14 GID MASTERMIND

THE STYLE RE-DEFINED

A potpourri of home accessories

sourced from around the country and
some from beyond.

THE GENIUS OF CURVES

GID pays its tribute to the master

architect whose designs have always
taken precedence in its pages.
RIP Hadid.

24 GID DECONSTRUCT

WORK IN STYLE

If you were one among those who

thought that Doha had no choices
when it comes to interior solutions,
think again. GID brings to you those
designs that are available in the
country and created in a backdrop
that can be easily replicated in your
houses. Go ahead, deconstruct

52 GID GLAMOUR

THE DESIGN ALCHEMIST

We visit some stunning spaces

designed by London-based interior
designer Laura Marino, of Alchemi
group.
PAGE 52

56 GID GLAMOUR

LOUD AND BOLD

IKEA brings glamour to our houses

with these beautiful imagined home
accessories designed by a fashion
designer.
PAGE 56

PAGE 32

PAGE 12

MANAGING EDITOR
DEPUTY EDITOR

EZDHAR IBRAHIM ALI

SENIOR CORRESPONDENT

AYSWARYA MURTHY

SINDHU NAIR

KARIM EMAM
UDAYAN NAG

SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
CORRESPONDENT
PHOTOGRAPHER

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR

DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR

AARTHI MOHAN
KEERTANA KODURU
ROBERT ALTAMIRANO

VENKAT REDDY
HANAN ABU SIAM

ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

MAHESHWAR REDDY B

BUSINESS HEAD

FREDRICK ALPHONSO

MANAGER MARKETING

SAKALA A DEBRASS

ASSISTANT MANAGER MARKETING

MATHEWS CHERIAN

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT

AYUSH INDRAJITH

SONY VELLATT
IRFAAN A H M
DENZITA SEQUEIRA
ANIS MANSOURI

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

SENIOR DISTRIBUTION EXECUTIVE

DISTRIBUTION SUPPORT

PRATAP CHANDRAN
BIKRAM SHRESTHA
ARJUN TIMILSINA

BHIMAL RAI

BASANTHA P

PRADEEP BHUSAL

YOUSUF JASSEM AL DARWISH

PUBLISHER AND EDITORINCHIEF

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FROM THE DRAWING BOARD

Integrity is the ability to stand by an idea.

E D I TO R S C H O I C E

I have always followed Zaha Hadids work and now, looking back, I feel it was more for
the news factor that each of her designs racked up rather than for the value she added
to the world of architecture with her uncompromising ability to stand for her designs.
But it is a trap each of us has fallen into as we were captivated by the forms she
created: the sweeping curves of the buildings, the undulations of the roof, that replaced
rectangular forms when designed by architects who played it safe. Each take off from
the norm, had a science behind it or a design problem that it was solving. While she
mocked the geometry of buildings since the world is not a rectangle, she tried to use
her buildings to engage people, to excite them and to elicit a response with their
exuberant, swooping forms and sharp, slashing angles, to make a connection, making
the building more than a physical structure but an important link in the place that it is.
She saw architecture as a social art, and not purely as a matter of form making. She
was fascinated by urban density and she wanted to use the early modernist forms that
had inspired her as the basis for a new architecture that would reflect the complexity
of contemporary urban life.
She paved the way for women architects by being an exceptional architect first, in a
field that was dominated by male signature architects. While she came across as a
powerful lady in self-designed dresses that billowed out as a halo over her, she was
said to be gentle in the way she dealt with others. Cross her the wrong way and there
was no fiercer woman than Hadid as we saw a few months back when she reacted to
a BBC reporters insistent questioning about the supposed death of migrant workers
at the stadium in Wakrah that was designed by her.
The world of design is still to come to terms with her death, which came so abruptly,
unlike her designs, all of which were fluid, continuous and everlasting
This issue as it mourns the loss of Hadid, also celebrates design in various ways:
through the Design Days Dubais best solutions in avant-garde designs; through an
architect duos work which has brought to life many beautiful projects in the country;
and through an innovative Danish home stores interplay with fashion and
home accessories.

The two vases designed by Zaha Hadid for

Alessi are cut from a single block, and scored along
two diagonal lines, creating a warped, inverted
surface. They can be assembled together in
alternative configurations, creating solid forms, or
they can stand alone as distinct objects or more
can be accumulated as a jigsaw puzzle.

Happy Reading.

SINDHU NAIR

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

GID

GRAPEVINE

AIANA UNVEILS
_NEW DESIGNS

Dohas Aiana Hotels & Resorts, recently unveiled the design and
architectural elements of the Aiana Suites and Residences, a 180-key
luxury property that will be located in West Bay in Doha.
On the occasion of its first anniversary, Sheikh Turki bin Faisal Al Thani,
Chairman of Al Sawari Holding, Amruda Nair, Joint Managing Director and Chief
Executive Officer, Aiana Hotels & Resorts L.L.C., and Mohammad Shafiek,
Managing Director of Al Sawari Holding announced the opening of Aiana Makkah,
a 611-room hotel in the Holy City of Makkah. Aianas first hotel in the Kingdom
Of Saudi Arabia is scheduled to open in Q3 2016. Aiana Suites and Residences
Doha are designed by Lisbon-based Portuguese interior design firm Promontorio
and will include all hotel services and branded amenities. The residences will
exude an authentic local vibe, intelligent design and intuitive management with a
strong Indian service ethos. Today we celebrate a defining moment in the Aiana
brand journey. The announcement of Aiana Makkah is a key milestone for the
brand and it is an honour to bring the Aiana experience to the Holy City. We are
looking forward to opening the first Aiana hotel in the Middle East in 2016. said
Amruda Nair. We are also delighted to unveil the first look of Aiana Suites and
Residences, Doha and are confident that our unique product and service ethos
will address the growing demand for value-added offering in the upper upscale
hospitality segment.

INGVAR KAMPRAD TURNS 90

When he was just 17 years old, he founded IKEA where he sold household goods,
like matches and pens, at reduced rates. Cut to the present and Ingvar Kamprad
celebrates his 90th birthday after building a global business empire in flat-pack
furniture which now has over 375 stores in 47 countries. The acronym IKEA is
made up of the initials of his name. His vision has always been to offer a wide
range of well-designed, functional home furnishing products at low prices so
that many people will be able to afford them. A revolutionary in interior design
and one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world, his story of success is
truly inspiring. Happy birthday to this enigmatic founder!

10

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

MIND AND BODY

Ayah Al Bitars work brings together designand
function.
Her new Wisada collection is designedwith the help
oforthopedicdoctors and psychologists to ensure that not
only your home is filled withbeautiful artwork but your
body enjoys optimum comfort for muscles and bones, and
your mind is at ease.It is a sculptural floor cushion set
inspired by the difference between Eastern and Western
transportation cultures, and encourages social dialogue in
a traditional, yet contemporary environment. Formed in
the shape of an enlarged bicycle seat and illustrated with
Saudi womens stories, Wisada is unique in its concept
and aesthetic and works best when placed in multiples.

REDEFINING
BATHROOM
SOLUTIONS
Ideal Standard has carved a niche with a unique range
of innovative, award-winning bathroom solutions
designed for projects across the Middle East region.
Whether it is residential, commercial or public facilities,
each project varies in purpose, design and size, but the
company can accommodate all requirements through its
wide array of products and world-class brands such as the
flagship Ideal Standard, Armitage Shanks, Jado, American
Standard and more. Ranges like DEA, with its warm,
curved, flowing surfaces is a perfect combination of chic,
high-end design and functionality; Tonic II, with its clean
cut-lines and soft edges, provides elegance and impeccable
ergonomics; and Strada offers the best of contemporary
geometry, functionality, and ease of use. Ideal Standard
has something for everyone and has offered its products
for commercial projects as well as public facilities such
as hospitals, offices, hotels, schools, stadia and public
bathrooms.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

11

GID

GRAPEVINE

BIG LEAP

_FOR QATAR

Qatar has achieved a major breakthrough

with nine projects named as national
winners at the MEED Quality Awards for
Projects, in association with Mashreq.
The winning list included, Al Rayyan
Hospitalitys Banana Island Resort
Doha by Anantara Project (entered by
UrbaCon Trading & Contracting) as
Leisure & Tourism Project of the Year;
Ashghal Public Works Authoritys Doha
South Sewage Treatment Works Phase II
Expansion Project (entered by Galfar Al
Misnad and Larsen & Toubro) as Power
and Water Project of the Year; the Private

Engineering Offices Grand Mosque Project

(entered by Contraco) as Social, Culture &
Heritage Project of the Year; Gulf Drilling
Internationals Warehouse Project as
Industrial Project of the Year; Consolidated
Contractors Companys Lusail Sports
Arena Project (entered by Astad Project
Management) as Sustainable Project of
the Year, sponsored by Besix; and Dolphin
Energys Export Gas Compression Upgrade
Project (entered by Al Malki Trading &
Contracting) as Small Project of the Year.
Also joining the list were Qatar
Foundations Construction of Main

Works for Male and Female Student

Housing for Qatar Foundation Project
(entered by Joannou & Paraskevaides) as
Residential Project of the Year; as well as its
Headquarters Project as Building Project of
the Year. Meanwhile, a collaborative project
by the New Doha International Airport
Steering Committee, Hamad International
Airport and Civil Aviation Authority the
Hamad International Airport Passenger
Terminal Complex Retail, Food &
Beverage Fit-out Construction Project
(entered by Parsons) was named Qatars
Retail Project of the Year.

NEW INNOVATION
_FROM JOTUN
Jotun has introduced, the Aurora collection, a new
range in powder coatings. With new technological
advances, this innovation provides sustainable and
environmentally friendly solutions in powder coating
technology.
Inspired by the enchanting Northern Lights, The
Aurora Collection is useable on both aluminium
and steel. The coatings provide a metallic effect
and consistency in application, hiding any substrate
imperfections, whilst being eco-friendly. Using 40 times
less water, 10 times less electricity and 20 times less gas,
the production process saves time and natural resources
to maintain a high-performance and consistent finish.
The collection is available in 11 captivating colours and
sets a benchmark for high-quality and durable products.

12

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

GID

MIX
REFLECTION OF LIFE

This piece from Nodus is a round

dynamic rug that forms a crown
of immutable, unchanged life,
representing the cycle of life.

ARABESQUE CHARM

The set of side tables from Al

Mana Galleria adds character
to your space with its size and
arabic-inspired design.

DUAL PURPOSE

Original oak barrel staves

function as both the soul and the
formative design details. Create
a series of contrasts with this
piece by Peter Marino.

STYLE
RE- DEFINED!
Whether youre traditional,
and love timeless style, or
glam, and need more
embellishments, step out of
your comfort zone with these
statement pieces.

V I N TA G E LO V E

Reflect the growing

trend for vintage with
this piece from Midas.

ETHNIC PIECE

Moderiental pieces
from Artikkan Gallery
evokes the taste of a well
travelled curator.

O N E W I T H N AT U R E

Be inspired by nature
with this set of side
tables from Midas.

14

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

E Y E - C AT C H I N G

Either as a pair at both ends of a sofa

or on a console table, this lamps unique
shape and vibrant hue proves an accent
can still make a big impact.

S H I F T FO C U S

Add a focal point to your space with

this abstract wall art from Midas.

CLEAN LINES

Keep it simple with this unique

bronze table by Osanna Visconti
di Modrone for Bottega Veneta.

A RT I S T I C E Y E

A pretty painting worthy of a

piece of art from Midas.

MINIMALISTIC ELEGANCE

Balance burnished metals and

contemporary inlay work with
this piece from Artikkan Gallery.

B E DA Z Z L I N G E F F ECT

Mirrored artifacts like this piece

from Swarovski add personality
to your interiors.

F U N K Y ACC E N TS
P E R F E C T A LC H E M Y

Make a marriage of motherof-pearl and gold with this side

table from Living In Interiors

Go bold with this quirky

timepiece from Midas.

GID

16

MASTERMIND

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

ZAHA HADID:

THE GENIUS OF CURVES

GID PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE ARCHITECT PAR EXCELLENCE, DAME ZAHA HADID, WHOSE
UNTIMELY DEATH SHOCKED THE ENTIRE DESIGN COMMUNITY. WE LOOK AT SOME OF HER
DESIGNS, FROM CREATIVE FLUID FORMS TO BUILDINGS THAT LEAN PRECARIOUSLY, AND
WONDER HOW THESE CREATIONS THAT CLEARLY DEFY ALL LAWS OF GRAVITY REMAIN
STANDING IN PERFECT HARMONY WITH THEIR SURROUNDINGS. HADIDS WORK WILL
REMAIN A LEGACY, FOR BREAKING FREE OF CONVENTION AND CONFORMITY. R.I.P HADID.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

17

GID

MASTERMIND

Guangzhou Opera House, China

Opera houses have long been a symbol of a citys culture,
and today a Zaha Hadid opera house is the cultural
symbol of choice for a new world city. Dubai had to
cancel theirs in the financial crisis; Abu Dhabi are still
building theirs; but Guangzhou have completed theirs, to
justified critical acclaim. The Guangzhou Opera House
is the third largest theater in China, for what is, by some
measures at least, Chinas third largest city. While there
is some commonality to the fluid, amorphous forms of
Hadids opera house designs, the Guangzhou Opera
House stands out as the least organic. The building sits in
the urban centre of Guangzhou close to the Pearl River,
and Hadids metaphor for the building is a pair of watersmoothed pebbles in the flow of the river.

18

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

Heydar Aliyev, Azerbaijan

The Heydar Aliyev Center in Azerbaijan is a cultural centre, in a futuristic monument designed by architect
Zaha Hadid.
Since its independence in 1991, Azerbaijan has invested heavily in modernising and developing its capital
Bakus infrastructure and architecture, departing from its legacy of normative Soviet modernism.
The design of the Heydar Aliyev Center establishes a continuous, fluid relationship between its surrounding
plaza and the buildings interior. The plaza, as the ground surface, accessible to all as part of Bakus urban
fabric, rises to envelop an equally public interior space and define a sequence of event spaces dedicated
to the collective celebration of contemporary and traditional Azeri culture. Elaborate formations such as
undulations, bifurcations, folds, and inflections modify this plaza surface into an architectural landscape that
performs a multitude of functions: welcoming, embracing and directing visitors through different levels of the
interior. The Center, designed to become the primary building for the nations cultural programs, breaks from
the rigid and often monumental Soviet architecture that is so prevalent in Baku, aspiring instead to express
the sensibilities of Azeri culture and the optimism of a nation that looks to the future.

GID

MASTERMIND

The Wangjing SOHO, China

The Wangjing SOHO building complex is a beacon
along the way to Beijings modern gateway, the
Capital Airport, and the journey of transition to and
from the city. The project acts as a welcoming post
to the city and a gesture of farewell when departing
Beijing. The buildings achieve this by reading
differently when transitioning in either direction,
leaving distinctly different impressions on those who
pass by. Like Chinese fans, the volumes appear to
move around each other in an intricate dance, each
embracing the other from a continuously changing
angle. This interplay creates a vibrant architectural
complex that is enhanced by an equally dynamic
external skin, which continuously varies in density to
create a shimmering, exciting presence.

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GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul, South Korea

The Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a major urban development landmark in
Seoul designed by Hadid, with a distinct neofuturistic design characterised
by the powerful, curving forms of elongated structures. Brought to life using
five construction technologies, it was the first public project in Korea to
utilize the 3-Dimensional Building Information Modelling (BIM) and other
digital tools in construction.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

21

GID

MASTERMIND

Bergisel Ski Jump, Austria

The Bergiselschanze Ski Jump
Stadium is a pilgrimage site for winter
sports enthusiasts. The Bergisel has
seen two Olympic Winter Games and
is the venue of countless international
competitions attracting spectators
from all over the world. Its ski jump
installation, designed by Hadid
in 2001, is a triumph of style and
structure. The sinuous and dynamic
form of the main tower accommodates
a restaurant, viewing terrace and the
ski jump starting ramp, and offers a
breathtaking view of Innsbruck.

22

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

Abu Dhabi
Performing Art Centre
A new performing
arts centre having five
theatres, a concert hall and
opera theatres. Hadids
performing arts centre
emerges from the ground
like a futuristic runningshoe. It will house a music
hall, a concert auditorium,
one of the worlds largest
opera houses, and theatres
for up to 6,000 people.

THE
U N B U I LT

Al Wakra Stadium, Doha.

This must have been the most controversial
buildings so far for Hadid, with ridicule heaped
on its structure resembling a womans body
part to the death of workers in the construction
of this site. Hadid had even reacted angrily
to the latter, saying to the journalist who
interviewed her, We sued somebody for
writing that, and saying that, and it had to
be withdrawn from the press. It is absolutely
inaccurate, said the architect. There are no
deaths on our site whatsoever.
GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

23

THE

24

THING

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

NATURES
REVENGE
THIS EXPERIMENTAL YET FUNCTIONAL
PROJECT FROM GEORGES AMATOURY STUDIO IS
THE ULTIMATE ECO-TERRORISM FANTASY.
Too long has Earth allowed her forests to be mowed down
to make way for urban sprawl. Too long has mankind
pointlessly debated climate change while continuing its
destructive ways even as sea levels rose, droughts spread and
species went extinct. Now, the time of judgment is upon us,
at least within this glass-encased world. Both angry and
beautiful, Green Pompeii is a limited-edition console; each
of the eight pieces created is stacked with a unique
combination of mineral materials (brushed brass, concrete,
polished stainless steel, gun metal, silver leaf patine),
portraying the skyline of a 21st-century city, drowning in
organic, green resin. Estimated cost: QR70,000

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

25

GID

DECONSTRUCT

WORK
IN STYLE
CREATE AN UNCONVENTIONAL HOME OFFICE BY
MIXING DIFFERENT TEXTURES, STYLES AND PRINTS
AND PICK UNUSUAL FURNITURE: AN ARABESQUEINSPIRED DESK LIKE THIS AND A COZY NICHE WITH
A TUFTED BACKDROP AND EXOTIC PILLOWS FROM
AL MANA GALLERIA ADD A PERSONAL TOUCH
WHICH GIVES JUST THE RIGHT INSPIRATIONAL
BOOST.

(ALL PRODUCTS ARE FROM AL MANA GALLERIA.

THE LOOK IS CREATED BY ARCHITECT BUKET TANRIKULU)

26

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

10

1
5

PAINTING: QR4,100 2 RHAPSODY DESK: QR13,166 3 OTTOMAN ARMCHAIR, MOBI: QR3,920 4 CARPET, ELEMENT: QR12,050
MONTE CRISTO ARMCHAIR, KOLEKSIYON: QR6,110 6 NEW YORKER COFFEE TABLE: QR6,102 7 BIBLA LIBRARY, MOBI: QR19,922
8 PILLOW ESTIK DCOR: QR543 9 STATU 2 SEATER SOFA, CASA: QR9,354 10 VASE, CASA SET: QR306

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

27

GID

28

ARCHITECTURE

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

A COMPLETE
AND
CONSCIOUS DESIGN
PRACTICE
THE ARCHITECT
DUO FROM PEIA
ASSOCIATI,
GIAMPIERO PEIA
AND MARTA
NASAZZI DISCUSS
GIVING A SECOND
LIFE TO PROJECTS
AND WEAVING A
STRONG STORY
OF AESTHETICS
THROUGH THEIR
BODY OF WORK.

BY AARTHI
MOHAN

CONTEXTUAL FOCUS
Left: the Centre for peace
Ikeda in Milan. Below: The
Shanghai Towers and the
Coca Cola pavilion at the
Expo Milano 2015.

While every married couples dynamic

is unique. Giampiero Peia and Marta
Nasazzi represent a husband and wife
collaboration that is changing the
traditional definition of architectural
partnerships. Giampiero has been in
the architecture and design industry
for many years, studying his craft
alongside luminaries such as Ignazio
Gardella and Piero Lissoni. He has
worked on a multitude of projects
ranging from retail, hospitality and
residential.
He was nominated by Casabella
magazine as one of the best 40 Italian
under 50 architects. Marta, on the
other hand, is an interior designer and
has always had that special eye for style
and good taste. As husband and wife they
have had the luxury of time together and
after realising that their combined wealth
of experience could develop, create and
sustain a business that would fulfill their
design expectations, they have now
cemented their partnership with Peia
Associati. Covering areas of architecture,
interiors, industrial design, master
planning and product design services,
the firm was started in 1995 in Milan and
has now diversified with varied projects
scattered in many countries across the
globe. Fuelled by a spirit of constant
transversal research in different fields
of design, this duo likes to say that their
artisanal approach is more an ethos than
a style. Their spaces are atmospheric with
30

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

emphasis on detailing and intelligent

use of materials, and reflect a sense of
belonging.
Context plays a big role in the design
practice of Peia Associati. Our projects
are born out of a direct relationship to
space and materials. What we are trying
to create is honest architecture. Because
of that, in terms of material compatibility
and being sustainable, it becomes an
experiential process in and of itself, says
Giampiero. The couple love what they do
and it is reflected in their designs. These
days, the practice is primarily involved

It is about long-term
relationships and blurring the
lines between architecture and
interiors, so that there is
complementary vision.

SIMPLY UNIQUE
Peia Associatis signature
is the patterns that they
create exclusive for each
project. Above: A private
villa in Doha and the Qatar
Chamber. Left: The CocaCola pavilion at the Expo
Milano 2015.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

31

GID

ARCHITECTURE

travels and books but also from

Giampieros love for cinema. He
says, cinema is the closest thing to
architecture. We are like movie directors,
from coordination to execution we are
involved in all the disciplines. If you read
the biography of Stanley Kubrick, he was
a maniac for details. This is the same
wisdom we share with our students as
well.
Their varied palette of interior projects
includes the new Italian Centre I.B.I.S.G.

Cinema is the closest thing to

architecture. We are like movie
directors, from coordination to
execution we are involved in all
the disciplines.
with residential and hospitality projects.
To make a residential design perfect,
every detail needs to be specifically
designed according to the clients needs
and so, by default, they become an
extension of the Peia family. It is about
long-term relationships and blurring the
lines between architecture and interiors,
so that there is complementary vision,
Marta explains. The projects are all about
textures. I love working with different
materials in all my projects.
Distinct from an architectural firm,
the couple is less concerned with
planning, designing, and building
physical structures than with developing
an architectural language that is
autonomous, intuitive, and everlasting.
In the duos work a physical structure
arises from a narrative that engages the
design by telling stories.
For me, importance is more on the
richness of architecture and expression
of the space. Details relating to the
culture, understanding of the natural
surroundings, doing research with
artistic creativity, etc., is imperative
when taking up a project. We try to
apply a style that is subtle with elements
from different cultures. Our signature
is the geometric patterns that we create
exclusively for each space, says the
architect.
Inspiration for these artistic minds
comes not only from their extensive
32

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

in Corsico-Milan, a complex for cultural

and conference centre including new and
ancient buildings; the Coca-Cola Pavilion
for Expo 2015 in Milan and suites in
Shanghai. The prominent projects in
Doha include: The Oyster at The Pearl;
the 62-storey Kempinski Residences and
Suites and its new Z lounge (the tallest
bar in Doha) and Alfardan Towers which
offers twin offices and residential towers,
the BMW showroom and the Guerlain
Spa, winner of the 2008 Middle East Spa
award. We also work as consultants for
Qatar Rail, infrastructure and interiors
to help public and private companies.
The new showroom and office for Lexus
is under construction. Hospitality is
our core business. We have designed
residential projects such as private
villas for many influential clients. Peia

VARIED
PROJECTS
Centre: A luxury
hotel in the
Maldives which is
the duos upcoming
project. Left: The
Guerlain Spa at the
Alfardan Towers.
Below: The Z
lounge, Doha by
night.

Associati has also been shortlisted for

the competition for a new Qatar National
Bank headquarters on the Corniche and
the Doha Yacht Club Hotel and Marina,
says the proud couple.
The firm believes in giving a second
life to any project they work on, that is
the idea of approaching design as an
operation of re-assembly, by taking parts
from one world and transferring them
into another. To exemplify the current
dimension of reuse, Giampiero feels
that the focus should be shifted from a
single result of the design assemblage
to a strategic creative process of
infinitely possible solutions, where the
attention is focused on the concept of
manufacturing.
Architecture now has become more
environmentally conscious. Interiors

are less durable but for the time

that has to be used, we as architects
have a responsibility to create an
environmentally- friendly project. I do
not believe in the term wastage. Every
architect should keep in mind not to
waste material irrespective of the budget
one works with. We believe ecologic is
economic.
Quality is the only thing that matters,
be it by signature architects or not,
says Giampiero. With a new resort in
the Maldives under construction, the
future looks interesting for this design
duo. Their combined passion for design
and each others interests ensures that
the two spheres of work and play merge
seamlessly by re-interpreting their roots
with a contemporary and sustainable
vision based on experiences.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

33

REGIONAL FOCUS

PHOTO COURTESY: SERGEY BESPALOV AND CARTEL

GID

34

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

telling
tales
of
design

KNOWN FOR HIS INGENIOUS COMBINATIONS OF TRADITIONAL

ELEMENTS AND CONTEMPORARY PRODUCT DESIGN,
UAE-BASED DESIGNER KHALID SHAFARS APPROACH
ENCOMPASSES A PERSONAL EXPRESSION OF FORM, MOVEMENT,
EMOTION, AND THE TALE OF OBJECTS.
BY AARTHI MOHAN

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GID

REGIONAL FOCUS

The objects that inhabit his world

make an impression of stills
dredged from a tale, a reflection of
his thematic choices and the way
in which he realizes them by using
different techniques and narratives,
which makes Khalid's aesthetically
functional designs one-off pieces.
Sparked by a long-term personal and
professional goal to be a designer, Khalid
is qualified in two disciplines, marketing
and fine arts and interior design. He
obtained both his degrees from the
American University in Dubai but his
passion was always in furniture design. "I
developed more interest while doing my
Interior Design degree and a furniture
design course. By then, I had decided
that I wanted to build my own brand and
have my own designs. I don't regret my
corporate life. It taught me discipline,
management skills, and leadership, he
says.
His approach to design embraces the
golden triangle of creativity, practicality
and functionality. "Functionality is the
key to all my creations and I consider
myself a functional designer. I ensure
that my work is valid and purposeful",
says the designer. His products serve a
multitude of purposes and spaces. Many
objects have been designed to function in
more than one mood, depending on the
tales they tell.
A designer is always sensitive to the
beauty of things around him and for
this designer, inspiration lies in many
things such as architecture, crafts, art
and people. Simple yet avant-garde, each
product pictures a revival of the 50s,
60s, and 70s sleek styling which is then
re-interpreted with contemporary flair.
Designed to fit individualistic interior
spaces, they are fuelled with the energy
and passion of Khalid's own lifestyle and
life stories.
"It is the 'tale' that is the aesthetic
side of each object and what creates the
attachment with all my pieces. Whether
you belong to the tale or not, you still
react towards it when you read or listen
to it," he says.
Following specific trends of design
does not interest this artist; he believes
36

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

CULTURALLY
INCLINED
Khalid Shafars
connection with the
rich past of his native
region is highlighted in
works such as his Palm
collection, Flame-ingo
project for DRAK 2015
and the Seats collection.

It is the tale that is the aesthetic side of

each object and what creates the
attachment with all my pieces. Whether
you belong to the tale or not, you still react
towards it when you read or listen to it.

that in the world of product design,

we are less restricted to trends than in
fashion. The Campana Brothers are
Khalid's global design idols and he has a
lot of admiration for their work. He also
enjoys the works of Martino Gamper,
Konstantine Grcic and Maarten Baas.
Designed with a conscious use of form,
materials and texture encapsulated
in functional objects, this designers
repertoire highlights the rich past of
his native region which he achieves
by employing dying crafts, including
weaving and embroidery. He explores the
area of the genesis of forms depending
on the practical conditions of utility and
possibility.
Khalid's internationally acclaimed
work telltale objects, includes his
Palm collection, a series of stools,
tables, coat stands and coffee tables.
Pine and ash blocks face upwards in a
graphic representation that explores
the bark found on the trunk of a palm
tree, a popular sight in the designer's
home country. Continuing upward, the
surfaces of the tables are woven out of

dried leaves, creating colourful patterns

while the handle pays homage to wicker
baskets woven in a similar way. "I also
recently started using the Agal (the
black woven cord that Arab men wear
to secure their head covers) in my latest
installations, The Cabin and Forma
which is very unique to me, says the
artist.
FLAME-INGO is another popular
project by Khalid which was presented
during DRAK 15. Exploring the
relationship between material and
form through mass-produced industrial
materials such as interlocking pavement
blocks, he reinterpreted the material
to create a functional object, in this
case a candleholder. His design drew
inspiration from the body shape of
the flamingos of Ras Al Khor Wildlife
Sanctuary. The different kinds of
interlocking blocks retain their original
variety of shape, form and finish to
reinforce the value of such material when
put into a design. The candleholder's
components correspond to various
parts of the flamingo's body. The tall,

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

37

GID

REGIONAL FOCUS

slender shape of the candlestick, for

example, makes reference to the bird's
long neck. The candle burns and melts
over the interlocked body leaving a
sculptured layer of wax which suggests
the flamingo's feathers.
Timber is a dominant medium in most
of Khalid's collections. "It is true to say
that I have an affinity with this material.
As a medium, it has a reaction from
the moment you cut it. When I finish
the piece and oil it, it is not the end. It
comes alive, it moves. It reacts towards
heat, humidity and cool weather. It's
something to take care of," he says.
Khalid has also been a part of
varied collaborations. He says, "I love
collaborating with other brands. One
of the simplest but most challenging
was the COS collaboration where I and
five other international designers each
had to use one square metre of white
sheet paper to create something. It was
a medium that I used for the first time
within a limited quantity and specific
brief. For me it was one of the nicest
projects I was involved in".
Simple lines mixed with rich detail
and fine materials are the hallmarks of
a Khalid Shafar design. Being conscious
of his motto, Think Global, Act Gobal,
his future projects include a couple of
collaborations which are in the pipeline
and a new product line under his label
which is set to be launched during the
first quarter of 2017.
38

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

ARTISTIC
COLLABORATOR
Above: The Cabin,
an interactive
space which is
an experience
between sea
and land. Below:
Nakkash Gallery
paired-up with
Shafar for the 5th
Edition of Design
Days Dubai.

GID

REGIONAL FOCUS

ART OF

40

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

LIVING

GID PRESENTS THE EDITORS PICKS OF SOME OF THE

MOST STUNNING PIECES FROM THE FIFTH EDITION OF
DESIGN DAYS DUBAI. THE CAREFULLY CURATED
EXHIBITORS LIST WAS RICH WITH DESIGN TALENT
FROM ACROSS THE GULF AND THE REST OF THE
WORLD, ESPECIALLY FROM HOTSPOTS LIKE BEIRUT
AND MILAN. THE EXHIBITION SPACE FELT MORE LIKE A
GALLERY FOR HIGH ART, ALTHOUGH HERE ONE COULD
TOUCH THE ARTWORKS, EVEN SIT ON THEM, BE
ENVELOPED BY THEM AND BECOME ONE WITH THEM.

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41

GID

REGIONAL FOCUS

Beirut-born Vick Vanlian is bringing

steampunk back. His pieces for the
exhibition revolved around love, power and
copper. An interesting piece from the refuse
collection (which used already-produced
industrial elements that produces 80% less
waste than recycling) was this unique sofa.
On this particular design, they used bicycle
partswheels, chains and pedalshigh quality
foam and feather for the seat and back and
top-quality vintage leather.

The Crafts Council will take eleven UK-based

contemporary designers to Design Days
Dubai. One of them is Fay McCaul, whose
specialism lies in uniting modern materials
with age-old knitting techniques to forge a
diverse range of luxury interiors from lights
and tables to screens and tapestries.Textiles
that shimmer in response to movement and
light are created when she inserts thousands
of metallic squares into individually knitted
pockets

42

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

Coral Wal1 by Zuleika Penniman is a room

divider that connects more than it divides.
Coral, which shelters a rich variety of
marine life, has historically been used in
construction of traditional dwellings in the
UAE. These delicate slices of coral rocks,
reclaimed from buried mortar and plaster,
are each unique and exquisitely patterned
and are arranged within a slender gold
frame that bends.

Barcelona Design Gallerys Amarist

Studio collection challenged visitors with
provocative concepts presented through
practical pieces. An example of this is the
coffee table called Too Much? II. This
functional sculpture is essentially a neatly
stacked pile of burnt or partially burnt 50
Euro bills (each note hand painted by the
artist) encased in a glass cube, with a thin
biofuel film rising above its surface.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

43

GID

REGIONAL FOCUS

Traditionally the Midkhan has been used on a

daily basis around the house; however, their
form has remained unchanged, regardless
of age and use. Aisha Al Sowaidi harnesses
memory and nostalgia to rework these objects
using materials inspired by the fast-developing
metropolis around her.

The Cities exhibits shared the concept of

Orientalism Reinterpreted. Each designer
chose a recognizable design, structure, or motif
that has been traditionally associated with
Khaleeji culture and offered a reinterpretation.
Shown here is Amal de Luces Enxoval, a
cabinet made of Corian, Palissandro wood,
Swarovski crystals and gold leaf.

Aljoud Lootah reintroduces the Unfolding

Unity stool, designed to explore the
versatility of the structure by experimenting
with various materials. While patterns, folds
and geometric shapes are at the heart of her
inspiration, she composes her creations by
mixing traditional silhouettes and concepts
with modern elements.

44

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

Binme designers Ingrid Michel and Frdric Pain

stole the show with the elegance and simplicity
of Megalithe. This work focused on the object
while following the guiding line of sculptural design.
The form is taut but the angles still have a certain
roundness, along with organic shapes and concrete
providing a mineral element. Balance is also one of
the subjects addressed in the piece, with a primary
volume supported by a secondary volume that
affirms the whole.

Fadi Sarieddines booth revolved around upcycled

objects splattered across walls and expanding
through neglected spaces. The Swaddle chair was
the designers favourite; the star of the show, as
he put it. The cone-shaped leather chair engulfs
the sitter in an attached cotton quilt. Should the
sitter prefer to lie down, the excess fabric can
also be pooled down the legs of the chair for a
tent effect. The no-frills approach is to pull the
fabric through the back of the seat.

Hiraeth by Coalesce Design Studio: a yearning

for a past that you never want to forget. Thats
the feeling that our spinning Lattoo seats will
evoke. That experience that enlivens a moment
of your long-forgotten childhood. Five Pakistani
designers, each with their own interpretations.
Traditional, contemporary, whimsical,
deconstructed, and futurist...each Lattoo is a
dialogue between different materials, forms,
space, and motion.

Milans Camp Design Gallery is barely a year

old, but its young owners have a great eye
as evidenced by Where the Rain Stops. A
prospective game deforms the projection of one
of the panels, and invites the viewer to look for a
point of view from which the circle enters into a
dynamic relationship with this work. The result is
a drawing deep and valuable, delimited by a brass
wire that separates the world of representation
from the real one.
The transcontinental Carpenters Workshop
Gallery exhibited a signature piece by Frederik
Molenschot. Citylight 2 The Wall is inspired
by the intensity of cities, especially at night when
they seem like immense galaxies that criss-cross
endlessly and at random. The artist worked
with bronze for the first time, using an ancestral
technique and the piece took three years to make.
GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

45

GID

REGIONAL FOCUS

Art Fulcrum Gallerys mission to bring contemporary

design to the international stage has introduced the
likes of Carla Baz to the audiences at Design Days
Dubai, where she presented Mandolin, a light fixture
made of brushed brass, mirror and LED lights.

Lebanese furniture producer Squad

Design pressed its designers into action
on the concept of Intensified Lightnessone malleable object altering its
appearance to serve different functions
with lightness and grace. The Game Box
personifies this philosophy. Endlessly
diverting, the object of this 3D Tetris
is to create wonderfully bizarre (and
stable) creations from the different
shapes available in the box (that forms a
perfect block when assembled correctly;
should you be someone with more
conventional sensibilities).

Loulwa Al Radwans style is mainly

influenced by Islamic and traditional
designs with a modern twist, This year,
however, her work for Design Days
Dubai has been exceptionally different.
Her work is inspired by the natural
beauty of peacocks feathers, which
includes a bookshelf, a mirror and a table
all made from Carrara marble and brass.

46

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

A century-old business based out of Kuwait, Samovar Carpets

knows its stuff. Where they shine is by mobilizing this timeless
tradition into creating evocative modern images that bring
any wall or floor to life. This limited-edition piece (only one of
which was created) by German designer Michaela Schleypen
is called Floor to Heaven and is hand-tufted and made from
New Zealand wool.

Mechanical Art Devices or M.A.D Gallery presented a

range of kinetic art sculptures where one could step
through the looking glass and experience art from an
alternate universe. Notable pieces were Berlin-based
artist Frank Buchwald s Machine Lights ; striking
metallic sculptures by Chinese artist Xia Hang; cheeky
kinetic creations crafted by UK-based artist-engineer
team Laikingland; and French-born Quentin Carnailles
intricate pieces created using thousands of vintage
watch components.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

47

Advertorial

New upgrades
from Hempel

With a range of emulsions, enamels and texture

paints, Hempel has launched an upgraded version of
the Topaz range of decorative paints with superior
performance, as well as PureEarth, a five-point
strategy aimed at developing sustainable and ecofriendly products.

48

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

Wall paints and colours have become an intrinsic part of

our lifestyles and an extension of our personalities. Paints
can affect indoor environments such as homes and offices,
so our choices not only make a significant impact upon
the construction cost but can also influence the health and
comfort of the people using the building.
Hempels superior decorative coating range, TOPAZ, has
developed products which offer superior performance
with various finishes and textures. The range offers endless
possibilities with thousands of shades that can be customised
and tinted to meet every clients choice.
Topaz comes in a wide range of colours to suit your home
styles. The collection comprises a range of emulsions, enamels
and waterborne texture paints and is the perfect choice for those
who appreciate a touch of art and sophistication to their interiors.
The emulsions possess a high scrub resistance, low VOC and help
to restrain spreading of flame in case of fire. The TOPAZ upgraded
emulsions possess opacity, whiteness and colour retention
properties. The TOPAZ texture range is equally good for interior
and exterior and is available in four variants: multi, fine, medium
and coarse. The TOPAZ enamel range is available in matt, gloss

and silk gloss finishes which require very low maintenance and
has superior whiteness and colour retention properties. All
the products within the range can be applied through normal
application techniques using widely available application tools.
Hempel supports the cause of sustainable development and
has recently adopted a five-point strategy, Hempel PureEarth,
which underlines Hempels commitment towards developing
sustainable and eco-friendly products with zero-VOC green
coatings within the TOPAZ range. TOPAZ Zero is the new green
generation of paints which redefines environmental friendliness,
combining high-performing coatings with VOC-free and
formaldehyde-free technology. TOPAZ Zero offers anti-mould and
anti-bacteria properties, making this product ideal for kitchens,
hospitals, schools and any other environment where there are
strict hygiene regulations. It is 100% pure acrylic, formulated
with no organic solvents. Topaz Zero retains improves the indoor
air quality, giving you the possibility to paint with reduced risk
of asthma-like respiratory problems, skin irritation and allergic
reactions. It also has opacity, washability and colour retention
properties.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

49

GID

CELEBRITY

THE MAN OF
_DETAILS

JAY STRONGWATER, THE EPONYMOUS DESIGNER OF THE BRAND,

WAS IN DOHA VISITING HIS PARTNER STORE TANAGRA WHERE

A GROUP OF WOMEN FROM ALL
WALKS OF LIFE GATHERED TO SEE THE

NEW JAY STRONGWATER COLLECTION.
50

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

Im fascinated by the idea of taking everyday objects around us

and turning them into jewels for the home, he says. Beauty
shouldnt be tucked in a drawer. Instead, hes put it on display
through his handcrafted creations. His background as a highfashion jewellery designer is evident in the details of each piece he
creates. The canvas is growing and at the end of the day we want
to make beautiful products that captivate everyone, says this
unpretentious designer. He tells GID a little more about his passion.

Design to
me is ....

being able to bring our

dreams to life.

My visit to Qatar
can be described
as....

Fast and
Fabulous

I
believe
in....
Love

What I loved most

about the country?
Meeting such warm,
wonderful people.

Inspiration
comes from...

Taking a walk,
through a park,
down a street, in a
museum...
Middle East customers are...
appreciative of my love for our strong
colours, patterns and exuberant designs
with myriad of intricate details.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

51

Advertorial

Colours
for the Season

From fun textures

to eclectic colour
groupings, usher in
this spring season by
bringing in warmth and
vibrancy with Jotuns
Spring Summer 2016
Collection.

Colours enhance your mood. Thats

why selecting the best paint colours
when painting your favourite room
is important. They have that intuitive
power to improve the quality of life
as well as make your space visually
appealing. The colours that surround us
influence our moods and perceptions
in the most powerful way. They can
either make us feel comfortable or
disconnected. To create a sense of
continuity and harmony throughout
52

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

your home, you need a good colour

flowa balanced colour scheme that
seamlessly connects one space to the
other.
Spring is all about making that fresh
start. inspired by the elements of the
bright season, Jotun has introduced
six colours for a new spin on your
interiors. They are fun and energetic with
sophistication and refinement. The colour
palette becomes bolder with lively and
bright colours. The new collection is a

tribute to spring seasons upbeat colours

and combinations that exude positivity
and happiness. Reminiscent of the crisp
scent of the air, warm rays of sunshine
and fresh blooms, this range energises
the home and gives any space a muchneeded spruce-up.
There is a tendency in the time that
we want to bring nature into our homes.
Green hues have been in trend for a while,
and now its the flowers that are of great
inspirationboth in patterns or even just
as bold colours, says Lisbeth Larsen,
Global Colour manager and Creative
Director, Jotun. The Spring/Summer
collection 2016 is youthful and reflects
the shades of the season. When combined

with colourful detailing and floral fabrics,

they can perk up any mood. This will also
appeal to those who believe less is more,
because when the shades are combined
with white tones or black, it gives a very
elegant and sophisticated touch to the
interiors, added Larsen.
Jotuns latest interior paint innovation
Fenomastic My Home Rich Matt gives
walls personality. It offers a rich colour
experience, providing the most accurate
colour match. Strong colours look soft,
deep colours look rich; it is the perfect
choice for creating beautiful homes and
professional interior design projects.
Rich matt finish is trending and is also a
popular choice.

So capture the change of the seasons and create a refreshing palette

in your home with these statement colours from Jotun.

Pretty in Pink
Used with metallic tones, like antique
brass or bronze, this fun and fresh shade
of pink is versatile and works very well in
combination with the other colours in the
range. You can add a pop of colour to a
monochromatic set-up with this shade.

Jurassic Grey
It is elegant and is a safe choice for
stylish, contemporary interiors or a room
with rural elegance.

Sun-kissed Yellow
Soft and subdued, yellow is often used in
childrens rooms and kitchens to create a
calm, quiet place to begin a new life or to
start the morning. The colour looks best
when merged with Grey or Green.

The Spring and

Summer collection
2016 is available
across all Jotun stores
in the region

Sporty Green
A blend of balance and harmony, green
used along with blues and neutral shades
is reminiscent of the serenity of nature,
whereas when used in combination
with bold and dark colours like black
and yellow, it creates the perfect sporty,
outdoor feel.

Lounge effect
Warm and elegant, the Lounge effect is a
combination of different tones of green.
The colour adds a lot of character and
makes a room come alive.
GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

53

GID

GLAMOUR

THE DESIGNER SPACES

Interior designer Laura Marino and a
Westbourne house designed by her.
54

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

THE
DESIGN
ALCHEMIST
INTERIOR DESIGNER LAURA MARINO IS ALWAYS
PASSIONATE ABOUT THE CRAFT,

BE IT DESIGNING FOR A LARGE CORPORATE
OR FOR A QUAINT INTERIOR SPACE.

BY DENISE MARRAY.

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GID

GLAMOUR

I love mixing eras and materials.

You can build personality through
the textures. I use a lot of vintage 70s
and 80s furniture now and mix it
with some mid-century modern.

Talking to the interior designer Laura

Marino is a stimulant; this is because
her love of all aspects of the craft of
designing comes right from the heart
and it's easy to gauge her excitement
at the myriad possibilities of creating
beautiful living spaces.
She's used to handling big, commercial
projects in her capacity as co-founder
and creative director of Alchemi Group.
What is endearing about Marino is
that she can move from big projects to
small and personal ones with the same
enthusiasm. When she talks about her
own home in Connecticut, USA, you get
a feel for the kind of imaginative thought
process that drives her vision.
"In my home I have used real
hardwood floors running throughout in a
custom stain. Then I mix a lot of natural
stone and hand-glazed ceramics. I like
authenticity in materials and hence use a
lot of handcrafted materials," she said.
The Alchemi Group has been
shortlisted in two categories for the 2016
International Design and Architecture
Awards for Interior Design. Westbourne
House, one of the award-winning
projects, has a link to Qatar as well, with
the Westbourne House being owned by
Westbourne House Ltd, and Qatar First
Bank as the primary investor.
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GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

She has an eclectic taste in furniture. "I

love mixing eras and materials. You can
build personality through the textures. I
use a lot of vintage 70s and 80s furniture
now and mix it with some mid-century
modern. I use classical pieces as wellso that it is not all vintage collection
from one particular era. Perhaps some
Regency or Georgian furniture mixed
with streamlined modern pieces."
She reveals that she has always been
and remains a big fan of wallpaper.
"I know that wallpaper is having a
moment now but I have never seen it as
being 'out'. There are so many artisans
doing hand-painted wallpapers. For
natural fabrics, I like to use Phillip
Jeffries. They have a wonderful range
and I use a smaller supplier for wallpaper
with textures. For printed, hand-blocked
wallpaper I use a lot of Schumacher
Wallpaper and Brunschwig & Fils. I
look all over - I am always reading and
researching - there are so many great
manufacturers and designers."
It's especially interesting talking to
Marino because she is happy to talk about
the brands and suppliers she favours.
She is not the type of person who talks in
flowery generalities, leaving the listener
drowned in a sea of adjectives. So, for
example, when she talks about carpets or

LOVING EACH
FRAME
Laura Marinos love
for materials makes
her look deep into
detailing of each
of the materials
to make the best
feature shine.

rugs she imparts useful information.

"For carpets and rugs I buy a lot of
Jan Kath from Front, London. They are
expensive but absolutely stunning. Jan
Kath started off doing a take on traditional
Persian and Oriental carpets and then
reinvented them in a modern way and he
called that line 'Erased Heritage'. I also
use The Rug Company," she said.
In Alchemi's recently launched 55
Victoria Street project in London, Marino
has used special ceramics and tiles. "I have
used Zellige tiles from Morocco; beautiful,
hand-cut terracotta glazed tiles in
wonderful coloursreally rich jewel tones
as well as more neutral- based colours.
There is such a fantastic range and the
specialty about these particular tiles is that
every single one is unique because they are
hand cut and hand glazed. When you see
a full wall of them it is not just one tone
there are variations of tone in whatever
colour you are using. Also, the joints are
much thinner so you have this wonderful
irregular effect on the wall and it looks as
though it has been there for centuries,"
she observed. At the moment, in addition
to working on major development projects

in London, she is finding the time to work

on her own home. She is focusing on her
bathrooms right now and is finding joy in
creating spaces that are a private oasis with
a design flair and an element of surprise.
"I am using a silver Travertine limestone
with more of a white background with grey
and blue veining in it; I am mixing that
with navy tiles. I am also using Arabescato
and an Aurora marble which is all white
mixed with a lilac marble. I'm really
attracted to strong veining and colour; I
think bathrooms are places where you can
show a lot of personality."
As she put it: "I like to open the
bathroom door and be surprised and look
at it like a little jewel box."
Marino understands that, for many
people, using an interior designer for the
first time can be quite daunting. To take
the pressure off the client she is going to
take a flexible approach through her soon
-to-be-launched Studio L in London.
This will be a separate design studio as
a subsidiary to Alchemi offering a diverse
range of work, from consultancy, private
residential design, FF&E (furniture,
fixtures and equipment) to styling.

THE LIVING ROOMS

Laura spends a lot of time on bathroom design
as she wants it to reflect a jewel box.

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGN

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GID
GLAMOUR

58

GLAM INTERIORS + DESIGNERIORS + DESIGN

LOUD

AND

BOLD

DESIGNS COME HOME

LONDON-BASED FASHION DESIGNER KATIE
EARY LOVES FURNITURE ALMOST AS MUCH
AS FASHION. THAT IMMEDIATELY MAKES HER
A GID FAVOURITE; WE LOVE DESIGNERS
WHO DO NOT LIVE WITHIN CONFINED
BOUNDARIES OF VOCATIONS AND ARE
CONSTANTLY STRADDLING DIFFERENT
SPHERES OF DESIGN. AND THEN KATIE
PARTNERED WITH IKEA, A DANISH DESIGN
BRAND THAT WE LOVE FOR ITS SWEEPING
DESIGNS AND AFFORDABLE FORMATS. KATIE
PARTNERS WITH IKEA TO CREATE GILTIG, A
LIMITED-EDITION COLLECTION THAT IS ALL
ABOUT LIVING LOUD. WITH THE LAUNCH OF
GILTIG, IKEA ENTERS NEW TERRITORY. THE
COLLECTION IS THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF
COLLABORATIONS WITH FASHION
DESIGNERSAND A WAY FOR IKEA TO
EXPLORE NEW WAYS OF THINKING.

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GID
GLAMOUR

"We can learn a lot from how fashion

designers work with colours, prints,
patterns and shapes. They constantly
have to re-invent themselves and
what they do and are used to work
in the forefront of pattern and colour
development", says Henrik Most,
Creative Leader, IKEA of Sweden.
As a menswear designer Katie always
pushes the boundariesexploring new
ways of looking at men's wear using unique
patterns and colour mixes all made
possible through digital printing. And now
she has moved with her colourful craziness
into our homes, an entirely unknown
territory for her.
"I've learnt loads through working with
IKEAit's great to see my designs in a
totally different context. There's so much
you can do within home furnishing and so
many boundaries to break still", she says.
We ask her what sets GILTIG apart
from other home collections and she says,
"GILTIG is a print-based collection. The
idea of creating something amazing on
screen and knowing it's going to look the
same when you put it on a product is very
appealing to someone like me. Digital print
is photo-real2D-print is just so basic and
boring. I want the colour to make the eyes
hurt, that's what I always say." With the
GILTIG collection she puts her loud and
screaming patterns into a completely new
context.
Since IKEA hadn't defined the GILTIG
products beforehand, Katie grabbed her
chance and went straight into the kitchen.
From there she worked her way through
the flat, and
ended up with a
collection that's
based on a mad
I love dark literature, anything
dinner party
sort of desperate. Theres no point
with fish that
pretending misery and poverty
jump off the
dont exist.
plates, bowls
that look you
in the eye and
cups brimming
with cats.
Just like with her menswear collections,
her three younger brothers served as her
musesin this case supported by Johnny
Depp in Fear and loathing in Las Vegas.
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"I find inspiration almost everywhere,

especially in films and books. I love dark
literature, anything sort of desperate.
There's no point pretending misery and
poverty don't exist."
Katie has firsthand experience when it
comes to the latter, to an extent at least.
"We were quite poor when I grew up and
I always wanted what I couldn't have.
Fashion is kind of unavailable, almost
otherwordly, and for someone like me, who
had nothing as a kid, it stood for something
I wanted to be part of." To work with IKEA,
or whatever inspiring collaboration is in the
pipeline, is a lot about outreach and in that
sense linked to Katie's own childhood and
youth. "I always think that collaboration
is the best way to get my products out to
many people to a reasonable cost. I don't
choose to have my own prices set as high as
they are, but there's no other way, really."
Another reason for Katie's career path
is a life-changing experience at the 1995
Saatchi exhibition featuring Damien
Hirst and Sarah Lucas. "It completely
blew me away. It was a slap in the face, so
provocative. You either hate an exhibition
like that or you love it, there's no in-

between. But after having seen

it, I just had no idea what I could
Fashion is kind of
contribute with as far as art goes.
I didn't want to be an add-on. I
unavailable, almost
wanted to create my own waves. So,
otherwordly, and for
what to do?"
someone like me, who had
"When I applied for college
nothing as a kid, it stood
it was a toss-up between design
for something I wanted to
technology and fashion. I ended
be part of.
up doing contour design in
Leicester, things like swimwear and
underwear. But I found it too boring
and unchallenging so I went to my
course leader and said that I wanted
to do fashion instead. At the time no one wanted to
do menswear, so he said that in that case I had to do
that. And it turns out that I was pretty good at it."
Later, Katie did a Masters at the Royal College
of Art in London. Even before she left Uni, Katie
was making noise. "People weren't doing what I
did. I used fur and glitter, really feminine materials,
but in a masculine way. It was new at the time, I
suppose."
Whereas a London fashionista probably would
describe her style as glamorous street wear, Katie
herself describes her work as "in your face, with
the saturation turned right up." Bold patterns,
super-vivid colours and elegant silhouettes are her
trademarks.
"I'm an image-maker and I like to create the full
look. I create a world and fill in all the blanks with
patterns." With GILTIG she sees her work in a
completely different context for the first time. Being
a print girl there was no question that this was going
to be a print-based collection. And it's all digital.
"I want people to get excited and feel they just
need to have everything, not out of necessity or for
the function, but because it's so different and so
cool. I'm so excited to bring a bit of vibrancy into
people's homes. It's fantastic that I can contribute
with that bit of personality."

THE

SPACE

A MASTERPIECE

_OF MODERN
GRANDEUR
The Imam Abdul Wahhab Mosque, or Qatar State Grand Mosque, was built
with a fascinating mix of traditional Arabic and modern architecture with
sparkling half-moons, a minaret and large open outdoor space.
It has a very modern feel to it with crisp lines and also preserves some of the traditional
Islamic architectural elements. The distinguishing feature of the mosque is the domed
roof. The sandstone facades, building height and ninety smaller domes mimic the
building constraints which were present in the early years.The grand mosque is a
stunning example of architectural magnificence and landmark construction in Qatar.
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