House of Today announces the debut of “The Candle Project,” a collaboration with 10 Lebanese designers, marking the first curated collection entirely crafted in Lebanon. This limited-edition series of illuminative works explores the intersection of Lebanese craftsmanship, design, and philanthropy. The designers, including internationally renowned figures like Nada Debs, Carla Baz, and Richard Yasmine, partnered with artisans at the Centre Hospitalier Beit Chabeb Workshop to reinterpret wax into sculptures, embracing an evolving object. The initiative aligns with House of Today’s mission to bolster the design ecosystem, prioritising artisans and fostering philanthropy. The intricate process, initiated in January 2022, reflects the resilience of the design community amid challenging times, with attention to detail evident in the final wax creations.
The collaboration with the Beit Chabeb Workshop, a hospital for the disabled featuring artisanal workshops, underscores House of Today’s commitment to local crafts. Paired with wax experts, designers delved into the potential of wax as a medium, guiding the production process from sketch to sculpture. Each candle encapsulates the designer’s vision, celebrating Lebanese artisanship and showcasing local crafts globally.
Leading the candle production is Mr. Roukoz Moussallem, a testament to resilience despite being confined to a wheelchair. The project involved transferring knowledge and skills, with Mr. Moussallem transcending traditional candle-making to create sculptural pieces. The proceeds from “The Candle Project” support Beit Chabeb’s initiatives, Lebanese designers, and House of Today’s mentorship program, reinforcing local production techniques and supporting small organizations amid economic challenges.
The seven-step production process, navigated by the 10 designers, involved sketching, 3D moulds, drying, and hand-perfecting. The project’s completion amidst Lebanon’s economic crisis amplifies its significance, offering a beacon of hope and support for artisans. The candles, unique creations inspired by each designer’s artistic practice, are available for exploration and purchase, offering ambient light and sculpted elegance for diverse settings. The designers share their perspectives on working with wax for the first time, emphasising the emotional and aesthetic impact of candles.
About House of Today
House of Today (HoT), a non-profit organisation, is devoted to fostering a sustainable design culture in Lebanon that transcends geographical boundaries. Since its establishment in 2012, HoT has pursued the overarching goal of enriching the discourse within the design realm. Its focus is on illuminating the work of contemporary Lebanese designers and their creative processes, contributing to a larger, flourishing ecosystem. The dedicated team actively identifies and supports aspiring designers, nurturing their originality through mentoring, educational initiatives such as lectures, residencies, and scholarship programs. Moreover, HoT is committed to building bridges between designers and influential figures in the local and global design landscape. Through curated showcases, HoT facilitates connections, enabling emerging Lebanese designers to integrate into an extensive international network.