New Design Destination: Mena Casa In Beirut

by Alexandra Mansilla

New Design Destination: Mena Casa In Beirut

11 Oct 2024

Dual-sided sofa Aldora Vis-A-Vis by Cristina Celestino for Moooi

Whatever happens, Beirut never stops. The city keeps moving forward — working, celebrating its culture, and showing the world all it has to offer. And there is so much to share that it is almost impossible to put into words.

That is why a new design destination is getting ready to open in Beirut, a true haven for furniture enthusiasts. It is called Mena Casa, a 1,100-square-metre, two-story showroom designed by the renowned architect Matteo Nunziati. Where will you find it? In the vibrant Downtown area of Beirut.

Mena Casa will bring together over 15 luxury brands, blending well-known names with niche artisanal makers. We sat down with the Mena Casa team to ask them everything — what brands the showroom will feature, what the selection process for the furniture looks like, and, of course, when the doors will officially open.

— What is the concept beyond the selection in Mena Casa?

— Mena Casa's selection is rooted in a philosophy that celebrates the intersection of functionality, design, and art. The showroom brings together a curated mix of European luxury furniture and accessories brands, with a focus on craftsmanship and detail-oriented design. We aim to provide our clients with not just products but a complete design experience that is personalised, immersive, and refined.

— Who is curating the furniture selection?

— The furniture selection at Mena Casa is expertly curated by a team of international design professionals who are dedicated to bringing the best in European craftsmanship and design to Beirut. This curated approach ensures that each piece reflects both timeless elegance and modern living, tailored to meet the tastes and needs of the discerning client.

— When is the opening planned?

— The original opening of Mena Casa in Beirut was scheduled for this past summer. However, due to the tragic circumstances in Lebanon and the ongoing instability, the official opening date is yet to be confirmed. While we continue to monitor the situation closely, our commitment to Beirut — a city of enduring strength and beauty — remains unwavering. We look forward to opening our doors when the time is right, creating a space that honours both the city’s resilience and its rich design heritage.

Turri, Arte Veneziana, Paolo Castelli. Instagram: @turri_madeinitaly, @arteveneziana, @paolocastellispa

— What is special about Mena Casa’s design by Matteo Nunziati?

— Matteo Nunziati is a renowned Italian architect and designer who is celebrated for his distinctive approach that merges functionality with beauty and luxury. His projects are known for their refined elegance, timeless design, and meticulous attention to detail. Matteo Nunziati’s design for Mena Casa goes beyond aesthetics. His architectural vision merges elegance and function, creating an environment that enhances the experience of every carefully selected piece on display. The showroom's layout invites clients to engage with the furniture in a way that is both intuitive and inspiring, highlighting the beauty of craftsmanship while offering practical solutions for modern living.

— Would you highlight a few niche brands that many don’t know about yet but are present in Mena Casa?

— While Mena Casa proudly showcases well-known European brands like Longhi, Turri, and Moooi, we are also excited to feature niche artisanal brands such as Arte Veneziana and Paolo Castelli. These brands embody the ethos of craftsmanship and innovation, offering unique pieces that tell a story of tradition, artistry, and design. Paying attention to these niche brands allows clients to discover hidden gems that are both functional and artistic, adding an exclusive touch to their homes.

by Alexandra Mansilla