A Dubai Debut

Christian Lacroix inks deal to design high-rise
Wednesday, April 23, 2008

(PARIS) Christian Lacroix's popularity is soaring to new heights--literally. The designer has been tapped to infuse his trademark design skills on an avant-garde new high-rise in Dubai.

Today, the designer and boutique Middle East property developer Abyaar announced a joint venture which will establish a residential tower in one of Dubai's most exclusive beachside suburbs. The 38-unit, coastal Jumeirah-based tower will incorporate a Lacroix-designed façade, expansive lobby, and luxury interiors.

Although Lacroix has worked on several Parisian boutique hotel interiors, this is his first residential offering.

"We approached Lacroix because he is known for his exceptional design skills and theatrical style, both on and off the catwalk," said Marzooq Al Rashdan, vice chairman and managing director of Abyaar, the three-year old real estate development firm jointly run by Kuwait's Aayan Leasing and Investment Company and Al Rashdan Group. "This is the start of a long-term partnership that places Abyaar on the luxury development map internationally." Al Rashdan added that the company is working with Lacroix on "something special that will tell a Middle Eastern story." "The interiors will be based on paradox," added Lacroix, who was recently in New York to christen his new boutique on East 57th Street. "Contemporary and baroque, blending East and West, old and new, inspired by history and folklore."

Further details on the tower, which is yet to be named, have not been released. The developer did not indicate when the project will launch or how the units will be priced

Lacroix will be sourcing and creating unique materials to be used in the interior design. "The Middle East is a pioneering place where creative freedom is unshackled," Lacroix continued. "We are pleased to be entering the region with a developer like Abyaar who caters to a select audience, favoring the extraordinary."

Among his non-catwalk pursuits, Lacroix has designed several boutique hotels, interiors for the French chain of Gaumont cinemas; TGV trains to Strasbourg; tramway cars in Montpellier, and the costumes for the Marriage of Figaro at the Aix-en-Provence festival.