better homes dubai jan 15 2015 edition

bhomes.com Abu Dhabi

Complimentary copy Jan-Mar 2015

New for

TOP

Marsala is the

key colour

Is a haven for

your home

2015...

Piuma bed. Designed by Claudio Bellini. Made in Italy.

We all have the desire to dream.

Natuzzi Italia gives shape to that desire, with a new collection of beds, bedroom

accessories and bedlinen featuring our exclusive comfort and craftsmanship.

Visit our stores and discover a world of dreams made real.

Natuzzi Store : Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Tel 04 3380777 Abu Dhabi Mall, Tel 02 6444048 Natuzzi Gallery : Dubai, Western Furniture, Tel 04 3377152Email : [email protected] natuzzi.com

DREAMS THAT LIVE IN REALITY.

13

bhomes.com Jan-Mar 2015

Contents15. The Design Digest

See what’s new in the world

of home interiors this month

16. One to Watch

Look to New York for a cosy

monochrome look with pizazz

18. Trend Report 2015

Find out what key looks and

styles will be hot this year

22. Yas Mall

Why this new shopping mall

is a haven for your home

25. Designer Spotlight

Duresta and Eldiar have

reasons to celebrate together

26. Through the Keyhole

See how this award-winning

villa became a family affair

31. Buy the Look

Be inspired by Villa Jenelle’s

traditional yet eclectic style

32. What’s New in the Garden

Freshen up for spring by

embracing natural elements

34. Culinary Concepts

Make your garden a paradise

for picnics with the family

35. Property of the Month

Life’s a beach when you live

in this stunning apartment

37. Take a Tour...

Far-reaching views make

these properties a must-see

38. Property Listings

Find your perfect place with

these homes for sale and rent

Managing DirectorVictoria Thatcher

Editorial DirectorJohn Thatcher

EditorEleanor Joslin

Senior DesignerAndy Knappett

DesignerEmi Dixon

Production ManagerChalitha Fernando

Advertising Manager Shweta Praful

Photography Helen Riley, [email protected]

To contact any of the above people, email [email protected]

Jan-Jun 2014 | 15,009 | BPA Consumer

Audit

Reproduction in whole or in part without

written permission from HOT Media

Publishing is strictly prohibited.

HOT Media Publishing does not accept

liability for omissions or errors in Better

Homes magazine.

Tel: +971 4 364 2876

Fax: +971 4 369 7494

Cover: Marsala

colours,

courtesy of

Jotun

The start of the year is an exciting time. It marks new beginnings and the perfect opportunity to revitalise your home. In this issue we reveal the hot new trends for your home and garden, and the best places to buy them since Yas Mall has attracted many new furniture brands to the capital and to the country. While Yas Island is the perfect place for shopping and entertainment, our property expert Nada Jaouhar pinpoints the city’s best residential areas on page 36. I’d love to live by scenic Al Raha Beach – our luxurious Property of the Month shows you why. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, or simply revamp your current home, now is certainly the time to do it.

Eleanor Joslin

bhomes.com

facebook.com/betterhomespage

Welcome

14

January 2015

Home

New year, new startAs we stride into a brand new year, now is the time to

clear out all the clutter you don’t need to take with you. While our homes are full of memories from

yesteryear and last year some things have lost meaning or were simply tat in the first place.

Will you ever use that re-gifted shoe horn in this century? Or those odd pillowcases

whose twins were eaten up by the house long ago? Not likely. If it’s time for a

clear out and some reorganisation, do it in style. This year, chestnut leather will be a popular material and not just on chairs and sofas. For storage purposes, look out for ottomans upholstered in scarred cowhide, and chests of drawers and storage boxes completely covered in a luxurious rust-red leather, for an ‘historic world traveller’ vibe. Pictured:

Manhattan leather trunk, set of

three, AED6,840, Flamant


15

The Design DigestWhat’s new in the world of interiors

> The recently opened Yas Mall, the largest in Abu Dhabi, has enticed a number of new retailers to the city and country. For the

to the capital. Turn to page 22 to find

out more.

Feeling farm fresh... Cooking and eating farm-fresh food has never been more popular, and now the movement has come to the table with Crate and Barrel’s farmhouse-inspired tableware and accessories. The winter collection emphasises natural materials such as cotton, wool, hessian and acacia wood, and warm finishes in a palette of soft neutrals for a look that’s simple and comfortable. Accents of indigo, orange or citron add a pop of colour that will effortlessly transition between the seasons. crateandbarrel.com

Loans at the Louvre Art lovers will welcome the news that

Louvre Abu Dhabi will receive 300

loans from a number of major French

art institutions for its opening year.

The loans include Leonardo da Vinci’s

Portrait of an Unknown Woman (circa

1495), pictured, Edouard Manet’s The

Fife Player (1866), Claude Monet’s The

Saint-Lazare Station (1877), a rare salt

cellar in ivory from the Benin Kingdom,

and Henri Matisse’s Still Life with

Magnolia (1941). This will be the first

time such works will have travelled to

Abu Dhabi, and even the Middle East.

> The recently opened Yas Mall, the largestin Abu Dhabi, has enticed a number of new retailers to the city and country. For the

to the capital. Turn to page 22 to find

out more.

ur that will etween the l.com

> Th tl d Y M ll t

Paper chasingThe hunt for decent stationery and gift-wrapping is over, with the recent launch of IKEA’s dedicated paper department at the store on Yas Island. Over 100 products will engage and incentivise creativity, with colourful wrapping and ribbons, fun party decorations and inspiring crafts, all displayed within a candy shop environment. ikea.com/ae

Muji is now available at Yas Mall

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You don’t have to look Stateside for Broadway style. Home-grown furniture store THE One is reimagining the glitz, glamour and drama of The Big Apple with its New York Style collection, fresh for 2015. New York has it all: romance, drama, fame and fortune, Broadway, bright lights, an iconic urban skyline and a Central Park escape. Recreating an all-American feel has always been popular but it can verge on tacky... This year watch out for a more sophisticated look – think 1940s’ starlets and suave gentlemen’s clubs.

A monochrome palette and pinstripe wallpaper exudes ‘city gent’ while the Chesterfield sofas add a dash of English elegance to a living room. Mixing shiny elements like glass and steel with matt leather and velvet create a tactile and sumptuous vignette. Meanwhile, the deep-pile black rug, hound’s-tooth scatter cushions and cosy cotton throw softens any macho vibes exuded by the monochrome colourway, for a look that mixes the drama of Broadway with the comfort of home. theone.com

New York! New York!

One to watchSee who’s catching our eye in Abu Dhabi

17


1. Multi-coloured cushion cover, AED29, Homes R Us 2. Bessie rug made from cotton and wool, AED1,282, Crate and Barrel 3. Indigo dining table, chairs and cabinet, prices vary, SELVA 4. Horse bookend, AED155 each, Zara Home 5. Abson leather chest of drawers, AED14,190, Flamant

Retro-modern

Natural materials

Equestrian

Metallics

Keep an eye out for these emerging trends for 2015

Equestri

Chestnut-brown leatherhestnut-brown leather

1.2.

4. 5.

3.

Spring watch

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Colour of the YearPantone’s colour of 2015 is Marsala, which guarantees that we’ll see autumnal undertones of this rich rust-red throughout the seasons. In the summer brighter colours – pink, yellow, orange and gold – will pair well with metallic Marsala, while in the winter it will enrich heavy textures, such as woollen throws, drapes and carpets.

This shade is refreshingly asexual and therefore highly versatile. It will dramatize monochromatic schemes

very effectively, stand out as a statement painted wall or alcove, or add warm nuances when used as an accent colour in accessories, such as cushions, candles, bowls, rugs and artwork.

dining room – making it ideal for tabletop, small appliances and linens throughout the home,” comments Leatrice Eiseman, executive director

at Pantone Color Institute. She adds

organic nature, while a glazed sheen conveys a completely different message of glamour and luxury.

the kitchen, as it resembles the shades of red grapes, plums and spices. It is important to use natural colours in the kitchen so that the food does the talking – which is why citrus and olive green shades always work well.

Sou

da bow

ls, bespokeglobal.com

TREND REPORT 2015


19

bhomes.com

Autumn tones Marsala is not the only autumnal

colour coming to the fore in home décor this year. While pastel colours will still

general manager at Jashanmal Home

Monochrome was popular last

and window and doorframes delineate architectural elements in rooms for a

forms in home décor this year, from

animal motifs.

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Spotted: The Big Five

1. Digitisation2. Sustainability3. Outdoor entertainment4. Regenerative bathrooms5. Arabesque

Focussing on the latter, the UAE has a strong visual heritage and traditional customs, something that architects and designers in the Middle East embrace, especially in the hospitality industry. Commenting on the Arabic calligraphy present in his restaurant design for Switch in Dubai Mall, USA-based industrial designer Karim Rashid says: “I’m a big believer in designing things that are very much about the place; it can be super contemporary and new but there should be some relationship to the customs there, otherwise there’d be no need to travel if everywhere was the same.” Aware that visitors to the region want to sample the local culture, and that locals are innately proud of their heritage, designers fuse traditional Arabic architecture with

fretwork will give arabesque a global audience past the GCC. The geometric patterns of fretwork carved into relief are synonymous with arabesque designs; we’ll see them get oversized and angular as the year unfolds.

While MAISON&OBJET is the king of the jungle when it comes to design shows, there are leading international fairs closer to home. At the end of 2014 BH popped to Saudi Arabia for the 6th edition of Decofair, a show that’s established itself as a leading voice on interior design and trends in the Middle East. Thousands of international brands and industry professionals descended on Jeddah with new concepts and ideas that applied creative solutions to address the needs and wants of the Middle East market, while also responding to

predominant concepts at the show that will impact interior design in 2015...

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This year texture will be a hot topic. Rough, tactile surfaces will prevail over smooth ones, inviting us to interact with our homes, from the walls to the kitchen countertops.

Jotun is leading this with an innovative new paint solution for walls. The 2015 Lady Design Collection is a unique concept that can transform your home into a sparkling castle, an industrial loft apartment, a beachfront retreat or a rustic bolthole.

“The new Lady Design collections were introduced to give our customers more options to create a luxurious space that echoes their individual taste using paint,” explains Claudio Iurilli, regional marketing director at Jotun Middle East, India and Africa. “We wanted to offer a better mix of classical and modern textures, keeping in mind the colours and patterns that radiate sophistication and charm.”

Working with renowned Egyptian interior designer Mona Hussein, the new paint range offers distinct designs for your home that play on your senses, through touch and sight. ‘Historic’ resembles the elegance and craft of Travertino stone; ‘Diamonds’ sparkles like a night sky and is available in many colours, from wedding-day white to cherry red; meanwhile, ‘Ocean Rush’ is perfect for coastal homes, with each brush stroke mixing turquoise and white for a realistic ocean wash; and ‘Romano’ harks back to traditional

Textured surfaces

Italian stonemasonry, resembling the roughness of natural stone building blocks. With Romano you can recreate romantic Venetian patterns or the industrial breezeblock walls of a cool New York loft apartment.

look of concrete is also being pushed in contemporary kitchen design. “The textures on kitchen cabinetry are amazing these days and will be very popular this year,” comments Steven Pardoe, managing partner at Hacker. “Texture in the kitchen is about that rough feel, natural elements and lifelike textures. People like that tactile look.”

He highlighted new designs for door fronts, such as fake concrete and laminates that look like real planks of pinewood, with a deep grain and knots. A brand new material, real lava stone, is something the company is proud to unveil for 2015.

“These doors are made from a 3mm layer of real lava stone and we’re the only company in the world to have this,” Pardoe enthuses. In conjunction with this, Hacker’s key colours for the year are lava grey, white and champagne.

Desert Sky Lady Design paint, Jotun

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YAS

MALLThis new shopping

destination is a haven for

your home

CentrepointCentrepoint is home to four distinct

brands: Babyshop, Shoe Mart, Splash, and Lifestyle. The latter has

recently become the exclusive regional distributor for the new Trump home range, a collection of lights, bath and

home accessories with surprisingly low prices that are hard to, er, trump…

DebenhamsIn what is the largest Debenham’s

outside of the United Kingdom,

you like in this expansive department store.

Home CentreSince 1995 Home Centre has helped residents in the UAE

transform their houses into homes. Starting life in Sharjah, the company now

has 75 stores across the MENA region and Indian

subcontinent offering stylish furniture,

lighting and accessories.

FBMIBuy an exquisite hand-woven rug or carpet from FBMI and help support

the poverty-stricken women in Afghanistan who make them.

Indigo Living

dedicated children’s furniture shop in the Middle East. “Being a kids

destination, Yas Mall is a fantastic opportunity for us to roll out the

complete Indigo Living Kids brand with

new collections,” says Tracy Fitzpatrick, Indigo Living’s director of operations.

MujiFor those who like a ‘less is more’ approach, our favourite Japanese

import is comfortable,

fuss-free and affordable.


23Virgin Megastore

quirky kitchen appliances, cool kids’ poufs and great gifts for the home – lots

of funky things you never knew you needed.

THE OneOne of the UAE’s leading retail success stories, THE One, has established itself as a leading destination for affordable

luxury with new and updated collections launched biannually to keep your home looking fashionable, funky

and fresh.

Zara HomeA favourite in many other malls, Zara Home frequently updates its ranges so you’ll be enticed by new, on-trend

designs every time you visit. Shop for bedrooms, bathrooms and kids’ rooms.

West ElmThis sister company to Pottery Barn

steps away from the all-American look with a diverse collection of bedding,

bath, kitchen and living room ideas to suit many tastes and ages.

TefalAnyone wanting a non-stick pan knows

Tefal is the best option, and you can

range and kitchen gadgets at the Yas Mall store.

Pottery Barn/Teens/KidsFind the whole Pottery Barn family at Yas Mall. Twelve years after launching

in the Emirates with stylish furniture for teenage bedrooms and dorms.

Caroline Liddon, PBteen’s business director, says: “Whether your teen’s

style is preppy, eclectic or anywhere in between, our collections make it easy to design fun, functional spaces that the

entire family will love.”

Why choose Better Homes?

ExperienceNearly three decades in

the UAE property market.

Accessibility Our offices are open six

days a week and phone

lines seven days a week.

Convenience Branches across Dubai,

Abu Dhabi and the GCC.

Comprehensive

serviceResidential and commercial

sales and leasing,

property management,

holiday home rentals.

Professional

photographyTo show your property

at its best.

To find out more about Better

Homes, call +971 4 306 88 or

email [email protected]

Expert marketing Across our website,

print, social media

and property portals.

bhomes.com Receives 24,000+ page

views per day, guaranteeing

exposure for your property.

Reliability We train our consultants

to put their clients’

needs first.

Attention to detailThousands of individual

detailed property listings


25

Designer spotlight

Belated birthday celebrations go to Duresta, a British company that’s been celebrating its 75th anniversary across the world for the past year – ending with a closing party in Abu Dhabi.

The luxury furniture company held a final hurrah at the long-awaited reopening of its Middle-East retail partner Eldiar, whose showroom was undergoing renovation during its 75th year in 2013. Eldiar is synonymous with timelessness – so, what’s a few months wait? Now open for the winter season, a VIP event marked the occasion late last year and celebrated the milestone birthday of its loyal and iconic partner, Duresta.

Duresta sales manager Alan Reid, based at the company’s headquarters in England, says: “We had celebrations across the world, from our workshops in the UK to events in Taiwan and China. Eldiar were renovating and rebranding their showroom during this time, therefore we decided to postpone the celebrations.

“Everyone at Duresta is incredibly honoured to have reached such a momentous milestone. Since being founded in 1938 Duresta has always had the same core values: quality, creativity and craftsmanship. Throughout our history we have maintained the traditional techniques and strived to develop new and exciting products that reflect the ever-evolving lifestyles and tastes of our customers. Walking around the Duresta workshop, it is clear that everyone has a strong pride in working for a company steeped in heritage and tradition.”

Duresta exemplifies the ‘English Country House’ style where the formal and grand sit beautifully alongside more plain and casual furnishings, for a look that oozes comfort and quality.

Formal and grand, comfort and quality – these words are synonymous with Eldiar, a distinctive retailer of classical yet contemporary furniture. Even before its renovation, Eldiar’s capacious showroom was a go-to destination for the

discerning decorator. Now, the 24-year-old company has alluring vignettes of classical sleigh beds, arabesque dining collections and modish living room furniture that set each scene with lavish aplomb, showing off the premium furniture from the high-end companies it works with. Althorp Living History, JC Passion, Phillips Collection, Saccaro, Stilema and Theodore Alexander, to name a few.

For Duresta, retailing via Eldiar to reach the UAE market offers a wealth of opportunity, says Reid. “Like the rest of the world, there are customers in the UAE and the Middle East who seek quality, hand-crafted furniture,” he says. “Duresta customers appreciate the attention to detail that we take in producing each piece of furniture. Our products appeal not only because of the beautiful fabrics used but also for the fact that they are hand-cut fabrics, and flawlessly pattern-matched. It is this eye for detail that makes Duresta’s products popular here.” eldiar-uae.com

Worth the wait

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Afamily

AFFAIR

Words by Eleanor Joslin; photography by Helen Riley

How the Al-Ramahis designed an award-winning home


27

Just as food lovers are eager to dine at the table of their favourite chef, design aficionados are curious for a peep inside the home of renowned architects. Your hunger will be well satiated with our tour of the Al-Ramahi family’s award-winning home, Villa Jenelle, in Khalifa City A.

You might think architects could design their own home in no time, but for this family of designers it took ten years to realise their dreams. It was worth the wait, for not only do they have a home where all their passions and interests are catered to but it also won Best Architecture Single Residence Abu Dhabi in the Arabian and African Property Awards 2013/14.

Villa Jenelle is a sprawling two-bedroom home on a prime corner plot, resplendent with turquoise roof tiles, domed atriums, open-plan common rooms, an inner courtyard and two self-contained annexes. Their home life, as well as their work life, is a real family affair. Twenty-six years after founding International House of Architecture,

architect Mahmoud Al-Ramahi and his wife Jenelle are handing over the reigns to sons Omar, 26, and Ismail, 30, who have made the annexe apartments their homes.

When it came to designing Villa Jenelle, all four members knitted their brows over the drawing board and drew inspiration from their

shared and individual interests as well as architecture with religious and historical importance. However, the villa’s namesake took a leading role in the design and the rest of the family are keen to thank her for her meticulous research and attention to detail in both the architecture and interior design of their new home.

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e “I am a self-proclaimed designer,” she says modestly as we chat on the phone. Now semi-retired, the couple are taking a welcome break in Florida. “I have been doing it for so long, even though I studied psychology and business. We are a very creative household and it’s a dream to have a family who share the same passions. We took time planning because we are architects and we had other clients’ villas to work on, and because we redesigned it many times to meet all our requirements.”

In the large, Gustavian-style kitchen stands a book documenting the decade-long planning phase, from inspiring photos to detailed plans. In it, Mahmoud states: “People are always eager to see what an architect’s home looks like. I was under pressure both professionally and emotionally as it is my own space so I simplified the task by making my wife and two sons my clients […] To understand our villa you will know us as a family. It is the story of our life, our past and our future, holding memories so dear. It is a reflection of our combined personalities and interests.

“As an artistic family with many hobbies, we maximised the utilisation of spaces to hide, protect or display our equipment and tools. Examples of such spaces are a large library as we are all avid readers; a working garage for our son Omar the car enthusiast; an art studio with excellent natural light because we are all artists; a craft/sewing area for my wife; and sports facilities to include each of our interests.”

From the outside, what looks like a cluster of hexagonal prisms are actually side rooms (home to a pretty blue and white guest bedroom and a traditional Wadu – their ablution room). Connecting these are hallways that take you on a journey of the modernist sculptures Mahmoud has created over the years, the awards the villa has won, the handmade Persian carpets underfoot, and the huge art collection he and Jenelle have accumulated during 33 years of marriage.

The arched front door opens onto a stunning atrium where pink flowers blossom overhead. Beyond is a majestic majlis, furnished with yellow Victorian sofas, ornate antique display cabinets, and glass baubles filled with flowers hanging delicately from the galleried library that frames the walls overhead. The baubles are left over from Omar’s wedding to Charlotte last June, filling this fledgling home with treasured memories and accessories that are too pretty to take down.

“It is amazing what Jenelle has done here, the attention to detail and how she has put things together,” praises Charlotte, who gave us the guided tour while her in-laws are on holiday. The Brit met Omar whilst they were both studying in Australia five years ago and now the newlyweds are making the villa’s annexe their own family home – with the addition of a nursery since they found out Charlotte is expecting.

“We held our wedding in this house because it is a special location unlike any other. It holds many special memories, even though we’ve only been living here awhile. It is our home and so we will always remember that we were married here with our family and friends.”

In both the majlis and master bedroom antiquated spiral staircases lead up to viewing platforms: in the majlis they take you to a galleried library full of books and religious tomes,

while the distressed metal balustrade in the master bedroom gives the couple’s space that sought-after feeling of heritage and age.

“We love philosophy, history and travelling so we wanted something that looked like it was passed down, but with modern amenities, like our sound system,” explains Jenelle. “Nothing is new or shiny or

modern; everything is distressed and vintage so they have that feeling of something passed down through the generations. Most of the furnishings are collections from our travels all around the world, so it’s very eclectic and old-world. Skills and craftsmanship were so much better in the past and we really appreciate that.”

Steel frames and regional stones from the Holy Land of Jerusalem, Mahmoud’s birthplace, surround the windows and doors for an antiquated look; the Alhambra Palace in Spain inspired the turquoise clay roof tiles; the Roman and Byzantine flooring pays homage to Jenelle’s love of those

It is amazing what Jenelle has done here, the attention to detail


29

Omar and Charlotte held their wedding at the family home

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e periods; the cathedral rib ceiling arches come from those they’ve seen while travelling; the glass-stained star-shaped windows are symbolic of Mecca.

Winning the Arabian and African Property Awards required the villa’s design to be artistic and creative using the best construction methods and materials. “We entered the competition because when you put so much of your time, effort and passion into something you want to know what people think about it,” says the proud homeowner. “The judges gave fantastic comments, saying it’s unusual and dynamic. As a family of architects and designers we like the open common spaces. The pool and courtyard is the heart of the house and they are very private and secluded, which is important for us.”

Indeed, nearly all the rooms look out onto the courtyard and pool – the couple’s master bedroom, large marble bathroom and snug TV room, the men’s majlis and mezzanine library, the conservatory-cum-craft room, and the open-plan sitting and dining room. Here, the furniture defines its respective spaces: a large floor-to-ceiling glass-fronted cabinet stands as a divider between the dining area and sitting room. Both are inviting yet neither is formal, with Jenelle expertly mixing chandeliers with comfy sofas, stained-glass windows with carved wooden beams, a neutral colour scheme with pops of art. Vintage market stall carts frame the French windows and make unusual and eye-catching display cabinets, which Charlotte commandeered as cake tables for her wedding day.

“It is an extended family home,” adds Jenelle. “It is created in a way that we can live together but with complete privacy for our sons and their families. They had more influence over the design of their annexes and they’re not completely finished yet. I would like to enter the house for an interior design award when it’s finished,” she muses, “but like every home it continues to be a work in progress.”

Like every home it continues to be a work in progress

Jenelle and Mahmoud receive their award


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BUY THE LOOKBe inspired by Villa Jenelle’s traditional yet eclectic style

1. Ethnic Artwares rug, AED275, Bloomingdale’s Home 2. Lilian nesting table with gold detail, AED2,246, 2XL 3. Horse bookend, AED155 each, Zara Home 4. Small antiqued cloche pendant, AED1,970, Ethan Allen 5. Celesté wall light, POA, Emerald Faerie 6. Candlestick holder, see price in store, Marina Home 7. Baron pillow, 20”x13”, AED66, Crate and Barrel 8. Giobagnara Victor trays, prices vary, White Almonds 9. Councill occasional chair, see price in store, En Vogue 10. Ares living room furniture collection, prices vary, Silik

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3.

4.

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2.

8.

10.

9.

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What’s new… IN THE GARDEN

We’re turning back time and going au natural

This is the best time of the year, when the weather starts to warm up (after dipping momentarily to chilly levels in ‘winter’) and we can bask in our gardens, have barbecue parties day and night, or simply sit outside for a quiet moment with a book.

Make the most of it by creating a garden that’s a real retreat in our bustling urban jungle. Updating the garden doesn’t have to be expensive – you can revamp the patio quite easily without having to landscape the tiles or decking. IKEA’s new outdoor range has a wide selection of chairs and loungers. This year’s look is all about the retro revival, so opt for the blue and white

striped MYSINGSÖ beach chairs to bring back some nostalgic memories of family days out at the seaside. If you want something more unique, Bespoke Global has a retro-modern deckchair in leather and brass, available online. The Ovis deckchair (opposite page) by Ladies and Gentleman Studio is perfect for bachelor-pad balconies or parked on the decking by a stretch of manicured lawn.

When it comes to decking materials, porcelain tiles are a great option. They’re easy to maintain, there’s no risk of warping as with natural timbers, and you can work them into your interior flooring, too, for a seamless

transition between your house and garden. “The great thing about full-bodied porcelain tiles are the natural materials it’s made from, such as clays and quartz, depending on the colour that needs be created,” says Tanya Pearson, key account manager at Mirage Spa. “Nothing artificial like resin goes into it. Resin is just as durable but it’s not sustainable and can be poisonous.

“You can have any colour you like but the popular choices are natural stones such as limestone and slate and natural woods. Essentially people are trying to mimic marble and limestone, which has become very expensive. Patterns


33

can be created easily because porcelain is not weak like natural stone, so you won’t get cracks. Curves are common, especially around the pool, and mosaics for the pool interior. Designs are very simple here compared to the trends in Italy and Europe. Here it’s all about simplicity and natural colours.”

Natural colours and materials are fashionable for 2015, inside and outside the home. Dining sets in untreated wood, raw and rough textures such as wicker seats and hessian upholstery, wool and cotton cushions – in greys, creams, pale blues and greens, to blend in with their natural surroundings.

For both untreated and treated finishes, teakwood seems to the choice material this year and is governing outdoor furniture collections for 2015. This hardwearing, natural material is well known to withstand harsh weather conditions such as heat and UV rays, which are constant sources of damage to garden furniture in the UAE.

“However, you have to expect some level of maintenance with this wood,” warns Shafiq Al Taher, business development director at Rattan House. “Teak oil needs to be applied to the

furniture, which can be a hassle for some people. Rattan is much easier, as you just hose it down once in a while to get rid of dust. It’s also weatherproof, UV protected, the colour doesn’t fade and you can easily add a protective cover. It’s lightweight, too, so it’s practical to move around the garden, while teak is heavier.”

Regardless of maintenance, teak is certainly coming back into fashion judging by its noticeable presence at Spoga+Gafa in Cologne last year, an internationally leading outdoor furniture show.

The new outdoor collections presented by ACE also focus heavily on teak – with tables, chairs, sun loungers and benches made from this light-brown wood. Go for the New York seven-piece set, comprising of a round teak table and six wicker chairs with cushions. The seven-piece Los Angeles dining set is made from a lighter teakwood for a more natural look outside. When you’re browsing the shops, opt for teakwood sourced from Indonesia, which is known for having some of the finest sustainable plantations of teak in the world.

Clockwise, from left: Los

Angeles collection, ACE; Ovis

deckchair, bespokeglobal.com;

porcelain patio, Mirage Spa

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1. Make your own hamper kit, AED19, Lakeland

2. MÄLARÖ garden table, AED395, IKEA

3. Sandwich bag, AED18, Crate and Barrel

4. Picnic hamper, AED535, Flamant

5. Royal Albert Miranda Kerr Friendship plates, set of four, AED745, Jashanmal

Culinary concepts Turn your garden into a paradise for picnics

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5.

1.

2.

3.

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Tit

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House

This magnificent two-bedroom apartment in Al Naseem B is strategically located with unrivalled views overlooking a small harbour and across to Yas Island. The modern apartment boasts good-sized bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, two bathrooms and an open-plan living room and kitchen. This room enjoys extensive floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light, creating a

bright and sociable hub for the home. The kitchen is very well designed, with contemporary white lacquered units, a streamlined breakfast bar and built-in appliances. Al Naseem B is an iconic building, known for its unusual staggered structure and enviable waterfront views. Al Bandar is a fully integrated community, with residential towers, a scenic marina with 131 berths and an exclusive residents’ clubhouse.

Need to know

Where? Al Naseem B, Al Raha BeachWhat? Two-bedroom apartmentSize? 1,011 square feetCost? AED2.4millionBest for? Investors and professionalsLike what you see? Call Better Homes on 04 306 8833 and speak to Mirza Abdul Qayyum with the code AP332524

Property of the month

Take a tour of the capital

The capital of the UAE has grown into a modern, cosmopolitan city with stunning beaches, five-star hotels and restaurants, resplendent public parks, an affluent marina culture and a budding art scene.

We are lucky enough to be surrounded by beautiful beaches, with sandy stretches running along the city’s coastline and surrounding the islands that lily-pad out from the mainland. Notable beaches include Corniche beachfront, which has been awarded the coveted Blue Flag status, the majestic white sands at Yas Island, and Saadiyat Beach, which has a range of facilities and activities for beachgoers.

Abu Dhabi is well known for its scenic parks, family-friendly entertainment, A-list music concerts and its many malls. At the end of 2014 Yas Mall on the beautiful Yas Island opened to a lot of fanfare. It now holds the crown as being the biggest mall in the city and it has already enticed a number of new brands to the UAE.

The city is great for families with

children of all ages, as there are plenty of nurseries, schools and universities with curriculums from Britain, America, Canada and India, to name a few.

Abu Dhabi has a diverse range of living options, with a mix of high-end residential towers, townhouses and villas located across the city and its archipelago of islands. The main residential areas are: Al Bateen, Al Nahyan Camp, Al Raha Beach, Al Reef, Al Reem Island, Corniche, Khalifa Park, Khalifa City A and B, Mohammed Bin Zayed, Mushrif, Saadiyat.

Landmark residences include Gate Towers and The Arc on Al Reem Island, and Burj Mohammed Bin Rashid at WTC, which is the longest residential tower in Abu Dhabi. Gate Towers marks the entrance to The Gate District on Al Reem Island and dominates the skyline with its eye-catching architecture – three towers topped by the world’s highest penthouse bridge. You’ll find apartments with

between one and three bedrooms and large penthouse suites.

Villas are predominantly in Mushrif and Al Bateen, while a few are located around the Corniche area and Khalifa City A and B. All villas enjoy a private backyard and a minimum of three bedrooms – which is ideal for families. The majority of apartments are on the market leasehold while villas are mostly freehold; however, it depends on the area, as there are exceptions to the rule.

Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, prices are very competitive. one bedroom apartments lease from AED80,000 and sell from AED1.2million; two-bedroom apartments are on the market from AED120,000 and AED1.45million, respectively; meanwhile, three-beds lease from AED130,000 and sell from AED2million.

Find out more by calling Better

Homes’ Abu Dhabi Manager Nada

Jaouhar on 04 306 8833 or by visiting

the office in Al Zeina.

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For sale Marina Heights II has been designed to cater to the high demand from both investors and first homeowners for studio and one-bedroom apartments in Abu Dhabi. As the central residence in the Marina Square development it features the largest swimming pool and leisure area and the building is expected to enjoy a vibrant community feel. This one-bedroom apartment has an extensive living and dining room, an open-plan kitchen, a large en-suite bedroom and a guest WC, all designed to high standards, with marble throughout and mahogany wardrobes and kitchen units. Large windows and a private balcony soak up far-reaching views over Al Reem Island. This property is ideal for investors and is currently rented at AED85,000 until August 2015.

Need to know

Where? Al Reem IslandWhat? One-bedroom apartmentSize? 872 square feetCost? AED1.25millionBest for? Investors Like what you see? Call Better Homes consultant Maria Eduarda Silveira on 04 306 8833 with reference code AP332272

For rentThis luxurious apartment spans a full floor of Al Manara Tower by the beautiful Al Bandar marina. A private lift takes you up to a spacious, white-marble living room with floor-to-ceiling windows showing off stunning views of the marina. This room opens into a large, fully glazed dining/kitchen/family room that boasts panoramic views of the turquoise sea and the islands beyond. All the bedrooms are en-suite with great views from different aspects. Feel really pampered in the master bedroom’s en-suite bathroom, where the bath is positioned by a full-height window overlooking the sea. The apartment also has a separate maid’s room and laundry rooms.

Need to know

Where? Al Bandar, Al Raha BeachWhat? Four-bedroom apartmentSize? 4,058 square feetCost? AED450,000Best for? Affluent familiesLike what you see? Call Better Homes consultant Maria Eduarda Silveira on 04 306 8833 with reference code AP326725

Homes to viewFar-reaching views make these apartments a must-see

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Burj Mohammed Bin Rashid at WTCCorniche Area

Privileged location Better Homes Abu Dhabi (Ref # AP331856)

AED 298,0004 BR

2,851 sq. ft.

RM VillaAl Nahyan

Privileged location Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # VI330517)

AED 250,0003 BR

3,000 sq. ft.

Marina Royal

6,014 sq. ft.4 BRMarina Village

Exclusive residence Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # VI308436)

AED 650,000

Burj Mohammed Bin Rashid at WTCCorniche Area

Privileged location Better Homes Abu Dhabi (Ref # AP331855)

AED 234,7253 BR

2,217 sq. ft.

Bateen VillaAl Bateen

A stunning family home Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # VI329164)

AED 230,0005 BR

4,000 sq. ft.

Abu Dhabi District for saleYou’ll find beautiful villas, spacious townhouses and landmark residential towers with stunning sea views in Abu Dhabi. It’s the perfect place for singles, professionals and families alike, with a choice of malls, fine dining, entertainment and schools.


39

Saadiyat Island SaleLive a luxurious island lifestyle on Saadiyat, a low-lying community sprawled across a scenic archipelago 500 metres from Abu Dhabi Island. Enjoy stunning sea views and premier facilities at the island’s five-star hotels, spas and restaurants.

Saadiyat BeachSaadiyat Island

Strategic location Marie DeGuiche (Ref # VI326789)

AED 24,000,0006 BR

12,217 sq. ft.

Saadiyat Beach

8,051 sq. ft.5 BRSaadiyat Island

A prestigious address Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # VI330638)

AED 13,800,000

St. Regis Building 6Saadiyat Island

5 Star hotel living with everything you need Cheffie Melhem (Ref # AP308313)

AED 2,400,0001 BR

1,302 sq. ft.

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Al Raha Beach for saleBuilt alongside 5.2 million square metres of natural beachfront on the mainland, Al Raha Beach is a beautiful and highly sought-after location. Stunning coastal views can be enjoyed from luxurious residences in any one of the area’s 11 ‘precincts’.

Al ZeinaAl Raha Beach

An investor’s dream Marie DeGuiche (Ref # AP332219)

AED 2,000,0002 BR

1,407 sq. ft.

Al MuneeraAl Raha Beach

Assured rental income Marie DeGuiche (Ref # AP332221)

AED 1,500,0001 BR

859 sq. ft.

Al Naseem A

2,518 sq. ft.3 BRAl Raha Beach

Amazing value Wissam Al Hamoud (Ref # AP332243)

AED 4,300,000


A desirable address Jorim Omollo Amadi (Ref # AP332141)

AED 2,750,0003 BR

1,722 sq. ft.

Al Naseem CAl Raha Beach

A prestigious address Cheffie Melhem (Ref # AP331368)

AED 2,800,0002 BR

1,330 sq. ft.


A stunning family home Imran Ellam (Ref # AP328653)

AED 2,999,0002 BR

1,577 sq. ft.


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LIKE WHAT YOU SEE?

Visit bhomes.com and type in the

reference number to find out more

Al Raha Beach for sale

Al Naseem A

1,624 sq. ft.2 BRAl Raha Beach

Ready to move in Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # AP331137)

AED 2,300,000

Al Naseem CAl Raha Beach

Luxurious penthouse Cheffie Melhem (Ref # AP331231)

AED 3,800,0002 BR

2,594 sq. ft.


An investor’s dream Cheffie Melhem (Ref # AP324827)

AED 4,050,0004 BR

3,239 sq. ft.


Attractive investment opportunity Mirza Abdul Qayyum (Ref # AP306637)

AED 1,400,0001 BR

859 sq. ft.

Al Naseem BAl Raha Beach

Prestigious urban development Mirza Abdul Qayyum (Ref # AP332524)

AED 2,400,0002 BR

1,011 sq. ft.

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Al Raha Beach for rent

Al Muneera

855 sq. ft.1 BRAl Raha Beach

Fully furnished with style and class Marie DeGuiche (Ref # AP323364)

AED 125,000

Al ManaraAl Raha Beach

Understated luxury Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # AP326725)

AED 450,0004 BR

4,058 sq. ft.


Enchanting sea views Marie DeGuiche (Ref # AP323430)

AED 180,0002 BR

1,539 sq. ft.

Al Naseem BAl Raha Beach

A prestigious address Marie DeGuiche (Ref # AP332170)

AED 135,0001 BR

892 sq. ft.


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Al Reef SaleThis is a lovely family-focussed community that’s centrally located, near to Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi International Airport and Yas Island. You’ll find affordable property in a range of distinct styles, with facilities and amenities close to hand.

Desert CommunityAl Reef

Excellent value Wissam Al Hamoud (Ref # TH297114)

AED 3,000,0005 BR

3,749 sq. ft.

Arabic CommunityAl Reef

A stunning family home Imran Ellam (Ref # TH314859)

AED 2,700,0004 BR

2,858 sq. ft.

Mediterranean Community

3,749 sq. ft.5 BRAl Reef

Relaxed ambience Marie DeGuiche (Ref # TH325548)

AED 3,000,000


Relaxed ambience Imran Ellam (Ref # TH295322)

AED 1,550,0002 BR

1,832 sq. ft.


Relaxed ambience Imran Ellam (Ref # TH295314)

AED 1,550,0002 BR

1,832 sq. ft.

Building 19Al Reef

Exceptional deal Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # AP329234)

AED 1,500,0003 BR

1,658 sq. ft.

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Al Reem Island for saleAl Reem is a landmark development, being one of the first free zones in Abu Dhabi where foreign nationals can buy property as leasehold. It’s fast becoming a popular place to live, with iconic skyscrapers, a convenient location and far-reaching views.

Hydra Avenue Tower EAl Reem Island

Excellent value Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # AP331246)

AED 1,047,000Studio

798 sq. ft.

Beach TowersAl Reem Island

Spacious with great finishes Cheffie Melhem (Ref # AP331955)

AED 4,123,5004 BR

2,749 sq. ft.

Amaya Towers

1,507 sq. ft.2 BRAl Reem Island

A prestigious address Marie DeGuiche (Ref # AP332266)

AED 2,070,000

Tala TowerAl Reem Island

Affordable luxury Marie DeGuiche (Ref # AP331113)

AED 3,084,0003 BR

2,056 sq. ft.

The Gate TowerAl Reem Island

Privileged location Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # AP324966)

AED 2,485,0003 BR

1,542 sq. ft.

Marina Heights IAl Reem Island

Competitive priceMirza Abdul Qayyum (Ref # AP331270)

AED 1,900,0002 BR

1,335 sq. ft.


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WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Call Better Homes on 04 306 8833 and

talk to an agent

Al Reem Island for sale

Beach Towers

943 sq. ft.1 BRAl Reem Island


AED 1,450,000

OceanscapeAl Reem Island

5 Star hotel living with everything you need Thomas Peter Willams (Ref # AP319776)

AED 1,350,0001 BR

1,025 sq. ft.

Al Maha TowerAl Reem Island

An investor’s dream Cheffie Melhem (Ref # AP316607)

AED 1,475,0001 BR

880 sq. ft.

Marina Heights IAl Reem Island

A desirable address Wissam Al Hamoud (Ref # AP304498)

AED 2,000,0002 BR

1,335 sq. ft.

Sky TowerAl Reem Island

Amazing capital growth Cheffie Melhem (Ref # APM79151)

AED 2,600,0002 BR

1,338 sq. ft.

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Tala Tower

936 sq. ft.1 BRAl Reem Island

Central and prestigious location Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # AP320111)

AED 175,000

Sky TowerAl Reem Island

Exceptional deal Jorim Omollo Amadi (Ref # AP331234)

AED 150,0002 BR

1,338 sq. ft.

Beach TowersAl Reem Island

Scenic water view Marie DeGuiche (Ref # AP322985)

AED 160,0002 BR

1,799 sq. ft.

Ocean Terrace ResidenceAl Reem Island


AED 190,0003 BR

2,121 sq. ft.

Tala TowerAl Reem Island

A prestigious address Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # AP329148)

AED 275,0003 BR

2,056 sq. ft.

Al Reem Island is a residential, commercial and business project situated within a natural island 600 metres off the coast of Abu Dhabi. Work on the ambitious Al Reem Island project started in 2006 and it continues to bring to life its part of the vision of Abu Dhabi 2030. It will accommodate a total built-up area of 215 million square feet and will be home to approximately 200,000 residents once complete. The project has gained international interest as one of the first free zones in Abu Dhabi, where foreign nationals can buy property as

leasehold. Home to beautiful beaches, villas, apartments, a wide range of facilities and amenities plus the Paris Sorbonne University, it has something for everyone. You’ll find banks, coffee shops, restaurants and grocery stores and a mix of modern residential living areas and commercial developments. It’s ideally located, too, being a five-minute drive from Abu Dhabi Downtown and 10 minutes away from Sheikh Khalifa Highway. The location has proved to be an important link between the old and the new aspects of Abu Dhabi.

Ask the agentMirza Abdul, residential consultant, Abu Dhabi office

Al Reem Island for rent


47

Other communitiesHouse hunters should look at our pick of properties across the city, where schools, shops, malls and sea views are never far away. For more information or to find more homes for sale and rent go to bhomes.com or talk to an agent on 600 52 2212.

The Fountain VillaKhalifa A

Understated luxury Cheffie Melhem (Ref # VI318347)

AED 350,0004 BR

5,000 sq. ft.

Bawabat Al SharqBani Yas

A place to call home Mirza Abdul Qayyum (Ref # VI331718)

AED 240,0005 BR

4,571 sq. ft.

Townhouse

1,885 sq. ft.2 BRHydra Village

Amazing value Cheffie Melhem (Ref # TH324743)

AED 1,250,000

KKS VillaKhalifa A

A place to call home Maria Eduarda Silveira (Ref # VI307800)

AED 230,0005 BR

7,000 sq. ft.

The Corniche is a long road that extends almost nine kilometres running parallel to a lengthy stretch of beach. It is quite a popular attraction in Abu Dhabi and has become a tourist location for quality leisure and recreation, with several lush green gardens running along the road and fountains strategically placed at every intersection of the Corniche’s walkways and entrances. It’s also a signature destination for many high-profile entertainment and sporting events like the free Yasalam concerts, part of the Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

that runs from October to November every year, the World of Music, Art and Dance (WOMAD) and Volvo Ocean Race. With the modern buildings facing the sea in the background, it is one of the most beautiful places in Abu Dhabi. The other side of the Corniche road is famous for five-star hotels, restaurants and high-rise buildings and it is a premium housing location in the capital, offering luxurious apartments for residents. Nearby, shopaholics can roam around Marina Mall and premium supermarket brands such a Carrefour, Spinneys and Abela.

Ask the agentWissam Al Hamoud, residential and commercial leasing consultant, Abu Dhabi office

FOR SALE FOR RENT

FOR RENTFOR RENT

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Hou

se Editor’s pick

While we’ve been caught up in the excitement surrounding the recent opening of Yas Mall, it’s not been the only location to welcome new residents. A long-term favourite amongst fashionable shoppers in Dubai and Sharjah, Al Huzaifa Furniture recently moved into a plush new showroom in the Abu Dhabi Plaza on Hamdan Street with a unique collection of furniture designed to incorporate modernity, elegance and class. The company draws

upon a century-old lineage in the craft of fine furniture, mixed with an astute sense of fashion for the luxury market in the UAE. Its aesthetic sensibilities range from classic to contemporary, comfortable to flamboyant. The luxurious Maraya sideboard, pictured, with its classic lines and shades of champagne, caught my eye as an elegant addition to a living room, hallway or capacious entrance. While it exudes elegance and vintage glamour,

it’s priced competitively at AED8,150. Opening the showroom, general manager Mr Walid Saad said: “We are extremely delighted in announcing the extension of our luxurious brand to the nation’s capital. Through the years, we’ve always tried to maintain a balance between quality and pricing. This has ensured that we enjoy lasting loyalty, not just in Dubai and Sharjah but also in our nation’s capital.” alhuzaifa.com

An elegant addition to the city

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better homes dubai jan 15 2015 edition

Real Estate

new startas

new york

new beginnings

new shopping mall

brand new year

hot new trends

new furniture brands

new collection of beds