AL AREESH
From Emirati architectural heritage to product and spatial experience
I designed a statement stool inspired by traditional Emirati areesh architecture, then translated the collection into an exhibition experience for Dubai Design Week.
Client
Aljoud Lootah Design Studio (ALDS)
Scope
Concept Development
3D Modelling & CAD
Material & Finish Development
Supplier Coordination
Production Oversight
Discipline
Product Design
Exhibition Design
Spatial Design
I M P A C T
From Dubai → to Milan
Designed the Al Areesh Stool as a new addition to the collection, showcased at Dubai Design Week and selected for exhibition at Salone del Mobile Milano the following year.
01 — THE STOOL
A contemporary interpretation of traditional areesh structures
How might we design a statement stool, primarily made of copper, as the fourth member of the Al Areesh Collection?
I drew inspiration from the lightweight, modular construction of traditional areesh structures, particularly their repetition, rhythm and use of gaps to create shade and ventilation, translating this architectural language into a contemporary functional object.
The UAE’s traditional areesh structures were commonly used as summer houses and majlises as the gaps in the walls allowed for ventilation to flow.
IDEATION
I explored different geometric configurations, proportions, and material finishes, translating the essence of areesh structures into a bold, repetitive form.
Concept 1 - cross hatch (side)
Concept 1 - cross hatch
Concept 2 - opposites (side)
Concept 2 - opposites
Concept 3 - gyre (side)
Concept 3 - gyre
PRODUCTION
Produced in Germany by Probas Plating, the stool features, copper-plated sheets and is offered in two versions: with or without leather cushioning.
THE FINAL STOOL
The Al Areesh Stool plays with light and shadow through its repetitive structure, while its highly polished copper surface introduces reflection. The result is a sculptural interpretation of Emirati architectural heritage.
02 — THE EXHIBITION
Designing the spatial experience for the Al Areesh Collection showcased at Dubai Design Week
The second challenge was spatial:
how could the full Al Areesh Collection (screen, 4 stools, table, and lamp) be presented in a way that enhances, rather than competes with, the collection’s highly reflective materials and strong geometries?
Playing with transparency
Mapping the space
Design Objectives
Create neutral, layered backdrop that allows pieces to shine
Use light and shadow as a design element
Design a simple, intuitive layout for visitor flow
Integrate seating and hidden storage for the team
Ensure a cohesive, refined aesthetic across all elements
Strategic lighting to enhance copper’s reflective surfaces
Signage and collection text in English and Arabic
The Al Areesh products to be displayed in the exhibition stand
FROM CONCEPT TO REALITY
On-site production and installation
Material selection and detailing
Final styling and installation check
Game of light and shadow
THE BIG REVEAL
A dialogue between object and architecture: The Al Areesh Collection at Dubai Design Week
The collection became an architectural landscape of objects, screens, light and reflection, extending the language of traditional areesh structures from product into space.
The maze-like composition invited visitors to pause and engage with the statement pieces. Reflected in the copper surfaces, visitors momentarily became part of the collection itself.
BEYOND DUBAI
The following year, the Al Areesh Stool was selected for exhibition at Salone del Mobile Milano, taking the collection from Dubai to an international design audience.