Huda Abifares speaks about the relevance of type design research for creating culturally relevant communication, sustaining heritage and urban environments, and developing culturally-sensitive products. She discusses projects by The Khatt Foundation that focus on open-platform, exchange and collaboration, and education as case studies for a potential model of operation.

The talk will discuss an ongoing agenda, “Almost Natural”, through situating it as a critique towards ongoing green building practices and how a blurring between the natural and synthetic offers an alternative attitude towards building and construction in the Anthropocene.

How can the act of making help promote economic growth, bring communities closer together, and overcome a variety of social issues? In this panel discussion, chaired by the editor of Crafts magazine, Grant Gibson, speakers from Disarming Design from Palestine, The Jordan River Foundation, the Princess Taghrid Foundation explain how craft is capable of making a difference, highlighting the power of collaboration and sustainable programs in craft.

Designer May Khoury gives a talk about Badr Adduja’s concept and upcycling vision. Join May Khoury to learn the story behind each piece of design, a process in which she modernizes and changes the purpose of old traditional heritage pieces, while preserving their authenticity.

As part of Amman Design Week's efforts in engaging designers with the urban environment and using our platform to create conversations about derelict or abandoned spaces in the city, Amman Design Week invites leaders in urban design and activism to a panel discussion. Speakers include Ayman Zuaiter, architect of the abandoned Raghadan Tourist Terminal, host to ADW 2016's Crafts District, urban design educator Leen Fakhoury, design activist and founder of the 7hills skatepark Mohammad Zakaria, and Nemeh Qatanani, an urban designer from the Greater Amman Municipality.

This live discussion showcases and elaborates on the desperate need for the practice of design and architecture and theory and academia to intersect in Jordan.