Rising star on Arab design scene

We don’t just rely on unusual pieces; we also display them in an innovative and versatile way. We use our store as an example of how these unique pieces can be combined in a variety of ways and we change the display quite often. So, visitors to Cities have a completely different shopping experience each time. When they return, suddenly, there are new pieces and new combinations of items to offer ideas. In that way, customers can find a new source of inspiration with every visit. People really respond to that aspect of the store because it gives them the chance to learn about different designers and new items. Our staff is also very knowledgeable and able to suggest pieces for different styles and tastes, and give ideas on how to incorporate those items into a space. As a collector of interior pieces, what makes you choose a certain piece?

I am usually drawn to pieces that I feel a connection to; perhaps something with an innovative shape, or an unusual texture or material. It should also be of high quality and well-crafted. I do quite a lot of research, through the computer and in my visits to different places. So, when I do select a new piece, typically I have encountered it before in my research. But I do find that I favor pieces that contain some sort of narrative, something that shares a story in its appearance. Cities boutique includes handpicked pieces from around the world that you have chosen personally. Which country did you feel stands out in design and why?

I don’t think that there is a particular region that creates better designers than any other. There are so many amazing designers from all around the world, and each one stands out for a different reason. It’s difficult to even characterize design styles by geographic location, because there are so many diverse works being created within any one location. Having said that, I think that the work coming from Lebanon is very

The concept of Cities has always been more than just a store. We want to inspire a new way of living and encourage our customers to learn more about the world of art and design. We chose to participate in Design Days Dubai because we wanted to show the extent of what we offer and what we are capable of. We want to expand our influence in any way possible and become an integral part of art and design in Dubai. As such, taking part in Design Days Dubai was a natural choice.

When we announced our intention to take part in Design Days Dubai, we had several of our designers offer to make pieces specifically for our exhibit at the fair. Working with those designers through the process of preparation for the show improved our relationships with them and taught us a few things as well. It was a very rewarding experience to undertake this project, and we were pleasantly surprised by the positive support from the designers and from visitors as well. Several of the designers were also present at the Cities display during Design Days Dubai, and watching them share information about their creations with visitors and seeing the interest that sparked was a great experience.

Our display at the fair was very well received and there was a large amount of interest in the pieces we displayed. It allowed us to show another side of Cities and share the depth of our collection. We had a number of visitors to the display who were already Cities’ customers, and they were pleased to discover that we could fulfill this role, and we gained many new fans as well. It also inspired us to continue on this path, and we already have a few ideas in mind for next year! What are the design trends of 2015?

One of the big trends of 2015 is nature. We are seeing a lot of unfinished wood, salvaged wood, and designs that highlight wood’s natural beauty. Nature is also reflected in patterns and textures, and as a part of that theme, animal sculptures are a popular trend right now. Either painted, ceramic, or stylized creations using modern materials. What is the most important advise you would you give our readers about designing their homes?

Don’t be afraid to take chances, and don’t limit yourself to set design styles. Your space should be a reflection of you and it should be comprised of all the things you love. Make it comfortable, make it colorful, and fill it with things that make you happy. What is your expansion plan for cities in the future?

Right now our big focus is our new location in Riyadh on Prince Muhammad bin Abdulaziz Road, or Tahlia Street, next to Roche Bobois. For many years, we were in Centria Mall, and then in Harvey Nichols department store, but now we are expanding and this will be our first stand alone showroom. Our new store will be opening in June, and the store appearance will be based on the design of our Dubai location. It will offer the same unique and varied collection, but with the larger space we will be able to broaden our range of furniture and art, in addition to home accessories.

We also have a lot planned for our Dubai location in the upcoming months. We have begun a series of installations and exhibits, and we are working on the launch of a Cities magazine. In the future, we are also considering a second Dubai location, or perhaps Abu Dhabi.