Minimalism meets Art Deco in Jumeirah Park
A long-awaited personal passion project for homeowner Sawsan Al Nabolsi, owner of Reesha Interior Design, renovation plans for the entire ground floor of her villa had previously been put on hold due to the pandemic. Dated, dark and the opposite of her contemporary, light and minimalist-inspired vision, there was clear “room for improvement” to create a spacious family home with a luxury aesthetic that would also be a welcoming environment for gatherings with friends.
The first major change was structural, with Sawsan removing numerous interior arches to open up the floorspace allowing light to flood in. At the same time, the original low ceilings in the entry hall and staircase were raised to three metres, creating an immediate wow factor, with the rear loggia enclosed by floor-to-ceiling windows to connect with the outdoor space.
A minimalistic motif informs the holistic design vision, but Art Deco touches are also evident in the entryway and formal living area. “You wouldn’t think that this could work as they are opposing styles, but I took subtle Art Deco elements and married them to contemporary materials and finishes,” she says with a smile.
Beginning with the statement midnight-black front door and stunning black and brass hallway chandelier, the effect is cleverly framed by gently curving walls and corners that continue into the adjacent living space, with linear detailing and trim delivering added personality. Brass accent touches reinforce the retro aesthetic with a duo of exquisitely curvy cream sofas pulling it all together and sitting on a deep pile rug with an eye-catching abstract coral design.
It is also evident in the bespoke cabinetry that lines one side of the lounge area, where Sawsan has designed a hotel-style countertop that houses a top-of-the-range coffee machine, with wraparound space to serve daytime snacks through to cocktail canapés. “We wanted guests to be able to serve themselves and feel at home. We are big coffee drinkers and this area is so unique. Everyone loves it,” she remarks. Her colour palette is firmly in the neutral camp, anchored by an abundant use of white plus off-white, grey tones and beige, enlivened by a range of sea-reminiscent blues in accent pieces and artworks. Materials are texturally engaging and include a mix of wallpaper, wood, leather and fabric.
Custom-made appears to the be mantra with numerous pieces and finishes commissioned by Sawsan, as well as produced in-house with Reesha Interior Design recently expanding its services to fit-out and customisation. Moving through to the more relaxed sitting area, which is where the family loves to hang out, the clean, contemporary aesthetic seamlessly follows through but is imbued with warmth, thanks to the staging of various personal pieces such as the vintage-style turntable. The adjacent open kitchen is a minimalistic functionality-meets-family togetherness tour de force that revolves around a huge central island used for everything from cookie-making moments and art and craft sessions to chatty get-togethers and dinner prep. Ample concealed storage keeps clutter to a minimum and ensures the space feels open and inviting.
The verdict
“The vision – and now the reality – was a family-friendly space that reflects our lifestyle; where the kids would feel comfortable, my husband could watch the football; a practical yet stylish kitchen; and somewhere guests would feel completely a home, with a touch of luxury and lots of personality.”
Insider insight
When planning a renovation, first consider your lifestyle and how this impacts the flow of the different spaces within your home. Functionality and comfort are paramount.
Be aware of structural possibilities and hurdles. Not all walls can be removed, and some big changes require planning permission, as well as fees. Lighting is everything and access to natural light should be the priority. The way we light our homes influences our mood and can even affect our health. Invest more in the important pieces, like a sofa, and you’ll save in the long term. Opt for neutral colours, so when you next renovate you won’t need to replace big ticket items.
To find the right contractor for your renovation, do your research: ask friends for recommendations; check out testimonials; and ask to visit completed client projects.