Latest news with #ArchitectureandDesignCommission
Leaders
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Leaders
Saudi Pavilion Shines at London Design Biennale with 'Good Water'
The Saudi National Pavilion, themed 'Good Water,' captivates visitors at the London Design Biennale, which opens today. This innovative pavilion reimagines humans' relationship with water, addressing critical issues such as accessibility, equity, and scarcity. The Architecture and Design Commission commissioned this project, with support from the Ministry of Culture. Under the leadership of CEO Sumayah Al-Solaiman, this marks the Kingdom's fourth participation in this prestigious event. A Vision of Inquiry and Collaboration 'In a Biennale that explores the intersection of inner experiences and external influences, 'Good Water' reflects the spirit of inquiry we hope to share with the world,' Al-Solaiman stated. She emphasized the pavilion's role in supporting the next generation of Saudi practitioners, providing platforms that amplify their voices on the international stage. Saudi artists Alaa Tarabzouni, Dur Kattan, Fahad bin Naif, and Aziz Jamal collaborated as co-curators, merging their diverse backgrounds in the arts sector. 'In our team, we don't have specific roles,' Jamal explained. 'We all collaborated on everything. We shot the video together and wrote it together. Our democratic process fosters creativity without strict guidelines.' At the heart of the Saudi contribution in London lies the sabeel, a traditional water fountain typically found in shaded communal spaces. This fountain serves the community, offering free access to water. The sabeel symbolizes hospitality and generosity, deeply rooted in the Arabian Peninsula and prevalent throughout the Middle East. 'Growing up in Dhahran, you would see sabeels everywhere,' Jamal recalled. 'Our house didn't have one, but a mosque nearby did.' The London installation transforms the sabeel from a nostalgic relic into a contemporary, functional object. Visitors can fill their cups, both literally and figuratively, as they reflect on the unseen systems, labor, and energy that make flowing water possible. Engaging Visitors with Interactive Experiences Stacks of paper cups, emblazoned with the message 'Good Water: 500 ml = one AI prompt,' will be available in vibrant colors. Refillable water bottles will encourage spectators to enjoy a 'water-cooler moment' to chat, sip, and ponder. The pavilion also features four videos filmed at an old water factory in Riyadh, showcasing the painstaking journey of water from droplet to distribution. Each film lasts under ten minutes, tracing the production process across various bottle sizes. Jamal's perspective on water changed significantly while working on this project. 'Visiting the water factory in Riyadh made me appreciate the enormous effort required to fill one tiny water bottle,' he said. 'Now, I make it a point to finish my water bottle because I understand the extensive process behind it.' A Commitment to Sustainability and Accessibility Jamal hopes visitors will engage with the pavilion and recognize the importance of generosity. 'We want people to drink the water and interact with the piece,' he stated. The sabeel will dispense locally sourced water, ensuring sustainability and reducing transportation impacts. Additionally, a printed catalogue will provide further context through essays, research material, and images of water infrastructure and sabeels from the Middle East and North Africa. Saudi Arabia faces significant water scarcity challenges, with only 2.5 percent of the world's water being freshwater. The Kingdom leads globally in desalinated water production, supplying over 60 percent of its potable water. 'The sabeel perfectly illustrates the principle that water is a human right, not a luxury,' Jamal explained. 'It's free drinking water from a private source, embodying the spirit of paying it forward.' Through 'Good Water,' the Saudi National Pavilion highlights the labor behind everyday hydration and the importance of water access. 'Our research focused on water and access,' Jamal added. 'We examined the hidden costs of free water in Saudi Arabia, particularly through the lens of the sabeel.' Despite the rise of plastic bottles, Jamal emphasized the enduring relevance of the sabeel, especially in a country with scorching summers and large outdoor workforces. 'People need convenience, but sabeels remain vital for those working outdoors,' he noted. 'Cold drinking water is essential in Saudi Arabia.' After nearly a year of hard work, the team plans to celebrate by raising a glass of water. The pavilion will remain open until 29 June at Somerset House, inviting visitors to explore the significance of water in our lives. Short link : Post Views: 34
Gulf Today
28-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Design debut: Highlights of inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh announced
The inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh, the Kingdom's first fair for original and high-quality contemporary design (May 20 — 23), has announced a line-up of exhibitors and fair highlights. Held in partnership with Saudi Arabia's Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture, the fair takes place at JAX District. It will offer design professionals and industry leaders as well as design enthusiasts and the culturally curious, direct access to contemporary and limited-edition design from around the world, with a spotlight on local talent. Marking a milestone for the Kingdom's evolving creative landscape, Downtown Design Riyadh presents a new platform for the unprecedented demand for high-end interiors to serve the rapidly growing market and active projects across the Kingdom. Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission said that 'Saudi Arabia's design sector is witnessing significant and accelerated growth and we are committed to supporting this progress by showcasing local creative excellence and attracting leading international design exhibitions. 'One of our key objectives is to position the Kingdom as a global destination for design by welcoming world-class exhibitions and fostering cross-cultural exchange. Downtown Design Riyadh, with its thoughtfully curated programme and blend of local and global expertise, reflects our vision to build a dynamic design community that embodies the Kingdom's rich and diverse cultural identity.' Exhibition highlights include the large-scale multi-brand exhibit, Huda Lighting, which will introduce 10 leading architectural and decorative lighting brands, including Articolo, Brokis, and Tom Dixon. The Bowery Company will feature modern Scandinavian furniture brands Audo Copenhagen, GUBI and &Tradition. Design from Teeb Made. Scarlet Splendour will mark their debut in the region with a presentation that includes pure brass pieces by Richard Hutten. Kuwaiti Babnimnim Studio's architectural installation for Cosentino bridges heritage and innovation, while an experiential colour exhibition staged by Jotun, features collaborations with local designers. Maison Louis Drucker will launch their digital collaboration with TRAME and ArandaLasch, merging the algorithmic potential of digital design with time-honoured craftsmanship. Teeb Made will showcase a contemporary take on culturally rooted design objects from Saudi Arabia, and the Designed in Saudi initiative will highlight the development of the Kingdom's industrial design sector. In a dedicated section, visitors can explore collectible works and ultra-high-end collections, presented by international galleries, independent designers and manufacturers, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and contemporary creativity. Gallery COLLECTIONAL presents a curated showcase of limited-edition pieces by internationally celebrated names, including Christophe Delcourt, known for handcrafted furniture that blend natural materials with minimalist design; iconic sculptural lights by New York-based Apparatus Studio; and experimental duo Draga & Aurel, recognised for their bold, vintage-inspired work, among others. Mumbai-based Aequo Gallery will make their debut in the Middle East, presenting a new body of work by Dutch designer Linde Freya Tangelder, highlighting Indian craftsmanship through a collaborative process with artisan Jeevaram Suthar. Other highlights include Venini's presentation of hand-blown glassworks in collaboration with Michele De Lucchi and Peter Marino, among other renowned names. Visionnaire's fine artistry and Serafini's functional furniture, will highlight Italian heritage in a multi-dynamic showcase. A Karim+Elias design. Throughout JAX District pavilions, Downtown Design Riyadh will offer a programme of experiences and pop-ups, from creative cuisine concepts to cultural exhibits and a line-up of talks and panel discussions. Multidisciplinary design studio Karim+Elias, spearheaded by Karim Tamerji and Elias Hage, will unveil Strata, a modular, outdoor intervention handcrafted from Saudi sand, using rammed earth technique. Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, said: 'Our first edition of Downtown Design Riyadh will present a selection of some of the most innovative and sought-after names of the international design scene, alongside emerging designers, and creatives from around the Middle East. 'Our dynamic programme will offer guests a journey of discovery and an unparalleled experience of a highly curated line-up, from global design brands and limited-edition works to bespoke installations and creative concepts. With the rapid expansion of Saudi Arabia's design market, we are seeing increasing interest from across the world. Downtown Design Riyadh will create a new annual meeting point, in one immersive setting.' Fuelled by the rising number of luxury real estate projects and landmark developments in Saudi Arabia, the demand for high-end interiors is growing exponentially across the country. The curated selection of international brands at the fair, including regional studios and emerging creative talent, reflects the Kingdom's noticeable position in the global design landscape. The fair is complemented by a collateral programme, including creative installations, activations and pop-up experiences, alongside a line-up of talks tailored to the local context and burgeoning design scene, catering to an audience ranging from industry professionals and developers to local homeowners and design enthusiasts, looking to discover, buy or commission. Supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to offer the highest in cultural quality, Downtown Design, the leading fair for contemporary and high-quality design in the Middle East, is bringing over a decade of expertise in curating leading design platforms, to the first edition of Downtown Design Riyadh. For over a decade, Downtown Design has played a vital role in shaping the region's design industry. With Riyadh in its portfolio, it is now expanding its reach, through an established curatorial approach, global network, and regional insight to Riyadh, offering a focused gateway to Saudi Arabia's fast-evolving design market, aligned with the Kingdom's large-scale development goals and demand for contemporary, high-quality interiors.
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
Saudi Arabia's design revolution begins with Downtown Design Riyadh
News by Aminath Ifasa 40 seconds ago Saudi Arabia's design landscape is undergoing a seismic shift with Downtown Design Riyadh. With Vision 2030 fueling a cultural renaissance, the Kingdom is emerging as a global hub for creativity, architecture, and high-end interiors. Now, the arrival of Downtown Design Riyadh – the country's first fair dedicated to original and contemporary design, signals a defining moment for the region's burgeoning creative economy. Held at JAX District from May 20-23, in partnership with Saudi Arabia's Architecture and Design Commission, the fair is set to become an annual anchor for the industry, bringing together international design powerhouses, regional studios, and rising Saudi talent under one roof. But beyond the glamorous showcases and limited-edition collections, what makes this event truly groundbreaking? Saudi Arabia's rapid urban transformation, from NEOM's futuristic architecture to the luxury real estate boom in Riyadh, has created unprecedented demand for high-end interiors and bespoke design. Downtown Design Riyadh arrives at the perfect moment, offering a curated platform where global brands and local creatives can converge, collaborate, and shape the future of design in the region. Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission, emphasizes this vision, 'We aim to position the Kingdom as a global destination for design, fostering cross-cultural exchange while celebrating our rich identity.' Global Icons Meet Saudi Innovation The exhibitor lineup is a testament to the fair's ambition. Huda Lighting will present 10 leading brands, including Tom Dixon and Brokis, while The Bowery Company brings Scandinavian elegance with GUBI and &Tradition. Meanwhile, Scarlet Splendour makes its regional debut with bold brass designs by Richard Hutten, and Maison Louis Drucker merges digital innovation with traditional craftsmanship in a groundbreaking collaboration. But the real stars? Saudi designers taking center stage. Teeb Made reimagines culturally rooted objects with a contemporary twist, and the Designed in Saudi initiative spotlights the Kingdom's growing industrial design sector. Where Art Meets Function For those seeking one-of-a-kind pieces, the fair's limited-edition design section is a treasure trove. Gallery COLLECTIONAL presents works by Christophe Delcourt and Apparatus Studio, while Aequo Gallery (making its Middle East debut) showcases Dutch designer Linde Freya Tangelder's collaboration with Indian artisans. Italian heritage shines through Venini's hand-blown glassworks and Visionnaire's artful furniture—proving that Riyadh is now a must-watch destination for collectors. Downtown Design Riyadh isn't just about browsing—it's about immersion. Attendees can explore rammed-earth installations by Karim+Elias, indulge in creative F&B concepts, and dive into thought-provoking talks on design's evolving role in Saudi society. As Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, puts it, 'This is a journey of discovery—where global trends and local creativity collide.' Saudi Arabia isn't just building skyscrapers; it's crafting a new design identity. With events like Downtown Design Riyadh, the Kingdom is asserting itself as a cultural force—one that honors tradition while embracing the avant-garde. For design enthusiasts, investors, and creatives, this is where the future is being shaped. Tickets are now available at
The National
22-04-2025
- Business
- The National
What to expect at the inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh: Lights, glassworks and rammed earth installations
Saudi Arabia is getting its own version of Downtown Design. The inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh will take place at the Jax District from May 20 to 23. It is being held in partnership with Saudi Arabia's Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture. Much like its parent counterpart in Dubai, Downtown Design Riyadh will feature innovative works by designers from across the world. It will also have a special dedication to local designers. 'Saudi Arabia's design sector is witnessing significant and accelerated growth and we are committed to supporting this progress by showcasing local creative excellence and attracting leading international design exhibitions,' says Sumayah Al-Solaiman, chief executive of the Architecture and Design Commission. "One of our key objectives is to position the Kingdom as a global destination for design by welcoming world-class exhibitions and fostering cross-cultural exchange. Downtown Design Riyadh, with its thoughtfully curated programme and blend of local and global expertise, reflects our vision to build a dynamic design community that embodies the Kingdom's rich and diverse cultural identity.' Highlights include a sweeping exhibition by Huda Lighting that includes well-known brands from the lighting industry, including Articolo, Brokis and Tom Dixon. The Bowery Company will highlight modern Scandinavian designs by Audo Copenhagen, &Tradition and Gubi. Scarlet Splendour will present pure brass pieces by Richard Hutten in their regional debut. Some works, meanwhile, will present interesting mergers between digital technology and craftsmanship, such as a collaboration between Maison Louis Drucker, a company known for their rattan chairs, and studios Trame and Aranda/Lasch. There will also be a dedicated focus on home-grown designs. Teeb Made will exhibit designs that are rooted in Saudi culture, whereas Designed in Saudi will showcase a diverse collection of pioneering designs. International galleries and designers will also present limited-edition works and collectibles in a special section of Downtown Design Riyadh. Gallery Collectional, meanwhile, will present works by renowned designers including Christophe Delcourt, who is famous for using natural materials in his minimalist designs; Apparatus Studio, known for their sculptural lights; and Draga & Aurel, a studio named after its founders Draga Obradovic and Aurel K Basedow, who are known for their experimental takes. Other highlights include a collaborative series of works by Dutch designer Linde Freya Tangelder and Indian artisan Jeevaram Suthar. Venetian glassmakers Venini will present glassworks produced in collaboration with Italian designer Michele De Lucchi and US architect Peter Marino. There will be other aspects of Downtown Design Riyadh. These include food pop-ups and cultural exhibits, such as a modular, outdoor installation that is handcrafted from Saudi sand. It will be presented by the UAE studio Karim+Elias, which is headed by Karim Tamerji and Elias El Hage. 'Our first edition of Downtown Design Riyadh will present a selection of some of the most innovative and sought-after names of the international design scene, alongside emerging designers, and creatives from around the Middle East,' says Mette Degn-Christensen, director of Downtown Design. 'Our dynamic programme will offer guests a journey of discovery and an unparalleled experience of a highly curated line-up, from global design brands and limited-edition works to bespoke installations and creative concepts. With the rapid expansion of Saudi Arabia's design market, we are seeing increasing interest from across the world. Downtown Design Riyadh will create a new annual meeting point, in one immersive setting.'
Arab News
11-04-2025
- General
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia to take part in London Design Biennale
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia, represented by the Architecture and Design Commission and with the support of the Ministry of Culture, will be part of the 2025 London Design Biennale under the theme 'Drinkable Water.' The event will be held in Somerset House from June 5-29. This year's pavilion is handled by a team of designers who will use their expertise to present an exhibition that examines, challenges, and reimagines systems of water access and distribution, as well as the nature of our relationship with it. The 'Drinkable Water' concept, chosen by the organizers of the exhibition, is in line with the biennale's theme for this year, which is 'Surface Reflections,' as it explores how ideas are shaped through the interaction of inner experiences, external influences and personal history. The national Saudi pavilion tackles the water dispenser concept, which provides drinking water for free and symbolizes hospitality, a value deeply rooted in Saudi Arabia's rich traditions. These water dispensers are spread throughout the Kingdom, offering water to passersby, reflecting the ethics of generosity and kindness. The water dispenser in the context of this exhibition does not only represent mere goodwill but also raises fundamental questions, such as: Who pays for the 'free' water? How much does it really cost? And most importantly, if this burden falls on another party, won't the cost, in one way or another, ultimately be borne by everyone? The pavilion also stresses that water dispensers are often taken for granted and seen as mere public utilities; by reframing water as a subject of scrutiny and inquiry, we shift perceptions and uncover the unseen, turning thus these marginal structures into an active force in our daily lives. CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission Dr. Sumaya Al-Sulaiman said: 'Saudi Arabia's return to the London Design Biennale constitutes a new promising chapter of our commitment to using design as an effective tool for dialogue and cultural exchange.' She added: 'We hope that our participation in the London Design Biennale will enable us to contribute to discussions on creativity, innovation, and systemic thinking.'
