Buccellati and David/Nicolas Unite at Downtown Design Dubai
This year’s Downtown Design Dubai showcases a remarkable collaboration between the renowned high-jewelry Maison Buccellati and the innovative design studio David/Nicolas. The installation features a captivating space designed as two interlocking shells, inviting visitors into a unique experience that blends craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Founders David Raffoul and Nicolas Moussallem share insights into their creative philosophy and the inspiration behind this partnership.
The Vision Behind the Collaboration
Founded in 2011 in Beirut, David Raffoul and Nicolas Moussallem have transformed their studio into an international design practice with offices in Milan, Beirut, and San Francisco. Their work is characterized by a seamless blend of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and a forward-thinking approach. “Our philosophy began to take shape during a residency at Vista Alegre in Portugal, where we immersed ourselves in the art of porcelain,” they explain. This experience helped them define their mission: to respect the past while reinterpreting it for contemporary audiences.
The duo notes that Dubai has evolved significantly, transitioning from a transient city to a vibrant home for many. This transformation has influenced the region’s creative landscape, making their participation in Downtown Design Dubai a natural progression. “Through our collaboration with Buccellati, we bridge both worlds, bringing a Milan-based luxury brand into Dubai through our creative lens,” they state.
A Deeper Connection
This collaboration is not the first between David/Nicolas and Buccellati; they previously worked together in St. Moritz. However, this installation is on a much larger scale, designed as an immersive boutique experience that delves deeper into the Buccellati universe. “The first collaboration was an introduction; this one is built on mutual trust and creative alignment,” they explain.
The values shared between David/Nicolas and Buccellati—craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a passion for precious materials—create a harmonious partnership. “What makes it special is the mutual respect; they trust our vision while we admire their artistry. It’s a true creative dialogue,” they add.
Inspiration from Nature
The installation at Downtown Design Dubai draws inspiration from the fluidity and harmony of seashells, inviting visitors into a luminous and contemplative space. “When people think of Dubai, they often think of the desert. For us, it’s also about the sea. Seashells represent the poetic intersection of sand, water, and time,” the designers explain. The process of layering silver over real shells symbolizes fossilization and the preservation of beauty, mirroring the installation’s form of two shells coming together, representing connection and continuity.
The goal of the installation is to create a moment of pause for visitors, allowing them to appreciate the artistry behind Buccellati’s silver pieces. “Every element—the lighting, reflections, and materials—is designed to highlight the depth of Buccellati’s creations,” they emphasize.
A Seamless Blend of Aesthetics
Maria Cristina Buccellati, Global Communications Director, believes that this collaboration exemplifies a seamless blend of Buccellati’s rich Italian craftsmanship and David/Nicolas’ modern architectural sensibility. “The partnership was born from a true dialogue and a shared pursuit of harmony,” she explains. David/Nicolas demonstrated remarkable flexibility, integrating their design expertise while respecting Buccellati’s aesthetic.
This immersive pavilion represents Buccellati’s identity beyond jewelry and silverware, showcasing the beauty of Dubai. “Visitors will discover a captivating marine world featuring silver-coated seashells, fish, and crustaceans, alongside our Furry collection and playful Jam Jars in silver and Murano glass,” Maria Cristina adds. The installation evokes a sense of wonder, inspired by the natural beauty of Dubai and its surroundings.
Elevating Brand Awareness
Downtown Design Dubai serves as an ideal platform for Buccellati’s debut in the Middle East, enhancing brand awareness and introducing their exquisite silverware collection to a region where it is not yet widely recognized. “The Middle Eastern clientele we’ve cultivated appreciates craftsmanship, a hallmark of our jewelry. This exhibit elevates that artisanal spirit within our silverware,” Maria Cristina explains.
By hosting exclusive dinners and engaging with customers, Buccellati aims to foster lasting relationships and demonstrate the enduring appeal of their artistry. The collaboration with David/Nicolas not only highlights the beauty of their creations but also bridges Italian heritage with the discerning tastes of the Middle Eastern market.
FAQs
What is the significance of the seashell design in the installation?
The seashell design symbolizes the connection between sand, water, and time, reflecting the natural beauty of Dubai and inviting visitors to contemplate the artistry of Buccellati’s creations.
How does this collaboration differ from previous ones?
This installation is on a much larger scale than their previous collaboration in St. Moritz, designed to immerse visitors in the Buccellati universe and deepen the creative dialogue between the two parties.
What can visitors expect to see at the installation?
Visitors will experience a captivating marine world featuring silver-coated seashells, intricate silver animals, and a variety of Buccellati’s signature pieces, all designed to evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Buccellati and David/Nicolas at Downtown Design Dubai marks a significant moment in the intersection of heritage and modern design. By blending their unique aesthetics, they create an immersive experience that highlights the beauty of craftsmanship and the rich cultural landscape of Dubai. As this partnership continues to evolve, it promises to foster deeper connections within the design community and beyond.
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