What’s the attraction of a design fair like this one?
We showcase leading galleries from around the world, exhibiting limited-edition contemporary and rare design pieces. A fair like ours breaks the ice and intimidation a buyer might feel when visiting a gallery. Visitors will have the opportunity to speak to gallery representatives and designers and learn more about the pieces and the creative process. There will also be workshops and talks presented during the five days.
Are there specific areas of design that do particularly well?
I don’t think it is areas as much as it is the period. After the first edition of the fair, we noticed the regional focus was geared towards contemporary design versus modern or vintage. For the fourth edition of Design Days Dubai, all our exhibitors are showcasing contemporary design with the exception of one — 19th Century Antiques.
Name a few designers to watch…
Aljoud Lootah is debuting her first full limited-edition collection at Design Days Dubai this year. Lebanese dynamic design duo David/Nicolas are on the rise, showing this year at the fair with ArtFactum Gallery. Commonplace Design studio from Amsterdam, have created a world premiere installation titled “Cloud” presented by Victor Hunt DesignArt Dealer.
What singles out timelessness as opposed to faddishness?
When a person furnishes their environment, they hunt for a piece that will endure the period of their occupancy. Investing in a limited-edition piece of design means you’re placing your money in your daily routine. Design pieces will take place in your space, subsequently it blends into your life and becomes one with your surroundings. The amount you pay on a well-produced piece will not be the one you toss immediately away but rather the piece you move around with and perhaps hand over to future generations.
What are the pitfalls to look out for?
Buying pieces solely based on the name of the designer. My primary piece of advice before buying any product is to like the item aesthetically and see how it can fit into your life. A bond will be created and a sentimental value is developed.
What sort of entry-level prices are we looking at?
At Design Days Dubai 2015 we have a range of items at various price levels. A selection of items are priced under the $5,000 and $10,000 mark which makes it a very reasonable amount to spend on an item that will only gain in value over the coming years.
Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, March 16-20, designdaysdubai.ae
Pictured pieces are presented by Cities, see the rest of the collection during the exhibition at “The Venue” Downtown