INDEX 2010, the definitive design event in the Middle East, is bringing top international designers and brands to Dubai from 8-11 November. Exhibitors from across the globe are already confirmed and will showcase a wide array of high-end and innovative design products.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, INDEX has firmly established itself as a leading player in the global design show calendar. Last year, more than 1,000 exhibitors participated from over 50 countries, showcasing the best the world has to offer in design.
The Middle East is still a buoyant market with great export potential for overseas businesses whose markets have been heavily impacted by the economic downturn. The total estimated value of interior design contracting projects from 2009 to 2010 in the GCC was US$22 billion, and the demand for interior design services in the UAE alone is expected to be worth some US$14.6 billion this year.
INDEX 2010 has already confirmed many high profile brands from within the GCC, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the US.
Exciting new exhibitors this year include Toshiro Alloy from Japan, who will showcase 'Moonlight' – hand cast, bespoke, pure tin surface panels. This very unique metal design concept creates a finished product resembling a natural material such as stone, wood, cloth, leather and antique. No two projects are the same with each piece being individually designed and hand-made.
HD Interiors from Russia are launching in the Middle East at INDEX 2010. HD specialise in unique and inspiring works using Swarovski crystals. Projects include stunning interior installations, a crystal embossed Rolls Royce and a crystal decorated helicopter.
From the USA, Robert Allen will showcase the finest fabrics including cottons, silks and outdoor fabrics. With the trends for 2010 being bold colour and varieties of textures, Robert Allen will showcase a wide range of fabrics to meet both these contemporary and the more classic requirements.
This year there will be a strong Spanish presence at INDEX. Spanish exhibitors include award winning Andreu World who is synonymous with modern form and functional design along with a range of contemporary finishes with strong character and great presence. Unique furniture designer Jordi Mila will be showcasing a collection of stunning furnishing designs including the Four Seasons lamp and the Hot Rider carbon fiber stool reminiscent of an English saddle. Other Spanish exhibitors include Muebles Canella, Grassoler, Lámparas Schuller, Vicente Zaragoza and Mariner.
Italy has always played a significant part at INDEX and this year is no exception. Exhibitors include world renowned glassmaker 'Arte di Murano' who will exhibit ornate and innovative uses of glass in lighting and decoration. Other Italian exhibitors include Casa Shamuzzi, Futura Leathers, Ceramicarte Deruta and IHBA Italian Home Building Automatic.
Participants from the GCC include Rivoli Silks, Baitek Palace representing Informit Italia, Beautiful House, Beacon Decor and Light and Brasslight International.
In addition to the thousands of exhibitors, there will be exciting, educational and inspirational features throughout the show. These will include informal seminars and panel debates, the second designer Contemporary Majlis competition, eclectic design pieces celebrating 20 years of design, the Al Habtoor ISG Student Challenge competition, eco sustainable design at its best and unparalleled industry networking events throughout the 4 days of the show.
Lu Buchanan, INDEX Event Director, said, "We are very excited about the 20th anniversary of INDEX. This year's show will be truly a celebration of the best the world has to offer in design. We are incorporating many design features not just in the interior furnishing arena, but also looking at all aspects of design from stunning and useable eco sustainability solutions through to our new kitchens and bathrooms area. A first for this year will be the high end dedicated hall with the most beautiful and exclusive furnishings, art, sculpture and design from the top end leading Italian brands".
