Personal Space – At home with Zeina El-Dana

WORDS: DAN ROBINSON PHOTOGRAPHY: MARK MATHEW

How long have you lived/worked in this space? I moved to this house five years ago after a long hunt of over 40 different villas. I fell in love instantly as this space felt like home when I walked in. The light, the bright feel from the double-height ceiling and windows and the lush green garden resonated with the elements that I was looking for. I am very close to the beach, the vibrant cultural communities in Dubai as well the Z7 offices in Dubai Design District. Did you have a clear concept from the outset, and which key pieces are your favourite? Given my busy schedule, which involves a lot of travelling, finding my happy place was vital. I consider my home to be my haven, where I can recharge.

I was on the lookout for an airy, bright space with an open living area where I could host my friends and family. I also like to be surrounded by nature and my home strikes the perfect balance with natural elements such as wood, plants, and flowers in the interiors and the beautiful garden where I enjoy spending the winter months in the warm company of my friends.

Some of my favourite interior pieces are the collector’s Sumo edition of Murals of Tibet from Taschen, signed by the Dalai Lama, a vintage tribal carpet from Tribal Rugs in Beirut, and of course the art pieces I’ve collected over the years. Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces? My square red dining table was custom-made by The Line Concept and the marble bar that an independent designer in Dubai created. Both are unique pieces that stand out in the space. How do you think your interior reflects you/your brand? I created my home interior around my lifestyle, which I like to maintain as healthy, neat, and peaceful. I love the white interiors, which exude a holistic effect, Zen, and oodles of positive energy.

There are also influences from art, vintage pieces, and my fashion choices to a certain extent. My style is minimalist, but I like mixing patterns and colours to add warmth. Similarly, my home’s minimal, white base is layered with splashes of colours and details, and I am always on the hunt for new, stylish, and subtle items I could add to my house.

Being an ardent traveller, I’ve collected unique pieces throughout the years which add a personal touch to my space and reflect my journey. I love the charming old yet minimalistic design of the house overall. Describe your taste in three words. Minimalist, bohemian and evolving!