East Lounge
This gift consists of a lounge in a well-designed architectural setting, its room design and its furnishings were gifted by Qatar. The design of the lounge reflects Middle Eastern culture with regional architectural elements as well as a reinvention of traditional elements.
Some of the most notable architectural details are the ornate plasterwork, the ivory – colored walls and the richly decorated carpet. These elements are the backdrop to the ornate Italian furniture with dark upholstery all facing a view of the East River.
Many of the original sketches of the United Nations envisioned an open space facing the river on the first floor so by creating this East Lounge. Many delegates arrive in the room and assemble small groups to discuss their activities. Due to its proximity to other United Nations conference rooms, it is very popular with delegates and staff alike.
This design is from the company Design Duemila (in Italian means ‘two thousand’) and was renamed to Design 2000. It has its origins in Italy and offers collaborative design-build projects with an eye for arbiters of modern, classical, contemporary, and eclectic style. They have a strong operating presence in the Middle East.
The Permanent Representative of Qatar to the UN, H E Sheikh Meshal bin Hamad Al Thani, said the room opening coincided with the start of the 68th session of the UN General Assembly and hoped the lounge will provide a platform for bilateral negotiations amongst member states.
Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon commented: “I am especially grateful that this lounge reflects Qatari culture. For many years, Qatar has been host to important meetings on issues at the top of the international agenda. So, it is fitting that now we have a small piece of Qatar located at our Headquarters.”