In a groundbreaking new initiative by the Egyptian Furniture Export Council as well as the Ministries of Trade and Culture, a showcase of young Egyptian design talent has been set up in the historic alleyways of Old Cairo. Titled “+20 Egypt Design,” the exhibition is based on a similar initiative that takes place every year during the annual Salone Internazionale del Mobile of Milan, whereby young fresh design and talent are showcased in a dedicated space. The concept of Zona Tortona has set the model that is being carried out in Cairo for the first time. It is a sight to see. Opening three historic monuments including Beit El-Suhaymi, Hamam Inal and Beit Silihdar, locally-established modern furniture brands, young fashion designers and young students respectively, presented creative and original work that has been mostly inspired by local design history. The most original thing for Cairo to have seen in a long time is the presentation of local furniture alongside a few select choices of Italian pieces placed in the various rooms of the historic 18th century house Beit El-Suhaymi. Famed and widely recognized Italian designer Paula Navone curated the exhibit at Beit El-Suhaymi, selecting pieces and arranging them in a manner that so ingeniously contrasts the stark modernity of the furniture and accessories against a backdrop of one of Cairo's most well-preserved historic homes. Open for visitors during the duration of the ongoing Furnex 2010 furniture exhibition, a visit to Old Cairo these days is a must. +20 Egypt Design June 4-7 El Muizz Street, Old Cairo For more information, visit www.20egyptdesign.com
