Betterliving Magazine - January/February Issue'22 by Hot Media

Jan/Feb 2022

AED10

The magazine of Betterhomes

LOCAL GARDEN

Inside a party-ready space in The Springs

EASY WAYS TO REVAMP YOUR HOME FOR 2022

RENOVATION

A home makeover in Al Manara

Behind the mansion doors of the Danube Group’s family home in Emirates Hills

welcome letter | CONTENTS

Aisha Leitner’s tropical inspired garden

Welcome to the issue

And just like that, things are crazier than ever. That’s why we’re holding off the ‘New Year, New Me’ projects in favour of some simple ideas, that’ll make all the difference. As the pandemic roars on, it’s quite likely that each of us will be retreating into our homes for sanctuary at some point. Which is why it’s important, just as our cover stars Adel and Sana Sajan explain (page 30), to make your home feel your own. Also in this issue, we’ve got local experts making a case for simple garden landscaping (page 22), and sharing their 10 tips for easy interior design revamping (page 24). Plus, we’re invited into the garden of Party Camel’s Aisha Leitner who shows us Dubai alfresco unwinding at its best. So, whether you’re firmly hunkered down, or you’re embracing the cooler winds of the outside world, we hope you find some inspiration to make your space feel homelier than ever. Sophia Dyer Deputy Editor Visit us at blivinguae.com and follow us on Instagram at @blivinguae

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Wash Basin and WC: RAK-DES Furniture and Mirror: RAK-JOY UNO Wall : Tokyo Concrete Floor: Sugi ban wood

welcome letter | CONTENTS

A renovation project in Al-Manara

Managing Director Victoria Thatcher Chief Creative Officer John Thatcher General Manager David Wade Deputy Editor Sophia Dyer sophia@hotmedia.me Art Director Kerri Bennett Digital Media Manager Muthu Kumar To contact any of the above people, email firstname@hotmedia.me

CONTENTS SHOP

06-11

Local interior design news and all the new homeware items we’re coveting.

INSPIRE

12-48

Expert tips for getting your home organised; the history of shabby chic; a day in the life of a local floral designer; Smart Renovation share their

landscaping advice; 10 simple ways to revamp your home; we take a look around the Danube Group’s family mansion in Dubai Hills; there’s a party in Aisha Leitner’s Bali-inspired garden; and two local interior stylists discuss ways to restyle your living room.

MOVE

50-55

Our agents show you their top properties on the market. Plus, our guide to family-friendly living on Palm Jumeirah.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media is strictly prohibited. HOT Media does not accept liability for omissions or errors in Better Living magazine. Tel: +971 4 364 2876 Fax: +971 4 369 7494

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This issue’s

Pinboard Our round-up of the latest in homeware news and interior trends

TO THE DESERT

BESPOKE DESIGN MADE SIMPLE

If 2022 means a renovation project is on the cards, consider creating your own homeware at Al Huzaifa’s new Design Studio. The homegrown luxury decor brand wants to redefine the custom furniture experience, by offering an expert bespoke service. Their new showroom in Al Wasl is stocked with fabrics, materials, stones, woods and custom wallpaper so client’s can craft their own rugs, fitted furniture, wallpaper and statement design pieces. alhuzaifa.com/designstudio

INVITING US TO MAKE THE MOST OF CAMPING SEASON, IN STYLE, SAUDI BRAND AURA LIVING HAS LAUNCHED A RANGE OF ‘GLAMPING’ EQUIPMENT. THE KASHTA COLLECTION INCLUDES SEATING, DINNERWARE AND BLANKETS DESIGNED IN A SLEEK BLACK TO GREY COLOUR PALETTE. WE LOVE THE ITEMS AS THEY MEAN YOU CAN BE PRACTICALLY EQUIPPED FOR A NIGHT IN THE DESERT, WHILST REMAINING PARTICULARLY STYLISH. AURALIVING.COM

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trending | UPDATES

ON DEMAND While there’s no shortage of grocery delivery services in Dubai, new Yalla!Market is a welcome newcomer on the scene. That’s because their delivery service (currently available in Business Bay, JBR, JLT and Dubai Marina) promises your goods will be delivered within 15-30 minutes maximum and the delivery is free! Plus, the drivers are riding scooters and bikes making it an ecofriendlier option. yallamarket.ae

ADORABLE PRINTS WITH MORE OF OUR TIME BEING SPENT OUTSIDE, WE’RE ALWAYS ON THE LOOK OUT FOR FUN POPS OF COLOUR. LATEST ON OUR COVET LIST IS SMALL BUSINESS @PRETTYSHADY PARASOLS. THEY STOCK BUNTING, CHAIRS, CUSHIONS, BEANBAGS AND PARASOLS IN THE CUTEST PATTERNS.

Ditsy florals

Fans of The Vampire’s Wife, will be pleased to see Susie Cave has ventured into homeware. The Vampire’s House will be built up room by room, but for now the bedroom collection is available to shop exclusively on MATCHESFASHION.com. You can expect bed covers, silk pillows and cute teddy bears. They have the designer’s bold patterned blueprint, and are kitsch in design. We can’t wait to see what comes next! matchesfashion.com

Lainey The Cushion mugs

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UPDATES | trending

Kitchen & Bathroom news The latest inspiration for the heart of your home

Etheral beauty

By this point we’re not surprised when Cosentino brings out another beautiful collection. The newest is Ethereal by Silestone®, a marble inspired collection which comes with four colours, Ethereal Dusk, Ethereal Haze, Ethereal Glow and Ethereal Noctics. Each has a white base with the shade referring to the delicate veining running through. The premise of the collection is to bring a dream-like quality to surfaces. A drawcard of the surfaces is of course, their HybriQ+® ecocredentials which see high sustainability levels in both the materials’ composition and the manufacturing process that uses 100 percent renewable energy. cosentino.com

ECO-FRIENDLY LOO ROLL Did you know that the toilet paper industry cuts down 27,000 trees every day? The traditional process actually contributes to 15 percent of global deforestation (according to Bambuyu) which is scary stuff. Tackling the problem head on, Dubai-residents Sahar and Ali created Bambuyu, a planet-friendly answer to toilet paper. Made from bamboo, which is a renewable resource, the paper is packaged in (the cutest) recyclable paper. We got our hands on some, and can’t enough of how cute they look stacked in our bathrooms. bambuyu.com

DUBAI WORLD TOUR

SEEING 2021 OFF WITH A BANG, IDEAL STANDARD’S TOGETHER WORLD TOUR HOSTED THEIR DUBAI TOUR DATE. HELD AT EXPO 2020, VIP GUESTS SAW INTELLIMIX, THE BRAND’S MOST INNOVATIVE SOLUTION, REVEALED. A SMART TOUCHLESS TAP THAT OFFERS TIMED WATER AND SOAP IN A STYLE-SAVVY PACKAGING - GENIUS! IDEALSTANDARDGULF.COM 8 | blivinguae.com

Better Living x RAK CERAMICS

Versa-tiles

Why we love the Maximus Mega Slabs from RAK Ceramics and how to use them

one are the days where tiles are used exclusively in kitchens and bathrooms. It’s 2022 and the humble tile, when used correctly, is now a serious design statement. But what takes a tile from standard to stunning? While it’s true that size doesn’t always matter, there’s an argument for bigger being better, as the number of grout lines are reduced, giving a sleeker finish. Of course, material is key as they must strike a balance between elegance and durability. This why the Maximus Mega Slabs from RAK Ceramics do quite so well. Coming in a range of effects, including marble, concrete, metal, stone, and wood, the large slabs invite users to

rethink the way they use tiles in their home. Here are some of our favourite ways to use the Maximus Mega Slabs: FLOORS The durable porcelain material means the slabs make a sound choice when it comes to practicality. Not only that, but the large surface areas also mean a modern finish and endless possibilities to showcase the designs. COUNTERTOPS A newer way to use the Maximus Mega Slabs: choose the level of thickness and effect to craft a unique kitchen counter or dressing table. As the materials are both heat resistant and easy to clean, they’re a worthwhile investment.

FURNITURE Ideal for crafting modern rooms, using the large slabs as table tops or living room cabinets means a seamless look. Particularly suitable for those looking to achieve a minimal interior design, the large tiles say ‘simple, but stylish’. WALLS The various effect collections mean making an impact in any room of the home is effortless and personal. We love the elegant finishes of the Elle Marble and Preziosi slabs which can totally change a bedroom’s ambience, especially when backlit. rakceramics.com bhomes.com | 9

wishlist | INSPIRATION

1 Dobbies Garden Centres (dobbies.com)

On-our radar....

WELLNESS GOODIES

With 2022 off to a questionable start, we’re priortising self-care, and these are the products we’ve added to our cart to do the job.

Products pictured: 1 Santorini Gift Set, Dhs599, Aroma Tierra; 2 Datura Footed Speckled Planter, Dhs75, Crate and Barrel; 3 Seven Chakra Balancing Room Spray, Dhs88, Secret Skin; 4 Nuno Sleep Meditation Set, GBP12.50 (approx Dhs63), Oliver Bonas; 5 Tassel Outdoor Floor Cushion, GBP20 (approx Dhs100), B&M; 6 Happy Space 200ml Diffuser, Dhs183.20, DWELL; 7 Blue Pouffe cushion, GBP59.99 (approx Dhs300), HomeSense

Scatter floor cushions for a bohemian look, that’s practical for cosy evenings in blivinguae.com | 11

Get your home in order for 2022 Tips for solving your clutter woes

Unsplash

t was the ancient Babylonians who started the tradition of making new year promises. Thought to have pledged to pay off their debits and to return borrowed objects, the turn of the year was a time for personal improvement. Fast forward some 4,000 years, the start of the annum is still a moment of promise, and for some, a time of action. If you’ve decided that 2022 will be less clutter and more colour coordination, here’s a room-byroom break down of where to start:

Living room

The problem: A place where families gather, little ones play and Netflix marathons go down, which means ‘stuff’ can often accumulate - especially if you have kids. The solutions: “Add furniture with storage functions, such as an ottoman, to conceal surplus toys or entertainment items,” says Sam

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Armstrong from local interior design house Zephyr Interiors (zephyrinteriors.com) that offers a ‘Detox & Organise’ service. “Messy wires add visual clutter to the room, so consider products that help you tie up or hide cables,” such as the ROMMA Cable management box from IKEA. “Place a console table behind your sofa to allow for additional counter space, as well as an area to keep baskets,” recommends Ally Loepp from professional organisation company The Orderly Luxe (theorderlyluxe.com).

handful of only the most necessary items e.g., coffee machine. Of the rest, organise into piles of related items and then decide what doesn’t belong in the kitchen,” says Sam. Consider installing open shelves to store your pretty utensils or jarred food. Within your cupboards, “Use shelf risers to maximize space in a heightened cupboard,” suggests Ally. And “Use food canisters (like the glass jars from Kilner) to store items that you cannot easily re-seal such as chips for easier access.”

Kitchen

The problem: Cupboards that are jam packed of Tupperware, which never seem to have corresponding lids, along with counter tops brimming with things you meant to do last week. The solutions: Start by, “removing everything from the surfaces and place them on the floor. Replace a small

Zephyr Interiors

home organisation | INSPIRATION

Unsplash

Home office

Bathroom

The problem: Too many products, not enough space. The solutions: “Utilize the inside of your cabinet door by adding adhesive organising bins for things such as toothpaste, etc.,” says Ally. You can also, “Use storage units under your sink to keep items grouped together. Turntables are also a great option for under the sink as you can access the back of the cupboard with ease.” If you’ve got lots of small items Sam suggests you opt for, “stackable storage, like drawers, baskets or acrylic tubs,” which will save space on the countertop.

“swapping your existing hangers for slim velvet ones will instantly give you more hanging space, as well as a unified look,” she adds.

The problem: A couple of years of working from home and the papers have piled up with nowhere to go. The solution: “Keep extra ‘stock’ such as printer paper and stationery out of sight in a sideboard or drawer to avoid clutter on the main working space,” says Sam. On the wall, get creative with a, “pegboard to store items such as tape, scissors, and documents,” suggests Ally. For papers, “Set-up a filing system and designate one day, each week for filing so that you keep on top of it,” says Sam. For smaller stationary items, “Use organizers to create division within your drawers for things such as pens, erasers, and paperclips,” says Ally.

Zephyr Interiors

Wardrobes

The problem: It’s overspilling with clothes, shoes and badly folded nonhangable items. The solution: “Make sure to declutter your closet every three to six months and if you are unsure about keeping something, hang it up in your closet with the hanger facing backwards, If the hanger is still facing backwards after 6-12 months, then it’s time to donate,” says Ally. If you haven’t got the time to sell, consider donating your preloved clothes to Thrift for Good (thriftforgood. ae) who sell second-hand clothes for charity. “Better folding techniques will help you maximise space in your wardrobe or drawers. Check out Marie Kondo’s folding skills, or simply roll instead of fold,” recommends Sam. And

Unsplash

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INSPIRATION | design workshop

DWELL (dwell.ae)

The French Bedroom Company (frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk)

How to master...

Shabby Chic Kristi Georgakopoulos interior designer at Eclectic Living (@ eclectic.living) talks us through the look

WHAT IS IT A vintage-inspired style, similar to French country, but with a more feminine and nostalgic appearance. The ornate look embraces imperfections, while encouraging quirky combinations. Aged pieces are staples of the design, so you may see genuine period pieces used in a shabby chic room. Or, there’ll be newer items that have been deliberately distressed to look worn- pastel peeling paint is commonly used to do this. And the fabrics tend to be inspired by old French linens, think delicate floral prints. ABOUT THE STYLE It originated in the English countryside, where large country houses were furnished with unpretentious, old and faded furniture. The term was coined by The World of Interiors magazine in the

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‘80s and spread throughout the world from there. The designer Rachel Ashwell is known to have popularised the look. In 1989 she opened a flagship store in Santa Monica, copyrighted the name ‘Shabby Chic’ and owned the concept for 20 years. HOW TO NAIL IT Although this look seems accessible, pulling it off requires and eye for colour, pattern and texture. It’s a delicate balance to ensure that all the elements blend together to create a harmonious aesthetic. Start with a vintage, faded area rug. This will set the tone and colour palette for your room. You can find these in most stores, including Homecentre (homecentre.com./ae), but for authentic vintage rugs try Tamam Vintage Rugs (tamamvintage.com). Find and paint second-hand wooden furniture with a distressed finish. Chalk paint gives the best effect. You can purchase the paint online from a website called whenshabbymeetschic.com or buy Annie Sloan paints at ACE (aceuae.com).

Feathr (feathr.com)

For sofas, try lived-in leather chairs that show variations and fading. Get one new or second-hand on Dubizzle or Facebook. Or, try covering your existing sofas with a custom linen slipcover. Flower power. Add striped or floral wallpaper in muted shades for the walls. Accessorise with floral motifs, ornate painted mirrors and candelabra, glass or crystal chandeliers. Clockwise from top: Blackpop X BeauVamp silk Tiffany Lampshade ‘Chapelle Morpho’, GBP355 (approx Dhs1,764); BeauVamp Lighting; Old original white chair, Price upon request, Antika Dubai; Shay rustic solid oak & painted drawers, GBP325 (aprrox Dhs1,614), Oak Furnitureland; Paper vase cover pink flowers small, Dhs70, Urban Nest; French antique style bench, GBP108 (approx Dhs537, The Grey Works

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Noble noir

The power of using black to accent your spaces

sed by designers to add depth to interior spaces, black accents are the punctuation to a contemporary styled room. Similar to the use of a slick black eyeliner in a striking eye-makeup look, using hints of the dark colour accentuates other elements within a room. Cited as a trend for 2022, using black accents in the home is an easy way to make a bold statement and to revamp for the new year. We spoke to Pascale Arminjon owner and interior designer at Envie Interior Design (envieinteriordesign. com or @envie_interior_design) to find out how the experts use black in the home.

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trends | INSPIRATION

TIP Balance out your black hues with plenty of white to give the room a visual breathing space

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INSPIRATION | trends

TREAT BLACK LIKE THE NEUTRAL THAT IT REALLY IS. We often consider black to be an intense bold addition of ‘colour’, but actually it’s more similar to its opposing hue, white. Though light hues may traditionally be thought of as the colour palette cleansers, if you use black in the same way it becomes a layering tone rather than a dramatic feature. CREATE HARMONY BY GOING BIG. Using black on a large scale, such as a feature wall, painted ceiling, or floor, will ground your interior and create a foundation for layering on, especially if your décor incorporates a variety of textures. The black background aids in harmonising the different elements. I particularly love painting a TV wall black to camouflage the technology when it’s not in us. BLACK FURNITURE works within the whole spectrum of design styles, from traditional, to antique, through to modern and futuristic. So, when adding a dark-coloured piece into a home, you’ll almost certainly be able to find a style that suits your interior. Armchairs and occasional tables are great pieces to layer in amidst other furniture, for a sartorial moment within your design. ACCESSORIES ARE A GREAT ENTRY POINT for adding black accents without great investment and they instantly add an elegance to a scheme. Consider a contemporary glass vase or a cluster of tealight holders. Ceramic sculptures, decorative boxes or layering trays are all items that can create a chic moment when in a deep black. SOFT FURNISHINGS allow you to be more adventurous when adding in darker shades. Cushions and throws come in a variety of patterns and textures to suit all schemes. Avoid solid black with these items and instead opt for a graphic print, stripe, or ethnic pattern. Drapery can also carry dark accents with poise. My favourite way of incorporating this is by lining the leading edge of an off-white linen curtain or blind with black ribbon as it has both a modern feel and timeless essence.

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TIP DON’T SKIP THE LIGHTING. From timeless task lighting such as an Anglepoise, a wall hung modern Mouille, and a rustic painted, metallic or ceramic sculptural lamp base, this category supplies an extensive range of options with which to add a black accent piece that has purpose. KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS. The trend has made a major move into the tap and sanitaryware area. Matte black appliances within kitchens and bathrooms have had huge appeal for those looking to create a contemporary contrast. Aligned with this are black

Tonal greys work well in a soft monochrome colour scheme. Play around with texture for a sophisticated look framed shower enclosures, black feature tiles and countertops, all adding distinct drama and a luxe finish. For an ultramodern means of incorporating some black attitude, consider bringing it into your tableware. This offers the chance to be bold with black, as and when it suits.

TIP

Image credits: Page one and two: Envie Interior Design (envieinteriordesign); Page three and four: Primark (primark.com)

Art is a cost-effective way to add darker accents. You could try black frames or black and white prints

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day in the life | INSPIRATION

6am Mornings are generally chaotic. I wake, get dressed, organise the school lunch boxes, and head off on the school run. I’m always grateful for the time in the car with my 4-year-old, Xander.

8.15am Some days I go for a brisk walk whilst listening to a podcast - usually a mind and body one. Other days, I do a gentle mat Pilates or Reformer class.

Images: Unsplash

9am As I eat my breakfast at the dining table, I’ll post on Instagram, issue quotes, order stock, and organise deliveries. Then I’ll plan my day with a to-do list, it’s usually pretty messy but it works for me. I also use this time to gather some of my inspiration from Pinterest.

Katy Leech

10am This is my most productive time of day, it’s when I create in my – somewhat messy - workspace. Listening to chilled house music always helps me stay in the flow. As a perfectionist I’m often changing bits around for a while, but once I’m done, I photograph my creations for social media.

12.30pm School pick-up followed by an after-school activity with my son, which today is lunch and an açai bowl at the beach.

2-5pm Afternoons are varied but during busy periods I spend them in floral chaos. Quieter times are spent planning for business growth and brainstorming ideas for the future.

5pm Make dinner and eat as a

OF A FLORAL DESIGNER Katy Leech, owner of Instagram business Ivy + Silk (@ivyandsilk_) creates artistic faux and dried floral displays for purchase or rental family - this is something that’s very important to me. We then have some fun in the garden before my son’s bath and bedtime.

7pm I finalise arrangements and prepare my workspace for the next day, before either heading out for a dance class, roof-top meditation or spending time with my husband at home.

9.30pm I head to bed, but I always do a meditation before sleep – I love Joe Dispenza and live by his work. Sarah Blondin is another favourite.

Katy styling a floral display

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INSPIRATION | expert advice

A SK THE EXPERT

My garden is uninspiring. How do I landscape it to look beautiful? Marco and Cinzia Tedeschi from Smart Renovation (smartrenovation.ae) talk garden design step-by-step Start by creating a unity between the interiors of your villa and the garden. It’s vital that there is a strong connection between the two areas, especially in the UAE, as for six months of the year you will be living an inside-outside lifestyle. To do this, most of the time, you’ll need to raise your garden to be at the level of your villa. Don’t worry, this is not an expensive thing to do as it is mainly filling in the space with soil. We recommend installing a planter box to keep your greenery looking neat. Plants on their own in the soil can tend to get lost, so using a box will help to provide style-emphasis. Though we’re usually against using fake grass, nowadays you can get a very good quality faux turf which can look great. Just be sure to pick something that looks as natural as possible, perhaps with some faint discolouring to mimic natural sun burn. Design your pergola or gazebo to look and function like a lounge. A random structure placed in the middle of a garden can end up looking cold and doesn’t end up being all that practical. Instead, create a space that feels like a living room: do this by putting in some lights, a coffee table, painting and maybe even a TV. For an elegant pergola, you can’t go wrong with a simple metal structure which plants can climb up to create a natural umbrella. For a gazebo with a covered roof, consider adding planter boxes along the edges for a polished finish.

Instead of traditional pool tiles, think outside the box. It’s true that small mosaic tiles with a lot of grouting are old hat. Instead, go for beautiful slabs with a marble effect in your pool. We recently did one with faux blue-marble tiles and the effect was beautiful. Plus, larger tiles work well with coloured LED lights as the light bounces nicely, which is ideal when you want to turn the pool for red for Halloween. Within your pool create a raised seating area where kids can play and you can relax, although we don’t suggest putting structural sunbeds inside the pool as it limits possibilities. The most important thing when it comes to landscaping is light. We tell our clients not to use direct lights as they look unsightly and can end up hurting your eyes – which isn’t very relaxing! Use indirect lights by hiding them within the plants and planter boxes. Step lights help keep your family safe and create a soft glow. Furnish the outdoor as you would the indoor. If you want to make the most out of your garden during the winter months, make it a place that’s easy to spend time in. Use comfortable seating – with plenty of pillows and blankets for the evening. Outdoor table lamps or free-standing lamps will recreate the mood lighting you have inside. And where possible, do opt for high quality products because this will impact the overall look – sun damage is not chic.

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Ready, set, refresh Teige Osbourne from Teige Interiors (@teigeinteriors) on ten easy ways to spruce up your home for the New Year

Replace your rugs to make instant impact. A large rug will make your space look bigger, do it by placing your furniture on top, or at least the feet. To prevent it from moving, buy some nonslip fabric from I K EA (ikea.ae) and adhere it to the floor.

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Image credits: Left page: Rug Society (rugsociety.eu); Right page: Furniture Village (furniturevillage.co.uk)

styling advice | INSPIRATION

CREATE INTEREST WITH SHELVES. I SUGGEST USING CUSTOM-BUILT ONES TO HIGHLIGHT ANY UNUSUALLY SHAPED WALL SPACES - LIKE AN ARCH. BUT STANDARD FLOATING SHELVES WORK WELL TO DISPLAY YOUR FAVOURITE DECOR ITEMS.

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Zoe Eight-Light Nickel Chandelier, Dhs4,890, Ethan Allen (ethanallen.ae)

CHANGE YOUR CUSHION COVERS FOR NEW ONES. TRY TO MIX DIFFERENT TEXTURES AND SIZES FOR BEST EFFECT. ADD SOME THROWS IN A BASKET FOR TEXTURE AND WARMTH WHILE YOU ENJOY COSY NIGHTS SNUGGLING ON THE SOFA. Atmosphera Polyester Cushion Cover, Dhs25 ACE (aceuae.com)

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UPGRADE YOUR HANDLES ON EXISTING FURNITURE FOR A NEW LOOK. THIS QUICK DIY JOB CAN MAKE A HUGE IMPACT. CHECK OUT ANTHROPOLOGIE (ANTHROPOLOGIE.COM) OR ZARA HOME (ZARAHOME. COM) FOR SOME ON-TREND OPTIONS.

ADD A STATEMENT HEADBOARD TO A STANDARD DIVAN BED BASE TO ELEVATE YOUR BEDROOM. THERE ARE OPTIONS TO SUIT EVERY INTERIOR DESIGN STYLE.

The Fine Cotton Company (thefinecottoncompany.com)

Lighting is key to any design scheme and yet we live with lighting that doesn’t meet our needs or match our style. If you have a pendant fitting simply update your shade. If you have light fixtures that are not your style, why not remove the landlords lighting and retain it to reinstall once you leave? Purchase something to your taste and get it installed by an electrician, it will make a huge impact to your décor and lifestyle.

Sofology (sofology.co.uk)

Wallpapers Wallcoverings (wallcoverings.co.za) Antipodream (antipodream.co.uk)

Re-cover your sofa or invest in a new one. Your sofa is one of the most prominent furniture items in your living space. Changing the colour or style will make a huge impact on your décor. Consider who uses it and how it works for your lifestyle? If you have pets choose fabric careful, with cats avoid any fabric with a weave that they can scratch.

8. IF YOU’RE RENTING, SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR DARK BROWN KITCHEN WITH A MODERN WRAP. THE VARIETY OF WRAPPING OPTIONS ON THE MARKET IS MIND BLOWING, FROM REALISTIC FAUX WOOD TO CEMENT, THERE REALLY IS SOMETHING TO SUIT EVERYONE, THOUGH D0 SEEK YOUR LANDLORD’S PERMISSION FIRST. FOR HOMEOWNERS, YOU COULD USE CHALK PAINT OR HAVE A NEW COLOUR SPRAYED ON FOR A SUPER SMOOTH FINISH.

Totally Wrapped (totallywrapped.ae)

CREATE A FEATURE WALL: OFTEN ROOMS IN THE UAE HAVE FEW ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES, SO THEY CAN LACK A FOCAL POINT. MAKE A WALL STAND OUT BY PAINTING IT, WALLPAPERING, ADDING A BUILT-IN WALL UNIT TO HOUSE THE TV OR EVEN ADD A FAUXFIREPLACE FROM FIREHAUS (FIREHAUS.AE).

styling advice | INSPIRATION

ADD VINYL FLOORING TO BATHROOMS. AVAILABLE IN A WIDE VARIETY OF COLOURS, PATTERNS AND PRICE POINTS VINYL FLOORING WILL REVAMP A ROOM. DRAW A SKETCH OF THE FLOOR PLAN OF THE BATHROOM AND MEASURE EACH DIMENSION SO THAT YOU CAN ORDER A PIECE LARGE ENOUGH FOR THE FITTER TO CUT IT TO SHAPE AROUND THE WC ETC. Beija Flor authentic eclectic lace vinyl floor, Cuckooland.com

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AGEING GRACEFULLY How to protect your wooden furniture as it ages according to the experts at Soul & Tables

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Better Living x SOUL & TABLES

olid wood ages, but as it does, it’s character and beauty increase. Indeed, your wooden furniture can last from 50 to 70 years when it’s looked after properly. And in a day and age where consuming less is key, anything we can do to make our items last is important. Arnaud Mouton from local wooden homeware retailers Soul & Tables talks us through caring for our items at home. THE PLACEMENT Avoid placing wooden furniture in direct sunlight or near an uncovered window, as constant exposure to the sun and heat can take a toll on the condition. Discolouration and fading could easily damage your item’s overall appearance. Plus, when the light is combined with heat, it will be at higher risk of drying out, which might result in the wood splitting. Conversely, excess humidity or inadequate ventilation may result in the growth of mold or mildew if the surface gets wet. So, it’s best to place your pieces in a well-ventilated room, away from the sun.

topcoat which seals the pores of the timber, forming a natural protection between the wood and other substances. Regardless, spills should be removed as quickly as possible. OAK FURNITURE As time passes, oak furniture will darken. Our oak pieces are finished with a pigmented hard wax oil, which forms a natural coating that repels most common substances and fluids. Though the hardware oil treatment makes daily care and maintenance easier, even with this preventative treatment, if any liquid or substance is left to penetrate the wood, your furniture may still suffer a stain. soulandtables.ae

PROTECTING THE WOOD When wood ages, it has the potential to look even more beautiful, and with proper care it will remain strong and durable for decades to come. We recommend you use coasters under hot or cold glasses to prevent them from leaving marks on the furniture. You should also clean up any spills immediately, with a mild dish soap. For extra protection try a water-based topcoat treatment. CLEANING When you need to clean the surface of your wood furniture with moisture, always make sure to use a piece of cloth that is damp, rather than wet as wood is very good at absorbing water. With warm temperatures and poor ventilation, the wood has a higher chance of mold infestation. TEAK FURNITURE Over time, teak wood will turn a lighter shade. The teak items at Soul & Tables come raw and natural without any coating. If you’re worried about stains, consider adding a protective layer of varnish to your teak purchases. We also offer a complimentary water-based bhomes.com | 29

INSPIRATION | at home with

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We meet the Danube Groups’ Adel Sajan and his wife Sana at their Emirates Hills’ mansion

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hether you’ve been in the UAE for fifteen years, or fifteen days, the name Danube will have almost certainly have entered your consciousness. Perhaps you’ve been a loyal customer of their affordable furniture for years, or their bold red advertising boards have caught your eye on the highway. Maybe, you even catch the metro from their Jebel Ali namesake station. However you know of them, there’s no denying that the Danube Group has a strong national presence. While it’s true that their public relationist - quite literally - does not sleep, the Danube Group’s domination is more than just great marketing. A family business, it was launched in 1993 by Indian-expat Rizwan Sajan as a small trading company. 28 years later, the Danube Group, still operated by the Sajan family, is a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate. Rizwan remains the chairman, while his brother Anis Sajan is managing director. His son Adel Sajan stands as the director, and his nephew Azhar Sajan runs sister bathroom company Casa Milano. We were invited inside the family’s Emirates Hills mansion to get a better insight into what makes this family of design enthusiasts tick. “We bought the plot in 2010,” explains Adel as his staff lays out trays of fresh juice and snacks in front of us. He goes on to tell me that after living in Dubai for 30 years and finding success with the Danube Group, when it came to purchasing their dream family home, customisation was key. “When we first came to look around Emirates Hills our initial plan was to buy or renovate a house. We looked at a lot of villas, some had nice exteriors but bad layouts, and ultimately we couldn’t find the perfect house. My dad was willing to compromise and not too interested in the headache of building our own,” explains the 30-year-old businessman. But, much like his spirited approach in the office which has been the driving force behind Danube Home’s success - Adel pushed for a custom-build. “My reasoning was, it’s the one house we’ll have for many, many years, get married and have kids in. It’s the ultimate house so let’s not compromise. Although, I knew it would be difficult in the short-term, I also knew it would be worth it in the long run.” After being convinced by his son,

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Believe me, there’s nothing east about making a house like this Rizwan bought the land and handed Adel the responsibility of conceptualising, building, and furnishing the multigenerational home over to his son. Taking control of the build, Adel flew across the world sourcing materials and furniture for the home. “Danube Home’s tagline is about making your home easy, but believe me there’s nothing easy about making a house like this,” he laughs. “Even though we come from an interiors background and have the expertise, it was still a lot of work.” Of course, loaded with years of interior design experience, the Sajan’s had a few non-negotiables for the look of their villa. “We wanted a very modern house,” says Adel. “It

had to have double-height spaces, with a lot of sunlight coming in.” To mark his passion for the ocean, Adel installed a huge light-blue mosaic wall to reflect the light that beams in through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Large chandeliers, which were made by the same supplier as Atlantis Hotel, were used to replicate hanging water droplets. And the finishing touch on their living room is the famous eightmetre-long aquarium, which you might have spotted in the Instagram stories of the rich and famous - including YouTuber David Dobrik, and India’s finest female tennis player, Sania Mirza. But designing the family home wasn’t the first time Rizwan had handed over

At home with | INSPIRATION

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INSPIRATION | at home with

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My dad gave me one million dollars to go to China and source chandeliers responsibility to Adel. “During the summer holidays from age 13 to 15, I was working in the warehouse,” explains the only child of the family. “My dad made sure they were strict with me and didn’t give me special treatment. Then at 17, we (Danube Group) launched our first major catalogue, so I spent three months with a creative agency getting an idea of fonts, picture placement and whatever,” he explains. At 18, Adel was set to move to California to continue his studies, but his dad encouraged him

to study at the American University of Sharjah, so he’d be able to continue learning the ropes at the same time. “I wasn’t too happy back then, but looking back now I think that was the right move. “I remember at 19 my dad gave me one million dollars to go to China and source chandeliers. And though, “When you’re in your second year of college you don’t really notice chandeliers,” laughs Adel, he made a success of the trip. By the time he graduated, the 23-year-old had gained experience

across the business and though the building materials facet was doing well, the retail section, formerly known as Buildmart was not turning over a profit. “My dad was about it shut it down,” says Adel. “I told him, listen, let me see if I can take over, give me two years. If you see a silver lining, this could be something big in the future.” Proving himself right, under Adel’s leadership, in just six years Danube Home became the fastest growing home improvement retailer in the region, with 40 stores and bhomes.com | 35

INSPIRATION | at home with

We had to get a crane to bring the marble bathtub in 27 franchises in another 15 countries. Talking to Adel and spending time in his home, I’m quick to understand the family’s natural ability to accommodate – even mid-interview as I’m continually offered drinks and breakfast foods throughout. This love for hosting certainly is echoed in the intention of their home, which has the capacity to turn into a large ballroom. And indeed, if you were reading the news around 2017 you will know the Sajan’s know how to party. Spending a whopping Dhs110 million on the wedding of Adel to his former-beauty queen and qualified dentist wife, Sana. What with Adel informing me that the family throw parties nearly every week, I’m pretty sure their ain’t no party, like a Danube party. In addition to plenty of party space, the Sajan mansion is also equipped with a games room, cinema, and spa for casual hosting. “We like being able to call our friends for matches or movies,” explains Adel. “And then we wanted a nice games room, slash lounge because both of us (meaning himself and his father) are very social.” The highlight of the games room is undoubtedly the classic FordMustang-now-pool-table which exudes a retro feel that is ricocheted in the black and white panelled wall lighting. “We have a lot of dinners and karaoke nights so making a hub for friends and family to hang out was very crucial,” says Adel. With three children of his own, ages three-years, one-year, and two-months, along with his mother and father in the villa, multi-generational family living was also a key element of Adel’s design. “We eat breakfast together every morning, it’s a ritual, whether it’s a workday, or a weekend,” he explains as

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Sana is looking over the new dinnerware sets brought across from a Danube Home store for her to choose from. Sana then takes us upstairs to get a glimpse of the family bedrooms, and more personal living spaces. The young couple’s bedroom has a large TV and even larger fish tank that looks into their Versace-decked-out en-suite. “I wanted a good part of our bedroom to be black and gold, but in a way that balanced the white as well,” explains Sana as she shows us around their huge walk-in wardrobe, which would be the envy of Carrie Bradshaw – even post her dream closet installation. Much like Carrie, Sana has a space all of her own. There’s a large wall adorned with pictures of her partying and pageanting in her younger years, along with subtle Disney decals dotted about as if part of the ‘Hidden Mickey Challenge’. The roof terrace has been decked out with an Alice in Wonderland theme, though not in use when we visit mid-summer. Notably, in her private bathroom, there’s a bathtub carved from a single piece of green marble with a delicate chandelier hanging above. “It was custom-made in Pakistan,” the mum of three explains, “we had to get a crane to bring it in, and if I’m honest I don’t really use it!” Though the gorgeous bathtub may not be used, it represents something that’s evident throughout the Sajan’s home, which is the level of care that has gone into each and every step. It’s a kind of diligence that has been passed down through the family, and the same attentiveness that has seen a small Deira-based trading company, become the multi-billiondollar conglomerate that it is today.

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INSPIRATION | outdoor home renovation space

Party Queen An invitation into the garden of Aisha Leitner, the founder of Party Camel

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INSPIRATION | outdoor space

he garden of self-confessed party queen Aisha Leitner is a large, accommodating space that has a tropical bohemian style. With a large outdoor kitchen and huge wooden dining table that’s been styled with a decadent tablescape, it’s obvious the garden has been designed for hosting. Which is to be expected, as one half of the homeowners is Aisha the brains behind the e-commerce store Party Camel. “All our dinner parties happen under the big tree,” explains the entrepreneur, “as soon as I saw it (the tree) I wanted this house. I could see us having lots of parties under that tree and finally that dream has come true.” Those who follow Party Camel (@ partycameldubai) on Instagram and keep up to date with Aisha’s stories will have garnered glimpses into some of her dreamy garden parties. Including a Harry Potter themed Halloween dinner and a “pink-nic” for her daughter Aliyah’s 12th birthday, a lot of effort goes into each of them. And with the stock of Party Camel in her arsenal, it’s

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no wonder this household is known for throwing an epic bash. But beyond Insta-worthy parties, “we use the garden daily,” says Aisha, “I have my morning cup of coffee there and the kids jump on the trampoline or into the pool if it’s not a school day!” Aisha and her husband, Joachim decided to put the pool in after a year of debating. “I was in two minds about having a pool in the garden as we have such a lovely community pool just steps away, but we decided to take the plunge as we had the space and it wasn’t being used.” Determined to get it right, Aisha ordered the tiles from Rosa Gres in Spain after being inspired by their unique turquoise colours. Pool Masters constructed the pool and added a counter-current jet system “for swimming and surfing as the kids like to say.” The company also created the metal structure of the large outdoor kitchen that is set back within the greenery of the garden. Discussing how her garden stays quite so green, Aisha says, “After much trial and error, we now try to

stick with plants that are native to Dubai as they’re the ones that grow well.” The bright bougainvillea and fragrant frangipani bushes that are dotted throughout the garden help to create a Bali-esque look, while the planted cacti bring a touch of the UAE. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s something that both my husband and I enjoy. We tend to the garden almost daily and of course have help from our lovely gardener,” the mum of two explains. Using homemade compost, the family are successfully growing lemons and herbs to eat, “you’ll often find my kids picking the lemons to make lemonade,” Aisha smiles. With garden season in full swing, the party queen is getting set for some post-Christmas hosting, “We have family visiting this month so, providing they can make it, I can see us having many breakfasts out here,” Aisha explains, “especially with my new floating tray in the pool!” Now just one question remains, how do we get ourselves invited to one of these parties?

THIS OUTDOOR SEATING SET CAME FROM WEST ELM AND IT MAKES THE PERFECT PLACE FOR AISHA TO COSY UP WITH A CUP OF COFFEE IN THE MORNING

As soon as I saw it, I wanted this house. I could see us having lots of parties under that tree...

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The livingroom restyle Revamp your lounge for the new year

he humble living area: the backdrop for cosy evenings in, and nights spent huddled on the sofa with friends. It’s a room that gets a lot of use, which often means it’s one of the first places in the home where the décor will start to bore you. With the new year upon us, if you’re considering a refresh, it needn’t break the bank. We spoke to local interior experts who shared their tips and style inspiration.

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Unsplash

living room refresh | INSPIRATION

It’s in the details

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Those with plenty of space to play with should consider rearranging their furniture into a different layout for an DON’T UNDERESTIMATE instant revamp. If that’s not THE POWER OF A NEW possible, “When it comes to LICK OF PAINT. IT’S A BUDGET-FRIENDLY WAY restyling, even if you keep TO MAKE YOUR SPACE the same main furniture FEEL NEW. AND, IF YOU pieces, swapping out for some HATE IT, IT’S EASY TO TRY AGAIN WITH A new throw pillows or blankets, NEW COLOUR. rugs, plants and accessories can make the space feel completely different,” suggests interior designer, Jess Casa. “Just remember that for a sophisticated design each item needs purpose, so try to avoid just buying items for the sake of it.”

Tip

Lighting

A larger factor in the ambience of a room, is your choice of shades and bulbs. “Try layering your light options,” suggests Cynthia. Using a “Dimmable ceiling lamp, floor lamps as well as some table lamps will really help you to set a cosy mood.” If you’re upgrading your lighting, consider investing in some Bluetooth controlled ‘smart bulbs’ that allow colour customisation at the touch of a button. You can buy smart integrated lighting at places like IKEA (ikea.com/ae) and smart bulbs can be found on Amazon or at Homecentre (homecentre.com).

Declutter

You’ll want to make sure that the old pieces you’re restyling are items that you actually like. “Start by decluttering your space, keeping only the key elements that ‘spark joy’”, advises interior stylist Cynthia Salloum. “Yes. It’s time for a purge!” If you’ve got luxury items, try listing your items on Facebook in groups such as RESOLD™. The UAE’s premier Pre-Loved Luxury Furniture & Home Décor. For an easy selling process there’s Think Upcycle (thinkupcycle.ae) or, if you’d like to donate your unwanted items, there’s the Facebook page Little People Big Hearts.

New lease of life

There’s no need to invest in a new sofa if you like the shape of the one you have, just “Make sure your furniture is comfy,” says Cynthia. Do this by adding new throw cushions or by having your sofa cushions restuffed. Sofa Upholstery Dubai (sofa.ae) offers a cushion filler replacement service. If it’s the colour you’ve had enough of, “You can always re-upholster your current seating options to make them more neutral, modern and cosy,” suggests Cynthia. Everest Furniture Factory (everrest.ae) has an expansive range of fabrics to choose from.

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language, they probably shouldn’t be bought from the same place. Design with purpose, rather than at random. I tend to see a lot of people who flood their home with decor, but the trick is to be able to edit out the “fluff”. I am a big believer in “less is more” and this is absolutely a mentality to keep mindful when creating a contemporary space. Think “fashion forward interiors” when editing the space. And as always, “when in doubt, take it out.” Choose a minimalistic colour palette. It doesn’t have to be neutral all the way, but the majority of the tones should be on the subdued side. If you want to have one more saturated colour as a colour pop, that can be done as well, but tread lightly - most contemporary design schemes are best achieved through highlighting shades of white, beige and grey tones. Lighting is everything. As lighting makes a huge difference when it comes to the naked eye in perceiving depth, colour and art in general - aim for spaces flooded with soft, natural light. A contemporary space should be well lit and warm (no dramatic shadows necessary).

Tip Unsplash

COOL CONTEMPORARY

Jess Casa, designer and stylist at Casa. Created (@casa.created) talks us through a contemporary style and how to use it in the living room. What is contemporary design? It’s a modern take on minimalistic features, mostly tuning into a neutral palette, utilising rich fabrics and materials and taking lighting highly into consideration. A contemporary designed space is sophisticated and well thought out, as every item has its space.

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Who should use this style? Any person who loves contemporary can incorporate modern design aesthetics into their home. However, I wouldn’t say it’s the most kid friendly design scheme, so most likely the young business professional and someone who keeps a highly edited, clean home.

CONSIDER PAINTING YOUR PICTURE FRAMES A UNIFORM COLOUR, OR SPRAY PAINTING ANY HARDWARE IN THE ROOM FOR A QUICK STYLE OVERHAUL.

Get the look

Create a clear style, by ensuring each furniture item has an intention. Avoid buying matching sets as each item should have its own look and reason why it’s placed there. While the items should all speak the same

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living room refresh | INSPIRATION

STYLISH SCANDI

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Cynthia Salloum stylist from White Haven Décor (@whitehavendecor) shares her tips on achieving a Scandi style living space

Embrace natural light as way to bring a sense of hygge into your home during the day. I suggest highlighting your large windows, doors to the garden and skylights by using zero to minimal window dressing - think sheer curtains. For other forms of lighting, I suggest a beautiful pendant light, floor lamps, and plenty of candles.

What is a Scandi style? In the cold Nordic countries, Scandinavian design was created to emphasize light-filled minimalism. The main purpose of Scandi-design is to improve daily life by focusing on simple and reliable items that offer comfort and pleasure. The notion of hygge lies at the heart of the Scandi-home style, which means being cosy is key. Who should use this style? If you love simple designs and minimalistic décor speaks to you, then a Scandi style might be for you. It’s a wise style choice if you live in a small apartment or if you don’t have a huge budget at hand, as less is definitely more.

notice that a lot of Nordic styled spaces use simple furniture choices that don’t draw the eye, this is so that the room feels easy and relaxed.

Go super soft with your soft furnishings. To nail this look you’ll need a shag pile or hessian rug with lots of layered cushions and throws. It’s a nice idea to change your sofa cushions throughout the year to keep it feeling fresh. White Haven Décor

Get the look

Focus on light natural timbers, that will help transform the room even if you’ve still got tiles down. Wooden coffee tables, dining tables, shelving units, consoles or even benches and stools is a fast-track to Scandi design. Natural wood exudes functionality, calmness, simplicity, and aesthetically pleasing natural beauty. A monochrome palette can be a feature of Scandi design. You can add small touches of black, if you don’t want your home to be too dark. For example, the legs of the chairs/tables could be black steel, while the rest of your furniture should be lighter. Or you can incorporate some black décor pieces within your home. Uncluttered spaces are a key element of Scandi aesthetics, so remove items that are not necessary and that no longer go with your style. I’d also recommend spacing out design elements so that the room feels relaxing. Favour clean lines. Do this by choosing furniture items that are both practically and simply designed. You’ll blivinguae.com | 45

THE DUAL MARBLE- WOOD KITCHEN ISLAND MAKES A BOLD STYLE STATEMENT

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renovation | INSPIRATION

TIMELESS WOODS

Inside a villa in Al Manara that received a contemporary, yet traditional renovation

here are several occasions in life where it pays to be picky. For Dubai resident Arwa Presswala when it came to choosing her home’s interior design, this was one of them. “I can’t say I’m an easy client for an interior design firm,” laughs Arwa when talking about her meticulous approach to the renovation, which she hired Pine Tree Lane (pinetreelane.com) to assist her with. “I wanted a stylish, yet timeless look which would be soothing for the eyes and mind,” she explains. With a clear vision and an aversion to compromise, mum of two, Arwa had the team of renovators completely makeover her fourbedroom villa in Al Manara before they moved in. Director of Pine Tree Lane, Hozefa Poonawala oversaw the project, calling the result a “boho chic” look. The client, “requested that their new home would be bright, airy and radiant with positivity,” says Hozefa. To achieve this, the team dreamed up an open floorplan, where light would flood in and implemented a muted colour palette with plenty of grounding wood. We used solid oak wood for the wall partitions and media unit wall paneling as well, as the entrance console. And for the home office, we chose a solid meranti wood.

Before If you're a fan of Hozefa's design, turn the page to read his tips on acheiving similar –––➤ blivinguae.com | 47

INSPIRATION | renovation

“The living room was designed to flow on from the other spaces in the home, with a natural yet stylish look,” the designer explains. Light parquet flooring runs throughout the hall and lounge, acting as an elegant style-tie between rooms. Taking a heavy-handed approach – that has certainly paid off – when using wood, “The TV cabinet was crafted from solid oak wood panelling that is back-lit with a floating console.” Constructing a sense of movement between each room was another key element of the design, as Hozefa explains, “The living room simply flows with the other spaces because of its natural yet stylish design.” In the kitchen, the homeowner wanted a predominantly white

THE VERDICT "I would recommend Pine Tree Lane to one and all. Their team is pleasant to communicate with and their skilled staff is second to none. The team made my home everything I've dreamed of!"

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theme with accents of teal blue, “to add some character to the space,” she explains. The two-toned cabinets draw the eyes up, while the halfwood, half-marble island adds another interesting dynamic. As the room is enclosed it “has a space of its own and really carries this classic look,” clarifies Hozefa. “Originally, the kitchen was the dullest part of the home, but after the renovation it’s now where we spend the majority of our time, it’s our happy place,” says Arwa. Continuing the traditional theme but using a dark stained meranti wood, the office has a stately feel, with glass folding doors and a large in-built shelving unit that commands the room. “The wood stain used adds a regal charm to this space,” describes Hozefa. “The finish is immaculate,” says the happy homeowner, “And I owe it all to the fine skills of the carpentry team who worked with the utmost finesse.”

Modern Traditions

Hozefa Poonawala’s advice for crafting a timeless, yet modern finish 1. Layer lighting - By layering light (task and accent) you’ll improve the ambience of your house. Choose lightbulbs with a warmer tone for living areas and a cooler tone in the office and bathrooms. 2. Create a visual structure - Partitions, panellings, and fixed furniture help to define a space and reduce the need for smaller, decorative items that may cause clutter. Design a happier home by making the most of the soothing effect of symmetry and vignettes. 3. Add white to make the space feel relaxed Leaving your walls white will automatically make the space seem bigger and brighter. You can then accessorise using a colour palette of choice, enhancing the look and feel. 4 Be mindful about materials - There are various types of wood and modified boards available, but be selective when choosing what material to go for. Not all will be able to give you the desired finish, look and feel. 5. Personal touch - Your home should be unique to you. Decorate your space highlighting mementos, pictures and other items that are of value and sentiment to you.

Full service citizenship & residency advisory firm Bridgeway Trust is part of the Betterhomes Group, established in 1986 and known throughout the UAE for professionalism, ethics and service. Our customer-centric international advisors have an unrivalled knowledge of the diverse options available for citizenship and residency by investment, with over 10 years of experience in the field. We understand that a second passport or residency allows you to create the life you and your family deserve. Whether you are looking to expand business in the UK or secure a better future for your family, Bridgeway Trust will help you become a global citizen.

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HOT

Three leading agents at Betterhomes give us an exclusive look at a selection of the best homes for sale in the neighbourhoods they know and love

PROPERTIES Meet the agents Samson Olagunju

Reem & Dubailand “I have the tenacity,

passion, and motivation to provide clients with

what they need, which is an excellent service. I’m very reliable, and

trustworthy, with lots of

knowledge of the market,

so you always know what you’re getting with me.”

Tommy Burden

Palm Jumeirah & The Lakes

“I would hope my clients describe me as a

handsome Swedish guy who knows what he’s

doing. If you appreciate a ‘straight shooter’ who

can give you honest advice based on great area knowledge, and want to deal with a professional

broker with a proven record of happy buyers and sellers in this competitive market, get in touch!”

Maria Joao Beires Abu Dhabi

“With my years of

dedicated experience in

this job, specifically in Abu

Dhabi, I can proudly guide and support any buyer

that is looking to purchase

a property. My professional attitude means I can make the process a very simple

one, so finding your dream home is stress free.”

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View more listings at bhomes.com

My top picks in

Palm Jumeirah & The Lakes To find out more about these homes, call me on 058 503 9020

EXCLUSIVE TO BETTERHOMES

AED3.8million

AL HASEER, PALM JUMEIRAH

This large apartment is situated on a high

floor with panoramic sea views and of the

Burj Al Arab. It’s been newly upgraded with

white ceramic flooring and bathrooms. Sold as vacant on transfer with the option of

buying the furniture. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-54882 RERA Permit No. 6714996100 Bed: 2 Bath: 3

Parking: 1 Size: 1,994sqft

AED30million

GARDEN HOMES FROND N, PALM JUMEIRAH A hidden gem on frond N, this newly

built villa has stunning views over Dubai Marina. The infinity pool and sunken seating area means there’s a true

indoor-outdoor living experience which

is ideal for hosting. The house also comes with a wet and dry kitchen. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-175049 Bed: 5 Bath: 5

Parking: 2 Size: 5,000sqft

True indooroutdoor living which is ideal for hosting

EXCLUSIVE TO BETTERHOMES

AED17.2million

HATTAN 2, THE LAKES

Sat on a large plot, in arguably one of the best locations in The Lakes, with

views over the lake and Emirates Golf Course. The villa has been extended

on the ground floor, and a swimming pool has been added. To find out

more, call me quoting the reference

code BHM-S-1723821 RERA Permit No.

6597369000 Bed: 6 Bath: 6 Parking: 2

Size: 11,100sqft

blivinguae.com | 51

EXCLUSIVE TO BETTERHOMES

AED11million

BEACH VILLAS, AL RAHA BEACH Ideal for family living, this large villa has its own swimming pool, huge walk-

in wardrobe and a generous layout. Looking out to the beach, you’ll find

plenty of ways to spend time outdoors whilst living here. To find out more,

call me quoting the reference code

BHM-S-97603 Bed: 5 Bath: 5 Parking: 2

Size: 10084sqft

My top picks in

Abu Dhabi

If you’d like to view any of these properties in the Captial call me on 052 651 5127

EXCLUSIVE TO BETTERHOMES

AED7million

PODIUM VILLAS, AL RAHA BEACH This gorgeous podium villa comes with a

private swimming pool and large terrace.

Edgy in design, think full glass windows and

staircases, this contemporary villa looks the part. Located right on the golden sands of Al Raha Beach, you’ll be waking up to sea

views. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-13311 Bed: 4 Bath: 5

Parking: 2 Size: 8,449sqft

AED7million

BEACH VILLAS, AL RAHA BEACH There are a few drawcards for this villa, firstly its stunning beach location, then

its modern design and finally the interior layout. With unobstructed views from

the terrace, this property would make the perfect party pad in the country’s vibrant capital city. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-176568 Bed: 5

Bath: 6 Parking: 2 Size: 9723sqft

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View more listings at bhomes.com

My top picks in

Dubailand & Reem

Interested to meet me and see these places? Call me on 058 584 5418 to discuss

AED2.2million

CASA DORA, SERENA

A Portuguese-style townhouse with ample space, this would make the perfect family

home. Located within a prestigious gated

community and close to the pool, with a leisure centre just a few minutes’ walk away, your kids

will love growing up here. To find out more, call

me quoting the reference code BHM-S-178888 RERA Permit No. 6533548179 Bed: 3 Bath: 4

Parking: 2 Size: 2,749sqft

AED2.4million MIRA 2, REEM

Overlooking the lovely Al Qudra tracks, this

end unit boasts a huge plot size that every family needs for alfresco fun. Its unique

design affords spacious comfort with a good living area, en-suite master bedroom and a

big kitchen. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-178600 RERA

Permit No. 6917127476 Bed: 3 Bath: 4 Parking:

2 Size: 2554sqft

Its unique design affords spacious comfort

AED2million

CASA VIVA, SERENA

Ideal for first-time buyers who are looking to settle into a villa, Serena has beautiful communal pools and parks. This home

is spacious, with three double bedrooms that have built-in wardrobes. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-178176 RERA Permit No.

6533570351 Bed: 3 Bath: 3 Parking: 2

Size: 1764sqft

blivinguae.com | 53

THE PLACE TO MOVE TO

PALM JUMEIRAH The city’s most glamorous answer to off-shore living

supermarket VIVA, or Spinneys. Since it’s inception in 2001, the Palm Jumeirah has been a coveted address for luxury purveyors. The iconic landmark island offers beachside living, world-famous hotels and fivestar entertainment options on your doorstep.

THE COMMUNITIES

Synonymous with luxury, the Palm Jumeirah’s 16 fronds cater to exclusive villas with private beaches, while it’s trunk and crescent is home to lowrise apartment buildings, hotels, and numerous dining options. The large villas along the fronds come with three to seven bedrooms and boast private

54 | bhomes.com

gardens. For apartments there are studios, right through to six-bedroom penthouses, so you’re sure to find something to suit.

SHOPS

Inside the island’s shopping centre Nakheel Mall, you’ll find shops such as Marks and Spencer, Virgin Megastore, and Waitrose and Partners. The Ripe Retail Pop-Up is here every weekend bringing with it a host of trinkets and food from local businesses. Along the trunk you’ll find a host of boutique shops including second-hand clothing store Thrift for Good and for the weekly food shop there’s a budget

THINGS TO DO

With restaurant destinations Club Vista Mare and The Pointe on your doorstep, you’ll never run out of places to be and delicious food to eat. Not to mention the fact that Palm Jumeirah is renowned for homing some of the best hotels in the world, with epic pools and spas to enjoy. Plus, there are two cinemas within Nakheel Mall and on The Pointe where you catch the latest blockbusters.

SCHOOLS

There are a few nurseries along the trunk, including Blossom Nursery and Redwood Montessori Nursery. For older kids, you’ve

area guide | PROPERTY

LET’S CRUNCH THE NUMBERS

Walkways and running tracks to explore Palm Jumeirah

Demand for rentals in 2021

got English curriculum Dubai College nearby in Al Sufouh, and Wellington International School just a short drive away.

TRANSPORT LINKS

A premier address, you’re just a few minutes’ drive from Dubai Marina and Dubai Media City, or a short drive to Madinat Jumeirah. There are good public transport links, including bus routes, the Palm Monorail, and taxis.

AVERAGE COST TO RENT A VILLA

2 BED AED 401,706 3 BED AED 748,556 4 BED AED 918,623

65% Change in house price over 2020

Club Vista Mare floating swimming pool

Meet the neighbours

Lyndsey Steven has lived on Palm Jumeirah for just over a year. “I have a beautiful ground floor apartment where the beach is my backyard. I can SUP every day, the facilities are fantastic, and I have wonderful neighbours. The only downside is feeling slightly resentful whenever I have to leave for work...”

HIGHEST APARTMENT SALE AED 72M

(4 BEDROOM, JULY ‘21)

MEDIAN APARTMENT PRICE AED2.9M CHANGE IN PRICE DURING 2020 34% bhomes.com | 55

DIGITAL | blivinguae.com

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