The highly anticipated event, "The Harrods Hive," organized by luxury London department store Harrods, took place in Riyadh over the weekend at Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah Gate. This networking event aimed to facilitate connections between industry experts and emerging talents, focusing on the theme of "Unpacking Luxury."
Distinguished panelists including Shahd Al-Shehail, founder of Abadia, a brand known for ethical luxury, and Basma Bouzo, co-founder of Saudi Design Week and CEO of the Saudi Design Festival, participated in engaging discussions. Also sharing insights were interior architect Nouf Al-Moneef, fashion entrepreneur Rae Joseph, and Bahraini creative director Banan Yaquby, founder of Quby Creative Consultants, who placed a strong emphasis on the combination of modern technology and traditional workmanship.
Bouzo emphasized the significance of storytelling in traditional arts and crafts, noting its intrinsic value and rarity. She highlighted the beauty of using modern technology to enhance these narratives. Yaquby questioned the idea of craftsmanship as it is commonly understood, stressing the value of history or established techniques over purely manual creation.
Princess AlJoharah bint Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, founder and chairwoman of Atlal Almajd, along with Joseph and Al-Shehail, delved into the multifaceted definition of luxury, emphasizing aspects beyond mere price or brand name. Al-Shehail elaborated on luxury from the perspective of Abadia, emphasizing the importance of customer experience, storytelling, craftsmanship, and uniqueness.
The final panel, featuring Zainab Abu Alsamh, general manager of MBC Studios, and Al-Moneef, director of the Noor Riyadh festival, discussed the significance of involving Saudi talent in creative sectors. Al-Moneef highlighted the success of Noor Riyadh in showcasing local artists globally, with a notable representation of Saudi talent in the festival's third edition.
Overall, The Harrods Hive event in Riyadh served as a platform for insightful discussions on unpacking the concept of luxury, the fusion of traditional and modern craftsmanship, and the importance of nurturing local talent in creative industries.
