Reverence that was until recently reserved for artworks of the rarest and highest quality is now being bestowed on exceptional design pieces. Given how one would use and interact with a design piece, the emotional connect with it is as personal as it would be with an artwork that enthrals from the wall.
In the past decade, design works of the highest standards have set records at auction sales, bolstering the faith of design lovers and those who invest in unique, one-of-a-kind design pieces. These pieces boast not only of the biggest names in the design world, but also give commentary on their times, the technological advances of their era and the aspirations of their generation.
Awareness of haute design in the region has grown tremendously in the past few years, thanks to Design Days Dubai, which not only brings the very best of collectible design to the region, but has also inspired many regional galleries and design lovers.
With a vast range of design ethos, eras and design philosophies among them, this is my edit of some of my favourite galleries dedicated to design.
FOR ANTIQUES
It doesn’t get better than 19th Century Antiques at the Boulevard at Emirates Towers. Offering a doorway to the grandeur of an era associated with royalty and sophistication, the gallery is known for fine French decorative arts, recognised for craftsmanship and attention to detail.
With each collection deeply rooted in historical significance and the use of quality materials, the gallery is home to one of the world’s largest collections of museum-worthy, rare, surviving examples of exclusive fine art and antiques. From works that showcase painstakingly preserved gild work to cabinetry that boasts of forgotten skills, marquetry and parquetry designs, pieces from the gallery are now included in the permanent collections of leading international museums and private collectors.
Why I love it? Each piece curated at this gallery stands for its unique and technical achievement. Not to mention its provenance, which in most cases is the most interesting part
www.19centuryantiques.com
FOR THE CONTEMPORARIES
Noted interior architect Wajih Nakkash founded Nakkash Gallery in 1983 with a flagship in Dubai. With stunning design works, the gallery brought to the region the international dialogue on quality and craftsmanship which continues to inform and educate the regional market.
Offering an array of collectible yet affordable limited edition art pieces, a range of fabrics, furniture and accessories of worth to the region, the gallery is often regarded as one of the cornerstones of the design community — a status the founder’s children, Aya and Omar, uphold as they steer the establishment into a new era.
With a new outpost on Shaikh Zayed Road and the siblings combined backgrounds in marketing and design, Nakkash Gallery is attracting a new generation of loyalists. Why I love it? Infused with new blood, the gallery has opened its doors to a wider selection of contemporary pieces and yet remains consistent in offering the very best to its customers.
www.nakkashgallery.com
FOR THE MODERN ICONS
As a dusty Al Quoz re-brands itself as the hippest design and art destination in the Emirate, Superstudio is leading the charge. Moshin Jawaheri established the studio in 2012 in response to a gap he felt in top-end, original design pieces being easily accessible to design aficionados in the region.
In a short span of three years, the studio is known not only among the design community but also chic home-owners looking for that wow factor. From Magis and Bocci to Davide Groppi, the name-call of stellar designer labels is impeccable as is the studio’s commitment towards bettering the regional design community — it continues to lend both artistic and strategic support to designers in realising their vision. Also in the works are singular brand stores. Why I love it? Imagine not having to go through airports and customs to bring your favourite Tom Dixon or Moooi piece home.
www.superstudio.me
Pratyush Sarup edits the design site designcarrot.net. You can follow the site on twitter @DesignCarrot
