Sofas by Minotti.

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

INDEX Dubai, which took place this year on June 4-6, is one of the largest and most prestigious trade fairs for interior design and design in the Middle East, taking place annually at the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), a globally leading venue for trade fairs and conferences. With its thriving design and art scene characterised by numerous galleries, design studios and year-round events, Dubai offers a perfect stage for the INDEX fair. Whether you are an artist seeking to make your mark or a professional seeking inspiration, INDEX provides a platform like few others of a similar kind do. Local and international designers and brands present their products and services here and network with other industry experts. Established in 1990, INDEX has developed into a global showcase for innovative design solutions. It covers a wide range of sectors, including residential and commercial equipment, lighting, kitchen and bathroom, textiles and materials.

A highlight of the fair is the extensive seminar programme that illuminates current design and industry trends. Every year, INDEX attracts thousands of professional visitors from around the world, including interior designers, designers, architects, buyers and end consumers. Additionally, design awards such as the Red Dot Award are presented. INDEX Dubai 2024 placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, reflecting the growing demand for environmentally responsible and forward-thinking design solutions. Participants showcased products and designs that prioritised eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices.

Sedus, a global leader in office furniture and workplace solutions, made a significant impact with its innovative approach to creating ergonomic and sustainable office environments. It presented a range of products that blend functionality with aesthetics vis-à-vis productivity in the workplace. Their booth featured live demonstrations and interactive setups. Kohler Co. is a global leader in kitchen and bath designs, known for innovation and craftsmanship. It presented a range of groundbreaking products and design concepts under its Kohler and Kallista brands. The experience included a wide range of colours, materials, finishes and patterns, including an innovative silhouette called Formatted 02, a Kohler smart toilet reimagined by artist and designer Samuel Ross – a work both functional and an objet d’art.

 Design from Kohler.

 “Each of us by ourselves can’t change the world, but if we work together in our communities, for the good of all, we can make a meaningful contribution to our world,” said Laura Kohler, Chief Sustainable Living Officer, Kohler Co. Kohler recently introduced the Veil smart toilet, in a minimalist honed black colour that complements avant-garde bathroom designs. Kohler is also known for its colour leadership, which started in 1927 with matching colours for cast iron enamel and pottery glazes on toilets, sinks and baths.

The 3D-printed Rista vessel bathroom sink combines digital technology with traditional expertise. The vitreous China 3D-printing method was first introduced in 2021 and developed further. Skilled artisans in Kohler, Wisconsin, craft each of the expressive vessels. For over 150 years, Kohler Co. has been one of the global leaders in design and innovation. Privately held Kohler Co. was founded in 1873 and is headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin, USA. The company also develops solutions to address issues such as clean water and sanitation, for underserved communities around the world.

Kallista was founded in 1979 by two European visionaries, Anthony Pontin and Norman Bell, and later acquired by Kohler Co. in the late 1980s. Its award-winning designs are crafted in collaboration with independent artists and brands such as Mick De Guilio, RAMSA, Workshop/APD, Laura Kirar, and others. With showrooms across the US, Kallista utilises cutting-edge technology such as 3D printing. Minotti, renowned for its contemporary furniture design and luxury Italian craftsmanship, showcased its latest collection at INDEX. The display highlighted their commitment to elegance and superior quality. Visitors were captivated by Monotti’s sophisticated furniture pieces, which seamlessly combine modern design and traditional Italian artistry. The showcase included their newest seating systems, tables, and accessories, which drew attention for their innovative use of materials and detailing.

The company was established in 1948 by Alberto Minotti. Starting as a small-scale artisan workshop, it grew quickly and starting from the sixties, became more industrialised in character and size. The next step was taken by Renato and Roberto Minotti, who had already been working in the company for several years. In 1991, they took the helm after the premature death of their father, beginning a process of growth and expansion into the international markets.

Responsible for corporate strategy, since 1998 they have shared their creative vision and aesthetic key principles with architect Rodolfo Dordoni, who was assigned the strategic role of Art Director and coordinator of company collections. It has been a story of Italian design excellence which, since the late 1990s, has also witnessed the arrival of the third generation in the company, with Alessio joining in 1998, Alessandro in 2003, Susanna in 2013 and Leonardo in 2020. They are evolving the brand, by pooling their many diverse and complementary skills to improve the business.

Technogym, a leader in fitness and wellness solutions, brought an array of cutting-edge fitness equipment to INDEX Dubai 2024. Technogym’s exhibit focused on the integration of technology and fitness, showcasing their latest smart equipment design to enhance the wellness experience. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with interactive demonstrations of Technogym’s connected fitness ecosystem, which included the Artis Bike, The SkillRun and the Technogym Checkup.