Holistic approaches to spatial design are important
to maintain the visual integrity of any space.
Product design also allows for the testing of ideas
for regenerative design and the use of bio-circular
materials at the scale of furniture. It is also an
opportunity to stimulate Small Business Enterprises,
in a developmental context and North-South
collaboration (UN SDGS).

As a remarkable witness to human creativity, the
Bedouin civilisation in the Liwa Oasis produced
beautiful everyday objects from materials available
in the desert. Located at the edge of the Empty
Quarter of the Rub Al Khali desert, hundreds of
kilometres away from the sea or any large human
settlement, palm leaves were one of the very few
obtainable materials. Saaf furniture series designed
by Dr Sandra Piesik demonstrate a stylistic design
evolution and design innovation through the
innovative use of date palm with timber, leather,
and steel.