Step into the captivating realm of Dania Douaidari, a visionary furniture designer from the ancient city of Damascus, Syria. Through her brand, Dania D Designs, she weaves together the essence of the Mediterranean and her Syrian heritage, infusing her creations with a distinct charm that is both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.
Having completed her Diploma in Interior Design at the American University of Beirut (AUB), Dania embarked on a creative journey where upon her return to Syria in 2017 she established her brand Dania D Designs.
Dania observes that the essence of Mediterranean interior design lies in its inspiration from the homes found throughout the Mediterranean region of the Middle East. She believes that Modern Arabic interior design beautifully captures the spirit of this style, presenting a harmonious fusion of eastern and western aesthetics that defines the lifestyle of today’s generation.
Amidst the challenges faced by Syria, Dania resourcefully explores locally sourced materials, celebrating their authenticity and resilience. Wood, brass, rattan, and meticulously crafted mosaics serve as the building blocks of her designs. These foundational elements, imbued with the rich heritage of Damascus, evoke a sense of history and profound connection to Dania’s homeland.
Dania’s admiration for Damascene traditional handcrafts and her utilization of materials like mother of pearl exemplify her desire to showcase the unique essence of her country. Through her collaboration with artist Hazem Kurd Ali, Dania also explored the inclusion of Arabic calligraphy into her designs, fusing artistic expression with cultural heritage.
While deeply rooted in Syria, Dania does draw inspiration from the world at large. With an insatiable curiosity, she explores the architectural wonders and mesmerizing handcrafts found across the globe. By infusing these diverse influences into her designs, she brings a global perspective to her creations, captivating international audiences and bridging cultures through the universal language of art and design.
One cannot help but be captivated by the striking designs that grace Dania’s portfolio. From the timeless allure of terrazzo, which seamlessly melds tradition and contemporary aesthetics, to the exquisite handmade walnut pieces, each design emanates a sense of artistry and sophistication.
Dania Douaidari’s remarkable journey as a furniture designer has carved a path that beautifully unites the Mediterranean and Syrian design traditions. Her commitment to sourcing local materials, celebrating cultural heritage, and embracing global inspiration sets her apart as a true luminary in the world of contemporary Mediterranean design.
