Through Her Lens | من خلال رؤيتها

📍 Beirut

Chirine Maktabi is one of the co-founders of Iwan Maktabi, the renowned carpet gallery specializing in both antique and contemporary designs.

Deeply rooted in heritage and craftsmanship the story of Iwan Maktabi dates back to 1926, when Hajj Hussein Maktabi, a connoisseur from Isfahan, Iran, ventured into the world of oriental carpets and Islamic art. His passion laid the foundation for what would become a legacy passed down through generations.

Today, Chirine leads the Beirut flagship, as powerful female entrepreneur, Chirine honors the Maktabi legacy while infusing it with a contemporary spirit. She collaborates with renowned artists and designers, traveling with them, forging creative bonds, and transforming stories into woven masterpieces. Through these connections, she fosters meaningful relationships—especially with female middle eastern designers, offering them a platform while staying true to the Maktabi heritage.

Her collaborations with distinguished female creatives from the region underscore her commitment to empowering women. Among them:

• Leila Jureidini, with the limited-edition series The Other Side
• The Bin Daher sisters, whose Taghrouda Collection draws from the rhythmic beauty of Bedouin poetry 
• Roula Salamoum, whose Strata Collection weaves architecture and landscapes.

These partnerships reflect a shared dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship while pushing creative boundaries. Chirine’s passion is evident in her hands-on approach. She is involved in every step of the creative process, ensuring that each piece reflects a fresh and thoughtful interpretation of artisanal heritage.

A role model for female entrepreneurs in the Middle East, Chirine inspires with her resilience, vision, and unwavering support for other women in design. Now, she passes on this legacy to her daughter, Ghida, ushering in a promising Fourth Generation of the Maktabi story.