Betterliving Magazine - March/April Issue'21

March/April 2021

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The magazine of Betterhomes

THE GET INSPIRED

E U S S I

An eclectically-styled home on The Palm Jumeirah

YOUR GUIDE TO

SECOND HAND SHOPPING IN THE UAE

ORGANIC INTERIORS Embracing the natural world through design

Behind the doors of architect Praew Newman's Al Barari home

Welcome to the eco-issue It’s World Earth Day on April 22, and to get you in the eco-spirit, we’re exploring more sustainable ways of living. If you’re anything like us then you’ll be intrigued to discover some new ways you can shop for second hand homeware in the UAE (page 12), or to read expert advice on environmentally-friendly home upgrades (page 26). But if it’s organic design you want to see, architect Praew Newman’s home is a real showstopper (page 30), along with Cynthia Salloum’s natural-material-filled garden in JVT (page 38).

I hope the issue inspires you to make some eco-friendly swaps.

But whether that’s doing something as simple as opting for bees wax wraps for your sandwiches, or deciding to support more local businesses (page 5), it’s worth remembering that every little helps!

Sophia Dyer Deputy Editor Visit us at blivinguae.com and follow us on Instagram at @blivinguae

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welcome letter | CONTENTS

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Dubai Antiques

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

The Palm; ways to make your home more sustainable; inside Praew Newman’s eco-chic home in Al Barari; a A round-up of the latest interior design news, Bali-style garden in JVT; advice on designing a kid’s including what’s trending and our favourite local playroom, and a kitchen renovation for a top chef. homeware businesses.

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.

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Tel: +971 4 364 2876 Fax: +971 4 369 7494

INSPIRE

bhomes.com

12-48

MOVE

50-55

A guide to shopping second hand furniture in the Our agents show you their top properties on the UAE; how to master organic interior design; trend market. Plus, our guide to living in Dubai Investment inspiration from an eclectic-boho apartment on Park.

facebook.com/betterhomesuae @betterhomesuae @betterhomesuae linkedin.com/company/better-homes-llc

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This issue’s

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

Summer parasols

When Dubai-expat Chloe was looking for bohemian garden props, she noticed a gap in the UAE market for parasols. Finding a handmade parasol company in Bali, she set to work importing an item to Dubai – that’s when Desert Boho Designs was born. “I thought if I wanted one then surely everone else will, and they did – we sold out within four weeks!” says Chloe. “Our goal is for our parasols to bring joy to your day and to create a space to unwind under.”

Order on Instagram @desertbohodesigns

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Clay creations

BASED OUT OF HER HOME STUDIO IN DUBAI, SARAH ALLEN IS YOUR GO-TO FOR UNIQUE TABLEWARE. SELLING ONE-OF-A-KIND PIECES DIRECTLY FROM POTTERS WHEEL TO TABLE, HER CREATIONS ADD A UNIQUE TOUCH. @CLAYBYSARAHALLEN

trending | UPDATES

Wood and Fibre

My Backyard Chronicles

Homegrownhomeware

The UAE homeware scene is bursting with local talent and unique finds waiting to be discovered. Go small by checking out these independent businesses: Wood and Fibre (@wood_and_fiber) Fibre artist, Maria Popova, creates stunning mobiles and murals using natural materials and macramé methods.

My Backyard Chronicles (@mybackyardchronicles) Parents, Clara and Fadi, turned their passion for sustainability into an eco children’s toy business, stocking fully-functioning wooden cameras, bicycles and dolls.

Crochet Knit (@crochet.knit) Based in Abu Dhabi, Maryam Alameri crochets and knits baskets, toys, blankets and more. Plus, she takes commissions so you can design a personalised gift.

Wear The House (@wear_the_house) Quirky creative Jennifer Black sells her girly prints’ and kitsch cushions covers, with her recent Vintage Heritage collection including statement table linen, tea towels and napkins.

Crochet Knit

Wear The House

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UPDATES | trending

SLIDING DOORS

Installing a set of Oryx Doors is at the top of our renovation list, and if you’re environmentally conscious, it’s an upgrade you won’t want to let slide either. This is because along with shifting the design paradigm of your home, their Orgin Folding Sliding Doors are thermally-efficient, meaning you’ll likely notice a drop in AC usage – even more so if you opt to add argon-filled glass for greater thermal insulation. Manufactured in the UK, they are fitted with weather-tight seals that keep dust out, and come with a 10-year guarantee. oryxdoors.com

THERAPEUTIC OILS RUN OUT OF YOUR FAVOURITE OIL? FRENCH-BRAND PURESSENTIEL IS NOW AT LIFE PHARAMACY. THEIR PRODUCTS ARE MADE IN FRANCE, ARE 100% ECORESPONSIBLE AND AFFORDABLY PRICED. LIFEPHARMACY.COM 6 | blivinguae.com

Soften the blow

PROVIDING SOME LIGHT RELIEF, THESE ADORABLE THROW PILLOWS FROM BOKJA ARE HOT ON OUR RADAR. THE BEIRUT-BASED DESIGN STUDIO BREATHES CONTEMPORARY LIFE INTO TEXTILES. AVAILABLE AT O’DE ROSE.COM, DHS590

trending | UPDATES

Bathroom news

Sinks, bath tubs and everything in between

TECH-MARBLE Listen up lovers of all things marble, RAK Ceramics has just launched their new range of technical gres porcelain tiles that have a marble look and finish.

When it comes to tile durability, porcelain beats the rest. With its dense material and low-absorption rate, it is by far the most hard-wearing option on the market. The Tech-Marble range is available now. rakceramics.com

BATHROOM GOALS REALISED

BAGNODESIGN

During the lockdown of last year, influencer Carly Neave (@carlyneave) had her master bathroom renovated in this spa-like fashion.

The mum of one decided to deck the room out, tile to tap, in BAGNODESIGN by Sanipex Group. “For my forever bathroom, I wanted an industrial meets Scandi look,” the mum of one explains, “now the bathroom is my sacred place!”

ECO CLEAN AT MARKS & SPENCER For those looking to make eco-friendly cleaning swaps, British institution, Marks and Spencer, have launched a brand new homecare range with ingredients that are both kind to the environment and cruelty-free. Coming in 100 percent recycled packaging, the products are a guilt-free purchase and starting from Dhs9, a wallet-friendly one, too.

Plus, you can now shop all Marks & Spencer products on amazon.ae and on their own app. blivinguae.com | 7

UPDATES | trending

Kitchen news

The latest inspiration for the heart of your home

A bright idea

Known for their high-quality finishings and often fun accessorising, we’re drawing serious design inspiration from this Meadows villa designed by Smart Renovations.

“The family asked for a modern, tropical fusion,” explains Cinzia Tedeschi, their interior fitout consultant. The long breakfast bar was a result of the families desire to be able to enjoy breakfasts and dinners in the kitchen.

“They wanted a functional space that was also cool and sleek,” says Cinzia. We love the all-over white cabientry, with a pop of tropical wallpaper on the backsplash and juxtaposing technicolour bar stools. smartrenovations.ae

GRUBS UP! Attention busy mums: Sprout make and deliver wholesome homecooked meals for kids straight to your door. The plantbased meals (which rotate on a weekly rota) are nutritionally backed by science, so all you need to worry about is heating them up and washing out the pots ready for collection the next week – simple! sprout.ae

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A WHOLESOME CHOICE

BORN IN 2020, THE HARVEST IS A FAMILY-RUN, ONLINE GROCERY AND MEAL DELIVERY SERVICE WHICH AIMS TO PROVIDE HEALTHY, ECO-FRIENDLY FOOD. THEY SELL FRUIT, VEGETABLES AND PANTRY GOODS, PLUS HOMECOOKED MEALS LIKE THIS DELICIOUS FISH PIE. THEHARVEST.AE

wishlist | INSPIRATION

A cult-classic alternative to plastic bags

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On-our radar....

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ECO-FRIENDLY SWAPS

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It’s the small changes that add up, and by making more considered purchases, we can help reduce our waste. These planet-friendly products will up your eco-credentials, and save you some dirhams in the process too.

Clockwise from top left: 1 Little Brown Tote Bag, Dhs100, 2 Bloomingdale’s; Orginal Latte Keep Cup 8oz, Dhs55, The Green Eco-store; 3 Spiked Tutu 1L Opaque Ballet Pink, Dhs155, BKR; 4 Leopard Print Insulated Drinks Bottle, Dhs80, Joe Browns; 5 Bamboo Toothbrush, Dhs18, The Goodness Company; 6 Iluna candle, price upon request, Iluna Interiors; 7 Ecolunch 3-in-1 Classic Lunch Box, Dhs159, Eggs n Soldiers; 8 Bee My Wrap Beeswax Food Wrap, Dhs89, Eggs n Soldiers; 9 LOQI Frutti Apple Pouch, Dhs50, The Green Eco-Store

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Metal tiffin boxes keep your food hot for upto two hours blivinguae.com | 9

Happy home, happy heart Why we’re loving Homebox’s 2021 Ramadan collection

Milano Sky Massage Bathtub

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amadan is a time of consideration. Whether that be for dialling down the pace of daily life, or for spending more time with loved ones, this year it’s our homes that will provide the festive backdrop once again. And so, if like many of us, you’re wanting to elevate your home’s look ahead of the season but don’t want to break the bank, Homebox’s festive range has you covered.

The collection has three design suits, Calligraphy, Mashrabiya and Desert Life.

Each blends tradition with contemporary, chic design and starts from just Dhs4.

Carefully curated, the range titled Delightful Home, Joyful Hearts has a

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warm colour palette which is indicative of the cosy feelings and meaningful memories that come with the season.

There’s an array of golden lanterns, in every size, shape and design you can imagine. What we love most about them is that you can match them to fit your home’s unique style. Lighting up the season further, their range of candle holders is not to be missed. Traditional designs meet jewel-toned hues for an elegant addition to any table setting.

But it’s the range of lighting that’s really sparking joy for us. With bamboo floor lamps, string bulbs and decadent table lamps at amazingly low prices, they’re a sure-fire to bring warmth into the home.

If you’re planning on hosting a small iftar or suhoor, Homebox’s serve, drink and dinnerware set the tone for a special occasion. With the Mashrabiya table linen completing any spread, you’ll likely find, as we did, that you want to purchase a whole new set, and with prices like this – you can.

Perhaps, it’s your décor that you want to update? If so, the wall art and mirror collections add a fresh spin to any space with their bold, and distinctly Arabesque design. Plus, along with festivity, each piece has a unique design flair that will work far beyond in the season. And, as no Ramadan home upgrade would be

Wall art from Dhs15

Better Living x HOMEBOX

Home Décor from Dhs7

Console tables from Dhs259

complete without a smattering of decadent throw cushions to cosy up on, we’ve added a decent selection of the colourful pillows to our basket.

For those who want to invest in new living, dining and bedroom sets, there are a number of decadent limited-edition collections to browse.

While it’s hard to pick a favourite from their broad (and affordable) collection, we can’t help thinking that the luxurious taupe of the Annalisa sofa would make the perfect setting for a cosy Ramadan night at home.

The Ramadan catalogue is out now, you can shop the collection in-store and online at homeboxstores.com

Annalisa sofas from Dhs1,405

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INSPIRATION | home renovation John Lewis (johnlewis.com)

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sustainable shopping | INSPIRATION

Pre-loved furniture

Sustainable and chic, this is where to shop for second-hand homeware

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he benefits of shopping secondhand go far beyond saving you some dirhams. By purchasing pre-owned items, you’re actively voting for a cleaner environment by decreasing the demand for new items to be manufactured, and saving the ones that already exist from the landfill. Not only that, but saying goodbye to the high street adds design soul to a room, while some antiques can prove worthy investments.

The UAE – as a melting pot of cultures with a transient population – has an abundance of good quality second-hand items and antiques up for grabs. But where do you find them? Here are some of our favourite places to shop pre-loved homeware, online and in stores: Think Upcycle (thinkupcycle.ae) An online shop with a warehouse in Ajman selling pre-loved furniture items from a broad range of brands. Along with offering wallet-friendly prices, they have a free in-house reupholstering service so you can customise your finds. And for those looking to rehome goods, they offer a free collection service and a 20% commission on anything they sell.

Tamam Vintage (tamamvintage. com) Dubai-resident Mel sells beautiful Turkish and Persian rugs on her website, that range from 40-90 years of age.

Pretty Vintage Cups (prettyvintagecups.com)

Pretty Vintage Cups (prettyvintagecups.com) This website and Instagram page sells delicate English bone china that dates as far back as the 1800s and up until the 1960s.

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Images clockwise from left: Think Upcycle; Tamam Vintage; Think Upcycle

How to spot a geniune antique: For an item to be considered antique, it has to be at least 100 years old. Noor Pociute from Dubai Antiques (@dubai_antiques) shares her advice on securing the real deal THE MATERIAL Genuine European antiques are almost exclusively made of oak, mahogany, walnut, cherry or maple. So be suspicious if the item is made of plywood or particle board.

Remember, MDF was not produced until 1980.

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CHECK BEHIND 100 years ago, it was considered a waste to use expensive wood for parts that wouldn’t be seen, so you’ll find that antique items have a cheaper wood at the back, with the high-quality material on show.

HARDWARE Joints and screws were all hand-cut until the early 1900s, so you should expect to see rough, uneven hinges.

Most of the time, the wider and less delicate the joint, the older the piece. You’ll almost never find two

identical looking screws in one item of furniture.

PRE-LOVED Many buyers complain that the item looks “used”.

However, unless the item was forgotten somewhere for 100 years, if it’s the real-deal, it is going to show signs of wear. Look for pieces that are slightly misshapen, as over time wood shrinks along the grain.

HAND-MADE A tell-tale sign of authenticity is when an item has been handmade.

Run your hand along the surface to check how smooth it is, you can then determine whether it was sanded by hand or by a machine. If the item has been veneered (panelled), you should be looking at a much thicker veneer layer, as opposed to a thinner, machine-cut one.

SMELL A fail-safe way to identify a piece as antique is its smell. There is a distinct odour that comes with age, and this is something that cannot be replicated.

sustainable shopping | INSPIRATION

The Original Genuine Pre-Loved Luxury Furniture and Home Décor ™ Facebook group Over 24,000 style-mavens flock here to buy and sell secondhand high-end furniture and accessories – at a fraction of the original cost. Each post is vetted by the group’s owner so you know you’re getting authentic, good quality pieces here.

IKEA Used Furniture Dubai, UAE No prizes for guessing that this group buys and sells pre-owned IKEA furniture for really low prices.

Dubizzle (dubizzle.com) The UAE’s answer to eBay, you’ll find everything and anything in the classifieds of this website, as people list their home’s contents before relocating.

Antika (antikadubai.com) This Times Square concept store sources pre-owned furniture from the Rajasthani and Gujarati regions of India. You can find a variety of oneoff pieces, including ‘curiosities’ and items made from recycled wood.

Zinjaar Vintage (zinjaar.com) This sustainable home furnishing boutique specialises in one-of-akind vintage pieces and antiques, as well as new items. They also offer

a repair and restoration service where their team of experts breathe new life into existing pieces.

Lucky Furniture & Handicrafts (luckyfurnitureae.com) Established in 1985, Lucky Furniture & Handicrafts is a veritable institute when it comes to home furnishings.

As well as selling handcrafted wood furniture, they also source antique pieces from around the world.

HOW TO SHOP FACEBOOK Gail Thompson, owner of The Original Genuine Pre-Loved Luxury Furniture and Home Décor ™, shares her tips on buying secondhand online:

Daos Den Furniture (daosden.com) Oriental antique specialists, this online store stocks unique, authentic pieces sourced from all over China.

From dressers to framed Chinoiserie wallpaper, there’s a range of items each with eye-catching detail.

Act fast. Don’t linger if you’ve spotted something you like – it’s not fair to expect the seller to hold items for you. Remember it’s a buyer’s market, so be quick and be decisive.

French Treasure Box (@frenchtreasure) An Instagram page that sources vintage French-style furniture. Owner, Sophie Walsh, restores the pieces and resells them to those with a penchant for elegant design.

Get a fair price by browsing similar items.

Check that the item you want has been priced fairly by running a search on that brand or of similar items in the group. If it’s a great item in good condition but has claimed little to no interest, it’s likely that it has been priced too highly.

Dubai Antiques (@dubai_antiques) A ‘virtual showroom’ on Instagram of genuine European-sourced furniture. There’s a large selection of pieces from various eras and styles to suit multiple tastes.

Keep an open mind. When shopping for second-hand online, you can never be certain of what you’ll find on any given day. If you’re unwilling to compromise on the piece you want you may never find it, so be open to possibilities.

Check the condition.

Before you part with your cash, give the item a good inspection, as once the transaction is completed, you have no recourse - all items are sold as seen.

Images: Left: Dubai Antiques, Right: Tamam Vintage

Purchase from reputable groups. All our sellers are vetted, and we are very selective with what is allowed to be sold in our group. I feel that’s the reason we have such a loyal following.

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INSPIRATION | design workshop

Kuky Design photographed by Natelee Cocks

How to master...

Organic Design

Home Centre The Bowery Company

Valentina Piscopo, founder and designer at KUKY Online Interior Design (kuky-design. com) explains the principles of a naturally formed look

ABOUT THE STYLE Starting as a reaction to the industrial age – which had celebrated machinemade furniture – the organic design movement saw a return to traditional handcrafts. Often combining neutral colour palettes to create calm, fresh and homely spaces, this style is modern living in its simplest form. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, it’s the materials that carry this look, along with a strong emphasis on the provenance of each piece.

THE OVERALL LOOK Using a neutral colour palette, its earthy aesthetic is both inviting and calm. With an emphasis on using purposeful furniture, along with a minimalist approach towards accessorising, an organically designed home is functional, but

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never overcrowded. Drawing inspiration from the natural world in either form or material, the style seeks to bring the outside, in.

HOW TO NAIL IT Don’t over clutter the room. Start planning the design of your space by selecting a few neutral hues to use as the main colours, while steering away from too many bold patterns and bright tones. Don’t shop for bulky furniture with harsh lines. Instead, opt for pieces that are organic in shape; round shapes and arched curves are very on point right now!

Scenic views. If your home has garden or water views, opt for sheer curtains in the main living areas to allow plenty of natural light in. The vista will act as a natural feature of your organic space.

Read the label. Shop in places where you know the furniture is handmade and the artisans have been paid fair wages. The look is readily available from some of the big mainstream stores, however, the philosophy of this look is about supporting small businesses that value ethical trading.

From top: Barcus Table Lamp, Dhs188, Home Centre; Bonbonierre small glass jar, Dhs445, Helle Mardahl at MatchesFashion; Jolie Lantern, Dhs120, Anthropologie Home at Namshi; Vanessa Cushion lamp, Dhs295, Home & Soul at Kinzzi

A home full of life

How to craft an eclectic-bohemian design that echoes your personal style

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y definition, an eclectic home is sui generis. Drawing inspiration from a range of sources, the result should be a patchwork of objects, art and textiles curated with vision. One Dubai resident who knows a thing or two about crafting a space that feels distinctly personal, yet stylish, is Vanessa Ahmad (@myhomeindubai). Her apartment on Palm Jumeirah is a collection of objects sourced from around the world and displayed in a creative mélange. Here, Vanessa shares her tips for getting the eclectic look right: OBJECTS OF MEMORIES Each item in your home should fill you with pleasure and evoke memories. As a fond traveller, I always make a point of seeking out a piece that reminds me of that specific place. Whether that be an art piece or basket, it’s like bringing back a little treasure – one that I know I will cherish for years to come. Take your time to find the pieces you are passionate about, as this will help to create a curious space that tells a story.

A LAYERED LOOK Grouping is crucial when it comes to styling, so go for accessories that can be layered. When selecting objects, don’t be shy in experimenting with varying heights and shapes, but do keep the short items at the front of your display and the tall at the back.

ASYMMETRICAL DESIGN A perfectly balanced room lacks charm, so mix things up a little by choosing odd numbers and different sized items. For instance, don’t position your favourite vase in the middle of a shelf and leave it at that. Instead, try moving it to the side of a shelf – this will not only add an edge, but it will also give you the space to add a variety of other small, intriguing objects.

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trends | INSPIRATION

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GO VINTAGE Interior drama is found in fusing together the old and new. Over the years, I have collected things from car boot sales, eBay and charity shops. Vintage items have a unique texture and lustre that’s difficult for modern pieces to emulate. Try mixing them with your newer items. For example, I have an IKEA console table with clusters of vintage knick-knacks, which elevates the look. It’s the items you choose to decorate your furniture that really takes the design to the next level.

SOFT TEXTILES As a textile designer, I love being surrounded by striking, yet tactile objects. It’s true that not everything has to be the same – the fabric of your sofa, cushions and throws certainly don’t have to match. For an eclectic look, it’s a good idea to use different fabric finishes and hues. Although I do suggest you remain within one colour palette when doing so.

LONGEVITY IS KEY Interiors aren’t like fashion – pieces should stay with you for a long time. Personally, I don’t get rid of anything merely because the trend is over. Creating a bohemian home is to surround yourself with pieces that remind you of your life, long after the memories subside and colours begin to fade.

BOOK WORM Not only are books great to flick through, but they are also terrific to decorate with. I like to stack books in piles to create height on tables. You can create piles on the floor, using small objects and candles on top to give instant character. Make your shelves eye-catching by displaying the cover of a book or mixing in objects to break up the space.

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Vanessa Ahmad’s Palm Jumeirah apartment, photographs by Muthu Kumar

trends trend | INSPIRATION

BOTANICAL DREAMS Adding plants or flowers to a room (quite literally) breathes life and soul into it. The trick to making it look edgy is to cluster your smaller plants in odd numbers. When shopping for houseplants to complement your space, I can’t emphasise texture and variety enough, as it’s the variation that looks great when displayed in your home. blivinguae.com | 21

SHOP A ‘ PPY Introducing Danube Home’s mobile application that’s set to revolutionise the way you shop for homeware

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ot able to get to the mall but fancy refreshing your home décor? Danube Home’s new app means online shopping just got a whole lot easier. Allowing customers to browse their furniture catalogue from the comfort of their sofa, the Danube Home application – available in English and Arabic – means a new look is just a few clicks away.

For those in the market for a complete style over-haul, there are thousands of classic Danube Home items plus 200 new online exclusives to peruse from the palm of your hand. From sofas to bathroom sets and outdoor furniture, each item is clearly showcased with a picture, product description and price.

The broad range of items means you can quite literally kit out your home from top to bottom with everything you might need, and all without breaking the bank!

Seeking approval before you buy?

The handy arrow icon means you can directly share the item to your loved one (or decision maker) via WhatsApp, Pinterest, Twitter or Facebook.

Technology means the app is able to take the stress out of shopping.

With a two-step checkout process and customer service team on call, Milano Sky Massage Bathtub with any or WhatsApp to support questions or concerns, you’re able to focus on the important stuff – like nailing that mid-century style you’ve always wanted. And once you’ve spent some time browsing, AI technology provides a boutique service, recommending products personalised to you.

A budget friendly choice, Danube Home’s range of items are always affordable and often have special offers which are easily seen on the home screen of the application.

Excitingly, Danube Home is offering Dhs100 off your first purchase made through the app (on orders of over Dhs500). Plus, an additional 5% off orders above Dhs1999 and 48 hours delivery. ‘Appy shopping!

Available to download on Android and IOS via the app store.

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Better Living x DANUBE HOME Better Living x DANUBE HOME

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A SK THE EXPERT

How do I figure out my personal decorating style?

Senior Operations Manager for Home Furnishings at Alshaya - responsible for Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, West Elm, and Williams Sonoma Joshua Placer shares his advice for finding a look that speaks to you Do some homework. Use one of the many digital platforms (Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube) at your fingertips, or visit local homeware stores. As you peruse these platforms or visit stores, you will begin to see items, furniture, colours, and themes that speak to you. Take this inspiration and use it as a spring board to design your space.

Be you. Your home’s style should be a reflection of your personality. Creating a space that pays heedance to your individual taste evokes a feeling of comfort and connection – which is important in your home environment. My advice is to select furniture, objects and artworks that make you feel good, as they will make your house a home.

Consider building your home around your sentimental items. Many of our clients use family heirlooms, collectables, or souvenirs as a starting point when crafting their space. Emotional connections and memories can be a great way to guide your style direction. But don’t be afraid to take items that you love and update them to better fit the time.

Reupholster, refinish, or repaint furniture, add new chairs to your dining table or style an old chair with new throws.

The style needs to flow, particularly if your home has an open floorplan. If there are segmented spaces it’s possible to create a different look for each space, but if you do craft a style harmony across your entire home, you’ll find that it provides a feeling of calm, even if you’ve chosen bold options or muted tones.

Find a focal point, and if you don’t have one, create one.

A central point helps to build the foundation and will guide the size and scale of your core pieces of furntiure – sofa, chairs, dining, bed, etc. Many of our foundation pieces are neutrals or greys, which makes choosing accessories and colourways far easier and flexible as your style adapts. Our clients often start with a particular colour palette, which acts as a foundation.

Our brands each have their own style and design footprint; however, they are inter-mixable, which means they have the possibility to create an exciting style statement when combined. Each of our stores adapts to different styles and change, whilst keeping their individual identities that work for different people. Pottery Barn, for instance, is one of our oldest brands and was traditionally for a more mature demographic, but now they’re broadening to a younger crowd who want that oversized, high-quality comfort. West Elm has a diverse customer mixing, with many living in apartments, as the size and scale of the furniture leans towards a smaller-format home. And new to the UAE, Williams Sonoma Home is a high-quality, high-style brand catered to a larger home.

If you’re passionate about sustainability, bring this into your design. Our brands are committed to making sustainable products accessible - not only in the materials but also by fostering a fair working relationships with the artisans that create so many of our pieces. When you are decorating your home, look for logos that tell you how sustainable the products are, such as “organic” and “fair trade”. We are proud of our commitment to using organic cotton across all of our brands for the majority of our textiles, which helps reduce water usage. Plus, we consistently seek even more sustainable fabrics that can be used as alternatives, such as our Tencel Bedding that is made from eucalyptus trees.

If you really need some guidance, call in the professionals. Our design specialists offer a free at-home consultation. Many clients want their space to look just like our catalogue or website, so we have a team of experts on hand to help turn these dreams into a reality. Plus, our Design Crew can help you achieve an on-brand look while adapting to your style. Even if you’re not sure what that is yet, their probing questions will soon have it sussed out.

A central point helps to build the foundation and will guide the size and scale of your core pieces of furniture 24 | blivinguae.com

expert advice | INSPIRATION

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Sustainable living Do your bit for the planet by implementing these simple tips from Sarah Siblini at The Green Switch UAE (@thegreenswitchuae)

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CONSIDER INVESTING IN SOME WEATHER RESISTANT UPVC WINDOWS AND DOORS. THEY’RE DESIGNED TO KEEP THE COOL AIR IN, WHILE SHUTTING THE HEAT OUT, WHICH MAKES YOUR HOME MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT YEAR-ROUND. LOCAL COMPANIES LIKE ZEALCON (ZEALCON. AE) AND EUWIN (EUWIN-UAE.COM) WILL RECOMMEND THE RIGHT PRODUCT FOR YOUR HOME AND INSTALL THEM AS PART OF THE PACKAGE.

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eco-friendly home | INSPIRATION

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SWAP OUT YOUR LIGHT BULBS WITH LED ALTERNATIVES. THE SWITCH CAN SAVE YOU UP TO 80% IN ENERGY CONSUMPTION. PLUS, THEY HAVE A LONGER LIFESPAN THAN TRADITIONAL BULBS, SO YOU’LL END UP SAVING MONEY IN THE LONG RUN.

DFS (dfs.co.uk)

3

Turn off your appliances when not in use.

Everything from your T V to your phone chargers are energy vampires, sucking up precious energy even when they’re not in use.

Making a conscious decision to keep them off is simple, but highly effective. blivinguae.com | 27

4 The Good Karma Co. (hellogoodkarmaco.com)

SWITCH OUT YOUR LIQUID HAND SOAP AND SHOWER GEL FOR SOLID BAR SOAPS THAT ARE MADE WITH NATURAL INGREDIENTS AND ESSENTIAL OILS. YOUR SKIN WILL THANK YOU AND YOU’LL AVOID RELEASING CHEMICALS INTO THE WATERWAYS.

6

Banter Pants tote bag, GBP14.99 (approx Dhs76), GettingPersonal.co.uk

Nikki net fabric shopper, GBP7.50 (approx Dhs38) Oliver Bonas

Produce string bags, Dhs75, Eggs & Soldiers

AS ABU DHABI HAS ANNOUNCED THAT THEY WILL BE PHASING OUT DISPOSABLE PLASTIC BAGS THIS YEAR, GET AHEAD OF THE CURVE AND GRAB SOME FABRIC PRODUCE BAGS. THEY’RE A SWAP FOR ONE-USE FRUIT AND VEG PRODUCE BAGS. REMEMBER TO KEEP SOME IN THE CAR SO YOU’VE ALWAYS GOT THEM TO HAND.

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The Green Switch UAE

5

A tap aerator fits directly onto your kitchen and bathroom faucets to reduce the water flow rate. This means you’ll conserve energy and cut-down on water usage. Shifteco (shifteco.ae) have a selection of options that fit 90% of UA E taps.

7

WHEN WASHING YOUR CLOTHES, DO IT ON A COLD-CYCLE AND USE A LAUNDRY EGG THAT CONTAINS GENTLE MINERAL PELLETS. THEY ACT AS A CLEANING SUBSTANCE FOR UP TO 50 WASHES. BY DITCHING THE STANDARD DETERGENTS, YOU’RE PREVENTING CHEMICALS ENTERING THE WATER SYSTEM. EcoEgg Laundry Egg, Dhs70, Homesmiths

eco-friendly home | INSPIRATION

Full Circle cleaning products from Flip 19 (flip19.com)

8

Go green with your cleaning supplies.

There are a range of product lines that are made using sustainable manufacturing processes and that have naturally derived ingredients.

Scrubbers and sponges are often ladled with toxic materials, whereas their natural counterparts are made using biodegradable fabrics like wood and coconut hair.

9

IN THE KITCHEN, SWAP OUT YOUR SINGLE USE CLING FILM FOR SILICONE LIDS OR BEES WAX WRAPS. THEY KEEP FOOD FRESH, LAST FOR YEARS, AND CAN BE THROWN IN THE DISHWASHER FOR A QUICK WASH. Silicone zip bag saver set, Dhs160, The Good Karma Co; Reusable Food Sandwich Bee’s Wrap, GBP12 (approx Dhs61), National Trust

Quooker (quooker.ae)

10

INSTALL A WATER FILTER AND SAY GOODBYE TO PLASTIC BOTTLES FOREVER. PLASTIC IS NOT ONLY BAD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, BUT THE CHEMICALS ALSO LEAK INTO THE WATER YOU’RE DRINKING. MANY COMPANIES OFFER WATER FILTRATION SYSTEMS NOW, SUCH AS QUOOKER (QUOOKER.AE), SO SAFE WATER TECHNOLOGIES, LIQUID OF LIFE AND NO MORE BOTTLES.

blivinguae.com | 29

at home with | INSPIRATION

WOODEN BALCONY FURNITURE PROVIDES OPPORTUNITY FOR ALFRESCO RELAXATION

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Inside Praew and Gareth Newman’s one-bedroom apartment in Al Barari

blivinguae.com | 31

A NEUTRAL PALETTE SETS THE EARTHY TONE OF PRAEW’S NATURE-INSPIRED HOME

T

hose who have made it past the gates of the exclusive residential community, Al Barari, or perhaps to The Farm (its health-focused restaurant) will know that the eco-friendly development boasts more than just dashingly good looks. There’s a soul to the place that’s almost certainly breathed into the 15.3 million-square foot area by the verdant nature that covers such a large expanse of it – 60 per cent to be exact. Aptly named after the Arabic word for ‘wilderness’ there’s an otherworldly, almost sci-fi-like

32 | blivinguae.com

feeling to this community, with übermodern architecture amassed by a host of unusual plants and uncommon flowers. This is where the design story of Praew and Gareth Newman’s home begins.

“As an architect, it’s very important for me to reflect the area I’m living in within my design,” Praew (@designerwifey) explains, her eyelashes elegantly fluttering down. Looking across the open plan living space, it’s inarguable that she has created an affinity with the community. A throng of green potted plants ensure flow

at home with | INSPIRATION

It’s very important for me to reflect the area I’m living in with my design

blivinguae.com | 33

from the trees outside through floorto-ceiling windows, while the use of natural fabrics echo organic patterns.

“I design with a sense of place,” she explains. “For me, it’s not just about styling, but instead about understanding the space. When approaching this room I started by noticing the breeze and how the sunlight hits the room. I wanted to celebrate the light and incorporate nature into the apartment.”

Her leaning for organics is a multisensory one, with geranium, peppermint and lavender oil filling the air, while homegrown mint flavours the jug of water.

Originally from Thailand, Praew studied architecture in London before moving back to Asia to start her own firm, Vive Design Studio – which she now works for remotely. It was in Bangkok that she met her English husband, Gareth, who was positioned there for the British Council. In 2019, three weeks after the couple married, they moved to Dubai. “We’d never been here, but we decided to embark on the

34 | blivinguae.com

adventure together,” smiles Praew.

Initially moving to Downtown Dubai, the newlyweds settled into life in the UAE among the city’s lights before deciding to move to Al Barari. “After our old apartment was flooded, we decided to reassess what matters to us and where we wanted to live. We did a SWOT analysis on many different areas but found the most joy within this community,” the architect turned homemaker explains.

Moving just before the pandemic set in last year, the couple remark on the lucky timing of the relocation to Al Barari. “COVID-19 made us realise what is important and reflect on what we wanted to keep, and what we didn’t,” Praew, wearing a linen dress from sustainable fashion brand Pour Les Femmes, remarks. “We’re both very into the spark joy, Marie Kondo movement, so we don’t collect a lot of things, except records!” Praew laughs.

Aside from Gareth’s music collection, the couple only brought with them the two peacock chairs that sit facing the window. “I had these chairs handmade

at home with | INSPIRATION

PRAEW FREQUENTS AL WARSAN NURSERY IN SHARJAH TO SOURCE PLANTS FOR HER LEAFY COLLECTION

COV I D-19 made us realise what’s important and reflect on what we wanted to keep

blivinguae.com | 35

I select things that age gracefully and that create beauty through time; Wabi-Sabi it’s called in Japanese...

in Bangkok for our wedding,” says Praew, “I had a thought to bring them with us. It’s a way of expressing my kind of sustainable living. I believe that to mean a harmony with nature, and an intention to repurpose and reuse things as much as possible. A lot of items you see in my home were bought secondhand. The coffee table was a Dubizzle find,” says Praew, placing her mug of English breakfast tea down on a coaster. “I select things that age gracefully, and that create beauty through time; Wabi-Sabi, it’s called in Japanese.”

The abundance of plants and heavy use of natural fabrics in the space work with Praew’s design manifesto to create, not just Wabi-Sabi philosophy, but also a design aesthetic. “The flat is growing with us,” says the creative when talking about her plant collection. “We keep adding more and learning how to care for the ones we have, moving them around and finding where they thrive.

The whole process really brings us joy.

It’s an inspiring experience, and one that gives me a great sense of hope for the future,” she concludes poetically.

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at home with | INSPIRATION

Bone picture frame, Dhs160, Kinzzi.com

Drinks trolley, Dhs2,650, TRIBE at Bloomingdale’s Home

Green or blue detail cushion cover, Dhs175, Kinzzi

GET THE LOOK

Mold shape flower vase L, Dhs250, Ceramic jar M white speckled, HK Living available at Urban Nest

Pouffe, Dhs699, Zara Home

Round wooden chair, Dhs450 and New Nebo garden stool, Dhs195, Pan Emirates

USING WOOD OUTSIDE HELPS TO CREATE AN EFFORTLESS FLOW WITH THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

blivinguae.com | 37

INSPIRATION | home renovation

38 | blivinguae.com

Outdoor space | INSPIRATION

HOLIDAY HAVEN We look around interior stylist Cynthia Salloum’s light-hearted bohemian garden in Jumeirah Village Triangle

S

wapping a letter on her address, for Cynthia Salloum the move from JLT to JVT was all about the garden. “I wanted to experience the villa lifestyle, the peace of waking up to birds and greenery,” she explains. “Now, (two years later) when I sit here, I don’t feel like I’m in Dubai,” says Cynthia, with a genuine smile.

Originally from Lebanon, Cynthia and her husband Eddy moved to the Emirates six years ago. Working in luxury marketing and media for six years, it wasn’t until Scandi-designloving Cynthia moved into this two-bedroom villa that she discovered a passion for interior and exterior styling. “I’d been pinning ideas for my boho-chic dream home on Pinterest,” she explains, “I really took my time in furnishing the place.” Wanting to share her newfound passion, Cynthia set up her Instagram page White Haven Décor (@whitehavendecor), attracting a crowd – six thousand to be precise – of fellow boho-loving design enthusiasts. It was from her aesthetically pleasing grid that her styling business grew, organically.

“One of my neighbours reached out and asked me to do a room in her home. That’s when I really harnessed my eye for detail and knack for finding blivinguae.com | 39

INSPIRATION | outdoor space

great products online.” Now, Cynthia works full-time as a home stylist, transforming local homes and gardens with her hygge touch.

Two months after the pandemic hit, Cynthia’s own garden was treated to the same meticulous style planning that her interiors had benefitted from. “We wanted to create an escape,” she explains, “a little resort within our four-walls.” Starting the project, Eddy set to work creating his dream holiday-style decking, “I’m lucky I have a handy husband,” laughs Cynthia. “He designed all the woodwork himself.” As they are renting, the couple decided to build around their Intex pool, rather than digging into the ground, which in turn

created a high deck area – ideal for lazy Saturdays by the pool.

Once Eddy had finished with the woodwork, Cynthia set to work on the styling. “I went for a Mykonos/ Bali vibe,” she explains, “although, I sourced a lot of pieces from my home country too.” A purveyor of unique furnishings and accessories, Cynthia takes supporting small business seriously. “I love to incorporate handmade products,” she explains.

“Bound No. 82 is one of my favourites, as is Beldi Bazaar, which stocks Moroccan brands. I wanted to create a continuation of style from the inside of my home – which uses a neutral colour palette – to craft a haven-like feel.”

With an onus on natural fabrics, the

A TIKI BAR ECHOES THE COUPLE’S LIGHT-HEARTED AND FUN LOVING NATURE garden is a mix of Bali-esque furniture and quirky accessories – which do well to encapsulate the couple’s love for entertaining. “We’re Lebanese, so it’s in our blood to have people over for good food and drinks,” the stylist explains when talking about how they like to use their garden. And seeing as both Cynthia and Eddy are particularly warm, it’s obvious that the post-pandemic garden parties here are going to be memorable.

In the meantime, the garden is used for spending quality time as a family. The young couple share their home with fluffy cat Bella, while their garden is frequented by a visiting stray cat – affectionately named Gypsy. “When I sit here,” says Cynthia, looking across her garden, “and consider all the stress we’ve all been through this past year, I feel blessed to be alive.”

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INSPIRATION | home renovation

HANDMADE

BY EDDY, THE LADDER WAS A GIFT TO HIS WIFE

“I wanted to create a flow of style from the inside of my home, so that it gives a haven-like feel”

blivinguae.com | 41

C’est Ici

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playroom | INSPIRATION

Let us play

Be the coolest mum on the block by creating a fun, yet functional playroom for your kids A well-designed playroom has the potential to answer many a modernday parenting woe. From reducing the risk of your child turning into an iPadcrazed version of Mike TV from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, to having uninterrupted Zoom meetings, or, simply just facilitating a moment alone with your cup of coffee, playrooms are happening.

Design

“Playrooms can be quite the expense, so it’s important that you plan carefully to avoid quick expiration,” says Nathalie Khouri from The Cozy Interiors (@ thecozyinteriors). “A fun playroom is not about how many toys the child has, but how well-thought out it is. It needs to be a sensory space where the child can feel safe, play, create, and explore,” says Ibtihal Abu Jarad from Dazzling Designs (@dazzlingdesignsme). Capturing your little one’s attention is key – do this by incorporating a range of play opportunities. Adding a small table to the

centre of the room is great for table-top activities, and a small world area with dolls and cars makes for creative play.

Flooring

“Wooden floors are good as they’re easy to clean and add a style element to the space,” says Kenza Bekri from Luxury Spaces by Kenza (@dubai_luxury_hunters_ home). “I like to add a soft moquette on top to keep the room cosy.” When using rugs on top of slippery surfaces such has tiles, Anu advises, “using a non-slip underlay means the carpet will stay firmly put.” If you’re planning on putting in a climbing frame, cushioned flooring is a must.

Decide on the layout

Start by assessing the floorplan of the space and determining what you’ll place where. “Divide the room into zones for different types of play,” advises Houda Al Ayleh from Espace Perdu (@espaceperdu).

“Leaving plenty of floor space is one of the most important factors when thinking about your layout,” says interior designer, Anu Kewalram (@akewalram). Though Dazzling Designs

Tip

“CHECK OUT LOCAL GARAGE SALES OR SECOND-HAND MARKETPLACES ONLINE. YOU CAN FIND SOME GREAT DEALS AND PLAYROOM GEMS!” SAYS NATHALIE.

blivinguae.com | 43

Espace Perdu

Tip

“KEEP THE WHOLE ROOM OR AT LEAST A SMALL ASPECT OF IT AS A SURPRISE FOR YOUR CHILD – THEIR REACTION WILL MAKE ALL THE EFFORT WORTH IT,” SAYS HOUDA.

Nathalie says your blueprint should consider the total area, “If you’re working in a small room, maximise the room for play by using the vertical space with climbing structures.”

Create zones

“Make dedicated play areas that maximise space, while leaving room to play,” says Monica Arango from C’est Ici (@cestici_).

When you’re deciding on the different zones to include, “be guided by your child’s interests and natural inclinations,” says Ibtihal. “An art area is best created against the wall,” says Anu, “then you can use wall-mounted shelves above the table and keep the messy play items out of reach.” Nurture little bookworms by creating a cosy book corner, “consider adding a book ledge, a cosy rug and some floor cushions, or for a hide-out feel use a tepee,” says Anu.

A Montessori look

The Montessori method was developed to encourage children’s independence, so when designing with this in mind, you want to keep everything accessible. “Think low,” advises Houda, “all the furniture should be child-sized, and toys should be stored for easy access.” Keeping it simple is key, “select just a few activity areas or items to be on display so that your child doesn’t feel overwhelmed,” says Shereen Hindia from SHE Designs (@she.designs. interiors). “Playrooms that are neutral in colour, or use natural tones are atypical of the Montessori philosophy as they exude a sense of calm,” she adds.

Play area

If you’ve got space, investing in an indoor climbing frame is a great idea. Not only will it help your child build gross motor skills, but it also adds play variation– especially useful during the summer. “Be

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SHE Designs

playroom | INSPIRATION

The Cozy Interiors

careful when you hire someone to create a play area, as your kids will definitely test its strength!” warns Nathalie. “Hire a professional who has experience with climbing frames, as they’ll be sure to fence high areas, remove sharp edges, and create a soft-landing zone.”

Study space

With home schooling no longer an unconventional practice, having a dedicated learning space is key. “I place desks close to windows so that they benefit from natural light and a bit of scenery to cultivate the brain, says Ibithal. “Go for adjustable desks and chairs to allow them to grow with the child,” he adds. “Add shelves on top of the desk to store their books and a drawer unit under the desk for stationary,” says Houda.

C’est Ici

Storage

“Don’t get caught up in buying storage for items that your kids haven’t played with in years,” says Nathalie. “Before you purchase anything, it’s worth having a good sort out of all your child’s toys.” The type of storage you pick depends on your mess-management style. Those who are particularly tidy, “can have open shelves where they can see all the toys clearly and maintain the system, whereas others might prefer closed cabinets so that you can hide away any clutter,” says Houda.

“I recommend diversifying the types of storage,” says Ibithal. “For example, if I am creating a window seat, I add cupboards or drawers to hold board games, but I’ll also have open storage to display the children’s favourite items.”

TOY WITH THESE CUTE BUYS

Peace of mind

You’ll want to ensure the room is as safe as possible, especially if you’ve got younger children or multiple ages using the room.

“When making things childproof, you don’t have to compromise on the design,” says Ibithal, “choose good quality wooden furniture that’s both durable and stylish.”

“Where possible, mount the furniture onto the wall and select pieces that have been made especially for kids,” says Anu. “It’s also a good idea to put in motorised blinds to prevent accidents from dangling cords,” she adds.

Ziggy Zebra soft toy, Dhs99, Mamas & Papas at Bloomingdales

Monroe World Map, Dhs34, Homecentre

Rainbow Unicorn Picnic Tea Set, Dhs115, Namshi Tender Leaf dolls house, Dhs353, Amara.com Eames Elephant chair, Dhs299, Caramel and Sun blivinguae.com | 45

BLACK COUNTERTOPS ARE A HARDWEARING AND STYLISH CHOICE

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renovation | INSPIRATION

CHEF’S TABLE

How Nathalie from The Cozy Interiors crafted a stylish home for one of Dubai’s culinary creatives

S

ituated in the Sidra Community of Dubai Hills Estate is the family home of one of Dubai’s young and talented chefs. Upon purchasing the threebedroom house, he and his wife (with newborn baby in tow) sought a way to combine their style preferences. With her having a penchant for all things industrial, and him into transitional design, the job of marrying the two into a cohesive look was handed to Nathalie Khouri from The Cozy Interiors (thecozyinteriors.com). “The couple wanted their tastes to be combined and to make sure that the house had a warm, modern and charming feel,” explains Nathalie. “I practically lived with the couple in order to really understand their tastes,” the interior designer jokes.

First on the list of priorities was the flooring. “They knew from the beginning that swapping out the common UAE tile in favour of wood flooring was a must. And, rightfully so, they were not willing to compromise on the quality,” she explains. After much deliberation between styles and colours, they decided on a parquet from Swiss Oak Herringbone. Then in the kitchen, “to complement the wood, and add character, we installed ornate mosaic tiles.”

Naturally, the kitchen was the most important room of the entire house, so there was to be no expense spared here. “We opted for a Hacker kitchen, which is the best in the industry for their unique and state-of-the-art appliances.” Using black cabinets, the overall look is both

Before If you love Nathalie's approach to design, turn the page for her renovation tips –––➤ blivinguae.com | 47

INSPIRATION | renovation

sleek and striking - perfect for when the home-owner is cooking up a storm for guests or trailing new recipes on the family.

With a large portion of the budget going on the parquet floors and kitchen, Nathalie made smart choices in other areas of the home. “In the guest bathroom we used trendy wallpaper from PaperPop and added a cool mirror from ebarza Furniture.” Using her in-house carpenter, Nathalie made practical upgrades that would work for the busy family and add value. Under-stair storage and shelves in the kitchen are ideal for essential items.

For the finishing touches, the interior designer kept it simple,

THE VERDICT "Working with Nathalie was an absolute joy – it was such an amazing experience and we absolutely love the end result. She made our house into a home that represents our budding family.”

48 | blivinguae.com

Bring a trendy, yet clean edge to your home Nathalie Khouri talks shop on creating functional, clean and cool spaces that turn typical UAE-style villas on their head

achieving a clean and fresh finish.

“In the kitchen, the bar stools from Marina Home and light fixtures from Luxxe Lighting added character, while the chalk board is the perfect place for the chef to write his menu!” she animates. As the couple already had a solid collection of beautiful art from their years of travel, Nathalie was able to incorporate them into the design, adding a personal stamp. “The final look personifies the couple’s personalities,” she says, “it’s

1. Floors, floors floors. They literally transform a room. Many homes in the region come with lifeless beige tiles, but they don’t have to stay boring. The options are endless, from solid wood to engineered flooring options, there’s something to suit various budgets.

2. Don't comprise cost for quality. Know where to invest your money and where to save it. Phase your spending, but don’t phase the quality of items you purchase. Think of it as an investment, not an expense.

3. Realise the power of accessorising. Sometimes a vase full of flowers makes all the difference. I always budget for accessories when I design. Finding the right rug, getting a nice piece of art and buying the right cushions are the key to bringing it all together.

4 Instead of just painting a wall, make a feature out of it. I often have clients that fear colour or shy away from wallpaper. I challenge them to consider a wall with paneling or a fun pattern. Even if you feel more comfortable with neutral tones, dark walls might be a nice suprise.

5 Trust the process. Rarely are renovations flawless.

Every home (especially the older ones) will face a few hiccups during the renovation process. Trust that the professionals will solve it and don’t stress too much about it.

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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 Connor Manning

Dubai Hills Estate “My clients would describe me as

charming, hilarious

and good looking! On a

serious note, they would say I’m honest, friendly and customer service

focused. Search Better

Homes Motor City, check out the Google reviews, and look for my name.

I have a genuine interest in finding my clients the best home possible.”

Joana Barbosa Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi

“As an experienced agent, you can expect a reliable

service when working with

me. Based in Abu Dhabi, I am extremely hard working and love to go the extra mile for

my clients. Plus, I have a keen eye for detail that comes

in handy when finding the

perfect property and fulfilling a brief.”

Evelyn Pali

Dubai Marina, JBR and The Palm

“I am very familiar with Dubai, as I’ve been living here for 14 years now and even purchased my own property on

The Palm. Those who work with me would describe me as highly knowledgeable and prepared. I’m very tenacious

and never give up until I get the best deal for my clients. I

believe people should pick me as their agent because I am passionate, honest and straight forward.”

50 | blivinguae.com

View more listings at bhomes.com

My top picks in

Dubai Hills & JVC

If you’re looking for a new place to call home, call me on 058 562 6251

EXCLUSIVE TO BETTERHOMES

AED2.15million

ACACIA, DUBAI HILLS ESTATE

This apartment is a great investment.

One of only four of its kind, it has a large terrace with panoramic views over a

beautiful park. Plus, it’s been listed around 20% below the original price. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-173232 RERA Permit No. 7122111570 Bed: 2 Bath: 2.5

Parking: 1 Size: 2,068sqft

EXCLUSIVE TO BETTERHOMES

AED530,000

FORTUNATO, JVC

They don’t make ‘em like this anymore!

This 6-year-old duplex has a huge square footage and has been well maintained.

It’s a great purchase for investors, as

there’s a low service charge (around

Dhs9k) and expected rental of Dhs45k.

To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-175150 RERA

Permit No. 7116010618 Bed: 1 Bath: 1.5

Parking: 1 Size: 1,102sqft

They don’t make them like this anymore!

AED3.45million

SIDRA VILLAS Iii, DUBAI HILLS ESTATE This brand new three-bedroom

independent villa in Sidra community

comes with one year of full maintenance from Emaar. It’s close to a pool and

has a real community feel. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-175499 RERA Permit No.

65102647974 Bed: 3 Bath: 2.5 Parking: 4

Size: 3,102sqft

blivinguae.com | 51

AED5.195million

THE RESIDENCES, JLT

Situated in The Residences, on the

upper floor of the TAJ Hotel, this opulent apartment has amazing views over

Dubai. Plus, you get all the benefits of

living in a hotel, think 24-hour concierge, spa and yoga studio. To find out

more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-171335 RERA Permit No.

7149495265 Bed: 3 Bath: 4 Parking: 2

Size: 3,137sqft

My top picks in

JLT, Dubai Marina & Jumeirah Golf Estates Feel free to call me on 050 453 9910

AED1.635million

AL ANDALUS, JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

A new three-bedroom apartment with a full golf course view, this is a highly desirable place to live. All the bedrooms are en-

suite and there are two balconies to enjoy.

To find out more, call me quoting the

reference code BHM-S-173433 RERA Permit No. 0627849376 Bed: 3 Bath: 4

Size: 1,808sqft

AED2.383million

Damac Heights, Dubai Marina With uninterrupted views over the

Arabian Gulf, this 37th-floor apartment is ready and waiting to become your

(not so humble) abode. To buy here is

to invest in a dream lifestyle that feels

great. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-174825 RERA Permit No. 766089361 Bed: 2 Bath: 2

Parking: 1

Size: 1,687sqft

52 | blivinguae.com

View more listings at bhomes.com

My top picks in

Abu Dhabi

To look around these exceptionally good homes, call me on 050 910 6126

AED20million

SAADIYAT BEACH VILLAS, SAADIYAT ISLAND

Located in one of Abu Dhabi’s most

sought after communities, the island has world renowned hotels, museums and

golf courses. This huge villa is the perfect backdrop for family living. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-174127 Bed: 5 Bath: 8

Parking: 1 Size: 25,000sqft

AED3.4million

AL ZEINA, RESIDENTIAL TOWER C, AL RAHA BEACH One of 22 towers close to the water,

you’ve got views aplenty here. Al Zeina is known for its high-quality finishings,

with fully-fitted Bosch appliances and

solid wood doors setting a luxury tone.

Underground parking is another bonus.

To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-171919 Bed: 3

Bath: 4 Parking: 2 Size: 4,055sqft

Al Zeina is known for its high-quality finishings

AED1.55million

AL ZEINA, RESIDENTIAL TOWER A, AL RAHA BEACH With a tenant already living here, this

is a great investment for those looking

for a rental income. It’s a very well-sized

apartment, and I’d highly reccomend you viewing it in person to get a real idea of how lovely this property is.

To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-127242

Bed: 2 Bath: 2 Parking: 1 Size: 2460sqft

blivinguae.com | 53

THE PLACE TO MOVE TO

DUBAI INVESTMENT PARK Outside the hub of the city sits a self-contained community perfect for family living

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD IN A NUTSHELL

This well-designed community sits beside Jebel Ali Industrial Area, where it provides an answer to open family living. With a range of freehold villas, townhouses and apartments situated within spacious

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sub-communities, there’s plenty of room to move around here. And with a dedication to providing landscaped greenery, you’ll enjoy the view as you do.

THE COMMUNITIES

There are six main communities within DIP, some of which are yet to be completed. The long established, Green Community comprises family-friendly villas and, large – you guessed it – green spaces. Its subcommunity, Green Community West, has several apartment blocks, as does the Ritaj buildings and Dunes Village. Ewan Residence is a gated, low-rise community of apartment blocks favoured by families. Under

development, The Palisades will feature apartments, townhouses, and a number of exclusive villas.

SHOPS

Situated within Green Community, you’ve got The Market, which homes a range of shops, restaurants and a large Choithrams. Smaller centre Souq Extra has your essentials – pharmacy, salon, and dry cleaning.

And expat favourite Park and Shop has a large branch here, where it stocks your favourite products from back home.

THINGS TO DO

Each community has a range of leisure facilities, some of which

*For a three-bedroom apartment

Spanning 2,300 hectares, Dubai Investment Park (DIP) combines industrial, commercial and residential properties in a selfcontained community. Carefully planned, the area is known for its environmentally-considered buildings, affordable pricing, and a wide variety of living options and convenient amenities.

area guide | PROPERTY

LET’S CRUNCH THE NUMBERS

6.25%

Dubai Investment Park walkway

include swimming pools, tennis courts and fitness clubs. Residents can spend their free time walking around the manicured communities, or dining in one of the local restaurants, such as Italian favourite Oregano. Jebel Ali Recreation Ground is just a 14-minute drive away, which boasts a dine-in cinema, sports club and licensed restaurants.

SCHOOLS

Located in DIP, you’ve got Greenfield International School, which follows the IB curriculum from Pre-K to Grade 12. For those after the British system, Dovecote Green Primary School sits within The Green Community. While for little ones, Chubby Cheeks nursery is on your doorstep, catering to children aged 45 days to 4 years.

TRANSPORT LINKS

Oregano at Dubai Investment Park

Car is your best mode of transport here, with a 20-minute drive along the E11 taking you to Dubai Marina, while Al Khail Road will have you in Downtown Dubai in 30 minutes. For those who don’t drive, there are a number of RTA bus routes running through the communities which can link you up to a metro station.

Meet the neighbours

Sales price increase on villa and townhouses from 2019 to 2020 AVERAGE COST TO RENT A VILLA

1 BED AED 45,520 2 BED AED 71,254 3 BED AED 123,973

24%

Decrease in rental rates on apartments from 2019 to 2020

HIGHEST APARTMENT PRICED SALE

AED 3.033M (3 BEDROOMS) Roxanne Brouillet has lived in DIP for 12 years and in Green Community for the last MEDIAN APARTMENT PRICE* three. “No other residential community fares AED 3,051,500 in comparison, and you don’t feel like you’re in the desert here. The serene lush greenery, DECREASE IN sense of community, and location make it PRICE SINCE 2019 the ideal place to live. It’s close enough to the city, but far - 13.55% enough away from the hustle and bustle.” blivinguae.com | 55

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