< PreviousDesign news commercialinteriordesign.com October 2020 10 Architecturally curious Sharjah Flying Saucer reopens Sharjah Art Foundation (SAF) has announced an art exhibition at the newly renovated Flying Saucer. Created in 1970s by an unknown architect, the landmark has been a French restaurant and a supermarket, before being purchased by the SAF in 2012. UAE-based SpaceContinuum Design Studio has collaborated with SAF to turn the Brutalist structure into an arts centre. The building was stripped back to reveal its original unique silhouette. An attached annexe was removed to showcase the distinctive, 32-pointed concrete dome that is supported by triangulated, intersecting columns. A new underground space dubbed 'The Launch Pad' contains a cafe, library, meeting spaces and access to a circular sunken courtyard Re-opening after a two-year renovation, the Flying Saucer will host installation 'Nowhere Less Now3' by Lindsay Seers and Keith Sargent until December 26 2020. The free-to-view exhibition is an "episodic work that addresses the dark legacy of British colonialism," says SAF's website. Disinfection pods to be installed at the CID Awards 2020 ITP Media Group (ITP) and Bee'ah, the Middle East's leading sustainability pioneer, have formed a strategic partnership to enhance sanitation procedures at ITP's business-to-business events for the remainder of 2020. Bee'ah's disinfection pods will e sited at the upcoming Commercial Interior Design Awards, on November 25 at the JW Marriott Marquis in Business Bay, Dubai. Upon entry, the next-generation pods will spray guests with a fi ne mist of diluted disinfectant that eradicates viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms on a person or their clothing in less than 20 seconds. This full body sanitiser poses no harm to human health, or to clothing. ITP is already working to ensure that our events comply with the UAE government's guidelines in regard to social distancing and hygiene to provide our guests, employees and hotel colleagues an even greater degree of confi dence as we restart our annual award ceremonies. Restaurant reborn Before the 2019 eventThe most advanced surface solution for Flooring, External/Internal Wall Cladding & Kitchens MADE SPAIN TEL: +971 6 5353 123 INFO@GLAZ E . A EP.O. BOX: 24552, SHARJAH, UAE. TOLL FREE 800 GLAZE (45293) www.neolith.com/en/ DESIGN • DURABILITY • VERSATILITY • SUSTAINABILITY INInterview from Sunon commercialinteriordesign.com October 2020 12 In response to the coronavirus pandemic, people all over the world are now working from home. For many, that's meant striving to fi nd a good methods and a better work/life balance. However, many freelancers and creatives have spent most of their careers being out of the offi ce. A pro' at working from home, the designer Andrés Baldoví of Algere Design shares his advice to those who are new to the global phenomenon that's fast becoming our new normal. We also took the chance to take a peek into the life of the creative who created the Hip Chair design for international furniture brand Sunon. As the outbreak of coronavirus has brought us a different ‘normal' life. Suddenly, we are all using our homes simultaneously as offices. What's your suggestion for designing a productive home office? In times of change, people realise that it is not necessary to be in the offi ce to add value to the company. They are aware that by working from home in a responsible manner they can have greater control over their life and their time which, in turn, translates into a better quality of life and greater effectiveness at work. Therefore, the offi ces of tomorrow, either a traditional offi ce space or a home offi ce, should make the employee feel 'at home.' Everything focuses now again on the users and their welfare because each person brings added and differentiated value to the company. Will WFH (working from home) affect your creativity? How would you stay creative during this special period? For me, creativity is a matter of attitude, effort, curiosity, and perseverance. And all these values are closely related to the environment in which we live. The more comfortable that you feel and the more sense of well-being you get from your work space, whether at home or at the offi ce, the better that you will be able to work with that creativity and the more possibilities of success you will have in whatever you are working on. Personally, I work with a laptop, so I can use it at home on a big screen or at the offi ce if I'm doing more detailed work. I can even go out on the terrace and feel the sunlight and the Mediterranean breeze if I need calmness to think about new projects or just answer the mail. At the end of the day, it's all about fi nding inner peace to bring out the best version of yourself. How would you balance your work and life? What do you do in your spare time? Tell us the music you're listening to or a movie you just watched. In my case, my work takes up a large part of my life because I love what I do and work gives me personal satisfaction that allows me to grow as a person. I always try to give my best to every project I am involved in. When I can work out, I will go out because working out is what gives me a lot of inner peace. I also spend a lot of time with my children and friends. I try to do things that enrich me. I always listen to very different music while I'm working. I use music to motivate me, to relax, or to inspire me, for example. The last album I've been listening to is 'Catch and Release' by Matt Symonds. How do you work with a team remotely to keep your project on track? What tools are you using? In our studio, we've always worked with remote equipment. It's something we were already used to and this change hasn't been a problem for us. We see it more as an advantage than a disadvantage because you can work with the best professionals regardless of where they live. We use a project methodology that we have developed over all these years which includes using project tracking tools, video conferences, and mailings. But the Working from home how-to with designer Andrés Baldoví The designer at work13 October 2020 commercialinteriordesign.com Partner content important thing is not the tools, it is to have the knowledge and the experience to use them effi ciently so that they can help you achieve your goals on a daily basis. What's your daily timetable? I consider myself privileged to be able to walk to the offi ce. I try to enjoy what I do every day. I try to take advantage of my lunch break to do some CrossFit and recharge my vitality for the evening. When I fi nish work, I like to cook and spend time with my children. I try to enjoy what life gives us day by day. What changes will this pandemic bring to the design world? Times of crisis are times of change and adaptation, but they are also times of opportunities. Just as the user is going to have to adapt to this new normal, design is going to have to adapt to a new demand for products and services from users and companies, with new services and ways of collaborating with each other. In the case of our study, we have been developing for years a design methodology based on the concept of agile design, which allows iteration with the client in a more dynamic way, adding value at each step of the project and using the necessary tools to create solutions for the client in the shortest time. What role does design play in this kind of crisis? Covid-19 is here to stay. This new situation means that the user has to adapt to this new normal. This has caused the user's needs to change. The new user will be more concerned about feeling safe in the environments he moves in. In this sense, design is the key to create this new environment of products and services that satisfy these new user profi les. We are already working directly with companies on this evolution. If they want to remain in the market, they will need to adapt their products and services to this new normal. More about Sunon From the fi rst piece of hand-made furniture to now providing offi ce space solutions, Sunon has always been sticking to its mission: All for healthy working. Sunon is devoted to creating values for clients in terms of reducing costs and boosting offi ce wellbeing of employees to attract more talents, thus has won trust from clients all over the world. Up to now, customers of Sunon include 160+ Fortune Global 500 companies such as Huawei, Alibaba, Tencent, Google, and Coca-Cola. www.sunoglobal.com Hip offi ce chair by Sunon Design Team and AlegredesignThe Merchant House commercialinteriordesign.com October 2020 14The Merchant House 15 October 2020 commercialinteriordesign.com CHECK IN AND CHECK OUT New fine ar t pieces come to The Merchant House, Bahrain Proudly Bahraini independent boutique hotel The Merchant House has introduced exquisite new art pieces that include international world-famous artists Warhol, Picasso, Hirst, and Matisse. The sophisticated, ultra-modern getaway in Manama's historic Bab el- Bahrain (Gateway to Bahrain) is a hot-spot for art-lovers. A growing collection of more than 200 pieces features up and coming local artists with striking additions 'The Marilyn Diptych' by Andy Warhol and Picasso's 'Picador Bull bullfi ghting Horse.' A work of creative love in itself, the building dates back to 1949 and has housed government offi ces and commercial businesses. It was acquired in 2011 by boutique hotel specialists Campbell Gray and underwent approximately eight years of renovations to become The Merchant House hotel. Each of its 46 suites features two to three artworks that are unique to the room. Guests will also fi nd different pieces in the lobby, the hallways and the library, so you could see a Hirst in the hallway, or a Warhol on the way to breakfast. Founder Gordon Campbell contributed to the creative modelling of the hotel, which contains a unique collection of contemporary art and has a library of more than 1,000 curated books that overlooks the lobby on a mezzanine level and gives guests the chance to peruse the titles in their own time. Manual input came from Gulf House Engineering and also from Technal. THE LOBBY Guests are greeted with grey columns that were purposely left intact from the original building, as a testament to Manama the ever-changing capital city. These fl oor-to-ceiling concrete pillars are accentuated by the striking yet harmonious pop of colours and pattern mixes of a graffi ti wall by artist Mustafa Al Halwachi. Art is an essential component of hotels in the Campbell Gray portfolio and at The Merchant House there are many pieces that refl ect aspiring young talent within the Bahraini art scene. THE TERRACE Another design feature that the team are particularly proud of is the emerald green pool - a refreshing alternative to the classic blue. This tranquil space is overlooked by the Merchant House's recently-reopened Indigo restaurant that serves dishes fl avoured with fresh herbs from the hotel's own terrace garden and sits diners on furniture made from handcrafted fabrics. LAST WORD Since opening in February 2019, the hotel has received a clutch of awards and accolades. But as adding new art to its portfolio shows, the property is constantly evolving, along with the hospitality industry. Although globally times are challenging, the Merchant House team signs off on a positive note: "While we've already set the bar and standards in the competitive Bahraini and GCC market, we are still a new hotel that needs to strengthen its relationship with its audience. "We believe that our continuous hard work, creativity, drive and passion will reap the aimed reputation and success." Our continuous hard work will reap success ... Caption HereTrending commercialinteriordesign.com October 2020 16 NATURE BUOY Even in the Dubai desert, biophilic design can lift our spirits by harnessing our innate infi nity with nature. Design undergraduate Krisanne Gonsalves explores the urban jungle In light of urbanisation, reconnecting people to the natural environment is a modern design solution on behalf of businesses to help mitigate effects of the concrete jungles we live in today. The concept of biophilia embraces this relationship between nature and built environments. It's far more than just potted plants, but rather a completely human-centered design approach. The use of ample daylighting, vegetation, natural materials like woods and stones, earthy textures and colour palettes, and botanical forms embody popular characteristics of biophilic design. The philosophy is implemented by creating an 'indoor- outdoor' connection within interior spaces – simply bringing the outside, inside. The desire for people to connect to nature is primal and instinctual, creating emotional, visual and sensory attachments to settings. In turn, this has a signifi cant effect on well-being. This integration of nature promotes relaxation and comfort. People spend majority of their day indoors and sedentary, in offi ces or schools. The incorporation of biophilic practices permits thriving environments- psychologically and physically, increased creativity and productivity, and positive work morale. Biophilia has not only provided mental, physical and aesthetical progressions Trending 17 October 2020 commercialinteriordesign.com Karamna Al Khaleej to interiors, but has grown prominently as part of sustainable developments. In an effort to decrease carbon footprints, companies have adopted ecological practices – inclusive of naturally sourced materials and passive lighting and ventilation strategies. Supporting both, environmental awareness and health. For years, the biophilic trend has slowly conquered a variety of built spaces. Here, we look at popular infl uences in Dubai. KARAMNA AL KHALEEJ Location: The Address Boulevard Designer: 4Space Design Fit-Out: Parla Design Designed by 4Space Design and contracted by Parla Design, the Emirati restaurant Karamna al Khaleej embraces a cultural approach to biophilic design through biomimicry. The gold illumined bands that surround the establishment mimic the appearance of traditional palm trees, native to the Gulf. Whilst the color palette emphasizes warm, earthy and neutral tones, featuring shades of browns and greens. This melds together with the dark wooden tables and chairs. The foldable fl oor to ceiling windows also create a connection to the outdoor boulevard – visually and for fresh air during the cooler months. Karamna al Khaleej's nature-inspired interiors create a conceptual botanic experience through its abstract application of organic forms. SMART DUBAI OFFICE Location: Dubai Design District Designer: dwp Fit-Out: Summertown Interiors The Smart Dubai offi ce designed by (design worldwide partnership) dwp in collaboration with Summertown Interiors – responsible for the project's fi t out – were tasked with creating a happier environment for its employees, in line with Dubai's happiness agenda and vision. The space highlights regional biophilia, featuring fl uid and wavy forms that surround all areas of the offi ce, representing Dubai's desert dunes. Swing seating and rope details create a park- like feel, that is further evoked by the incorporation of indoor landscaping, from the combination of trees and bush patches dispersed all around the offi ce space. The workspace is encased with large glass windows providing panoramic views to the outdoors, allowing plenty of natural light to envelop the interiors, whilst the soft, natural tones of browns are accentuated through the extensive usage of wood textures. FITZROY Location: The Pointe, Palm Jumeriah Designer: Creneau International Creneau International's refreshing European bistro Fitzroy creates a rustic, green environment, accentuated by the vine-like fl ora suspended from the ceiling that immerses diners into a lush, rainforest escapade. This is complemented through the use of neutral tones of brown and wooden textures, whilst grey walls and accents draw in an urban jungle ambiance. The interiors are accompanied by an alfresco dining patio that extends to a spectacular sea view of The Palm, providing a direct and constant indoor- outdoor connectivity and allowing the indoor zone to harmoniously transition into natural environments, while playing with styles, materials and experiences drawn from British and Parisian design. Smart Dubai Offi ceTrending commercialinteriordesign.com October 2020 18 MEZZA HOUSE Location: Downtown Dubai Designer: Roar Fit-Out: Aujan Interiors Mezza House designed by Pallavi Dean's Roar draws a strong and region-specifi c biophilic infl uence from the textures, colors and natural elements of the Yarmouk River Valley landscape – a culturally diverse area. Pastel pink and lavender fl ower arrangements fl ow from the ceiling, around the restaurant – similar to the type and tone of fl ora that can be found at Yarmouk. The soft colour palette originates from experiencing nature at the river valley; tones of pink and green are representative of vegetation, whereas the shifts of blue, grey and off-white tones are indictive of the sky and jagged mountains above. Likewise, the variety of textures also move from smooth and curved surfaces to rough and irregular, in a way to conceptually illustrate the imagery of Yarmouk. ATI ARCHITECTS HEAD OFFICE Location: Burj Khalifa Boulevard Designer: ATI Architects Fit-Out: OFIS ATI Architect's design team reimagined the work environment for their own new head offi ce. The key concept is based around a new brand identity that involves origami- styled spaces in combination with biophilic practices. The peaceful and soothing atmosphere was designed to cater for a bespoke staff experience, containing a variety of zones for creativity or relaxation. With careful consideration of colour theory, a neutral, earthy palette and recycled wood remain consistent with the overall calming ambiance. In keeping with native biophilia, ATI has also ornamented ceiling and walls with red origami falcons, UAE's national bird. The accents of greenery from plants, trees and multi-purpose grass patches adopt an outdoor garden vibe, along with the abundant daylight found all through the workspace. SANOFI OFFICE Location: One JLT Towers Designer: Bluehaus Group Fit-Out: Summertown Interiors The LEED-certifi ed Sanofi offi ce, designed by Bluehaus Group, transforms the conventional offi ce space into and seamless outdoor illusion. The healthcare facility refl ects a park concept through various nature styled applications. Brick, stone and moss effect carpeting, along with greenery and trees, instantly blur the line between an indoor and outdoor space. The tactful play of light also complements this impression – leaf wall installations allow sunlight from the panoramic windows to mimic shadows from an open- air environment. The bright palette of greens, blues, yellows and browns offer a cheerful and lively atmosphere. Due to today's fast paced, technology driven, and sometimes overwhelming surroundings, wellbeing and health have become a key focus within the interior design industry. The practice of biophilic design is now being recognized as an essential requirement in promoting stimulating workplaces or soothing commercial settings. Mezza House ATI Architects’ head offi ce Sanofi Offi ceSally Whittam Commercial Director T: +971 56 104 0567 Email: sally.whittam@itp.com Tuesday, November 24, 2020 SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES Amanda Stewart International Sales Manager T: +44 7908 117 333 Email: amanda.stewart@itp.com Paul Clifford Group Editor T: +971 4 444 3337 Email: paul.clifford@itp.com Daniel Fewtrell Director of Awards & Marketing T: +971 4 444 3684 Email: daniel.fewtrell@itp.com Anthony Chandran Tables Sales Executuve T: +971 4 444 3685 Email: anthony.chandran@itp.com NOMINATION ENQUIRIESEVENT ENQUIRIESBOOKING ENQUIRIES #HotelierAwards www.hoteliermiddleeast.com/awards MEDIA PARTNERS MENU PARTNER GCC NOMINATIONS NOW CLOSED Rebecca Lockwood Sales Director T: +971 55 484 8301 Email: rebecca.lockwood@itp.comNext >