Guests at the Commercial Interior Design Awards: MENA 2023 were met with a grand Olympus-inspired entrance, in a bold colour palette of purple and orange. The installation was the quality work of the event fit-out partner Emkay Interiors and was designed by Keane.
“The inspiration for our design came from the majestic realm of Olympus, the mythical abode of the gods,” says Marco Maximus from Keane. “We saw a beautiful parallel between Olympus and the Commercial Interior Design Awards, as both represent a pinnacle of excellence in their respective domains. We wanted to convey that CID is the home for design gods in our region, a place where divine creativity thrives. This narrative was the perfect fit for the CID awards, emphasizing the grandeur and artistic significance of the event.”
A colourful twist
While Greek mythology inspired much of the design, the team at Keane used colour to create a more modern interpretation. “The vibrant colour scheme was born out of a desire to break away from typical Greek-style, or expected colour palettes,” explains Maximus. “We aimed to create a bold and attention-grabbing entrance that could stand out amidst the crowd while capturing the vivacity of the CID awards’ nights.”
The Key Elements
The design took a larger-than-life approach to make a statement. “We deliberately chose an oversized scale for the portal, deviating from the norm, to emphasize the grandness of the CID event,” says Maximus. “This scale resonated well with our Olympus Affair narrative. We incorporated Greek architectural orders to add a touch of classical elegance while the abstract, contrasting bright wings added a contemporary flair, symbolizing the fusion of the ancient and the modern.”
Swathes of sheer, bright orange fabric adorned the entranceway and encompassed the entire structure. “The use of sheer fabrics was intentional, symbolizing the fluidity, organic nature, and layered complexity of the design process,” adds Maximus. “The transparency of these fabrics served a dual purpose, allowing them to blend seamlessly with the hotel’s surroundings and architectural backdrop while highlighting our design’s presence.”
As a nod to the statuesque elements of Greek mythology, a circular podium was incorporated into the entrance design. “It provided a platform for event attendees to strike poses and create memorable photos, akin to the grandeur of Vanity Fair party photo booths,” Maximus says. The podium also offered a point of interaction for guests, allowing them to become part of the narrative.