A Seat At The Design Table
Meuble El Chark
Malak A. Helmy is an Egyptian architect and multidisciplinary researcher exploring the intersections of chair design, cultural heritage and social dynamics at Meuble El Chark—a chair factory with a long legacy. Founded in 1944 by Helmy Abdelhady, Korsy Helal El-Chark became synonymous with innovative chair designs reflecting creativity and craftsmanship. After nationalization in the 1960s, the family rebuilt the factory, with Ahmed Helmy eventually turning it into a participatory institution that welcomed designers and artisans of all backgrounds. Today, with expertise spanning drawing, film, culinary arts, and scenography, Malak’s work reflects a commitment to uncovering hidden narratives. Currently pursuing a master's degree in architecture with a focus on restoration and the existing built environment, Malak tackles work that delves deeply into Cairo’s spatial fabric, emphasizing inclusivity and the role of overlooked urban actors in design.
How have your cultural experiences shaped your identity?
Like anyone else, I am shaped by a mosaic of experiences. My architectural background has allowed me to explore diverse mediums of expression. As cliché as it sounds, although I’ve had the chance to travel and live in various places worldwide, my primary source of inspiration remains rooted in my Egyptian upbringing—a foundation that deeply informs my identity as both a person and a creative.
Talk to us about your father starting Meuble El-Chark. How do you feel continuing his legacy?
My father represents the third generation of a chair-manufacturing lineage that began in 1944 with Korsy Helal El-Chark, founded by his grandfather, Helmy Abdelhady. After the company expanded to become Egypt’s leading furniture manufacturer, it faced nationalization in 1964. This setback didn’t deter him—he rebuilt the factory from scratch, led by his son, Ali Helmy. Ahmed Helmy established Meuble El-Chark as a participatory and democratic institution. He made manufacturing accessible to designers, children and even those without a formal creative background. His work extended beyond furniture, as he was also deeply involved in politics and government, playing a pivotal role as a mediator and innovator. Continuing such a powerful and multifaceted legacy is both an honor and, at times, a daunting responsibility.
Talk to us about the story behind the iconic chairs developed by your father, Ahmed Helmy, and Meuble El Chark.
The chairs designed by my father are a product of their time and context, blending mass production with the finesse of craftsmanship. His commitment to artisanat—the art of handcrafting—brought a unique character to the industrial world of manufacturing. For him, creation was a conversation, not a solo act, with ideas born from exchanges and collaborations. His openness to playfulness and innovation within an industrial framework made his designs distinctive and enduring. His chairs ranged from those in restaurants and hotels to iconic Cairo spots like Café Riche and street cafés.
What were some of the biggest challenges that you faced along your journey thus far?
One of my biggest challenges is balancing the vast potential of creative possibilities with the limited time available to pursue them. There’s so much to offer and explore in the creative industry, and the desire to connect with diverse audiences often leaves me grappling with prioritization.
What moment stands out as a deeply personal victory that made you feel proud of yourself and your work?
A deeply personal milestone was my last project with my father—a collaboration with Design Point at The Design Show in 2022. Together, we spotlighted the ubiquitous chairs found in Cairo’s public spaces, particularly those placed by Bawabs (Doormen). These everyday objects carry profound symbolism, representing caretaking, maintenance, surveillance and security—functions shaped by necessity and ingenuity. This intersection of domesticity and street life encapsulates the essence of Cairo and was a meaningful celebration of the city’s spirit.
Who is your Diva?
Inspiration comes from so many “divas” I’ve encountered on my journey. Each person I meet contributes to my aesthetic sensibilities and work ethic in unique ways. It has to be my father, Ahmed Helmy, and maybe also Youssef Chahine. Above all, my faith in God and trust in the path of life have been my constant sources of guidance and inspiration.
