fbpx
Close

This new design platform is broadening horizons for young talent in Qatar

A new design platform in Qatar hopes to put the country's young talent on the global map

“Middle Eastern designers are underrepresented by a large margin on global design platforms,” begins Alia Rachid, founder of a new design platform, FROMM, which is working to develop the Qatari design landscape and create space for young designers from the region. She adds that the barriers to entry into the design field are challenging to overcome for emerging talent – something her platform wishes to uncomplicate.

Pivoting between Milan and Doha, Rachid explains that the platform can connect young designers from the region with Italian expertise to not only help develop their skills, but to additionally offer a wider perspective on the industry from a key design capital. “It is these designers who will serve to inspire the next generation of designers and further develop the design culture in our region,” she asserts.

Its first collection, Shurooq, debuted during Milan Design Week and was designed in collaboration with two Qatari designers, Shua’a Ali and Maryam Al Suwaidi, whose complementary styles brought forth a series of objects that are inspired by their Qatari heritage – an important brief for the project.

“The integration of Qatari heritage into our first collection enables FROMM to put its best foot forward by showcasing the pride of our identity and origin to the international design community,” says Rachid.

The collection features eight objects that are rich in both form and material, fusing the design languages of the two designers in a seamless manner, with each bringing their own sensibility, yet in a way that is harmonious and open. These pieces include the Baida‘ sofa, the Haima‘ sofa and the multifunctional Majra table by Al Suwaidi; and the Derj desk/console, Laite floor lamp, Maiz coffee table, Makteba wall unit and Tawla side table by Ali.

“FROMM’s mission is to create collections that are an ideal fusion of design and manufacturing while supporting local design communities,” Rachid affirms. “We hope to strengthen design across Qatar by firstly providing the tools and resources to young aspiring designers to develop their skills and gain exposure to the design and production process behind [creating] furniture.”

Community building and education is an equally important pillar, which the platform hopes to contribute to through its FORMM Lab space, located in Doha’s vibrantly developing Msheireb area. The lab offers workshops, mentoring and educational services, helping connect designers with international universities, professionals and design companies. And while Rachid describes Qatar’s design landscape “as still in its infancy”, the growth of private and governmental initiatives is likely to prompt a soon-to-be-flourishing design scene in this Gulf capital.

Images: Supplied

The Latest
January 31, 2025

Textures That Transform

Aura Living’s AW24 collection showcases the elegance of contrast and harmony

January 31, 2025

Form Meets Function

Laufen prioritises design, functionality and sustainability in its latest collections

Art
January 30, 2025

Preserving Culture, Inspiring Creativity

Discover the Legacy of a Saudi Art Space: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall explores the Hall’s enduring influence on the cultural fabric of Saudi Arabia

January 29, 2025

Channelling the Dada Spirit

Free-spirited and creative, The Home Hotel in Zurich injects a sense of whimsy into a former paper factory

January 28, 2025

id Most Wanted- January 2025

Falaj Collection by Aljoud Lootah Design

January 27, 2025

Things to Covet in January

identity selects warm-toned furniture pieces and objets that align with Pantone’s colour of the year

January 24, 2025
Stacy Stewart, Regional Director_ MillerKnoll

Shaping the Future of Workspaces by MillerKnoll

Stacy Stewart, Regional Director Middle East & Africa of MillerKnoll discusses the future and evolution of design in workspaces with identity.

January 24, 2025

Shaping Urban Transformation

Gensler’s Design Forecast Report 2025 identifies the top global design trends that will impact the real estate and built environment this year

January 24, 2025
105 Residences by Kamdar

Unveiling Attainable Luxury

Kamdar Developments has launched 105 Residences, a new high-end development in Jumeirah Village Circle.

January 24, 2025

The Muse

Located in the heart of Jumeirah Garden City, formerly known as ‘New Satwa’, The Muse adds to the urban fabric of the area

January 24, 2025

Cultural Immersion Meets Refined Luxury

The Chedi Hegra opens its doors in AlUla’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

January 23, 2025
Sunshine Bay

Redefining Coastal Luxury

Sunshine Bay on Al Marjan island combines seaside views, exceptional design, and world-class amenities to create a unique waterfront haven