Dubai-based Association of Professional Interior Designers (Apid) is setting up a design centre within Dubai Design District (d3) in the UAE emirate with an aim to expand its seminars and networking programme.

The 1,600-sq-ft Design Hub, being set up on the association’s 10th anniversary, will host task forces and working groups of like-minded professionals to co-create solutions to address common challenges in the interior design sector, said Apid.

The multi-functional Apid Design Hub will comprise a resource library, wifi-enabled open work space, and lounge area, to become a meeting place, source of inspiration and a point of call for interior designers working across the region, stated the association.

“In its 10th anniversary year, Apid is offering this region’s interior design community a creative home. It will give us a permanent base from which to showcase the best design can offer,” said the association’s president, Farida Kamber Al Awadhi.

“As a members’ club, Apid already acts as connector, facilitator and instigator of change for the interior design profession. The Apid Design Hub will be an incubator for new talent and new ideas by bringing professionals and students together. Having this space will exponentially increase our impact,” remarked Linda Merieau, the executive director.

The hub has been designed through a volunteer effort of the association’s members contributing time and services on a pro bono basis. In the presence of more than 100 design firm principals and leading influencers, Apid launched a capital campaign to secure the needed resources to fit out, furnish and operate the premises in the making.

The organisations that have pledged their early commitment to support the effort include American Hardwood Export Council, Cinmar Design, Design Design, Hacker Kitchens, Guideline Interiors, Knauf AMF, MAS Paints, Poltrana Frau Group, Purity, Walls and Floors and 360 Decoro.  

Apid said it is in discussion with many other leading firms and is currently seeking additional in-kind support and finances to reach their target by September.

Lindsay Miller, the managing director of d3, said the design hub will play a critical role in ensuring the professional development of the interiors industry in the region.

"We are pleased that d3 can provide a platform that enables the organisation to grow its programme of activities and continue enhancing its work on behalf of this important creative industry," she noted.-TradeArabia News Service