At the beginning of June, Dubai comes alive with the INDEX Exhibition taking place.

Held at the World Trade Center, INDEX is a great opportunity to network and gain brand exposure with attendees coming from diverse countries and markets. 

 

Our Founder Monica was invited to attend one of the many interesting panels that took place throughout the overall three days of the exhibition. 

 

This year panels' topic was about design entrepreneurship and how to overcome challenges and achieve success in the business world. 

Moderated by Esra Lemmens, the founder and director of The Esra Lemmens Agency, the panel had as other guests, the founders of other four successful interior design companies based in Dubai.

The panel investigated the complicated world of design entrepreneurship by eliciting insights from seasoned professionals who have gone through hardships setting up their own businesses. From having advocates or lawyers in a business to effective strategies that can lead to success, this discussion aimed to provide designers with the ultimate guide to thriving within the industry’s business part.

 

The key takeaway from the panel was to emphasize how being successful as design entrepreneurs requires more than just creative vision; it also requires a strategic understanding of business essentials, legal considerations, and professional advisers’ worth.

Strategic understanding of the financial and operational management as well as the marketing and sales is one of the foundations of a successful business.

 

However, panelists pointed out how legal considerations such as Intellectual Property (IP) Protection to make sure that concept designs are protected by copyrights, trademarks or patents is essential to protect the nurturing of the business. 

Overall, what emerged from the panelists' discussion was that success as a design entrepreneur hinges not only on creative prowess but also on a solid grasp of business fundamentals, legal knowledge, and the value of professional advisers. 

Addressing the myriad challenges of starting and growing a design firm requires strategic actions, leveraging expert insights, and maintaining respectful, beneficial relationships with advisory and legal professionals. 

 

This comprehensive approach enables sustained growth and competitiveness in the dynamic design industry.

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June has been a busy month for C'est ici Design.

Our Founder Monica attended an event at the beginning of the month which was organized in collaboration with Cosentino and Art de Vivre in the trendy D3 neighborhood. 

 

The styling event was a prime example of effective collaboration.

The session, which focused on selecting the perfect rugs for various spaces, was a joint effort between C’est ici Design, Cosentino, and Art de Vivre, known for their exquisite handwoven rugs.

 

Our Founder transformed Cosentino City Dubai into an intimate salon, showcasing a curated selection of rugs from Art de Vivre's diverse collection, complemented by furniture and accessories from Tribe Dubai, and beautiful floral arrangements from Gosha Flowers.

An intimate yet highly buzzing networking event, it was a perfect chance to get some insider tips for styling rugs like a pro. 

 

Our Founder pointed out how rugs are the ultimate shapeshifters of the design world. With the power to transform a room from mundane to magnificent with just a touch of texture, color, or pattern, their significance extends beyond mere aesthetics. 

 

There are different steps to undertake when choosing the perfect rug.

Monica suggested how it is important to not stop at aesthetics only, because a rug is so much more than a design element. 

It can add warmth to a room, define a space or reduce noise so it is essential to determine the rug's purpose and select one that meets your functional as well as your aesthetic preferences. 

 

Rugs are just not for the floor anymore. The options are infinitive. 

You can hang them on walls to add texture, color, add visual interest to a space, to lend a unique character to the area. 

 

There is often and in the specifics for Art de Vivre an inspiring story about the history and craftsmanship of the rug that makes it a meaningful addition to any space, transforming itself into a piece of art. 

 

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Studio Andrew Trotter's architectural triumph, Casa Maiora, seamlessly integrates with Puglia's landscape, echoing the region's coastal villas. Crafted from locally sourced Tufo sandstone, its walls, adorned with a gentle pink lime wash, exude warmth. Outdoor spaces harmonize with nature, offering serene retreats, while indoors, expansive windows frame picturesque vistas. 

 

The kitchen, featuring bespoke terrazzo craftsmanship, becomes a hub of communal activity. Bedrooms, embodying minimalist elegance, provide havens of tranquility, complemented by Trotter's signature sink designs. From Barcelona, Studio Andrew Trotter's Casa Maiora showcases architectural prowess and reverence for context.

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1. Always include a pop of color

 

The warm season is the perfect time to add some colour to your home. Whether you go for bright and bold hues or something more subdued, adding a pop of colour is a great way to freshen up your space.

 

2. Pattern Mixing and Matching

 

Another popular summer interior design trend this year is mixing and matching patterns. If you're bored with your solid-colored furniture, consider adding some patterned throw pillows or blankets. Experimenting with various textures in wood stains or area rugs can also add interest. However, be careful not to overdo it—too many patterns can make a space feel chaotic. To maintain cohesiveness, opt for patterns with similar colors or design themes.

 

3. Blue is in

 

If you're searching for a color to incorporate into your summer design, Pantone has named 'Very Peri' as their color of the year. This means that various shades of blue will be trending this summer. If you're unsure how to embrace this trend, start with small accessories like throw cushions or a new bed set.

 

Consider adding a blue accent wall or a statement piece of furniture like an armchair. This calming hue is perfect for the warmer months and can be used in numerous ways. From walls to furniture and accessories, the possibilities for decorating with blue are endless. Experimenting with different shades of blue can help you create a unique yet cohesive look.

 

4. Maximizing light

 

Summertime is all about maximizing the light in your home.  If you're looking to brighten up your space, there are a few simple ways to do it.

 

Start by painting your walls a light color. White is always a good choice, but pale pastel shades work well too. Next, add mirrors to your walls. Mirrors reflect light, brightening up a room and even creating the illusion of a larger space.

 

Lastly, consider your window treatments. 

Sheer curtains let in plenty of light while still providing privacy, helping you create a bright and airy atmosphere perfect for summer.

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