BY MARIA COMETTI
The idea for Draft was born out of founder Wadha Al Rashid’s love of opening packages and spreading joy and happiness. Draft is a well-known concept store selling everyday items designed in a creative way. The store in Riyadh’s Centria Mall sells gift items, home accessories, stationery, & tableware.
The idea of Draft started seven years ago in Riyadh. It took Wadha two years to find the right location. Once she did, she started designing the space in an industrial theme which resonates with the name. “Draft is the beginning of everything. When you start something, you draft it first,” says Wadha.
After working in a design company as a designer, Wadha felt that there was more that she could do. She felt constricted with the rules and routine of her job, so she decided to open Draft. As she explains “I wanted to open a place where I could unleash my creativity. I wanted to create my happy place that I could share with people.”
When Wadha was conceptualizing Draft, there weren’t any stores that sold fun quirky items. She wanted to create a place that sells the things she loved the most; everyday items designed in a creative way. “I personally love anything that’s sentimental,” Wadha explains, “ I love greeting cards and they are actually my favorite part of any gift. By opening Draft, I was able to buy greeting cards in bulk and spread the happiness!” Greeting cards, along with mugs, are the store’s bestsellers.
Draft now is not only a concept store, but also a café and an interior design studio. They have combined the concept store with the café by selling merchandise in the cafés. Draft Café has currently two branches and a 3rd is on the way! Draft is always evolving, soon they will have their own line of products, and maybe expand into more furniture items.
Wadha believes we live in an exciting time now in Saudi Arabia and she sees a very bright present and future. “My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to understand the market well, be unique, and stay true to your concept and brand.”
Draft
2nd Floor, Centria Mall, 2908 Prince Muhammad Bin
Abdulaziz Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12241
Opening Hours: Sat-Thur 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Friday 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM
T: 011-462-4660
Social Media: @draftthoughts / @draftcreations
