Alserkal Avenue is known for delivering a dash of style to Dubai, and furniture and lighting store Ikonhouse – set up in unit 85 – is no exception
The son of an architect (as well as married to one), Dorian Pauwels’ passion for furniture and original design started in childhood. With a desire to engage with and help establish classic furniture brands in the UAE, he started selling from his apartment in Dubai Marina in 2009 before opening his first showroom in Jumeirah in 2010.
He teamed up with his business partner Anders Larsen, who specialises in audio-visual equipment and smart controls, together establishing Ikonhouse in 2012.
What’s the look?
Characterful, timeless pieces that are built to last.
What to buy now
The sculptural Peak Lounge Chair by Danish architect Peter Qvist, crafted from sustainably grown birch; the one-of-a-kind Dubai Creek table by master cabinetmaker Laura Bergsøe, which features ebony, 288g of silver and saltwater pearls to celebrate the natural form of the plane wood as well as Dubai’s coastline; and the Swan™ Chair by Arne Jacobsen, designed for the lobby and lounge areas of the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen in 1958. To honour its fluid, organic design, only 1,958 were made; Ikonhouse has chair number 30.
Why we rate it
You’re guaranteed a beautifully made, authentic piece (products have a label from the manufacturer, a registered reference number or a certificate) that you’ll want to pass on to the next generation.
Do they deliver?
Yes, and they even help with installation and programming in-house thanks to the team of 35.
To avoid consolidation delays and any damages, Ikonhouse only ships its own containers. They also offer a full service so there’s no chance of waiting several months for your handmade product to arrive, only to damage it when you cut open the box.
B. Living’s favourite finds
- Wooden doll collection, designed in 1953 by Alexander Girard, Dhs481*, Vitra
- 3320 Swan Lounge Chair 50th anniversary limited edition, Dhs14,950 (sale price), Fritz Hansen
- Rotary tray, Dhs206, Vitra
Where to find Ikonhouse
Unit 85, Alserkal Avenue, Street 6A, Al Quoz 1, Dubai, 04 388 1848, ikonhouse.ae
*All prices of products are as per January 2019