Betterliving Magazine - March/April Issue'22

Mar/Apr 2022

AED10

The magazine of Betterhomes

INSPIRATION

Show-stopping powder rooms

Spring trends to make a statement

WISHLIST

Designer homeware picks

HOW TO BUY AND SELL VINTAGE

Welcome to the

house of fun

Jennifer Black opens the doors to her style-inspired apartment in Al Barari

USING 50 YEARS OF HERITAGE RENOVATION EXPERIENCE, MARCO AND CINZIA WITH THEIR INTERNATIONAL TEAM REINVENT PROPERTIES Smart Renovation by Superior Living is one of the UAE’s leading renovation and project management companies.

A group of selected contractors, they’re equipped to take on projects of any size, from small-scale office makeovers to complete villa transformations. The company’s specialist team turnsdreams into reality – the smart way.

welcome letter | CONTENTS

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Colour combinations to boost your mood

Welcome to the issue

I often find there’s a correlation between people who dress well and people who have beautiful homes. Perhaps it’s their innate sense of style? Or their courage to express themselves outside of trends? Whatever it is, if you see someone with an amazing outfit it’s likely their home is particularly gorgeous too. As we’re exploring the link between style and interior design in this issue, it only felt right to meet Wear the House’s Jennifer Black at her fashion-driven home in Al Barari (page 30). We also share the designer homeware we’re coveting (page 11) and speak to local expert Natasha Fownes about how to shop vintage furniture in the UAE (page 22). I hope you enjoy flicking through the pages of this fashion-inspired Better Living and find some in-vogue ideas for your home - happy reading!

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

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what’s inside | CONTENTS

42

Ways to create a style statement in your powder room

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 home products we’re coveting.

INSPIRE

11-48

Ideas for streamlining your laundry room; spend a day with London-based tableware designer Yvonne Ellen; 7 spring trends to embrace in the

home; inside Jennifer Black’s granny chic apartment in Al Barari; a relaxing travel inspired garden in Arabian Ranches; expert advice on designing a show-stopping powder room; a complete family home renovation by Stephany Hanna

MOVE

50-55

Our agents show you their top properties on the market. Plus, our guide to luxury-living in Emirates Hills.

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

bhomes.com 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

More Maximalism

Embracing the ‘more is more’ mantra of maximalism, local homeware store Chattels & More has launched a collection of eclectic accessories. Not for the faint of heart, it includes such quirky figurines as the Shelf Moderna Solid Wood Metal bowing man (pictured right). For those who prefer to play it safe while adding colour, there is also a collection of vibrant prints that have been designed with fun in mind. To offset the accessories, the brand also sell mid-range priced furniture items. including L-shaped sofas, dining room tables, beds, and bars, which you can browse on their website (chattelsandmore.com) or in stores.

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trending | UPDATES

Roar Design’s space in Decentrland

ROAR JOINS METAVERSE RENOWNED ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIORS FIRM ROAR DESIGN HAS PURCHASED VIRTUAL LAND IN THE DECENTRLAND METAVERSE. THEY PLAN TO TURN IT INTO AN ART GALLERY, FURNITURE SHOWROOM AND EVENT SPACE. YOU CAN FOLLOW THE DEVELOPMENT ON THEIR INSTAGRAM PAGE: @ ROARMETASPACE

INTRODUCING KLEKKTIC

Entering the market at a time where the demand for customised furniture is high, UAE-helmed brand Klekktic has established itself as a high-quality furniture shop with a difference. Allowing customers to choose the upholstery on their item, and have it delivered within 3-4 weeks, speed and quality are key. The designs – created by local artisans – are trend-driven, while the prices are modest for the level of service you receive. Founder, Heba El Habashy, said: “I wanted to create something that was accessible, using the resources we have within the UAE to reduce the supply chain and delivery time.” Removing the middle man from the trade process, Klekktic takes items straight from the manufacturer, meaning there’s a reduction on the environmental impact and cost. The fabric choices are monitored for their quality, with petfriendly options available. You can view them in person at their Al Quoz showroom or browse on klekktic.com

Photos by Natelee Cocks

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ELEGANT BEDROOM RENOVATION

After being contacted by a female executive who had spent a lot of time at home during the pandemic and subsequently wanted a refresh, interior designer Sanya Kent (@ sanyakentdesign) set about creating a chic “multifunctional bedroom”.

Maintaining the home office and reading area that the client was keen to keep, Sanya used “healing tones of mint green with floral wall panels,” to create a relaxing yet practical space big on character. “I wanted to blend calm, inspiring and practical throughout the relatively small space,” Sanya told us.

We love the elegant colour palette and simple – yet quirky – accessories.

Before

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After

trending | UPDATES

MARBLE-ESQUE Looking for the perfect tabletop, kitchen counter or bathroom surface? Check out the ThroughBody Veining collection from RAK Ceramics. High-quality porcelain slabs, that have been designed to replicate natural marble, have veining running throughout – from body to base. Giving you a unique look, no two slabs are the same due to innovative geometric patterns.

They’re available in four designs at 14.5mm thickness. rakceramics.com

ART WITH SO(U)L ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH IS THE STUNNING ‘JOY OF LIFE’ EMBROIDERY PIECE FROM GERMAN TEXTILE GALLERY, SOL & ART. THE UNIQUE PIECE IS HAND-STITCHED IN UZBEKISTAN, BEFORE BEING SHIPPED AROUND THE WORLD, WITH EACH PIECE AS UNIQUE AS THE ARTIST. SOLANDART.COM

Pretty Papers

French heritage brand, Pierre Frey, has created a wallpaper collection that is inspired by ancient Egypt, in collaboration with the Louvre Museum.

The Merveilles d’Egypte collection takes its cues from the colours of the ancient civilisation, while incorporating modern patterns and finishes.

Oscillating between matte and brightness, homage is paid through pearlescent, gold, and metallic reliefs. The range also includes fabrics and rugs, available at pierrefrey.com

Joy of Life, Sol & Art, EUR2,900 (approx Dhs12,050)

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wishlist | INSPIRATION

1 Saunders at MATCHESFASHION (matchesfashion.com)

3 2

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On-our radar....

DESIGNER HOME WEAR 5

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We’re taking our designer addiction from our wardrobes into the home, and these are the luxury items we’re currently coveting.

Products pictured: 1 Pair of Paisley fruit plates, price upon request, ETRO; 2 Leafy Paisley tea set for two, price upon request, ETRO; 3 Gucci Esotericum candle, Dhs1,450, Gucci; 4 Gucci cutlery, prices vary, Gucci; 5 One-of-a-kind cushion, USD860 (approx Dhs3,160), Rianna + Nina; 6 Leopard print sofa, price upon request, Dolce & Gabbana; 7 Sacred Heart floral-print silk cushion, Dhs1,537 and Floral-print silksatin teddy bear, Dhs1,142, The Vampire’s Wife at MATCHESFASHION

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Use the bold prints of these items to draw attention and create a serious-style statement blivinguae.com | 11

Three is a magic number Welcoming West Elm, Pottery Barn and Pottery Barn Kids to Dubai Hills Mall

West Elm

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Better Living x AL SHAYA

W

hether you’re a seasonal shopper or a frequent browser, it’s likely you won’t leave the mall without visiting West Elm, Pottery Barn and Pottery Barn Kids. The three brands, helmed by Al Shaya, have firmly cemented themselves on Dubai’s interior design shopping scene, gathering a cult following. Now, much to fans’ delight, the three shops have taken residence in the new Dubai Hills Mall. Situated on the ground floor of Emaar’s newest mall, West Elm, Pottery Barn and Pottery Barn Kids are calling purveyors of great design with their high-quality collections.

Here’s why we love each of the stores...

West Elm Created for those who have an affinity for sleek, trend-driven design, West Elm’s collections are designed to make serious style statements. The concept was born in Brooklyn to provide city-dwellers with practical items that would work for their lifestyle. Using sustainably-sourced cotton and wood materials, the brand pride themselves on making their homeware as kind to the planet as possible. With a mid-century look, the pieces work well together in contemporary spaces. And if you’re after an expert eye to help with styling, the store has a dedicated ‘Design Crew’ to assist you. Simply request for the Design Crew behind the till and one of their team of experts will share their interior design tips with you.

designs are timeless, pairing traditional style with excellent materials to ensure the products last for years. With seasonal collections that draw inspiration from around the world, the items are comfortable and elegant. As with West Elm, there’s an emphasis on sustainability, with their stylish products being ‘responsibly made’ and ‘ethically sourced’.

Pottery Barn Kids For families, the cute products at Pottery Barn Kids help parents to furnish multifunctional rooms for growing kids.

Along with well-made furniture, you’ll find nursery essentials and wholesome accessories. With safety concerns paramount in the design process, you’ll find the toys to be well-crafted and child-friendly – plus utterly adorable!

Visit all three stores at Dubai Hills Mall, or shop online at westelm.ae, potterybarn.ae

Pottery Barn Kids

Pottery Barn Since its inception in 1949, Pottery Barn has been known for its quality. Their Pottery Barn

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INSPIRATION | design workshop The French Bedroom Company (frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk)

Unsplash

How to master...

French Country

ornate furnishings of the Palace of Versailles, they tried to recreate the look in their homes, forging the elegantmeets-rustic look we know today.

HOW TO NAIL IT Rustic meets modern. When selecting Tania and Nayara furniture, go for classic styles in the from The Home Interior Stylist (THIS) @ staple items and use heirloom finishes thehomeinteriorstylist such as whitewashed and distressed wood. Play around with accent armchairs WHAT IS IT? – cabinets, for example. You’ll find some All about elegance, a traditional French unique accessories at small local business Country style uses a combination of French Treasure Box (@frenchtreasure). rustic and refined décor to transport rooms into the French countryside.

Mixed lighting. Go for an The standard look uses natural eclectic selection of lighting options materials, such as wood and linen, throughout. For example, wooden while steering away from ostentatious lamps with linen shades and brass, design. Typically, the colour palette or wrought iron chandeliers. follows a predominantly earthy 2XL Furniture (2xlhome.com) tone, but warm accent colours and Pottery Barn (potterybarn. also play an important role. ae) often have stylish options.

Neutral with one accent. Keep the base palette-neutral and pick an accent colour to work with. Bring in colour with your artwork, cushions, and décor, but don’t go overboard as when you’re going for a French Country look, moderation brings balance.

ABOUT THE STYLE Though there isn’t a set evolution of the look, it is thought to have originated in, you guessed it, France, during the 17th century. When French citizens were inspired by the

Clockwise from top: Positano Lemon Table Decor

by Uttermost; Dhs1029, Interiors LLC; Chapeaux White Floor Lamp-Mariner, Dhs9629, Interiors LLC, Opulence Sofa (sold as part of a set), Dhs6601, Royal Furniture; Risa White & Blue Stroke vase, Dhs119, aura living; Bar rack with Glass Door and Shelf, Dhs2,999, Home and Deco at Galeries Lafayette; Nawra teacup, Dhs69, aura living

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Layer up textures. Create a cosy countryside feeling by using a mix of textiles in your design. Patterned fabrics, like provincial toil, ticking fabric, and woollen rugs will help to add dimension and a rustic feel.

Better Living X SMART RENOVATION

Q A

What are the key things to consider when planning a bathroom renovation?

The overall layout and your chosen colour scheme are both key. But, before you get into any of that, there are other things that you must take in to account. Firstly, the inconvenience: renovating a bathroom (particularly the master) is a dirty, dusty, and noisy job that requires a team of workers to be a constant presence in your home. Don’t trust those who promise that the job will be done in days – it won’t, it takes weeks, so consider scheduling it for when you are away. Also, don’t trust the underlying condition of your bathroom to simply accommodate the changes you’ll make.

Renovating a bathroom means more than changing the sanitaryware and tiles – waterproofing the walls and floor and adapting the piping accordingly is very important.

Q A

What is the best type of flooring for a bathroom?

It all depends on the style you’re aiming for, and the overall size of the bathroom. Large slab tiles, in a stone or marble-effect, can look particularly good. We would recommend using marble only if it’s high quality, but it’s very difficult to find in Dubai and is expensive also.

Ask Marco and Cinzia The brains behind Smart Renovation (smartrenovation.ae) talk bathroom makeovers

A

It all depends on the style of bathroom you go for. A classicstyle bathroom will look the same for many years. But if you like to follow trends and the bathroom is very fashionable, then it probably needs a change every 5 to ten years, because it will date.

Q

If someone is working to a strict budget, what part of a bathroom renovation do you think is worth investing in, and where can you save?

Based on the standard of bathrooms in Dubai, sometimes it’s enough to change the lights, mirror, and marble top to make a big difference.

Q

A

A

Q A

Do you always include a bathtub in your designs, or is a luxurious shower alone a better use of space?

We love to create the feeling of space in a room, but if the size allows for both, then a luxury bathroom always needs a special bathtub.

Q A

How do you feel about the new trend of colourful sanitaryware?

We love white but, in some designs, you cannot avoid using coloured sanitaryware. It reminds me of the 70s, when my [Marco] mum, who was also an interior designer, did an amazing bathroom which still looks modern to this day.

Q

How often would you typically renovate a bathroom?

What should I be looking for when choosing bathroom fixtures?

Definitely decent quality. Arteco, Bagno Design, and Bianca & Bianco are good places to start your search.

Q A

Is it worth renovating a powder room?

The powder room is an area that we love and devote a lot of attention to. It’s a small space where it pays to be creative, a place where your guests judge your style and taste. The powder room is where, as designers, we apply our passion for fashion over pure home design. blivinguae.com | 15

INSPIRATION | trends

Dopamine decorating Mood-improving colour combinations

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cientists have long researched the link between colour and dopamine levels in the brain. In fact, colour psychology has deduced that certain colours have different effects on our emotional state. More recently, you may have seen the hashtag #dopaminedressing underneath Instagram images of bright, often clashing hued outfits. Dora Tokai from D’Ora Tokai Designs (d’oratokai.com) talks us through the rules of implementing this colourful trend in the home.

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INSPIRATION | trends

FOR A DOSE OF DAILY HAPPINESS, ADD A SPLASH OF YELLOW. While this might sound cliché, there’s science behind it. If you ask children what their favourite colour is, most of them will answer yellow. The reason for this is that upon seeing yellow our brain releases serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps stabilise our mood, leading to a happy state. If you’re not into bright colours, opt for mustard and pastel tones. Benjamin Moore’s Pale Moon OC-18 and Jotun’s 10235 Summersun are two gorgeous but muted options.

RETRO COMBINATIONS ARE GOOD FOR THE SOUL. If pastel colour combinations feel familiar, it’s because they were all the rage in the ‘70s. Familiarity offers consolation during times of chaos and this retro colour palette certainly has a soothing vintage vibe. One of the most recognisable vintage colours of this era is Harvest Gold or, as we call it today, mustard yellow. Pair it with blue, green or pink for an instant throwback.

Pair your neutral tone with an accent of your choice, and accessorise using your accent’s complimentary colours. And while there are no rules to follow, it’s important that your pattern and space tell the same story. Whether that’s a consistent colour story, geometric language or style, the pattern and the rest of the space should be on the same page.

CONSIDER THE SCALE OF YOUR PATTERNS. It makes sense to use smaller patterns in your smaller spaces, and larger ones in the places where they have room to breathe. I like using big, bold patterns on accent walls, headboards, and rugs. So, as a rule, simply apply smaller patterns in smaller spaces and larger ones in larger spaces.

ECLECTIC ALL THE WAY. If you’re embracing all things colour, an eclectic style is an easy way to do this. Mix

furniture and decor pieces of different styles and era, mixing the old and new.

It’s even better if these pieces carry a personal meaning to you. For example, a beautiful chest of drawers that’s been in the family for a while will look great when combined with more modern pieces. An eclectic style is all about creating an artful combination of furniture, colours and patterns.

TIP Pick a colour palette for your home and use it throughout, as this will create a cohesive and grounded feel

GO GREEN. Green tones bring balance to a colourful scheme. That’s why you’ll often find it being used in offices, schools, and hospitals.

However, decadent deep and subtle pale greens are now making a name for themselves amongst high-end interiors. If you’re trying to choose a base colour, olive and sage tones have never been more popular. You’ll find them amongst Jotun’s 2022 ‘defining colours’, I love 8281 PALE LINDEN, and 0125 PALM LEAF. PATTERNS ARE EASIER THAN YOU THINK. If you’d like to add some pattern but don’t know where to start, then begin with a neutral base.

Next, pick a pattern that contains a colour similar to your base colour.

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Image credits: Homesense (homesense.com)

COMPLEMENTARY COLOURS. To avoid giving yourself a headache, choose colours that complement each other. For instance, blue pairs well with terracotta tones, while green shades complement blush tones, and yellow works well with purple. If you’re looking for a calm look, go for just one colour combination. But if you want a vibrant energy, you could use more than one set of complementary tones co-existing in one space.

TIP Use the 60-10-30 decorating rule: 60 percent dominant colour, 30 percent secondary hue, and 10 percent accent

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Contact us:

Tel.: 04-344 6690 Mob.: 050-2989040 056-6842225 P.O. Box: 212195, Dubai - UAE Email: jmcs@eim.ae, www.jumeira-maid.com

day in the life | INSPIRATION

7am As a mum of two, my mornings are always busy.

When I get a minute to myself, I scroll though my socials and emails while making breakfast for my kids.

8am

Unsplash

I take my little ones to nursery and get the tube to the studio – if I can grab a magazine on route I will.

As such a city girl, I love my commute to work!

9am I arrive at the studio, but first things first: a cup of tea is a must, or I won’t function!

After popping on some music, I’ll give my space a quick organise, check-in with the team and write a to-do list.

Yvonne Ellen

11am I continue with my design work, which involves drawing and putting the final colour combinations and details together. While this happens I will receive samples from the previous designs, which is the most nerve-wracking experience of the job.

2pm Time for a break and something to eat – today I go for sushi!

3pm A cup of tea with a Jaffa Cake is on the cards. I will also use this time to check in with my lovely followers on Instagram and give them a sneak peek of what I am up to in the day.

4pm I will have ticked off my final tasks for the day and start planning for any meetings I will have the following week.

OF A CROCKERY DESIGNER London-based artist Yvonne-Ellen (@yvonneellen) handdraws quaint tableware that’s stocked in the UAE at Namshi and Virgin Megastore 7pm

11pm

We love to support our local restaurants, so when we can – after a long day – a meal out is just what we need to unwind.

It’s bedtime, but my mind never switches off. Some of my best ideas come to me right before I head to bed, so I make a note of it on my phone and will brainstorm it with the team the following morning.

8pm Once the kiddos are all tucked up in bed, I’ll catch up on life admin – though I know the kids will be up again and I’ll have to put them back into bed!

9pm Before I head to bed I try to have some time to myself and catch up on any messages. blivinguae.com | 21

INSPIRATION | expert advice

A SK THE EXPERT

Buying and selling vintage furniture in the UAE Natasha Fownes, the brains behind pre-loved furniture shop La Brocante (@labrocantedxb), shares insider advice The days of people looking down on pre-loved items are over. Everyone is looking for something unique, and, unless you’re importing items, the only real place that you can find that is when you shop secondhand. It’s the way forward if you want to stand out, because you’ll find things that no one else has.

When shopping for vintage furniture, you’re looking for high-quality. Vintage furniture items are desirable because of the level of craftsmanship that has gone into creating them. At La Brocante, we handpick and curate the collection, so it means you know the items on sale are of a great standard. What’s more, seeing them in person, as opposed to photos, is a much better way to shop.

Pre-loved furniture can appreciate in value, depending on the price that you purchased it for. Some iconic items have a fairly set price. For example, if you buy an Eames chair for Dhs15,000 – which is the standard price across the globe – it’s likely to remain the same price in 10 to 15 years. But if you’re purchasing a one-off, bespoke item, the price should increase over time.

It depends on what era you like, but some of the best vintage furniture items are those that have an iconic look. There are certain pieces that have earned global respect for their innovative design and high craftsmanship. To name a few, I love Eero Saarinen’s modern Tulip chairs, the daring Ligne Roset Togo sofa, Bauhaus-era Barcelona chairs, and the French-style Louis chairs. If there’s something on your wish list, you can register it with us, and we will alert you if that item comes up.

There are many advantages to buying vintage – the first is of course sustainability. Seeing as Dubai

is such a transient city, we need to pull together as a community to cultivate a circular furniture economy. And when you purchase a high-end piece, you’re investing in a piece of art that has been built to last, so you will have it for a lifetime. You’re also buying into the story of an item, that can be passed down or sold on for years to come.

You can determine the authenticity of an item by looking at its general quality and for the logo on the item. It should be easy to feel the workmanship that has gone into creating the furniture – even if it is old. I’d recommend looking at the fabric quality, cushioning, and the stitching on the seams. It should be obvious if something is real or not.

It’s much safer to sell through a vendor, as we’re taking away the process of strangers coming to your house. Once we agree on a price, we will send a car to come and collect it. Plus, selling with us will mean cutting out the hundreds of messages you might receive from buyers who offer you a low price because they aren’t sure of what they’re buying.

Join the community at La Brocante, as we’re more than just a shop. Lauched in November 2020, it’s become a community of like-minded people, from artisans to upcyclers. We give local artists a platform to showcase their work and invite other vendors, like second-hand clothing brand Reem’s Closet (@reemscloset), to join us. We also host a bi-weekly pop-up event where you can browse new pieces, see local art, drink coffee, and meet new people. And for those who are creatively minded, we put on various arty workshops throughout the year.

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Scrub up nicely How to create a high-functioning laundry room that’s perfect for looking after your clothes

“T

here’s no use having a good-looking laundry room if it doesn’t fit your needs,” says Marie Lourmiere, interior designer at Islago Interiors (@islago_interiordesign).

That’s why you should start by assessing what your requirements are from the room: is it dedicated to laundry only? Or will it be used for ironing, too? Once you know this, you can design the room to have enough floor and cupboard space. Consider putting a rail in to hang clothes for steaming on.

Shine a light. In an absence of natural light, when you’re dealing with multiple sports kits, school uniforms and socks, you’ll need some serious task lighting. “Use directional bulbs to illuminate where you need to see by placing spotlights underneath your cabinets,” says Marie. For a quick

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fix, purchase some LED strip lights (available at IKEA and on Amazon) that can be fitted to the base of your cabinets. Just “avoid placing lights at the back of your workstation, as this will create shadows,” adds Marie.

Custom cabinetry. Although you may like to display some products on your open shelves, not all cleaning products are created aesthetically equal, so you’ll want enough cabinet space to tuck them away. “It’s a good idea to maximise the wall space with cupboards in varying heights and consider going up to the ceiling and above the door if necessary,” suggests Marie. For a polished look, bespoke cabinetry is the way to go – we rate Joinery Dubai (joinerydubai.ae) for their custom carpentry.

Invest in a worktop as it’s essential for many washing-related tasks, such

ACE (aceuae.com)

laundry room | INSPIRATION

as folding clean clothes or working on stain removal. “Make sure the depth of the worktop is sufficient for the size of washing-machine. Pick a fun colour to make a design statement,” says Marie.

When it comes to high-quality and high design choice, Cosentino (cosentino. com) are firm favourites. “Add a cute catch-all jar or tray for loose change, cards, and other miscellaneous pocket contents that need to be relocated,” suggest Celia and Joti from The Savvy Space (@thesavvyspace).

Consider a sink. If you’ve got lots of delicates, you’ll probably benefit from putting in a sink. Maintenance companies like Tregoning Maintenance (tregoningmaintenance.com) can help you do this. If you’re going to integrate a sink, you’ll want to put in a tiled backsplash, too – the subway collection from RAK Ceramics (rakceramics.com) is a stylish option.

Zone out the space. “If your laundry room also serves as a storage space, create zones based on related tasks,” recommend Celia and Joti. “Keep your laundry and care items – think detergents, stain removers, sewing kit – together, and ideally within reach of the washing machine and sink.

Similarly, you might create a zone for cleaning supplies and equipment, as well as a zone for homecare and tools,” say the professional organisers.

The Savvy Space (thesavvyspace.ae)

Tip

NO MATTER HOW BEAUTIFUL THE DESIGN OF THE ROOM, AT THE END OF THE DAY YOU’LL LIKELY WANT TO CLOSE THE DOOR ON IT. IF THERE’S NO SPACE FOR A DOOR, CONSIDER PUTTING IN A SLIDING OPTION

Go green. Up your eco-credentials by using “an A+ rated washing machine, using LED bulbs and a low-VOC paint,” says Marie. We rate the LG 7kg Freestanding Front Load Washing Machine that dissipates minimum energy for its eco-rating. “You can also stock up on some environmentallyfriendly detergent products, Because You Care (@because.youcare) are launching locally-made washing powders in Dubai,” adds Marie. You could even consider making your own by mixing two parts borax, two parts washing powder, and a grated bar of natural soap.

Contain your excitement. If you’re anything like us (or Mrs Hinch) new storage containers will spark joy, but Celia and Joti suggest “considering what you need to store in the space before you buy any containers. If you’re short on space, could your towels and toilet rolls be divided and stored in each bathroom? Be sure to give everything in the space a critical review and toss or remove anything that has expired or that you simply don’t use.”

Space savers. Once you’ve purged your products and created zones, “group products into categories using durable, easy-to-clean containers to keep items sorted,” says Celia and Joti. “Clear, acrylic boxes and drawer sets are great for this, but you could also use turntables to keep cleaning product bottles and jugs corralled, yet easily accessible on a shelf. Or, if you use a cleaning caddy, storing regular use cleaning supplies here is a great alternative and space saver.”

Decanting detergents, softeners and dryer additives is a great way to keep an eye on supply and improve ease of access. For example, beverage dispensers make pouring liquid detergents a breeze. We recommend airtight jars to protect against humidity and canisters with a clip or lock if you need to secure them from little hands.

Remember to size-up containers where possible, or plan a space to store extras and backstock.

Make it pretty. “The laundry room may be a utility space, but it doesn’t have to feel like a prison cell,” say Celia and Joti. “Go for a neutral colour palette to keep the space feeling light and airy but, to avoid a clinical look, weave in shades of green, beige, or grey,” recommends Marie. “Add a dash of life to the space with a plant and a pretty piece of artwork. Incorporating a bit of style and maximising lighting will help create a bright and pleasing atmosphere,” suggest Celia and Joti.

Islago Interiors (@islago_interiors)

WASH WHILE YOU WAIT

Don’t let the laundry load slip while you’re having your room done.

Wash with one of these services: Washmen (washmen.com) Book a wash and fold service priced at Dhs65 per bag, or have your delicate items washed and pressed for individual prices.

DipDap (dipdap.ae) Charged per piece, to wash and press a suit is Dhs28.

Laundry Heap (laundryheap.com) A mixed wash of up to 6kg is Dhs55, and you can book prepaid wash and iron bundles from Dhs9.50.

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Cuckooland (cuckooland.com)

Spring statements Local interior designer Neeshay Nouman from The Niche Corner (@thenichecornertnc) shares seven trends on her radar and where to shop for them locally

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Wall Lamp Dog Head, Dhs527 Chattels & More

Statement lighting is in. The trick to getting this right is to view light fixtures as art pieces. Use large, minimalistic chandeliers, or add an oversized sculptural ceiling light to act as an art piece without taking up floor space.

My preferred places to shop are Luxxe Lighting (luxxelighting. com) and you may find some real gems at Dragon Mart (dragonmart.ae) 26 | blivinguae.com

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MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE WITH MIXED-PURPOSE ROOMS. 2022 IS SEEING US MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY INCH IN OUR HOMES. SINCE THE PANDEMIC, DESIGNERS ARE ENSURING THAT THE GUEST ROOM HAS PRACTICAL USES YEAR-ROUND. I SUGGEST INCORPORATING A STUDY SPACE INTO THE ROOM BY SWITCHING THE DOUBLE BED FOR A SOFA BED, SO THERE’S MORE ROOM FOR A DESK.

Paperchase (paperchase.com)

3 Terry Marble Side Table, GBP1,390 (approx Dhs6,930) Luxdeco

We’re seeing an emphasis on natural textures: think marble, travertine, terrazzo, limestone.

Not only do they add comfort, but they also ooze glam. Find them at The Bowery Company (thebowerycompany. com) and Urban Nest (urbannest.ae)

24

Nest (nest.co.uk)

Gold and grey abstract print, GBP40 (approx Dhs200) Abstract House

TEXTURED ARTWORK IS SEEING A STYLE REVIVAL AND THERE ARE NO RULES TO GETTING IT RIGHT. IT’S ONE OF THOSE RARE SITUATIONS WHERE ‘MORE IS MORE.’ THERE ARE SOME LOCAL ARTISTS WHO DO AMAZING WORK WITH TEXTURE. HAVE A LOOK ON INSTAGRAM AT HAZEL MAZE (@THEHAZELMAZE) AND BEA BEA ART STUDIO (@BEABEA.ARTSTUDIO).

6

5

CURVES HAVE BEEN IN FOR A WHILE, BUT THEY’RE HERE TO STAY! THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX: WE ARE TALKING ASYMMETRICAL, ROUND, CURVED FURNITURE. THIS IS NOT LIMITED TO TABLES OR CHAIRS ONLY – A CURVED SOFA IS TOTALLY CHIC, ESPECIALLY WHEN PLACED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROOM SO YOU CAN APPRECIATE THE BACK OF IT. KLEKKTIK (KLEKKTIC. COM) HAVE A FEW STUNNING CURVY PIECES ON blivinguae.com | 27 THEIR WEBSITE.

Gone are the days when outdoor furniture was limited to bulky wicker or teakwood pieces. This spring it’s all about embracing sleek outdoor furniture. Check out CB2 (cb2.ae) who boast a range of minimalst pieces.

7

Lambert Accent Armchair, GBP349 (approx Dhs1,739) Cult Furniture

CB2 (cb2.ae)

BE ON TREND BY MIXING VARIOUS SHADES OF WOOD. IT’S BOLD TO HAVE DIFFERENT COLOURS OF WOOD WITHIN ONE SPACE, AS THEY CREATE CHARACTER. BLEND WARM AND ASH TONES FOR A TRENDY LOOK. LOCALLY YOU CAN SOURCE SOME BEAUTIFUL WOOD PIECES FROM WOOD CULTURE (WOODCULTURE. AE) AND SOUL AND TABLES (SOULANDTABLES.AE) blivinguae.com | 27

KNOCKOUT KITCHENS Why Casa Milano is where to shop for luxury kitchens

28 | bhomes.com

Better Living x CASA MILANO

I

f there’s one word that springs to mind when we think of Casa Milano, it’s luxury. Indeed, since its inception in 2019, Casa Milano has revolutionised the possibilities of bathroom design in the UAE. And now, diversifying from their original sanitary ware concept, the lavish shop has expanded its repertoire into high-end kitchens.

Collaborating with Arrendo3 – one of the largest kitchen manufacturers in Italy – when it comes to shopping for kitchens here, quality and customisation are the promise. With both classic and contemporary styles, you can be sure you’ll find something suitably luxurious for the heart of your home.

Ensuring you’re able to find the perfect fit, each of the designs is available in 150 colours, and comes in a range of materials. In the modern collection you can choose from matte, to gloss and high gloss. While in the contemporary kitchens range there is a selection of wood finishes, including solid wood frames and veneers crafted from natural layers of tree bark. Each of the kitchens is manufactured in Italy and paired with high-quality German mechanics to ensure long lasting quality, so much so that each comes with a ten-year warranty.

Those who have visited Casa Milano’s showrooms will know that shopping there is an experience within itself. With stunning pieces such as the famous Newton Bathtub by Valentina, the space feels almost art gallery-esque.

Expanding into Abu Dhabi, the brand opened a 40,000 sq. ft showroom last November, where shoppers can purchase the exclusive Italian designer kitchens.

As a one-stop shop, Casa Milano have everything you need to craft your perfect kitchen. Director Mohammed Azhar Sajan explains: “Be it installation of giant islands, fancy kitchen sinks, smart utility racks, or integrated sliding cutting boards, Kitchens by Casa Milano provides all of it.”

You can also purchase well-known built-in appliances from brands such as Bosch, Elba, Foster and Barraza.

It’s this unique concept that has seen the retailer grow a dedicated following of shoppers with a penchant for indulgent design, quickly

expanding to include those who love all things kitchen. Not only that, but the brand’s popular TikTok account (@casamilanouae) has 1.5 million likes for the fun content they create from their showrooms.

Striving for innovation, Sajan said, “Casa Milano is here to bring the art of luxe living into your home,” and plans to expand into E-commerce later this year.

As it bids to define the “epitome of luxury”, we think this UAEbased brand is set for lavish interior design domination. casamilanoitaly.com blivinguae.com | 29

INSPIRATION | at home with

30 | blivinguae.com

Jennifer Black’s colourful apartment in Al Barari

blivinguae.com | 31

“I was always quite different as a child,” fashion and interior designer Jennifer Black tells me as we sit in her two-bedroom Al Barari apartment.

“I remember one experience as a kid, actually. I must’ve been about six or seven, and at school one day we were given pieces of paper with a bird’s eye view of a room and told to decorate it the way we wanted. Mine was super colourful and I drew hearts all over it,” she smiles. "But when we showed the teachers, I got told off and sent to sit outside the headmaster’s office. That memory has always stuck in my head.

But now, looking around my apartment, I think maybe I was predicting or expressing myself in the way I wanted to.”

30 years on, and now founder of Wear The House (wearthehouse.com), Jennifer is a veritable force of creative energy.

From her renowned jewel-shaped rugs to her garishly bold, yet uberstylish outfits, which she shares on her Instagram page (@sojendecor), her selfexpression has garnered some serious respect within Dubai’s art community – a far cry from landing her in trouble.

British-born Jennifer harnessed her artistic spirit while studying textiles and fashion at both London College of Fashion and Central St. Martins. And after starting a career in clothing design in the UK ten years ago, Jennifer and her husband David made the move to Dubai. For the first few years she worked for a Lebanese womenswear brand, but after “noticing the trend of posting interiors on Instagram, I wanted to work out a way I could bring fashion into the interior world,” the mum-oftwo explains.

Setting up her e-commerce business in 2020, initially as a ready-to-wear line of pyjamas, Wear the House has organically expanded to include quirky prints, cushions, and rugs. “The brand is driven by what our customers want to buy,” explains Jennifer, who is currently working on a new line of ‘beautyinspired’ rugs. The ethos behind the brand “is about expressing your personal style within your interiors.”

Though eclectic, Jennifer’s apartment, which she shares with her husband David and their two children Ava (9) and Teddy (6), has a coherent style. The clashing colours and prints that run throughout are balanced by the sense

32 | blivinguae.com

I was always quite different as a child...

at home with | INSPIRATION

I style my apartment similarly to how I dress

blivinguae.com | 33

I go to my closet, and once I layer the items, they just go together

of place and colour theory Jennifer has expertly implemented. “I style my apartment similarly to how I dress. You know, it's full of layers, it's full of colour, it's full of pattern, but it just works,” she explains. “It’s a similar process to how I get dressed every morning, I go to my closet and some stuff doesn't always go together. But once I layer it, it just comes together.”

After living in a four-bedroom villa in Al Manara for most of their time in Dubai, Jennifer and family downsized into this modern two-bedroom apartment in Al Barari last year. “We moved here just in time for my 40th birthday. There was something about turning 40 that meant I wanted to change a few aspects of my life,” the designer explains. “We said goodbye to our live-in nanny and scaled things down a bit, to become a closer family network,” says Jennifer. “Now the space lends itself to us as a family I’m able to watch over the kids. I can hear them while they’re playing in their bedroom and get on with my work or the cooking.”

When it came to restyling her furniture and accessories for a new space, Jennifer describes how, “My modern furniture pieces can now breathe, and because it’s a beautiful open-plan space the colours really pop.” Sourcing items from England and Dubai, her staple pieces are expertly mismatched to create a fun, yet cosy atmosphere. “I have a bit of a fetish for chairs,” explains Jennifer, “they add such

34 | blivinguae.com

at home with | INSPIRATION

blivinguae.com | 35

a cool detail to corners of the room.”

The white walls are smattered with vibrant art pieces, including prints by artists Tracey Emin and Adrian Boswell that help to tell Jennifer’s quirky design narrative. “I’ve picked up the art on my travels,” she explains. “When there’s a special occasion to celebrate, I will buy a piece of art because it feels like such an amazing investment. I would rather spend on that than on an extravagant piece of jewellery, because I never get bored of looking at beautiful art.”

Punctuating the crisp white paint is a black, kitschy-patterned wallpaper

by Christian Lacroix. “I love painting and drawing myself so I can totally appreciate this paper. I love the bows, hearts and pink, it's very me,” she says, looking over at the paper that was shipped-in from the UK. “That’s one thing I miss about living in the UK, you know, being able to find those unique pieces,” the designer explains. “Although I do pick up the odd piece and ship it over, it’s much easier to pick up beautiful vintage pieces there.”

Going on to discuss the interior design scene in Dubai, Jennifer remarks, “There’s still so much potential to be had in the design world here. At the moment, there’s still a focus on traditional styles, and people seem to think they can’t express themselves with their interiors as much as they can with their fashion.”

But for Jennifer, her love of clothes and interior design go hand-in-hand. “I’ve always been a magpie,” she explains. "I’m attracted to shiny and colourful things, and my love of dressing up and collecting clothes is definitely reflected in my interior style.”

Much like her beautiful outfits, that she changed into throughout our photoshoot, Jennifer’s home uses layers of fabric to craft something totally unique. “It’s eclectic,” she defines. “It’s not everybody’s cup of tea, but I feel like the way that I have merchandised the colour means it’s not too crazy.

Everything has a place and the use of colour is balanced around the apartment.

It just works.”

36 | blivinguae.com

I've always been a magpie.

I'm attracted to shiny and colourful things

Decor pineapple jar, Dhs429, Chattels & More

Geometric Temple Jar, price upon request, DWELL

GET THE LOOK

Mirror Aya Gold Eye, Dhs195 Chabi Chic at Galeries Lafayette

Rainbow Feather Cushion, USD95 (approx Dhs350) Wear The House Winterspaces Orange Scallop Chair, GBR129 (approx Dhs644), TK Maxx

BRING JENNIFER'S COLOUFUL STYLE INTO YOUR HOME WITH SOME OF HER HAND-DESIGNED PIECES FROM WEAR THE HOUSE Pink Gem rug, USD250 (approx Dhs920) Wear The House

Kendra Dandy Muse Tamsin Dining Chair, USD115 (approx Dhs423) Anthropologie

Divapixel Thinking Frame, Dhs1,553 Chattels & More

Anton Ottoman, price upon request Ethan Allen blivinguae.com | 37

INSPIRATION | outdoor home renovation space

Holiday at home

Inside the Patterson family’s dreamy garden in Arabian Ranches

38 | blivinguae.com

blivinguae.com | 39

INSPIRATION | outdoor space

T

hose of us who have moved to Dubai in retreat from bitterly cold winds and dark mornings are grateful for every palm, pool, and particularly blue-skied day.

In fact, for most of us the Dubai dream is built on hours spent under the warm sun. One British resident who is living the aspiration most of us set out to achieve is Sarah Patterson. Indeed, her large garden in Arabian Ranches has caught the attention of the designsavvy media before, and for good reason – to walk into her dreamy space is to feel like you’re on holiday.

“When I came to see the house, the estate agent brought me into the garden first,” explains mum-of-two Sarah.

“As soon as I saw the pool, I was sold. I didn’t care what it looked like inside!” she laughs. After purchasing the sixbedroom house in back in 2014, the family of four have arguably made the outside space even nicer.

Originally from St Albans in England, Dubai has been home to the Patterson family for the last 13 years. Initially living on Palm Jumeirah, the family

40 | blivinguae.com

moved to Arabian Ranches for a greater sense of privacy. “I didn’t appreciate having people constantly walking past and dogs running into our garden,” explains Sarah of her life on the Palm.

“That’s what I really like about this garden, it’s cosy and private.”

A large plot that stretches around the villa, Sarah has utilised as much of its square footage as possible by having a Your Space (yourspaceuae.com) outdoor room fitted to house the family’s gym equipment. It is, though, the huge T-shaped pool that commands most of the attention in her holiday-inspired garden. Changing the tiles from their original blue to a colurful mosaic of smaller-sized tiles, the pool – or ‘large water feature’, as Sarah jokingly calls it – is a show-stopping element.

Sarah’s approach to styling the garden comes from her love of travel, which she also does for a job, creating bespoke luxury holidays for customers.

“I find that when I’m going around different hotels and areas I find things that are really nice and fancy implementing myself,” she explains,

looking over at a seating area that’s surrounded by lanterns and features a fire pit. “When people come over they do say that it feels like a hotel,” says Sarah.

The large head sculptures came with the villa, but Sarah decided to keep them as, “we’ve been to Easter Island and seen the real ones, so it’s quite nice to have them to remind us of that.”

Nominated for two local design awards, Sarah has used her passion for interior styling to create a pergola that flows effortlessly from inside. “I really like the rustic French home look and wanted this space to be an extension of the indoors.” Selecting a large wooden table from Marina Home and pairing it with some elegant garden furniture chairs, Sarah blends her French country style with practicality. Installing a glass chandelier over the table, and placing a well-accessorised sideboard under the pergola, the dining area lends itself to outdoor entertaining. “We’ve had Christmas day out here a few times and that’s really nice, and quite unusual coming from the UK!” says Sarah with a smile.

I really like the rustic French home look and wanted this space to be an extension of the indoors

blivinguae.com | 41

Casa Milano (casamilanoitaly.com)

42 | blivinguae.com

powder room | INSPIRATION

Make your powder room pop Impress your friends with a stylish guest bathroom

N

amed after its usage in the 18th century, the powder room was once a well-placed room within the home that visitors would use to powder their wigs. And though generally our guests of the 21st century aren’t using the room to powder their wigs, the name stuck. Despite often being the smallest room in the house, it’s the one that sees the design-savvy flexing their creative muscles. Due to the frequent footfall and the small – therefore more inconsequential – square footage, this is the place to go bold. Not sure how? We spoke to three local experts.

Maison Valentina (maisonvalentina.net)

Stylish choices

While interior designers might be encouraging people to throw design caution to the wind in the powder room, you’ll want to pick a cohesive style. But how do you go about choosing one when there are so many possibilities? Alina Bokhai from Alina Bokhai Interiors Casa Milano

SLEEK SINKS When it comes to show-stopping basins, we love the high-end options at Casa Milano (casamilanoitaly. com), or the mid-range yet creative sinks at Sanipexgroup (sanipexgroup.com). And for cheaper alternatives, there’s UAEfavourite Dragonmart (dragonmart. ae), who carry a selection of marblelook ceramic washbasins.

(alinabokhaiinteriors.com) suggests, “Taking cues from your wardrobe, jewellery or any artwork that inspires you.” While Cinzia Tesdchi from Smart Renovation (smartrenovation. ae) recommends, “Starting with the sink or the tiles and build up around this.” For those who prefer a simpler approach, Grammatiki Zamani from kiklos Architects (kiklosarchitects. com), advises her clients to, “Choose a neutral palette, combined with one very bold element to upset the balance and create a ‘wow effect’”.

Vanity fair

The defining influence in your powder room, selecting the right vanity is key to setting the overall style. “Given the limited space, I usually recommend a customised vanity unit,” says Grammatiki. If budget allows, creating something totally unique to your home will really pull the room together. “I like to experiment with unconventional counter-tops,” says Alina, who used a floating piece of live-edged wood in her own powder room. “But if you’re blivinguae.com | 43

looking to buy something ready-made, Bango and Sanipex carry some nice options.” If space-saving is key, don’t go for a cabinet look. Instead, consider mounting your vanity to the wall or opting for a unit with legs, thus giving the sense of more room.”

It’s lit

Though your guests may not be powdering their wigs, there’s a good chance they’ll want to powder their nose, or fix their hair, so flattering, yet practical lighting is key. “An interesting pendant combined with hidden LED lights is a winning combination,” says Grammatiki. “For interesting handmade light fixtures, Italian brand called Sylcom (sylcomlight.com) stock some really unique traditional crystal chandeliers,” the Greek interior designer adds. Create ambient lighting by using warm bulbs in recessed spotlights – IKEA (ikea.com/ ae) has various well-priced options.

“For stunning hanging pendants, I recommend my clients go to local brand Luxxe Lights (luxxelighting.com),” says Alina.

To the wall

DWELL (dwellstore.ae)

Tip

MAKE THE MOST OF THE SPACE BY PUTTING IN A SET OF UNDER-BASIN DRAWERS TO STASH AWAY EXTRA LOO ROLLS AND SOAP SUPPLIES

The most obvious way to bring drama to the room is on the walls. Whether that’s with a block colour which you take up onto the ceiling, or with outlandish tiles and wallpaper, this is the place to experiment. “Whilst wallpaper is a big no-no for the bathroom, the powder room is where you can afford to be creative with gorgeous papers or beautiful murals,” says Grammatiki. “You’ll want to use tiles at the back of your WC so guests can use the shatafa, but behind your sink or vanity bring the room to life with some gorgeous wallpaper.” If pattern is your thing, check out the stunning printed wallpaper from Mind the Gap, available in the UAE at Tareen Interiors (tareeninteriors.com), or the paper and mural options at Paperpop (paper-pop.com).

(luxury vinyl tiles) in whichever style you like. I personally like wooden-style ones,” says Alina. If you’re keen on the wooden look, check out Floorworld (floorworld.com) who have options at various price points. But for a loud statement, tiles are the way to go.

Sanipex Group (sanipexgroup.com) have some lovely options, including marble and polished stone. “To create patterns in ceramic and porcelain tiles, there are pretty Moroccan and Spanish style choices at local shop Mosaico (mosaico. ae),” adds Alina.

Fabulous flooring

Mirror, mirror

If maximalist walls aren’t your thing, fret not, as you can earn some serious style clout with your choice of flooring.

“As the room won’t see a lot of water, you can get away with using LVT

44 | blivinguae.com

Naturally, the mirror is a key item in the powder room, and the size should largely be dictated by the vanity or sink style you have gone for. “Though it’s a widely accepted truth that larger

TERRIFIC TILES Whether you’re going to use tiles against your WC, or all over, you’ll want to make sure they look the part. For a range of interesting tiles, at various sizes from subway to wall panel, RAK Ceramics (rakceramics. com) is an easy win. Overseas, 41zero42 (41zero42.com) stock some visually creative brands.

Smart Renovation (smartrenovation.ae)

powder room | INSPIRATION

Casa Milano

mirrors make the space feel bigger, I think they’re a bit out of fashion,” says Grammatiki. Make an interesting statement by, “using a smaller, irregular shaped one to give space to the other elements,” the interior architect adds. Alina suggests that “Balance is key,” and that if you’ve got the space, “the ornate style Primrose mirror from Anthropologie is a safe bet.” Those opting for a modern look might want to consider utilising lights: “Frameless mirrors with in-built LED lights are an effective way to set the tone,” says Cinzia.

Finishing touches

As this is a room predominantly for guests, we suggest purchasing products to make the experience pleasant for them. “It’s always a nice surprise to find out your host has thought about your potential needs in advance,” says Grammatiki. “You can’t go wrong with a luxurious hand soap and hand cream,” says Alina, but do think outside the box and consider including a room spray, bottle of perfume and a box of tissues for blotting.

IF YOU’RE WORRIED “Add a box of ultra-soft ABOUT THE hand towels and light a COUNTER LOOKING CLUTTERED, ADD natural beeswax or soy wax SHELVING ABOVE candle to set the mood,” adds YOUR SINK WHERE Alina.

YOU CAN STOCK

Tip

LITTLE LUXURIES FOR YOUR GUESTS TO USE

THOUGTFUL ADDITIONS Rose Jam spray, Dhs200 LUSH

Tufted garden rug, Dhs4,639, Antropologie

Pietra Lotion Dispenser, Dhs160 DWELL Mood boosting pillar candles, prices vary Antropologie Farryn Amber, GBP40 (approx Dhs200) Selfridges

St Honore Soap Dish, white, one size, Dhs83 DWELL

blivinguae.com | 45

46 | blivinguae.com

renovation | INSPIRATION

A TOUCH OF CLASS Inside a tasteful home renovation in Arabian Ranches II

A

fter purchasing their family home in Arabian Ranches II, the homeowners decided to have their villa renovated to fit their practical and style needs. “The thing I remember about the first call we had with the clients was them asking for their ‘feature walls to be covered with highend materials, not just wallpaper or paint,’" says Stephany Hanna from Step into Detail (stepintodetail.com).

With two young daughters the family prioritised adding as much additional space to the rooms as possible, by closing in the balconies of the reception area and master bedroom.

They were also keen on creating a separation between the kitchen and the room beside it – to be used for entertaining.

Using World Of Wood (@wow_decor_uae), “We created a wall-to-wall TV unit with a built-in door,” explains Stephany. “As their main concern was practicality, we ended up creating less of a decorative display and instead more of a storage unit with a buffet counter for displaying food when hosting.”

THE TRADITIONAL COLOURS OF THE VILLA WERE REPLACED WITH A MODERN PALETTE

Before If you love Stephany's work, turn the page to read her tips on recreating it in your home –––➤ blivinguae.com | 47

INSPIRATION | renovation

“We were aiming for a modern look, so we created a colour palette for each area of the house,” says the interior designer. “Downstairs we went for a neutral with a pop of colour.” Using clean lines and simple furniture items, the living space adopts an elegant approach to contemporary minimalism. “The layout is now more convenient, and fully upgraded with the trendiest materials,” says Stephany, who adds: “The design is long lasting and will be hard to get bored of.”

Upstairs, the couple asked for their bedroom to be designed in hotel-esque comfort. After extending the space onto the balcony, Stephany created a custom built-in dressing table unit along the wall, while the headboard stretches to encompass the bedside

THE VERDICT "We are so happy, it is exactly the way we imagined it and even better. The way the materials and the colours were mixed brings so much joy and serenity to our daily life. The spaces are comfortable and practical."

The homeowners

48 | blivinguae.com

Minimal elegance

Stephany Hanna on crafting a simple, yet sophisticated look Be smart with your choice of materials, as they make all the difference.

Investing in good quality materials will give your home a classic feel.

tables – in true hotel style. Utilising the space in front of the window, the interior designer created a dressing area with adjacent fitted wardrobes.

In the kids' bedroom, the designer was instructed to fit two single beds into the room and was allowed to, “Get creative with colours to design something unique for the little ones.”

Choosing a neutral colour scheme, with hints of dark green and baby pink, the room has a calming, yet interesting look. The fun wallpaper from Caramel and Sun (@ caramelandsun) adds a quirky feel, while the wooden floors help to ground the space.

Invest in a feature wall like a custom TV unit and go simple with the rest of the elements. If you can't invest in custom-made units and want to make an impactful design, go for wallpaper – it can magically transform your space on a low budget.

Don't go for gypsum ceilings as the days of busy ceilings are over. Instead, use an indirect light, a track light, and a nice modern chandelier to fill the space beautifully.

Go neutral and bring colour in with the cushions, artworks and accessories.

That way, when you get bored it can be changed easily.

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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

Karalina Charnashei

Downtown Dubai “I’m responsible,

attentive, and have strong negotiation

skills. One of my former

clients described me as, ‘extremely transparent’.

WIth a strong knowledge of the market, and a pink suit, what else could you wish for in an agent!?”

Toby Jenkins

Damac Hills & Mudon

“I consider myself to be personable and dedicated, while always striving for the best outcome for all

concerned parties. There’s a real community feel to the areas I represent, with great facilities for

families. What’s more, both offer excellent value for money. I have some great properties to show you, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy my company.”

Jake Fletcher The Views and Greens

“Buying, renting or selling can be a stressful time,

as more often than not it involves a large amount of money. With almost

a decade of customer

service experience, you

can rely on me for making

the process as smooth yet

enjoyable as possible. And, I’ll get you the best price.”

50 | blivinguae.com

View more listings at bhomes.com

My top picks in

Downtown Dubai To view one of these gorgeous apartments, call me on 055 854 3672

AED5.5million

VIDA RESIDENCE DOWNTOWN, DOWNTOWN DUBAI

Airy and inviting, Vida Residence is a safe haven for the well-travelled soul. The

apartment and building are both extremely modern, with beautiful finishings that really

elevate its appeal. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-176581 RERA Permit No. 7116754816 Bed: 3 Bath: 5

Parking: 2 Size: 2,023sqft

AED4million

BOULEVARD CRESCENT 1, DOWNTOWN DUBAI

Located right in the centre of Dubai, this three-bedroom apartment has

all you need. With beautiful views over

Downtown Dubai and a glimpse of Burj

Lake, you’ll be inclined to while the time

away on your balcony. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code

BHM-S-550135 RERA Permit No. 7116756112

Bed: 3 Bath: 4 Parking: 2 Size: 1,785sqft

Enjoy beautiful views over Downtown Dubai and Burj Lake

AED2.15 million

DT1 Tower, Downtown Dubai

This brand-new apartment is spacious

and boasts a luxurious finish throughout.

The building itself is in high demand,

which makes this property an excellent option for investors - it is currently

rented, with an with ROI of 5% . To find

out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-177649 RERA Permit No.

71100942470 Bed: 1 Bath: 2 Parking: 1 Size:

1,036 sqft

blivinguae.com | 51

EXCLUSIVE TO BETTERHOMES

AED1.3million

Tower 4, The Views

This spacious one-bedroom apartment comes with built-in kitchen appliances and closets. Tenanted until September and well-maintained, it is perfect for an investor to come in and take on the lease.

To find out more, call me quoting the

reference code BHM-S-179267 Permit

No. 0039512912 Bed: 1 Bath: 2 Parking: 2

Size: 845sqft

My top picks in

The Views and Greens

If you’d like to view any of these apartments, call on 058 510 8798

EXCLUSIVE TO BETTERHOMES

AED2.35million

PALM VIEW, DUBAI MEDIA CITY

This brand new building in Media City is spilt between residential and hotel apartments.

In this apartment you’ll find panoramic

views of the sea and Palm Jumeirah, which adds to its already luxurious interiors.

To find out more, call me quoting the

reference code BHM-S-551859 RERA Permit No. 6514096700 Bed: 1 Bath: 2 Parking: 2

Size: 1,096sqft

EXCLUSIVE TO BETTERHOMES

AED1.44million

AL DHAFRA 4, GREENS

If a naturally bright apartment is

something you’re looking for, then look no further than here. Having been used as

a holiday home for the last decade, the

inside is immaculate. The balcony looks out to a large swimming pool. To find

out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-549996 RERA Permit No.

6714935400 Bed: 2 Bath: 2 Parking: 1 Size:

1,291sqft

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View more listings at bhomes.com

My top picks in

Damac Hills & Mudon

Interested to meet me and see these places?

Call me on 058 520 3891 to discuss

AED3.9million

Brookfield Damac Hills

This modern, contemporary-designed villa boasts

fantastic living space both indoors and out, where

there’s a large garden. Well-maintained, it features an

upgraded guest bathroom, and is perfect for both endusers and investors. To find out more, call me quoting the reference code BHM-S-179316 RERA Permit No.

6599938000 Bed: 4 Bath: 5 Parking: 2 Size: 5,105sqft

AED4.5million

Picadilly Green, Damac Hills

This modern villa comes fully furnished by Paramount, offering impeccable design

and décor. This property is offered vacant

on transfer, making it perfect for both end users and investors to take on. To find out

more, call me quoting the reference code

BHM-S-549029 RERA Permit No. 6585226190

Bed: 5 Bath: 6 Size: 4,198sqft

This villa comes fully furnised by Paramount

AED4.45million

Brookfield 1, DAMAC Hills

One of the more uncommon layouts in Damac Hills, the V5 offers a spacious

living and dining area along with a closed kitchen with direct access to the garden.

Also downstairs is a powder room, maid’s

room, and bathroom. Upstairs boasts five spacious bedrooms and a living area —

ideal for an office space or upstairs living room. To find out more, call me quoting

the reference code BHM-S-553354 RERA

Permit No. 6527179539 Bed: 5 Bath: 5 Size:

3,449sqft

blivinguae.com | 53

THE PLACE TO MOVE TO

EMIRATES HILLS Dubai’s answer to high-end California living, this exclusive community is home to unique properties

Inspired by the prestigious community of Beverly Hills, Emaar’s Emirates Hills is a luxury collection of villas designed for those with lavish taste. Popular with celebrities, to live here is to neighbour with the rich and famous. Set around the Montgomerie Golf Club Dubai, the large homes here boast exquisite views and ample square footage

THE COMMUNITIES

Created in 2003, as part of the Emirates Living collection, it borders with The Meadows and The Springs. Within the Hills there are a few sub-communities, including the Montgomerie Maisonettes and Montgomerie Hills which surround

54 | bhomes.com

the 18-hole golf course. The Signature Villas are made up of exclusively custom-built villas, plus residential clusters Sector A to E, and there is also a Vida Residences that contains serviced apartments.

SHOPS

While there are no large supermarkets within the community, you’ve got Meadows Village Mall on your doorstep. There you’ll find a Waitrose, Costa Coffee, Paperchase among others, including a salon and pharmacy. Nearby you have Springs Souk, which has a large Carrefour, Marks and Spencer and a cinema.

THINGS TO DO

Avid golfers will enjoy living in such close proximity to the Montgomerie Golf Club Dubai, but for those who prefer to relax over good food, gastro pub Phileas Fogg serves up gourmet comfort fare. People who like to spend their weekends outdoors can make the most of the ample green space within the community, while the prime location means you’re never too far away from the action of the city.

SCHOOLS

Dubai International Academy, which offers the IB curriculum, is located in the Hills. As is the British curriculum Dubai

area guide | PROPERTY

LET’S CRUNCH THE NUMBERS

The exclusive Emirates Hills community

British School, which takes children from ages three to 18. For little ones, nearby there’s a Raffles Nursery and Jebel Ali Village Nursery within The Lakes.

TRANSPORT LINKS

For those with a car, the community is well placed, connecting to main roads Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail. Those who rely on public transport have Dubai Marina Metro Station nearby, but there are no bus stops within in the community.

>1%

Demand for rentals in 2021

AVERAGE COST TO RENT A VILLA

5 BED AED 1.350M 6 BED AED 1.289M 7 BED AED 1.110M

39% Increase in house prices from 2020

Club Vista Mare floating swimming pool Montgomerie Golf Course Dubai

Meet the neighbours

Rohan Tourani has lived in Emirates Hills for the last 13 years. “The lush landscaping and lakes are not only soothing, but also superbly maintained. Plus, there are many examples of world class architecture throughout the well-established development.”

HIGHEST VILLA SALE AED 92M (NOV 2021)

MEDIAN VILLA PRICE IN 2021 AED26.25M INCREASE IN RENTAL PRICE FROM 2020-21 59% bhomes.com | 55

DIGITAL | blivinguae.com

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