Kashkul: Multi-sensory Arab Language Centre for Arab Youth in Qatar
The creation process is not only about the destination, but it is largely about the ride. I’ve always enjoyed this process, which allows me to deliver messages, express my emotions, and communicate in an artistic way. Because art is a global language and complements other disciplines, I add beauty to functionality, change and manipulate the way that things are typically perceived: eager to have my artistic identity stamped on my artworks. . As an interior designer, I am always keen on having my artworks carry a message and convey emotions that are relatable to a broader audience. I am always eager to experiment and push boundaries, which has led me to develop my own distinct style.
Jon Sealey
biography
As an award-winning designer, Jon works between art, architecture, interior design and fashion. His 23-year career has led him to design for some of the worlds largest and most respected industry leaders between Asia, London and the Middle East.
Jon’s works have been published globally for projects such as The Thailine – a 960,000 sq.m redevelopment proposal and the J Capsule Hotel, Shanghai. His works include major hospitality complexes, infrastructure and fashion lines but his interest really lies in interior design.
Jon is currently serving as the Head of Interior Design for AEB in Doha taking on major works nationally. Notably, he is the lead designer for the headquarters of Qatar Energy, which reins as the world’s largest corporate workplace fit out. His clients range from Fashion TV to Qatar’s Ministry of Interior and The Central Bank of Qatar.
Jon’s passion is to create unique spaces which integrate communities and foster local interaction. The Bangkok Skyride, which saw Jon as creative head, is a prime example of social, political and communal integration. The project led Jon to present at the annual Shell symposium in Bangkok to the Minister of Transportation and The British Ambassador.
Jon is a regular public speaker at conferences around the world and has had multiple works published. Working as Creative Director, Design Director and Head of Interior Design, Jon believes in creating emotional and memorable spaces which are sustainable and hold a degree of sensitivity.
Jon’s works have been published globally for projects such as The Thailine – a 960,000 sq.m redevelopment proposal and the J Capsule Hotel, Shanghai. His works include major hospitality complexes, infrastructure and fashion lines but his interest really lies in interior design.
Jon is currently serving as the Head of Interior Design for AEB in Doha taking on major works nationally. Notably, he is the lead designer for the headquarters of Qatar Energy, which reins as the world’s largest corporate workplace fit out. His clients range from Fashion TV to Qatar’s Ministry of Interior and The Central Bank of Qatar.
Jon’s passion is to create unique spaces which integrate communities and foster local interaction. The Bangkok Skyride, which saw Jon as creative head, is a prime example of social, political and communal integration. The project led Jon to present at the annual Shell symposium in Bangkok to the Minister of Transportation and The British Ambassador.
Jon is a regular public speaker at conferences around the world and has had multiple works published. Working as Creative Director, Design Director and Head of Interior Design, Jon believes in creating emotional and memorable spaces which are sustainable and hold a degree of sensitivity.
About the Selected Project: 'Kashkul: Multi-sensory Arab Language Centre for Arab Youth in Qatar'
With extreme advancements in modern society, largely influenced by social media and AI, the proposal reflects on the importance of heritage and culture which seems ever diminishing on a global scale.
The proposal unravels the intricacies of the Arabic language and presents them with such respect and sensitivity. The message is simple – make people understand the importance of the Arabic language. The execution and attention to detail has been tailored to suite a very clear narrative which is evident throughout the interior.
For a project to achieve such memorable quality it requires thought, understanding and thorough investigation. All of which are clearly presented here. This project is a fine example of why heritage should never be forgotten and be showcased for all to understand and admire.
The proposal unravels the intricacies of the Arabic language and presents them with such respect and sensitivity. The message is simple – make people understand the importance of the Arabic language. The execution and attention to detail has been tailored to suite a very clear narrative which is evident throughout the interior.
For a project to achieve such memorable quality it requires thought, understanding and thorough investigation. All of which are clearly presented here. This project is a fine example of why heritage should never be forgotten and be showcased for all to understand and admire.
For a project to achieve such memorable quality it requires thought, understanding and thorough investigation.
On behalf of the Interior Design Faculty, it is with enormous pride that we extend our most heartfelt congratulations to the graduating Class of 2023.
The VCUarts Qatar Interior Design curriculum is curated to provide a rich and challenging pedagogical experience that explores many diverse aspects of the industry, from environmental psychology and evidence-based design to technical proficiency with a range of industry-standard tools and emerging technologies.
Ahmad Al-Mushaddani
Arhama Amjad
Fatima Al-Mannai
Haya Al-Mazroey
Huda Iqbal
Jood Elbeshti
Karmina Asaad
Latifa Al-Fuhaid
Laura Alfardan
Marwa Hajwel
Maryan Abdisamad
Mohammoud Njoud Al-Suwaidi
Noor Alabdulmalik
Noora Al-Henzab
Sara Al-Hajri
Sara Ahmed
Sara Alyafei
Shaikha Darwish
Sharifa Al-Mal
Yara Eladawy
Faculty: Mohammad Nabil Suleiman, Chair
Liam Colquhoun, Matthew P Holmes Dallimore, Erik J. Granberg, Haitham El-Hammali, Li Han, Simone Carena, Sherin Karawia, Marwa Abdelmonem
The VCUarts Qatar Interior Design curriculum is curated to provide a rich and challenging pedagogical experience that explores many diverse aspects of the industry, from environmental psychology and evidence-based design to technical proficiency with a range of industry-standard tools and emerging technologies.
Ahmad Al-Mushaddani
Arhama Amjad
Fatima Al-Mannai
Haya Al-Mazroey
Huda Iqbal
Jood Elbeshti
Karmina Asaad
Latifa Al-Fuhaid
Laura Alfardan
Marwa Hajwel
Maryan Abdisamad
Mohammoud Njoud Al-Suwaidi
Noor Alabdulmalik
Noora Al-Henzab
Sara Al-Hajri
Sara Ahmed
Sara Alyafei
Shaikha Darwish
Sharifa Al-Mal
Yara Eladawy
Faculty: Mohammad Nabil Suleiman, Chair
Liam Colquhoun, Matthew P Holmes Dallimore, Erik J. Granberg, Haitham El-Hammali, Li Han, Simone Carena, Sherin Karawia, Marwa Abdelmonem
Mohammad Suleiman, Department Chair
Kashkul is an ambitious project that uniquely intertwines interior design and cultural preservation, demonstrating the pivotal role our built environment can play in promoting and preserving a language. Noor has undertaken the mission to promote the Arabic language through the innovative design of an educational and multi-sensory center, aiming to popularize and raise awareness about the language. Her design proposal gives a glimpse at the transformative potential of lighting, materials, and experiential design. The proposal becomes a powerful catalyst for cultural appreciation and language acquisition amongst the youth – fostering a sense of pride and connection to Arabic heritage through imaginative environmental prompts.
Related Topics
ISSUE No.
7
The RAW Talent
MAY–AUG
2023
2023
