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So if you haven't already heard about the fabulous new premier e-boutique Daloo3a, it is my pleasure to formally introduce you.

Founded by my close friends Lana Khoury and Mohamed 'Kaku' Saeed. 'Daloo3a' meaning 'spoilt' in Arabic really harmonises with the concept of the company. This online retailer sets itself apart as they offer their fashion conscious clientele an array of eclectic designs by upcoming designers from across the globe. Not only does this tantalise and excite the consumers but Daloo3a also facilitates a platform for emerging designers to showcase their collection internationally.

Last night was their big launch party at Movida in London and in true Daloo3a style, guests were spoilt to the max. Items by the designers were displayed beautifully for everyone to view while sushi and cupcakes were being served. What's more with sponsors like Russian Standard Vodka and Patron Tequila, you don't need much of an imagination to know drinks were flowing.

As can be seen on their website, 'Daloo3a is not just an online fashion destination - it's a lifestyle'.
www.daloo3a.co.uk/

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Kaku & Lana presenting Daloo3a
 
The growing number of impatient, unsatisfied and unimpressed people may be an annoying sight for the best of us but truth be told, this is a marvellous motivational ground which leads to the existence of preeminent creations. Now I may not be a DJ nor do I ever intend to be but even I can appreciate this remarkable piece of technology (I want one)!

The HoloDesk DJ Emulator first came to light around 2010 and until now there are only a few around the world. It is the world’s first transparent multi-touch midi controller and the experience that comes with it is the selling factor. Watch the video and see for yourself ...
 
This mischievous man may have become a complete joke over the years nonetheless I can’t help but love the guy and find everything he does unquestionably amusing. So when I saw the new advert for the Fiat 500 featuring Charlie Sheen; the concept involving him being incarcerated in his mansion and making it seem abundantly riotous and enjoyable; I had to declare my admiration for effective PR and the art of advertisement. 

Go to Gallery to watch the ad - Fiat 500 “House Arrest” 
 
Available in Harvey Nichols. 
As far as vodka bottles go, designs are pretty standard, so I fell in love when I was out the other night in Portobello and they served my cocktail in a Crystal Head Vodka bottle. Funny enough, it jogged my memory back to 2008 when I first heard that acting legend Dan Aykroyd was branching out into the alcohol industry. Fast forward four years and the limited popularity of the Crystal Head Vodka seems surprising to me. Not only is the shape of the bottle unique and eye catching; designed by the illustrious artist Jon Alexander; but the content is equally enjoyable. It's definitely worth checking out. 
 
Lofgren argues in his 2006 book, Magic, Culture And The New Economy, that culture is becoming a brand and that this is due to design. ‘A lot of energy is devoted to producing not only material commodities and services, but also atmosphere, symbols, images, icons, auras, experiences and events’ (p.13). We can see this through the recent developments in the Middle East. The ‘Gulf has become an international luxury brand ... For the first time in history great hotels rather than great public works such as the Eiffel Tower or Golden Gate Bridge are becoming the iconic structures that define a region’ (J/Brice Design, interview, 2010).
 An obvious example would be that of the Burj Al Arab in Dubai which completely transformed the way designers construct hotels, or other developments like the Vallagio Mall in Doha, Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, SkyBar in Beirut and others alike, all of which capture the lavish Middle Eastern culture which arguably benefits the economy of a city. 
Designers play with the concept of ‘culture’ and the ‘Luxury Middle East’ to make an impression and attract global and local attention. With limitless technology and deep pockets, it’s no wonder those in the West prefer doing business in the Middle East. 

 
London is globally recognised for its bespoke mixture of Tudor, Elizabethan, Georgian, and Victorian architecture. But just like anything else, trends in architecture are evolving albeit slower than other industries. Bricks and mortar seem to be a thing of the past; glass is taking over! Now don’t get me wrong, I for one love the combination of traditional and modern architecture as it makes for an interesting city. That said however, when a beautiful classic construction, that of which’s design transports you through time, gets torn down to build a contemporary glass structure resembling the office blocks in Canary Wharf, in a road flaunting classic buildings, one wonders what developers are thinking. What will London eventually look like? Will this historic city lose its distinct character that has helped make it what it is today? 

 
As my weekdays usually consist of me rushing from one area to the next trying to juggle a million and one tasks that need to be completed, there are a few boutiques that make my time stand still regardless; Jimmie Martin in Kensington Church Street being one of them.

The energetic amalgamation of colours used with the graffiti and prints on their antique inspired designs, truly makes their creations stand out amongst others in the industry. Here’s a few of their work that I’m in love with: 

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Seven Sins Table
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Imperfection Wallpaper (So true! Adore this!)
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Rebel Sofa
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Silver Sideboard
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Princess Stool
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Pimp Armchair
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Swoosh Armchair
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Animal Throne
 
Looking everywhere for something to ignite the creative side of my brain, led me to come across an ad campaign I designed a few years ago. And I feel it’s awfully fitting to post this since the anniversary of Saint Valentine is approaching.