Infusion of Calligraphy in Modern World of Design

One of the main goals of the Arabic world since decades has been to search, bring and deliver new sources and forms of art in the field of interior design and architecture that could satisfy the recent increasing human demands. Today people strive to showcase their tradition and cultural heritage in the modern world. People of Arabic Peninsula are all about representing the beauty of their Islamic culture in unique contemporary ways that would astonish the world. Arabic calligraphy is one of such sources. The distinctive geometric shapes and forms of different character types and styles like Kufi, Naskh, Diwani, Thuluth etc., gives designers the opportunity to design and develop exquisite pieces of art in both interior design and architectural field. The design elements of modern interior design act as a guiding principle infusing this art form in design. Modern Arab interior and architectural designs are incredibly unique yet sophisticated and luxurious. The usage of calligraphy in design can prove to be a substantial method of portraying history and culture expressed through the character of letters to be used in furniture, columns, ceiling, architectural buildings etc. This paper shows how Arabic calligraphy is not limited to just traditional decorative purposes but can have much wider application at both macro and micro level in modern world of design. It is a great source of inspiration for designers attempting to integrate the art of calligraphy in design of modern furniture as well as architectural structures. The paper demonstrates how designers like Zaha Hadid, and many others borrowed this traditional art form, infused it with modern touch and took it to new heights of contemporary design through their modernized lenses and vision. The ravishing amalgam of calligraphy and design can give birth to some magnificent and timeless masterpieces in future.