Tashkeel’s Tanween programme was conceived in 2011 to select young and emerging designers around the UAE and guide them through a nine-month development of a commercial idea, in its entirety, from the initial concept all the way right through to production. So far the programme’s success has enable 35 designers to go professional, which has resulted in more than 25 furniture and lighting pieces designed and made in the UAE.
In the 9th edition of Tashkeel’s Tanween programme, the six designers selected to participate this year each evolved an idea around the theme of sustainability, with their limited edition design pieces to be unveiled at Downtown Design during Dubai Design Week from November 9-13, and available for sale.
“Tashkeel challenged its 2022 Tanween design programme cohort to address fundamental sustainability challenges facing the region and the wider world today,” said Lisa Ball-Lechgar, deputy director of Tashkeel. “While collaborating with engineers, scientists and manufacturers as part of their journey of research and experimentation, participants developed fresh, functional designs that draw deeply on the nature and traditions of the UAE.”
This year’s winners are: Emirati architect Reema Al Mheiri who designed a a floor lamp inspired by Emirati poetry about dhows; Saudi Arabian designer Huda Al-Aithan with her suspended pendant light; South African designer Ebrahim Assur who made a bench using biodegradable materials and camel leather; by Egyptian designer Shaza Khalil with a ceiling mounted light inspired by the Plumeria tree; and Sharjah based duo Sara Abu Farha and Khaled Shalkha, an architect and a chemical engineer respectively.
The limited edition pieces for sale at Downtown Design will be joined by other UAE-made furniture and lighting pieces from past Tanween collections by Tashkeel, so you can be sure you’re supporting local designers and creators.
