On occassion of Downtown Design Dubai, Iwan Maktabi’s Research and Experimentation platform “Iwan Maktabi Lab” is taking over Warehouse 32 at Alserkal Avenue with a series of exhibitions and cultural events. Throughout the month of November, the Iwan Maktabi Lab will honor women in design. “Women in Design” is an exhibition showcasing an array of cc-tapis collections honouring avante-garde designers, an exhibition which puts to the forefront the research and ideas which are shaping the world of interiors. Designers who question traditional craftsmanship, and cultural production techniques, merging them with contemporary ideas.

Patricia Urquiola, Mae Engelgeer, Faye Toogood, Sabine Marcelis, Cristina Celestino, and Bethan Laura Wood’s latest works designed for cc-tapis will be on display. Collections such as Paysage, Stroke, and Patcha as exhibited in Milan Design Week will be displayed for the first time in the Middle East. Allowing guests from all over the world to see, touch, and experience each piece.

“Just as my father encouraged me and my sisters in the start of our careers, I strongly encourage every woman to pursue her calling. Because at the end of the day, you find your strength and empowerment in what you do and what you give to your community.” Says Mona Maktabi, co-founder of Iwan Maktabi.

Design Talk
Nadine Kanso and Bethan Laura Wood
moderated by Alya AlShaibani

As part of Iwan Maktabi Lab’s devotion to fostering appreciation for the arts, the collections will be presented alongside a conversation between designers Sabine Marcelis and Bethan Laura Wood moderated by Alya AlShaibani, Manager of the Women’s Pavilion and Country Manager at Expo 2020 Dubai.

The moderated talk will take place on Monday November 8th, discussing the ideas that are shaping the world of design.