If Lebanon is considered the cultural hub of the Middle East, then its capital city Beirut is the region’s design nucleus. Beirut’s creative scene is thriving, fuelled by many notable local design talents and studios.Beirut MakersBeirut Makers is a design collective and a part of the maker movement?a mass movement of independent creatives and designers, where computer buffs and traditional artisans converge. Using technology and tools, those in the maker movement have discovered the ability to manufacture products in low quantities while remaining cost-effective. 3D printing is an example of a growing maker-led industry.The Carambole low table by Guillaume Credoz is inspired by the carambola fruit (or starfruit). It’s made using cast recycled aluminum.Toile by Thomas Billas is a triangle of shade and shelter.Ocular by Stephanie Bachir is digitally fabricated using laser cutting technology. Its 2D components are then slotted together.Photos courtesy of Beirut Makers.BokjaBokja is a design and craft studio based in Beirut’s Saifi Village, an artistic neighbourhood in the city’s central district. Founded in 2000 by Hoda Baroudi and Maria Hibri, Bokja’s work takes pride in the past, while observing the present: every handmade design tells a story that strikes a chord with the contemporary world. Bokja is named in reference to the decorative velvet wrapping that contains a bride’s dowry. The studio’s products are typically ...