My parents are here, which, among other less selfish interpretations, means free babysitting. Last night myself and Mr MFH took ourselves to the opening of Designing the Middle East (Part II: Beirut) at 19 Greek Street. The focus was actually the work of one designer (and her studio), Karen Chekerdjian. It was a lovely mash up of traditional Middle Eastern sensibilities with totally contemporary ideas. Like her Cookie Paper stools, which are effectively upside down cake cases made from tinned brass. They’re also ‘in homage to the pleat’.

You can just about make out the Islamic-style imprinted pattern on the top of them – a detail that appeared on many of the other tables and poufs on display – all of which were made from metal. Poufs, you heard it here first, though this is the first time I’ve seen metal ones.

Check out our Instagram page for more detailed photos, because I failed to take any on my normal camera. Again. Anyone else find juggling social media with proper photographing and having actual live chats with people tricky as all hell?

The exhibition is on until 19 July and FYI the gallery owns a few of those stonkingly good Marni chairs.