interiors
The interior design team wanted the dining room to be a statement feature in the house and so they chose jungle green walls, complemented by an oriental rug and a Bocci chandelier
“We as a studio love contemporary modern design and we wanted to bring more of our heritage into it by making it more relevant to our culture, which we did by using curated Egyptian and Middle Eastern art pieces,” says Makram. Some of the biggest challenges consisted of creating the floating staircase, as well as blurring the lines between inside and outside. “We were very much inspired by the property’s great location, overlooking the golf course,” notes the interior designer. “We wanted the home to reflect an appreciation for the surrounding panorama.” A palette of mostly white, black, deep green and
night blue shades is used throughout, while pops of colour bring in further tones from nature. The materials, too, were selected in the same spirit. “We liked the idea of … a masculine space that is not particularly soft, yet still has direct references to greenery and the delicateness it provides to the space,” says Makram. The bar and the panelling across the bar wall feature walnut wood; Paris Grey marble prevails for the main interior flooring and staircase, visually translating balance, contrast and brightness; while grey travertine adds some rawness to the outdoor flooring and al fresco bar. Envisioned
as a key element in the villa and placed between the two reception areas, the fireplace in sleek black metal and Nero Marquina marble blends the concepts of comfort and luxury. For a sense of movement, openness and fluidity, Makram installed glass sliding doors in the dining area. “The objective was to make sure the villa’s interior would exude the cosiness of an urban apartment,” the interior designer says. “We wanted an interpretation of luxurious practicality. It was important for the home to look and feel distinguished, yet remain homely and very practical, as a city home should be.” id
THE DESIGN ISSUE
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