Karim Chaya is a celebrated figure in Lebanese contemporary design, widely respected for his ability to fuse traditional craftsmanship with modern industrial design. His body of work reflects both a deep cultural awareness and a progressive design philosophy that aligns with the creative mission of the Joy Mardini Design Gallery.
He is best known for creating thoughtful, functional pieces that speak to Beirut’s layered identity—urban, historic, and relentlessly creative.
Education and Early Career
Karim Chaya studied Industrial Design at the Rhode Island School of Design, one of the most prestigious design institutions in the world. His formative years there laid the foundation for his future work in architecture, product design, and heritage preservation.
After returning to Lebanon, Chaya began teaching at ALBA – Académie Libanaise des Beaux-Arts, where he continues to mentor young designers and support the country’s next generation of creative professionals.
Design Studios and Projects
ACID and spockdesign
In 1997, Chaya co-founded ACID (Abillama Chaya Industrial Design), focusing on high-end architectural detailing and custom design solutions. He later launched spockdesign, a platform for limited-edition furniture and product concepts known for their clever forms and local materials.
One of his standout works, Victor, is a brass skeleton sculpture that holds a mirror—an artistic statement on vanity and reflection. The piece was recently exhibited at the Beirut Design Fair, underscoring his continued impact in regional design discourse.
Blatt Chaya
Chaya also plays a vital role at Blatt Chaya, his family’s historic cement tile company. The firm preserves a 19th-century tradition of hand-crafted tiles that has become symbolic of Lebanese design heritage. Karim’s dual involvement in modern furniture and traditional tile-making reflects his commitment to both innovation and cultural continuity.
International Recognition
Chaya’s work has been featured at international design events such as 100% Design in London and Maison et Objet in Paris, as well as in global publications including Le Figaro, Monocle, Interior Design, and Interni.
You can explore more of his work in our curated Gallery collection or visit his profile on the Meet the Designers page.
Recommended Video
Explore Karim Chaya’s Design Legacy
Karim Chaya continues to influence Lebanese and international design through his thoughtful integration of art, architecture, and craft. His presence in exhibitions and media, along with his hands-on approach to design education and heritage preservation, makes him a key figure in the evolution of Middle Eastern design.
For more context on his contributions and other featured designers, visit our Press and Interior pages. For direct inquiries, please contact us.
