DE51GN

DE51GN recently spoke to Australian chair designer Noel Duigan, and got the low-down on his future developments, thoughts on Dubai and his plans to move his operations back to Australia.

Noel Duigan

DE51GN: So mate, big news – what’s behind your move away from Dubai?
ND: I feel that my target market in Dubai is too small and of those that fit the demographic, some may not be in the process of buying furniture for their homes in Dubai. They usually have a place back home that they have furnished and here in Dubai it’s just a short term rental, so not really the perfect market for me. Also, I don’t think the scene here is mature enough, there are no real boutique hotels, and everything is a bit flash and glam – competing with each other rather than being individual. Again the market is too small and it feels like it’s grinding to a halt with the recent financial troubles.

DE51GN: Where do you plan on moving to?
ND: My plan is to hit Australia and base from Sydney. Soon after I arrive I’ll be heading to LA and Miami to get my chairs on the scene over there, where I feel they will make more of an impact and be more warmly received.

DE51GN: So when’s the big move, and why Sunny Sydney?
ND: Hoping to be out of here in the next few weeks. I landed in Sydney on the 23rd December and made my mind up that day that I was moving back. That was based on a professional level and just being in Sydney during summer; The cafes, bars, people, beaches, parks, museums, galleries and trendy little independent shops and designers.

DE51GN: What can the world expect from you in the future?
ND: I want to do a series based on sex and there will be some nudity and provocative shots, there’s no way I can showcase that stuff here in the Middle East. So the decision was pretty much based on my professional career and the future of it. If I want to get serious about it, I need to move and broaden my horizons.

DE51GN: Will you still exhibit your designs in the Middle East?
ND: At the moment I am in discussions with a gallery here in Dubai about renting some space. They will manage my chairs and I will continue to have a footprint in Dubai, however small it may be.

DE51GN: Thanks for the chat mate – good luck in the future.
ND: Cheers mate.

Noel Duigan chairs can be bought online at www.noelduigan.com