The ‘Flowing Threads’ installation by Areen explores interconnectedness

‘Flowing Threads’ installation by Areen - Photo courtesy of Dubai Design Week 2023.

“Just as the fabric consists of interconnected threads, humans are interconnected with the fabric of the universe, forming part of a cosmic tapestry.” Palestinian textile designer Areen told Archipanic. Through her ‘Flowing Threads’ installation in Dubai, she reflects on the layers of identity and the significance of transparency and adaptability in life. At the same time, “the world must not turn a blind eye to the ongoing extermination in Gaza, and we condemn those who choose silence,” explains designer.

Downtown Design 2023: ten female-empowered projects in Dubai

Ávila by Nella Figueroa - Photo courtesy of Downtown Design 2023.

At the Downtown Design 2023 fai in Dubai, we have been positively impressed by the strong presence of female designers, curators and creatives. Check some of the projects we liked the most.

Dubai Design Week 2023: ten must-visit exhibitions and installations

Shaking Sanctuary by nngg Studio - Courtesy of Dubai Design Week 2023.

Dubai Design Week 2023 is about interweaving… cultures, textiles, palm trees, technology and sustainability. Check what we liked the most.

Tanween 2021: 4 design, science and material innovation projects inspired by the UAE

Tanween 2021 - The Kapok series by Tasnim Tinawi - Courtesy of Tanween.

A Biosand cabinet, a tech-crafted ottoman with river tamarind leather-like fabric, ghaf tree lamps and desert cotton upholstery. With the Tanween 2021 program, Tashkeel platform for the UAE design scene presents the work of four emerging female designers who teamed up with local botanists, scientists, engineers and manufacturers to develop innovative materials and create bespoke furniture and lighting collections.

The ‘Nature in Motion’ pavilion by Ahmed El-Sharabassy is inspired by the UAE moving desert

ABWAB, Nature in Motion by Ahmed El-Sharabassy - Courtesy of Dubai Design Week 2021.

At Dubai Design Week 2021, Ahmed El-Sharabassy has created the NATURE IN MOTION pavilion inspired by shapeshifting dune landscapes in the UAE. Made of sustainable and recyclable materials, the sinuous lightweight architecture provides multi-functional and multi-purpose public spaces and hosts an exhibition exploring compostable building materials and structures made of paper pulp.

Dubai Design Week 2021: 10 must see exhibitions and installations

Yovalah instalation by Bits to Atoms - Courtesy of Dubai Design Week 2021.

Dubai Design Week 2021: a pavilion referring to the UAE moving desert, communal spaces inspired by traditional Emirati dance and more…

Dubai Design Week 2018

Dubai Design Week 2018 - Photo by Jalal Abuthina.

Interactive VR installations, a global grad show focusing on Artificial Intelligence and a parametric design installation exploring the emotional states of autism. Dubai Design Week 2018 bridges tradition and cutting edge technologies highlighting the most creative scene of the Middle East.

Fuorisalone 2018: 15 must-see exhibitions in Milan

Fuorisalone 2018. Bar Anne - Photo by Children of the Light and Space Encounters.

The debut of Ventura Future and the Vegan design challenge, a sky-mirroring courtyard and choreographies of light inspired by folk dance. 15 must-see exhibitions at Fuorisalone 2018.