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| | Women&Design by Maison&Objet in Dubai: Empowerment at the Service of Design Since its inception, Maison&Objet has established itself as a catalyst for trends, emerging talents, and major transformations in the industry. With the Women&Design by Maison&Objet initiative, the fair strengthens its mission to promote the international creative scene by highlighting the essential contribution of women in shaping the future of design, architecture, creation, and the art of living. This initiative is fully aligned with Maison&Objet's global outreach strategy. An Engaged and International Initiative Women&Design by Maison&Objet is dedicated to supporting women creators who are rethinking the ways we live, design, and produce. Designed as an independent initiative, active throughout the year and far beyond the fair's framework, Women&Design by Maison&Objet is an international platform fostering connections, content sharing, immersive experiences, and professional opportunities. It aims to encourage diversity, boldness, and innovation across all creative disciplines. |
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| | A Vision Reaffirmed by Mélanie Leroy, CEO of Maison&Objet: "For women, it was an urgency. For Maison&Objet, it was an obvious choice." Women&Design by Maison&Objet Takes Place in Dubai On April 23, 2025, after its first stop in Paris, the Women&Design by Maison&Objet initiative continued its international tour with a significant stop in Dubai. An exclusive dinner was held at Maison Revka, organized in partnership with Paris Society, which has supported the network since its launch. |
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| | © Maison Revka Dubai - Paris Society |
| | © Maison Revka Dubai - Paris Society |
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| | The evening brought together about thirty influential women from the fields of design, architecture, fashion, and the arts. Among them were: Elise Nassour, Director of Interior Architecture at Majid Al Futtaim; Esra Lemmens, Director of Esra Lemmens Agency, a consulting agency dedicated to promoting the talents of designers and artists; Khadija Al Bastaki, Executive Director of Dubai Design District; and Sharmine Khan, journalist for Identity magazine - all personalities who are shaping the regional creative scene and embodying a strong vision, one that fosters culture and innovation. A Fertile Ground for Female Creativity: Spotlight on Three Visionary Figures The Middle East is currently experiencing a true creative surge, driven by a new generation of visionary women who are reinventing the codes of design, architecture, and artistic expression. In Dubai, Women&Design showcased the richness of this regional dynamic through the insights of three emblematic figures who are redefining the standards of hospitality, design, and fashion in their daily work. |
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| | Kristina Zanic - Icon of Interior Design, Founder of Kristina Zanic Consultants, she has delivered over 300 projects in 23 countries, with prestigious clients such as Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott. Named Designer of the Year in 2024 by the Commercial Interior Design Awards for her bold and multicultural approach, she ranks among the top 10 global designers according to Interior Design Magazine. Nazli Sonmez - Head of Brand at RIKAS Hospitality Group, embodies the dynamism of hospitality in Dubai. Founded nearly ten years ago by Rizwan Kassim, RIKAS now boasts 19 unique culinary concepts. The group, recently partnered with Paris Society, has announced the opening of five new clubs and beach restaurants in Dubai. Nazli also introduced their brand-new RIKAS app, which aims to enhance the customer experience. Khadija Al Bastaki - Executive Director of Dubai Design District, Khadija elevates Dubai on the international stage with initiatives such as Fashion Futures Dubai and Dubai Fashion Week. Ranked among the 100 most influential women in the Middle East, she leads a platform that showcases local and regional talent on the global stage.
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| | © Maison Revka Dubai - Paris Society |
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| | The Conductors of the Initiative The event was conceived and orchestrated by three committed figures from the world of design and hospitality: Philippe Delhomme, Chairman of Maison&Objet's Executive Board; Kristina Zanic, internationally renowned designer and ambassador of Women&Design in Dubai; and Nazli Sonmez, Head of Brand at RIKAS Hospitality Group and strategic partner of the initiative in the region. Together, they brought to life an evening focused on exchange, dialogue, and inspiration. This exclusive gathering brought together renowned guests around shared values: a passion for creation, the power of collaboration, and the ambition to elevate female talent on the international stage. |
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| | | | A Living, Committed, and Global Ecosystem Through its editorial portraits, conferences, and international meetings, Women&Design by Maison&Objet acts as an accelerator for visibility, recognition, and interdisciplinary dialogue. At the same time, Women&Design by Maison&Objet is launching a new key feature with the Women&Design Awards, which aim to recognize innovation and influential figures in design. The Women&Design "Innovation" Award recognizes two individuals selected by international ambassadors (Dubai, Hong Kong, the United States, Germany), and voted on by the Maison&Objet community. The Women&Design "Personality of the Year" Award is awarded by a jury consisting of past Designers of the Year and key figures from the creative industries. The winner will be revealed in June. |
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| | Next Steps: Women&Design Continues Its World Tour After Dubai, Women&Design by Maison&Objet will continue its inspiring journey with upcoming stops in New York, Munich, and Hong Kong, before returning to Paris. At each stop, one shared ambition: to create connections, offer visibility, and drive a global movement in favor of inclusive and committed design. |
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