Step into this Mohammed Bin Rashid City home for a masterclass in harmonious contemporary design
A new property remodelled from top to toe, with a brief that asked for a seamless blend of modern and heritage elements to represent both husband and wife, Cinzia and Marco Tedeschi of Smart Renovation had full run of house in terms of creative interpretation. “From the beginning, the client understood that tailor-made design was the foundation on which we could layer individuality, personality and distinctive style, rather than draw on what is seen in other homes in Dubai,” says Cinzia.
She also makes a point to highlight the importance of considering sustainable design principles in any renovation. “There really is no need to buy everything new or rip out and replace, just because it’s the done thing. We recommend that homeowners spend where they need to spend and reuse what they can – with the help of an interior designer, of course.” The kitchen light fittings and dining table are live examples that saw existing furnishings given a second lease of life in a differently styled space.
From ‘something old to something new’, the ground floor powder room is an undoubted talking point and, quite possibly, Cinzia’s favourite room. “This is the only home in Dubai to have an octopus in the powder room,” she says, laughing.
Spotted by chance on Pinterest, Cinzia made it her mission to find the same octopus basin. “I wanted it especially for this home as it’s not only a unique piece that I knew the homeowners would love, but is something that makes a grand statement in a traditionally functional space,” she remarks.
To complement the basin, the décor has Royal Atlantis meets ocean vibes with blue onyx tiling that evokes gently ebbing water, delicate shell sconces, and matte gold accents that confirm the luxury feel.
“From the beginning, the client understood that tailor-made design was the foundation on which we could layer individuality, personality and distinctive style“
LIVING ROOM
A duo of fully customised bar cabinets line two walls, with a treated mirror backdrop adding character and depth to the space, while brass columns provide a visual counterpoint. Marble accents are the same as used for the countertop, while the surrounding wood laminate cabinet has a soft fluted design. LED mood lighting is integrated into the shelving for subtle illumination.
DINING ROOM
The soft lines of the natural wood dining table, which came from the couple’s previous home, are juxtaposed with an inviting and eye-catching back wall bar, custom made by Smart Renovation’s expert in-house craftsmen. The design carries through the same wood finish as seen in the formal living room, ensuring a strong sense of continuity and synergy, with a wine fridge, stocked bar and dedicated coffee nook guaranteeing enjoyable dining occasions.
“The only home in Dubai to have an octopus in the powder room“
KITCHEN
Bespoke grey-green cabinetry straddles the colour line between functional cool and cosy warmth, which was important for the homeowner who enjoys spending time in the kitchen. An open-plan space leading onto the family room, Cinzia and Marco added a splash of blue with the stools, while the client reused an existing light fixture to highlight the exquisite quartz-topped island. Concealed under-island storage provides valuable extra space.
MASTER BEDROOM
“Here, we wanted to use every single wall so that the client would have ample space to display her favourite pieces, in addition to space in the adjacent walk-in closet,” notes Cinzia. A relaxed and intimate setting was the goal, with wooden parquet flooring for warmth and curved corners offsetting the otherwise angular lines of the room. A generously proportioned vanity with an extra-large well-lit wall mirror harmonises with the other design touches, while soft lighting is used elsewhere in the room.
MASTER BATHROOM
Mediterranean motifs are intertwined with sophisticated luxury elements anchored by a dual vanity featuring arched mirrors and backed by a high-polish finish veined quartz slab tile. “We love the freedom of merging together different styles to create exceptional spaces, and this pairing works particularly well,” says Cinzia. Niche shelving frames both sides, with handy under-unit shelving offering additional storage without detracting from the uncluttered elegance.
UNDERSTAIRS BAR
A dark, unused area under the main staircase was transformed into a combination art installation-cum-wine cellar thanks to sculptural shelving that echoes the declining perspective of the space.
MASTER BATHROOM
Contemporary Art Deco was the inspiration for the second master bathroom, with luxurious pink onyx slab tiles adorning the tailor-made vanity and walk-in shower, complimenting gold fittings, wall lights and a glamorous freestanding bathtub.
Want to know more? Reach out to Marco and Cinzia at info@smartrenovation.ae