For Rana Beiruti, the co-founder of Amman Design Week, the beauty of an object is linked to the story behind it. That is why she and her colleague Abeer Seikaly have put the craftsmen, particularly those whose crafts were disappearing, at the heart of their design event this year.

Beiruti and Seikaly, both architects, founded Amman Design Week in 2016. Supported by Queen Rania Al Abdullah, the event offers a platform for local and regional designers. After speaking with numerous designers, artists and architects, Beiruti and Seikaly realized the needs were much bigger than expected. “They wanted jobs, better access to the region and the rest of the world, better manufacturing and education,” Beiruti told Al-Monitor. “So we decided to launch the first Amman Design Week in 2016, which we consider a spark in the region. This year, it is taking the shape of a movement.”

Its second edition, held Oct. 6-14, showcases more than 100 local and regional designers under the theme of “Design moves life moves design.” The Crafts District is a space that pays homage to local heritage and the ability to transform the region’s rich handcrafts through modern design.

“We are creating a holistic approach of design,” Beiruti told Al-Monitor. “It’s not just about seeing the beauty of an object, but how it is made and the stories behind it. We think that it is a misconception to see craftsmanship as past heritage. Crafts are underappreciated in Jordan, so through collaboration with designers, we show people they can innovate and modernize.”