Interface And OFIS Host New Designlabs For Middle East Architects

Global modular flooring manufacturer, Interface, has launched the DesignLab; a series of VIP workshops for architects and designers centred on the principles of biophilic design. 

Held at The Green Planet in Citywalk, Dubai, the Middle East’s first bio-dome that recreates a tropical forest with a rich biodiversity of over 3,000 plants and animals, the event was held in partnership with OFIS, a member of Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group LLC, the exclusive distributors of Interface in the UAE.

The DesignLab is a first for the industry and is the next step in Interface’s objective to spread the sharing of knowledge amongst architects and designers. 

The DesignLab pilot focused on the topic of biophilic design, communicating its key principles and demonstrated how materials, colours and textures can be used by designers and architects, to improve commercial spaces. 

Guests were also able to walk through the immersive expedition of The Green Planet, into the tropics, delving deeper into the secrets of nature and experienced first-hand, the magnificence of one of the world’s oldest living ecosystems.

Since Interface launched its 2014 study into biophilic design, conducted with organisational psychologist, Professor Sir Cary Cooper, the business has focused on supporting businesses to incorporate elements of natural design into their spaces as the data stated this can increase workers’ well-being by 15 per cent, productivity by 6 per cent and creativity by 15 per cent. 

World renowned designer David Oakey was the guest speaker at the Dubai DesignLab event, who spoke to the audience about the latest trends, how he uses nature as a source of inspiration and how design by nature impacts human wellbeing.  

David Oakey said: “With the value of nature-inspired design clearly demonstrable to the bottom line in the Middle East, it’s crucial that architects and designers grasp the principles of biophilia in their work. These industry first DesignLab events and workshops have been created to act as a collaborative platform to communicate an evolved set of principles to the industry and connect likeminded, forward thinking experts.” 

More than 100 regional architects and interior designers took part in interactive workshops as part of the evening, centred on perfect imperfections, inspiration by nature and the benefits of nature’s creativity. 

Steven Pratt, Regional Director for Interface Middle East added: “At Interface, we’ve been fascinated by nature for a long time. Since our first commitment to sustainability, being good to our surroundings has been our top priority. Later, we took cues from nature when it came to product design and production. Carpet tiles with a ‘random design’ are quicker to install and generate less waste during installation and maintenance. 

“In recent years, we have focused on the influence nature can have on the users of the spaces we contribute to. The ‘biophilic design’ trend is aimed at improving interior design to create surroundings that let people thrive.  Office workers report improved creativity, productivity and wellbeing in spaces that feature natural elements or a connection to nature.”

Abdulla Al Gurg, Group General Manager of Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group was categorical in his support for sustainable environments and the emphasis on nature inspired designs. “Our two decade partnership with Interface through OFIS has ensured that customers in the UAE have access to one of the leading organisations promoting biophilic living. 

“Contact with nature and design elements which mimic natural materials have been shown to positively impact creativity and nurture productive environments. This DesignLab event is a good forum for architects and designers to align with the larger vision of creating spaces that focus on human wellbeing.”