Christian Lacroix forms JV with ME developer

Kuwaiti-based property developer Abyaar has partnered with the fashion icon to build an avant-garde residential tower in Dubai.

Abyaar, a boutique Middle East property developer, and designer Christian Lacroix have formed a joint venture to build a residential tower in an exclusive beachside suburb of Dubai.

The building, which will feature views of Dubai’s coastline, The Palm and Burj al Arab landmarks, will have 38 units and will incorporate a Lacroix-designed façade, lobby and interiors. The development has yet to be named.

Although Lacroix has worked on several Paris-based boutique hotel interiors, this is the first residential offering to which he will have lent his name, and also the first in the Middle East. In the past Lacroix has designed several hotels, interiors for the French chain of Gaumont cinemas; TGV trains to Strasbourg; tramway cars in Montpellier and the costumes for The Marriage of Figaro at the Aix-en-Provence festival.

Marzooq Al Rashdan, vice chairman and managing director of Abyaar, said in a statement: “We approached Lacroix because he is known for his exceptional design skills and theatrical style, both on and off the catwalk. This is the start of a long term partnership through which similar developments will be established around the region and beyond, placing Abyaar on the luxury development map international.”

Founded in 2005, Abyaar Real Estate Development is a joint venture between Kuwait’s Aayan Leasing and Investment Company and Al Rashdan Group. The company develops residential, commercial, retail and hospitality projects using accomplished external and interior architects to create an unparalleled boutique product.