Tashkeel's Tanween Incredible New Programme Showcases Sustainable Design At DDW 2024

Tashkeel, a prominent Dubai-based organization dedicated to fostering innovation and creativity, is playing a significant role in the Dubai Design Week (DDW), underscoring its commitment to the design community. This year, it is presenting its most extensive exhibition yet at Downtown Design Editions, showcasing the broad scope of its creative projects. This initiative is a testament to the significant influence UAE-based designers are exerting on the global design landscape, highlighting the region's growing diversity in creative expressions.

At the heart of Tashkeel's display, under the banner of stand # D5 Downtown Design Editions exhibition, are six innovative pieces of sustainable furniture and lighting. These pieces, born from the latest Tanween Design Programme, reflect the organization's dedication to nurturing emerging talent. Among the showcased creations are the FAY Pendant Light by Emirati designer Khadija Almazimi, the BO NAJ-MA console table by Majid Al Bastaki, and the Taleed cabinet by One Third Studio. Additionally, visitors can appreciate the KUNOOZ coffee table by Osama Rashad, the Kashi clay block by Rimsha Kidwai, and The Sanad Collection coffee table, a collaboration between Mohammad Samara and Khaled Al Shaer.

Karam Hoar, the Marketing & Communication Manager at Tashkeel, emphasized the program's importance, stating, "We are building and evolving Tashkeel's Tanween Design Programme to enable emerging designers to pursue their passions and realise their visions with the full support of local manufacturers and makers." He highlighted how these six new pieces complement Tanween's commitment to offering sustainable and original works to collectors, shedding light on the profound creativity within the UAE.

Sustainability and cultural reflection are central themes across the new introductions. For instance, the Taleed cabinet employs a novel marquetry technique with dyed palm leaves, echoing the UAE's heritage. Meanwhile, the FAY Pendant Lamp and the BO NAJ-MA console table draw inspiration from local materials and iconic imagery from the UAE's past, respectively. The Kashi stools merge Emirati and South Asian design elements, and The Sanad Collection prompts a dialogue about reusing discarded materials, showcasing Tashkeel's engagement with environmental sustainability and cultural identity.

Looking ahead, the Tanween Design Programme 2025 aims to empower the future wave of creative minds. Launched in early September, it invites UAE-based engineers and designers to apply by 17th November, promising mentorship in research and material experimentation. This initiative underscores Tashkeel's role in the professional growth of the nation's innovators and their contribution to the UAE's design landscape.

Additionally, Tasmeem Tashkeel, Tashkeel's bespoke design and art service arm, will also feature prominently at DDW. Established by Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2008, Tasmeem offers a spectrum of consultancy services that span public art solutions, 3D rendering, and custom design manufacturing. This segment of Tashkeel emphasizes the exploration of national identity through material, craft, and cultural narratives, offering products and services that are deeply rooted in Emirati heritage.

Moreover, Tashkeel is set to reveal a new venture with Vacheron Constantin at the Mall of the Emirates. A unique artwork, inspired by Sheikha Lateefa's "Observation of Change" and produced by Tasmeem Tashkeel, will be unveiled, marking another milestone in Tashkeel's journey of creative collaborations during the Dubai Design Week.