Al Areesh Stool and Stand for Dubai Design Week
Client
Aljoud Lootah Design Studio (ALDS)
Scope
Ideation, Design, 3D Model & CAD,
Over-seeing Stand Production with Suppliers,
Presenting Products at Dubai Design Week.
Discipline
Product Design
Exhibition Design
Question and Goals:
Copper x UAE’s Cultural Heritage
How might we design a statement stool, primarily made of copper, to complement the Al Areesh Collection by ALDS? The brief was to draw inspiration from UAE’s traditional “areesh” structures that were commonly used as summer houses and majlises as the gaps in the walls allowed for ventilation.
After exploring several designs directions for the statement stool, we settled on a bold, repetitive geometric pattern, echoing the essence of traditional areesh structures. In the middle of the stool was a metaphorical ‘pause’ in the geometric lines, that allowed for a leather cushion insert option. The interplay of light and shadows creates visual intrigue.
Craftsmanship: Produced in Germany by Probas Plating, the stool features copper-plated sheets and offers two versions: with or without leather cushioning. This piece reflects a modern interpretation of traditional Emirati architectural heritage.
Showcasing the Al Areesh Collection:
Designing Our Stand for Dubai Design Week
I designed our Dubai Design Week exhibition stand to highlight the Al Areesh Collection's statement pieces: a screen, four stools, a coffee table, and a table lamp. Keeping the display neutral and parred back allowed the collection's striking designs to shine.
The exhibition design utilized layered fabric, light, and shadows to create an engaging display, playing with translucency. A simple maze layout allowed each product to shine, featuring:
Concept text to engage visitors
Black backdrop highlighting the lamp
Strategic lighting emphasizing each piece
Seating areas for visitors
Hidden storage for the team
The composition thoughtfully balanced aesthetics and functionality, providing an immersive experience for visitors to appreciate the Al Areesh Collection.
The Big Reveal:
The Al Areesh Collection
Here is the final result: A captivating showcase of the striking Al Areesh Collection at Dubai Design Week! The statement pieces and interplay of light and shadow piqued curiosity among visitors creating an immersive experience.
The maze-like composition allowed visitors to pause and engage with the statement pieces, giving them a moment to observe their reflection in the copper, essentially making them a part of the Al Areesh Collection, even if just momentarily.
The Al Areesh Stool
Travels to Milan!
The following year, the Al Areesh stool was selected to be displayed in Milan at the famous Salon Del Mobile Milano—a proud moment!