Bridging Worlds: Design as a Narrative of Memory and Identity

Komune Hosts 'What Still Holds': A Fusion of Heritage and Craft

During New York's annual design celebration, fashion outlet Komune unveiled 'What Still Holds,' a thought-provoking exhibition by local designer Bechara Maalouf. The collection features exquisitely crafted laser-cut metal lamps resting on reclaimed timber foundations. Maalouf's inspiration stems from the detailed window screens adorning his family residence in Lebanon, serving as a poignant link to his ancestral past.

Exploring Roots: Maalouf's Personal Journey Through Design

The 'What Still Holds' showcase acts as a profound exploration of Maalouf's ties to Lebanon. Despite a U.S. upbringing, he maintains strong connections to Kfertay, his family's village, which he frequently visits. This body of work is a meditation on his dual identity, expressing both affection and a sense of detachment from his homeland.

Exhibition Highlights: Lamps, Mirrors, and Personal Artifacts

Housed in a compact gallery adjacent to Komune's main store, the exhibition features three distinct lamps, a mirror conceptualized in 2025, a newly unveiled triptych, and a curated assortment of cherished mementos displayed on a wooden shelf.

Lattice Patterns and Reclaimed Wood: A Story of Material and Place

Each of the three lamps is enveloped in a unique lattice motif, echoing the vibrant red wrought-iron gates of the Kfertay dwelling. These intricate metal forms are meticulously mounted on salvaged wood blocks, sourced by Maalouf from lumber yards in the Lower East Side, infusing the pieces with a sense of local history and sustainability.

Interactive Elements: The Charm of Magnetic Flies

Adding a whimsical and interactive dimension, Maalouf incorporated tiny magnetic flies that can be repositioned across the lamps. These charming additions also serve a practical purpose, allowing for the display of small items such as flowers, inviting viewers to engage playfully with the artworks.

Artistic Intent: Portraying Resilience Amidst Adversity

Maalouf shared that his creations are a testament to his ongoing exploration of his ancestral home, a narrative shaped by both longing and a degree of separation. He expressed a desire to illuminate Lebanon's intrinsic beauty and vitality, even in the face of ongoing conflicts and geopolitical challenges.

Preserving a Vision: Lebanon Beyond Conflict

"My aim is not to perceive or present Lebanon as a conflict zone," Maalouf articulated. He recounted a recent visit, emphasizing that "life continues to flourish. The iconic windows endure, still radiating beauty, and the family orchard thrives, bearing fruit as flies buzz around. This sentiment of enduring resilience was crucial for me to capture."

Evolution of Craft: From Metal to Wood and Stainless Steel

Building on his established practice, Maalouf's new collection predominantly features laser-cut metalwork. However, for this particular exhibition, he revisited his early experience in carpentry, re-engaging with wood. A notable innovation is his first-time use of a magnetic stainless steel alloy, diverging from his usual aluminum. This shift enabled him to explore new material properties and facilitated the inclusion of the magnetic flies.

The Art of Engagement: Manipulating Form and Interaction

"The magnetic flies offer a delightful level of interaction," Maalouf explained. "You can easily detach them, place them elsewhere, adjust their legs, and position them on any part of the lamps." He also detailed his experimentation with hand-bending the metallic tabs along the lamps' edges, a process that was both meditational and meticulous, allowing him greater control over the final form of the CNC-cut components.

The Triptych: A Mosaic of Lebanese Culture and Economy

The exhibition's triptych showcases similar hand-bent borders encasing wooden panels. Within these panels, pixelated designs depict a church in Kfertay, a spiral from a pita press, and a cedar tree, each element deeply symbolic. Every minute square of the artwork contains a fragment of a 5,000 Lebanese lira note, celebrating its aesthetic appeal while subtly referencing the severe economic downturn that significantly devalued the currency.

From Wall Sconce to Extensive Commission: The Genesis of the Exhibition

The current exhibition evolved from a smaller wall sconce by Maalouf displayed in the adjacent Komune store. This initial piece sparked a broader commission for NYC Design Week, leading to the more extensive 'What Still Holds' show.

Transforming Spaces: From Office to Gallery

Komune's creative director, Brandon Fogarty, collaborated with Maalouf to convert a former office space into a temporary gallery for the exhibition. During this transformation, they uncovered a small sink and an ideal spot for Maalouf's mirror, which is also adorned with ornate metallic screens, further enhancing the gallery's unique ambiance.