Our Exclusive Interview with Mariana Wehbe, Founder of We Design Beirut
In the vibrant heart of Beirut, a city known for its resilience and creativity, We Design Beirut stands out as a pivotal event shaping the landscape of design. Spearheaded by the dynamic Mariana, whose PR firm champions local design excellence, this event is more than a showcase—it’s a catalyst for growth and exchange within the design community. In this compelling interview, Mariana discusses the inception, challenges, and achievements of We Design Beirut, offering a glimpse into the event’s profound influence and her aspirations for its evolution. Explore with us as Mariana unveils how We Design Beirut is pioneering a new chapter of innovation and partnership in the region.
Every great event begins with a eureka moment. Can you describe the exact moment or that sparked the creation of We Design Beirut? What was the inspiration behind launching such a pivotal event?
I am fortunate to work in the world of design. my PR firm focuses on design talent, and I really do so see much great work come out of Beirut. Times have been tough for my country, and I really did feel that I had a responsibility towards my people and my city, to showcase them in the best light. The actual moment happened when I was in conversation with the marvelous Sakkal Design sisters, a design firm out of Lebanon. We were in a casual conversation, and they simply said, “we need this Mariana, and you can deliver!”
In shaping We Design Beirut, how have you woven your distinctive flair for bespoke events into the fabric of this initiative? What unique ‘Mariana touches’ should participants be on the lookout for during the event?
The way I do things as a PR firm and events company is multi-layered. It starts with the need and vision; in this case it was to showcase Lebanese design in the very best light. Then I start to imagine the actual experience, what the guests will be exposed to how to elevate their visit as much as possible. We Design Beirut showcases three very specific areas of design. The empowerment of the artisans which will take place at PSLab, the location of one of the most important bespoke lighting companies in the world. The facility was destroyed during the Beirut explosions in 2020, and the location has remained as is. It is a testament to what we have experienced as Lebanese people. Secondly, we will be showcasing the very best of product design at Villa Audi, our hub of preservation, the exhibition titled “Past Echoes”, curated by Babylon – The Agency, founded by Joy Mardini and William Wehbe will share the works of 33 product designers, and their versions of modern Middle Eastern design. Our third location is Abroyan Factory and is our hub of sustainability. It will showcase the works of both students and innovators in two independent exhibitions which highlight the future of sustainable design, an important conversation for the next generation of design in Lebanon.
Organizing an event of this magnitude is an immense challenge, especially with the current socio-economic and political dynamics in the region. How has the journey of creating We Design Beirut shaped you both personally and professionally?
Good question! I think I will understand the true impact once the event is finished. There really have been many obstacles, the event was postponed twice due to the tragic events unfolding in Gaza and the region. It was a very difficult call to make, but one that was ethically important. I believe in the WE of We Design Beirut, and I genuinely believe that this event would not have been possible if it wasn’t for each and every participant, sponsor, patron and committee member. I am truly indebted to them all for their support and belief in the project.
How did you transform the challenges into a success story?
When the going got tough, and we encountered obstacles along the way, it was important to remind myself that this is precisely why we need this event. As you mentioned, without a formal infrastructure to support us, there was so much that we needed to arrange ourselves. But the truth is that it is precisely because of these obstacles that the artisans, designers and future creatives of Lebanon need the support of We Design Beirut.
We Design Beirut is set to be a key event for the design community. How do you see it driving transformation or fostering growth within the design sphere in the region?
I believe in engagement, and to truly engage people need to ‘feel’. It’s not just about attending yet another design event. Our event showcases so much of Lebanon that I truly believe will encourage people to engage, network, partner and collaborate. This is the essence of We Design Beirut, we are simply bringing together all the factions of the design world, from the creative minds to the makers, to the writers and the thinkers, allowing them all to come together for a successful future of design.
The synergy of collaboration often leads to groundbreaking innovations. Could you spotlight one or two partnerships in We Design Beirut that have been particularly inspiring or effective? What distinguishes these partnerships?
I can say that We Design Beirut is built on collaborations. I think first and foremost one of the most important partnerships was with the venues themselves, our WE Sites. Many of these locations are not open to the public, and I believe that We Design Beirut will breathe new light into the locations, sparking new ideas and conversations. I am also thankful for all the marvelous collaborations amongst material providers and designers. The artisan’s exhibition, “Metiers d’art’ could not have been possible without the support of the material providers of metal, wood and rattan. The artisans provided new ideas to the material providers and the artisans were given the means to create.
Looking ahead, where do you envision, We Design Beirut in the next five years? What are your hopes and plans for its future development?
We Design Beirut is built on the authenticity of our city, and I think there is a lot of room for this concept to spread across the region, and hopefully also the world. There has never been a better time to celebrate our cultures and to instigate a meaningful dialogue on craft, design and sustainability that will enrich the current ecosystem of global design.
If you could offer one piece of advice to aspiring designers and creatives aiming to make an impact at, We Design Beirut, what would it be?
Be authentic, and don’t forget to share, partner and collaborate. The synergy that comes from engaging conversations is magical and should not be underestimated. With partnerships and collaborations comes a certain kind of trust, if we can ensure a respectful give and take, then the sky is not even the limit!
