<strong>Born in the USA</strong> The Brooklyn-based Sentient sets out to create furniture that is "curious, questioning, aesthetically refreshing and at times deliberately spectacular". From the 13-foot-long American black walnut dining table, which is constructed from a single piece of wood, to the Long Wool sofa, which combines Icelandic sheepskin with reclaimed American oak, the Sentient collection is raw, earthy and a joy to behold. Long Wool Sofa, <a href="http://www.sentientfurniture.com" target="_blank">www.sentientfurniture.com</a> <strong>Nice and easy</strong> D.tales can always be relied upon to present some stunning piece of Scandinavian design. This time around, we loved the Bruno Easy chair, a modest-looking seat with beautiful detailing and an exposed, industrial-style copper frame. Bruno Easy Chair, D.tales, DIFC, <a href="http://www.design-tales.com" target="_blank">www.design-tales.com</a> <strong>French connection</strong> It was hard not to miss the French company Art Diffusion's charming handmade sculptures. The generously proportioned figurines are made from marble powder and resin and then hand-painted in a beautiful range of colours and patterns. There are a host of sizes to choose from and each limited edition piece comes signed and numbered. Lolita, Art Diffusion, <a href="http://www.deesseartiste.fr" target="_blank">www.deesseartiste.fr</a> <strong>Flying high</strong> A Lot Of Brasil provided a much-needed dose of brand new, cutting-edge design. The Brazilian company was only launched a couple of months ago and already offers an eye-catching collection created in collaboration with well-known designers such as Alessandro Mendini and Fabio Novembre. Bird Bench by Henrique Serbena, A Lot of Brasil, <a href="http://www.alotofbrasil.com" target="_blank">www.alotofbrasil.com</a> <strong>Ingrained beauty</strong> Designer Natanel Gluska's beautifully sculpted wooden furniture was one of our absolute favourite finds - and with Philippe Starck, Karl Lagerfeld and Donna Karan all reported to be fans of his work, we know we're in good company. Often created from a single piece of wood, his handcrafted pieces are both understated and unique. Made in Singapore chair, <a href="http://www.natanelgluska.com" target="_blank">www.natanelgluska.com</a> sdenman@thenational.ae Follow us Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thenationalArtsandLife">Facebook</a> for discussions, entertainment, reviews, wellness and news.
