Kohler and global artist/designer Studio Nada Debs partner to create an immersive design and sensory experience in the global brand’s Downtown Dubai space. “The Versatility of Water” by Nada Debs explores the intricacies of humans’ interaction with water.
Emboldened by the words – Water is the universal language that binds us all, transcending cultural boundaries and connecting us at a soulful level. It has the power to heal, nourish, and cleanse both our bodies and spirits. – guests are invited to interact with the products, experience the healing powers of water, and explore the connection between design and spirituality.
“The way we experience water impacts our daily lives, and this experience is core to how we design, innovate, and create, reflecting in 150 years of rich legacy at Kohler,” says Olivier Lefebvre, President of Kohler Co. K&B EMEA. “Nada has helped bring this to the forefront of our presence in Downtown Dubai through this beautiful journey of discovery.”
The space itself is a series of wooden structures to create visual screens, symbolic of Debs’ Japanese and Arab roots. The undulating wooden louvres serve to gracefully reveal without immediately exposing the design solutions Kohler presents to visitors. The skewed louvres, both functional and aesthetic, pique one’s curiosity, teasing the onlooker with what is seen and unseen – creating an immersive journey.
“Kohler has smartly used its global influence and strength to build stories and products that cater to this region’s unique demands – from celebrating local rituals such as WUDU to colors and finishes that fit into the region’s unique palette. Dubai Downtown Design is the perfect place to bring all these local and global inspirations together,” says Nada Debs.
The collaboration comes as Kohler celebrates its 150th anniversary under the theme “Come All Creators,” an invitation to partners, artists, designers, and innovators around the world to celebrate the collective impact all made within the industry.
Kohler features some of its iconic designs in this space, showcasing its legacy in design innovation and color leadership. The products at downtown are designed to serve varied communities of the middle east from global to regional rituals – for example, Rivlet Wudu Station is designed for the spiritual ritual of the Islamic tradition, being the first of its kind cabinet with an integrated foot washer and the digital and performance showering innovations signify a global need to reimagine showering as a chance to rejuvenate and focus on self-care.