June 2013 marked the launch of Katharine Pooley’s first international outpost in Doha, Qatar. Doha’s elite gathered at the prestigious Gate Mall in vibrant West Bay to celebrate the opening of the first international franchise of the Katharine Pooley boutique. Nasser H. Al Ansari, Qatari businessman and Chairman of the franchisee Octagon International Qatar, and Katharine Pooley, renowned interior designer unveiled the new shop at an elegant opening ceremony.
The Doha shop showcases the Katharine Pooley design philosophy on a grand scale, developing the iconic KPL aesthetic found within the flagship boutique, established on London’s Walton Street in 2004. The shop will provide Qataris with the opportunity to source and shop for exquisite furnishings; as well as use the expertise of a first class interior design service, led by Katharine’s team of talented designers and architects.
The boutique, a sanctuary for inspiring interior design reflects Katharine’s unique approach in capturing classical contemporary living without sacrificing comfort, coherence or style. The entrance to the shop is flanked by two show-stopping metallic panels hand-embroidered with Swarovski crystals on large brass frames creating an opulent yet intimate feel and setting the tone for the rest of the space.
The design of the shop flows as harmonious, complementary ‘room-sets’ punctuated by spectacular lighting and fully bespoke furniture
pieces, these can be translated seamlessly into the client’s home creating a contemporary edge. Each chandelier was selected by Katharine to portray a different feel to show the diversity and potential of lighting within her portfolio.
A sculptural chandelier created from suspended gold
painted porcelain leaves, each hand-made by a ceramicist in London provides an impressive focal point to the entrance space. This piece is contrasted by a much more structured, masculine, contemporary light above the desk which looks magnificent against the backlit onyx.
Above the magnificent dining table in the entertainment space is a brand new lighting design created specifically for the Doha shop. Hand-crafted glass shards add texture creating a feeling of movement whilst brass plates with intricate carving detail underneath ensure that the underside of the chandelier is just as attractive, essential for a dining room chandelier seen from all angles.
Rare and exquisite objects from distant corners of the globe adorn the space and provide the finishing touches in a sumptuous setting that embodies craftsmanship and quality. The continuity and flow between areas was an important aspect of the design, in order to create the peaceful, welcoming environment of understated luxury that Katharine Pooley interiors are renowned for.