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WORDS BY TONY ROCK
IMAGES BY BEN ANDERS
PROJECT 5 Azza Fahmy, Burlington Arcade, London
Universal Design Studio has created a meticulously crafted and elevated retail space, inspired by Azza Fahmy’s own home, design studio, workshop and research
Universal Design Studio has collaborated with the jewellery house Azza Fahmy on its new flagship boutique location in London’s Grade II-listed Burlington Arcade.
Universal sought to enhance the building’s historical character, while introducing a contemporary retail experience rooted in craftsmanship and bespoke detail. The project continues a global design narrative that spans from Riyadh to London, where each boutique is shaped by a sensitivity to its context. Expressive detailing – including intricate metalwork, bespoke carpentry, curved architectural forms, and carefully selected finishes – are present throughout. A burl cabinet at the entrance showcases the crafted jewellery pieces alongside the collaborations, inspirations, and sculptures made from old jewellery tools. Above, a Randa Fahmy bespoke brass chandelier illuminates the hand-crafted central display table sat on
the marble floor pattern inspired by the tombs in Luxor’s West Bank.
A Bokja hand-woven panelled tapestry leads customers to the first floor, to the sejour that showcases the high jewellery collection. Bespoke window seats, artwork and wooden parquet flooring with a Kahhal looms rug invite customers to explore the pieces in the atelier. ‘Informed by the same principles that have guided our international work together, this boutique is not just a retail space, but a celebration of place, process, culture and partnership – including contributions on heritage from Heritage Potential, and construction and fabrication by N2 Creative and Orange Birch, whose expertise helped realise our vision,’ says Universal. Drawing on over five decades of Egyptian heritage and storytelling, the London flagship embodies Azza Fahmy’s research-based methodology and commitment to craft.
PROJECT INFO
Client Azza Fahmy
Designer/architect Universal Design Studio
Size 126m2
Completion date January 2025
All images Detailing – such as intricate metalwork and carefully selected finishes – are present throughout
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