In appreciation of design artistry and cultural heritage, Kahhal Looms proudly announced a collaboration with the Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation (EHRF) for a heartfelt endeavour on October 23rd, 2024. The proceeds from this initiative are dedicated to restoring the 18th century ceremonial ceiling of Bayt al-Razzaz, a testament to Historic Cairo’s remarkable monumental architecture.
This project came together to raise awareness about the significance of Bayt al-Razzaz, a rare double courtyard medieval palace, and to gather the local and international community to ensure its restoration. Kahhal Looms’ key objective was to contribute for the restoration of the 18th century decorative ceiling of the reception hall, ‘Qa’a,’ on the Eastern courtyard.
Drawing inspiration from the historic era, four esteemed artists—Azza Fahmy, Nada Debs, Abdulla Al Awadi, and Louis Barthélemy, poured their passion into crafting exquisite hand-knotted rugs for the occasion.
Each piece reflects the unique exceptional ornamentation and intricate details of the house, transforming its architectural elegance into a vibrant narrative woven by Egyptian craftsmen. Notably, Azza Fahmy’s rug, inspired by the Mamluk era, marked her first venture in rug design.
Azza Fahmy’s involvement is rooted in her commitment to highlighting and preserving worldwide heritage, with a specific responsibility to showcase and celebrate Egypt’s rich cultural identity and carry it into the future.
Nada Debs joined the collaboration after her visit to Bayt al-Razzaz, where she was captivated by the space’s beauty. Similarly, Louis Barthélemy, in his third collaboration with Kahhal Looms, shares a unique connection with Cairo, drawn to this collaboration by the grandeur of the house, its stained glass, and intricate ceilings.
Abdulla Alwadhi, deeply passionate about Arab culture and identity, focuses his designs on the narratives and stories embedded within the architecture.
The event was made possible by the generous support of local sponsors. Real estate developer
Madinat Masr, one of Egypt’s leading urban community developers, is committed to reviving and preserving Egypt’s rich heritage.
The financial enabler of the event, Ulter by Valu,is a revolutionary payment program created by Valu, MENA’s leading universal financial technology powerhouse, that enables customers to make sizable purchases in the realm of luxury product acquisitions. Their contributions aligned with Kahhal Looms and EHRF’s shared mission of preserving the integrity of Historic Cairo.
Kahhal Looms remains dedicated to preserving and promoting Egyptian culture through the art of weaving. Their commitment resonated deeply with the mission of the Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation, ensuring that the stories of Egyptian history endure through time. Together, they embarked on this noble journey, intertwining craftsmanship and Cairene architecture with a shared vision for the future.
About the Brand:
The El-Kahhal family boasts one of the Middle East’s oldest and most enduring heritages in handmade rug production, with a remarkable legacy spanning over 150 years. They proudly
continue operations from the same factory and the oldest retail store in Khan El Khalili since 1936, honoring the legacy of Wekalet El Kahhal, established in 1871.
Adapting to evolving market demands and changing customer preferences, the fifth generation, Kahhal Looms, was founded by Hend El Kahhal and Mohamed El Kahhal in 2002. This venture expanded from traditional El-Kahhal Carpets to incorporate contemporary designs, modernizing the retail experience by embracing customer insights and broadening their reach from the heart of Cairo to both its eastern and western neighborhoods.
Kahhal Looms draws on the family’s rich heritage, expertise, and market knowledge to develop innovative designs and contemporary techniques, sourcing unique products that cater to modern lifestyles.
All their offerings are woven locally by skilled artisans using the finest materials, resulting in unique pieces, including hand-knotted, hand-tufted rugs, and Kilims. Kahhal Looms proudly feature a flagship store at the Grand Egyptian Museum, celebrating their commitment to craftsmanship while honoring the deep legacy of Egyptian history.
About Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation (EHRF):
The Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation (EHRF) is a non-profit organization established in 2013 to promote and protect Egypt’s cultural heritage. It is the first institution in Egypt, the Middle East, and Africa to provide first aid for cultural heritage.
EHRF has carried out 12 projects to rescue and preserve heritage sites in Egypt, including the restoration of Mamluk minbars, the conservation of documents and paintings from the Committee for the Conservation of Arab Art, and the restoration and rehabilitation of the eastern courtyard of Bayt al-Razzaz. EHRF has also conducted 43 training courses in Egypt and 28 abroad, covering areas such as cultural heritage rescue in times of crisis, documentation, and the restoration and preservation of historical buildings, empowering professionals to safeguard cultural heritage.
The foundation is dedicated to preserving and supporting traditional crafts, particularly traditional woodwork, and other endangered heritage crafts.
About Nada Debs
Nada Debs is a Lebanese designer living and working in Beirut. Debs’ work spans scale and discipline: from product and furniture design to one-off commissions across craft, art, fashion and interiors.
What ties Debs’ work together is the ability to distill culture and craftsmanship to create pieces of emotional resonance.
Debs grew up in Japan, studied design at the Rhode Island School of Design in the United States and has spent significant periods of time living and traveling the world, finding connections between different cultures.
There is something of each of Debs’ experiences in all of her work. In essence, Debs captures the power of the human hand to tell stories that touch the heart. Debs calls her approach: handmade and heartmade.
About Azza Fahmy
Azza Fahmy is celebrated not only as one of the MEA region’s most esteemed jewelry designers but also as a cultural preservationist who draws deep inspiration from worldwide cultures and heritage.
With over 55 years of dedication, Fahmy’s work transcends mere craftsmanship, focusing on translating history and art into contemporary jewelry that speaks to a global audience.
Deeply inspired by the architectural and cultural beauty of Old Cairo, Fahmy has committed much of her career to preserving its legacy through her work. Fahmy has developed collections that pay homage to the city’s rich history, reinterpreting its essence into modern jewelry while maintaining an authentic connection to its past.
Fahmy’s Mamluk collection for example is a testament to her passion, bringing the city’s timeless charm and heritage into the hands of admirers worldwide. Fahmy continues to safeguard the legacy of Old Cairo in the collections she creates
About Louis Barthélemy
Louis Barthélemy is a multi-disciplinary artist and designer based between Marrakesh, Cairo and Paris. At the core of his practice is a deep commitment to the preservation and revival of traditional crafts that are threatened by globalization.
Barthélemy not only collaborates with artisans around the world but helps to make their work known, safeguard their livelihoods, and pass on their precious expertise.
About Abdulla Al Awadi
Kuwaiti architect, artist, and designer Abdullah Al Awadi holds degrees in Architecture and Photography, and a master’s in urban design from Miami University.
Al Awadi has made a name for himself in theatre as a costume designer and choreographer while teaching at Kuwait University.
Al Awadi has exhibited his work in various venues, including Dar Al Fonun and The Sultan Gallery, and has participated in numerous international exhibitions.
