A Conversation with Rabih Hage

Rabih Hage is a RIBA chartered architect and interior designer who has a continually evolving creative approach to serve clients. He sees little distinction between his two disciplines, and always designs on a human scale, from the inside out. Taking inspiration from his clients and their personalities, Rabih creates deceptively effortless spaces that are suffused with warmth, a subtle wit, and an exquisite feeling for volume, structure, light and colour. As a returning member of our Design + Art Advisory Council, Rabih joined us for a rapid-fire round of questions on what clients are becoming more adventurous about, his must-see list this fall, and more.

After 15 years, what do you think continues to set Salon Art + Design apart?

Salon Art + Design consistently draws visitors due to its unique discovery element. It features a diverse range of galleries showcasing rare and special pieces that aren’t typically found at other fairs.

Whose work are you especially excited about right now—whether emerging or newly on your radar?

I’m thrilled by Elaheh Ganji and Leora Honeyman’s work. Both artists are unique in the sense that they work across various disciplines yet remain firmly rooted in contemporary craft.

What’s the best thing you’ve ever discovered at a fair that you weren’t looking for?

The next piece at my next visit!

What piece in your own collection always starts a conversation?

Johnny Swing’s “Jar Chair” is a remarkable piece of sculpture-furniture. It combines function and poetry in a truly captivating and timeless way.

What’s one question you always ask a dealer or gallerist before recommending a piece to a client?

Where did you get this piece from? In other words, what is the provenance of the piece?

What makes you confident recommending a significant purchase to a client?

The provenance and the intrinsic creative value of each piece.

What are you seeing clients become more adventurous about right now?

They act like patrons, supporting new names and not necessarily the usual anymore.

When you walk into Salon, what are you looking for first?

People and the reactions of people to various pieces. Then I look elsewhere to find the “forgotten” trove.

What are you seeing now that you think collectors will be talking about five years from now?

Elaheh Ganji and Leora Honeyman’s work.

What exhibition or cultural event is at the top of your must-see list this fall?

The exhibition of Giacometti at the Met.

What project or collaboration are you most excited about right now?

I’m designing a modular architectural building for a collector and his remote site in Scotland.