Cosentino capsule collection unveiled

Global innovative and sustainable surface brand Cosentino have revealed this year’s edition of its Capsule Collection. The series consist of limited-edition pieces crafted by five pioneering practitioners and designers, under the theme “Dare to Play’.

The eclectic collection of functional and aesthetic works tell myriad stories of home, culture and modern living, and features a floor lamp by Nadine Kanso, a bench by Omar Nakkash, a modular assortment of multi-purpose furniture by Rabah Saeid, a dinnerware carrier by Omar Al Gurg and an office desk by Thomas Trad.

The cohort embarked on the project in October 2023 with an open brief from Cosentino to push the boundaries of their creative practice and be playful and innovative with a new material – Dekton Slim Protek; a 4mm carbon neutral, ultra-compact and mesh reinforced stone created for use in architecture and design.

Produced by Dubai-based bespoke furniture craftsmen and luxury fit-out contractor Cherwell, who were also tasked with working on the first edition of the capsule collection, The Cosentino Capsule Collection is a bi-annual initiative that engages not only with well-known and emerging talent from the Middle East to create the products but also inspires the next generation of designers.

Cherwell founder Hannah Bower-Brooks commented: “We worked in close collaboration with the designers to create these one-of-a-kind products. There were moments when our team was challenged to find solutions, but together we dared to raise the bar”.

From left to right: kəˈnɛkt by Styled Habitat, Blink by Nadine Kanso, Dinna by Omar Al Gurg

kəˈnɛkt by Rabah Saeid

“kəˈnɛkt” (pronounced Connect) by Styled Habitat, introduces a series of innovative and playful furniture pieces that seamlessly blends sculpture with functionality. Featuring modular units that can be taken apart and reconfigured as needed, the versatile pieces lend themselves to be used as tables, stools or even as pedestals.

The collection boasts sleek Dekton surfaces skillfully juxtaposed with brushed bronze, radiant iridescent glass, and textured Alpi veneer to create a captivating interplay of contrasts. This collective form, resembling the silhouette of a cityscape, celebrates the harmonious fusion of artistry and utility, inviting individuals to explore dynamic and interactive design possibilities.

Blink by Nadine Kanso

Founder of radical jewelry brand Bil Arabi, Nadine Kanso’s bespoke piece “Blink”, reflects her inimitable style that celebrates the essence of modern Arab identity. The floor lamp is a playful re-interpretation of the iconic eye motif from Nadine’s hugely popular Ya Ein jewellery collection inspired by the ancient concept of Evil Eye rooted in Arab culture.

Transforming illumination into a delightful game, the lamp creates the illusion of a winking eye as it toggles between light and dark with the flick of a switch.

With its shiny brass lampshade, exposed bulb, and cuboid base clad in Paonazzo stone inspired Dekton Awake, this statement piece adds a whimsical touch to any space.

Dinna by Omar Al Gurg

An interactive and playful object from the house of MODU Method, designed by the brand’s Founder Omar Al Gurg, “Dinna” is a space-saving dinnerware carrier designed for small homes, a hangover from his time as a university student in Belfast when space was premium.

The modular product that individually comprises four placemats, one high tray and a low tray, combines to form a cabinet to store crockery for a small family. The stand out elements of the design are the double-sided placemats. Made from thin strips of Dekton Slim Protek glued on linen fabric, the flexible placemats slide in and out of grooves on the dark solid Ash wood trays to create the doors of the cabinet.

Derived from the British English pronunciation of the word dinner, “Dinna” holds emotional and functional value as a product of our times.

From left to right: The Oli Bench by Omar Nakkash, Kimiko by Thomas Trad

The Oli Bench by Omar Nakkash

Drawing from his Palestinian heritage and a deep appreciation for the traditional cross-stitch embroidery form of "Tatreez”, Omar Nakkash, Founder and Design Director at Nakkash Design Studio, envisioned the Oli Bench as a functional piece that is also serves as a symbol of connection and hope.

The main elements of the bench are the sleek terracotta coloured Dekton Umber slabs and the hollow solid oak timber bases that double up as planters for the olive trees, Palestine’s symbol of resistance and resilience. Adding a deeper layer of meaning to the design, the olive trees proudly assert Omar’s Palestinian roots and stand as a testament to ancestral presence.

The slab is decorated with motifs of olive branches using square stainless-steel mosaics, in a Tatreez pattern that traces its origin to the city of Ramallah in the West Bank.

Kimiko by Thomas Trad

Inspired by the desire to challenge traditional furniture design, ingenious Beirut based creator Thomas Trad’s office desk “Kimiko”, takes a rationalist approach with engineering and materials as main protagonists.

Highlighting the durability, versatility, and ultra-thin profile of Dekton Slim Protek, the minimalist design is unique for the use of Dekton slab as a desktop that appears to float above ground, balanced by the minimalist use of a single, curved, thin stainless-steel support leg. The French oak veneer cabinet with swivel drawers add weight and a touch of warmth, enhancing the desk's functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Photo credits: Natelee Cocks