Stand-out pieces were in healthy abundance at this year's Design Days Dubai, an indication that this still-young exhibition has already gained international standing. Galleries from six different continents converged in Dubai to present their wares, representing designers from as far afield as Mali and South Korea. But there was also no shortage of local talent. The Emirati designer Khalid Shafar had a busy show, presenting a number of projects that proves the UAE's emerging design industry is also worthy of attention.
His collaboration with the French cabinetmaker Moissonnier always promised to be interesting. It seemed to be an unlikely mix: a French company that has been producing exquisite, handcrafted cabinetry since 1885 and a young UAE-based designer committed to creating a new contemporary Emirati aesthetic. Shafar selected two of Moissonnier's trademark Louis XV-style chests and took them to a "new extreme", he says. However, he was mindful of the brand's age-old ethos, which centres on the art of painting and sculpture and on creating exceptional items using traditional methods. The resultant designs, Headless Horses, have been given a new, quirky kick - complete with hoofs, tails and saddles - and celebrate two legendary Dubai World Cup-winning horses, Dubai Millennium, the 2000 winner; and 2011's champion, Rewilding. Only three of each were produced for the show but fear not, the Headless Horses are now available to order.
Price on request, www.khalidshafar.com
