Each year, we wait in anticipation for the prestigious talks schedule at Downtown Design. Last week, the list of speakers and topics for 2019 was finally unveiled, and it is amazing! We’re talking fashion celebs (think Christian Louboutin), local design heroes, and yours truly (Love That Design).
Downtown Design 2019 brings with it a plethora of design talks and programmes for the knowledge hungry and the naturally curious. These stimulating workshops and conversations will take place at The Buyers Lounge and The Forum, the latter is designed this year by Swiss Bureau Interior Design.
With conversations that inspire creativity and so wholeheartedly feed the soul, it was tough to play favourites. But shortlist we did!
Learning from the Pros
This year, Downtown Design is hosting a series of talks geared towards helping you progress in your career. Here are some of our top choices to nudge you in the right direction.
The Next Step
If you are a designer looking to progress in your career, this panel discussion is for you. Moderated by Love That Design, the panel will feature industry giants Carle Conte from Brand Creative, David Lessard from H+A, Kristina Zanic from Kristina Zanic Consultants and Yullianna Porter from JLL. From running the region’s top design firms to leaving mega studios and launching their own practices, these set of experts have done it all.
Where: The Forum
Date: 15th November
Time: 4:00 – 5:00
Get Some Industry Knowledge
These data packed workshops and panel discussions are a treasure trove of insight into the regional and global world of design – the trends, the trajectory and the journey to a successful future for your brand. Experts shed light on building businesses and understanding the nuances of the industry.A must visit for those looking for inspiration and insight into a future of A+D.
Designed to Succeed
Speaker: Greg Natale (Greg Natale Design)
Date: 12th November
Time: 6:30 – 7:30
Speaking for the first time in the Middle East, Greg Natale, whose career spans prestigious projects, best-selling coffee table books and a home collection that ranges from furniture to one-of-a-kind home accessories, will share his inspiring path to success.
Speaker: Christian Louboutin
Date: 13th November
Time: 4:00 – 5:00
Ahead of the launch of a major exhibition in February 2020 at the Palais de la Porte Dorée in Paris, which will reference a selection of the most precious works from his personal collection as well as collaborations with artists who are important to him, the internationally renowned designer will offer a glimpse into his rich artistic universe that forms his unique identity.
Design 2021: Insights By Data
Another LTD special, we surveyed the regional A+D industry and collected key data that will be revealed at this workshop. LTD C0-Founder Siddharth Peters will talk through the actionable insights that can strengthen the execution capabilities of your business resources, thereby enhancing your creative and commercial offerings. Basically future proofing your business.
Where: The Buyers Lounge
Date: 14th November
Time: 3:00 – 4:00
A Designer is Never Alone
Speaker: Tomás Alonso
Date: 12th November
Time: 5:00 – 6:00
Working with global brands including Hay and collectible design galleries such as the Carpenters Workshop Gallery, Tomás has quietly built a reputation as one of the most exciting names on the design scene. At Downtown Design he will speak about how collaboration, visibility and engagement are the fuel for emerging designers.
New Markets 2021: The Future of Design
Speakers: Ferdinand Cheung (LWKP+PARTNERS), Philip Olmesdahl (SAOTA), Nasser B. Abdullah (AGi Architects), Anubhav Gupta (Godrej Properties), Murat Tabanlioglu (Tabanlioglu Architects)
Date: 13th November
Time: 12:00 – 1:00
With traditional approaches no longer valid and new design economies fast dismantling the status quo, how do design practices respond to remain relevant?
