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Scene Queen
Rue Kothari, Director of Downtown Design, shares her secrets for navigating Dubai Design Week.
TEXT: JOANNE MOLINA
Downtown Design (25-28 October) is once again bringing top global industry insiders to Dubai during Design Week. Over 100 brands from 25 countries will exhibit alongside fresh programmes and events in d3. Rue Kothari, Director of Downtown Design, reveals what’s hot this year – as well as the keys to her personal style.
What is your design philosophy? The lines between all forms of design are increasingly blurred. Collaboration is key, learning is essential, and dipping a toe into all forms of creativity gives us a wider perspective on the world.
Which three designers inspire you the most? Patricia Urquiola, interior and furniture designer; Mies van der Rohe, architect; and Miuccia Prada, fashion designer.
Why is Downtown Design so warmly received by global audiences? It is a global fair with a regional outlook. We help establish Dubai as an international hub for design, where brands from all over the world can connect with regional buyers.
What are you looking forward to the most? Seeing our returning exhibitors’ new concepts, helping fresh brands to launch in the Middle East and supporting fledgling brands from around the world to get a foothold in the region, as part of our Destination programme.
What was the biggest challenge? Creating an event that resonates with the regional audience while still meeting the demands and objectives of our exhibitors is a balancing act.
What new designers are exciting you? Pallavi Dean will debut her first collection, designed with the contract market in mind. Fouad Mirza will present a new direction for his emerging brand. Both could become the first commercial design brands in the country.
What are the factors driving Dubai’s expanding design scene? Our rising population – and the demand for more sophisticated, greener, more diverse urban communities – has already instigated changes in [the] approach from developers, architects and hoteliers. With our government investing in the creative economy, with design as the key driver, and a greater accent on conscious consumption, we will grow sustainably into a diverse, modern city.
What is your advice for young designers looking to be part of the fair? Exhibit! Every young designer that has taken the risk to present their work for the first time has received invaluable feedback and contacts.
Where can we find you in d3 when you are not travelling? I’m almost always at my desk, coffee in hand! If I manage to get out for a lunch meeting I’ll go to the Craft Café or Life Café.
What is the relationship between design and luxury today? It’s no longer about superlative or conspicuous consumption – it’s about brands discovering what luxury means to the individual. Is it time, materials, resources and sensations.
What is the one exhibition a visitor should see? Obviously, Downtown Design, but also the Global Grad Show.
ID
SEPTEMBER 2016
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