Betterliving February 2019

SHOP | Betterhomes Magazine
Complimentary copy
February 2019
NEW
LOOK
NEW
FEATURES
HOME RENO
A pool
with the
glam factor
The magazine of Betterhomes
HOW TO
Style an
inspiring
home office
45
TOP BUYS
TO COVET
Wonderwalls
Easy ways to
makeover a
blank wall
CREATE A
PURR-FECT
SANCTUARY
FOR YOUR PETS
A Desert Palm villa with feel-good vibes
19 | bhomes.com

NOW
IN STORE

Scan to download

Welcome to the February issue
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, we take a look at ways
to make your home extra cosy (page 32). However, it’s not just
about making our interiors inviting, as we discovered during
our tour of outdoor furniture designer Emma Goodall’s home
in Desert Palm (page 38). She loves to spend as much time in
her garden as possible, whether working, socialising or dining
so she ensured a seamless transition from indoors to outside,
calling on the expertise of Feng Shui wellness designer Simone
Osswald to improve the sense of flow,
Heather Drake follows the same principle, ensuring her garden
is as comfortable as her interiors (page 46). She also provides
plenty of tips to create a lush, low-maintenance garden.
We also head to Downtown Dubai, the place to live if you want
to be next to some of the most impressive landmarks on earth
(page 70). Plus, we bring you our pick of coveted properties,
with spa-like bathrooms on the market (page 66).
Lucy Land, Editor
lucy@hotmediapublishing.com
SHOP
12-21
New finds, homeware news,
a must-shop store focus and
barbecues we rate
Thank you to 800
Flower, The Lime
Tree Café & Kitchen,
Namshi, and Dwell for
supplying the pretty
goodies for these pages
10 | bhomes.com

Editor’s letter | CONTENTS
INSPIRE
22-63
A stunning swimming pool
installation, home and garden
tours with stylish residents, how to
incorporate the latest trends into
your home and
feature wall inspiration
Managing Director
Victoria Thatcher
Editorial Director
John Thatcher
Managing Editor
Faye Bartle
Editor
Lucy Land
Art Director
Kerri Bennett
Senior Designer
Hiral Kapadia
Production Manager
Muthu Kumar
Advertising Group Manager
Sukaina Hussein
+971 50 515 9691
MOVE
64-72
Things to know before you buy,
a guide to Downtown Dubai
with advice from the agent and the
local’s view of the area,
plus must-see properties with
spa-like bathrooms
To contact any of the
above people, email
firstname@hotmediapublishing.com
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 Living magazine.
Tel: +971 4 364 2876
Fax: +971 4 369 7494
bhomes.com
facebook.com/betterhomesuae
@betterhomesuae
@betterhomesuae
linkedin.com/company/better-homes-llc
bhomes.com | 11

UPDATES | February wish list
Lucy Land, Editor
Editor’s
picks
Five finds on my radar…
1. Every interior designer I’ve met this month has
mentioned the importance of layering lighting. For
flattering overhead lighting, this stunning design
classic is on my wish list. Burst chandelier in vintage
brass and grey colourway, Dhs159,788 (USD43,500),
Lindsey Adelman, lindseyadelman.com
2. Elevate teatime with pretty pastel-hued crockery
that comes in a choice of baby pink (pictured) or
mint. Six-piece Catherine cup and saucer set, Dhs525,
Chamore at Jashanmal, jashanmalhome.com
3. Create an inviting ambiance, with a Vermeil diffuser
from Voluspa, made with rattan reeds for a longlasting
scent. Aurantia & Blackberry Diffuser, Dhs249,
Vuluspa. Available from Dwell, dwell.com
4. Looking for a quirky gift idea? We found plenty
during the photoshoot for this month’s store focus
(page 16). Miles The Ant Sculpture, Dhs100, Georges of
Dubai, gerogesofdubai.com
5. Set the mood for afternoon tea with these cute
candles that look good enough to eat. Set of six
patisserie candles, Dhs63, Maisons du Monde,
maisonsdumonde.com
12 | bhomes.com

This month’s
Pinboard
Our round-up of the latest in
homewares, news and interiors trends
THREE
OF
A KIND
Following the success of the
launch of its Umm Suqeim
and City Centre Mirdif
branches last year, Danish
homewares store JSYK
(pronounced ‘yusk’) recently
opened its third Dubai store
in BurJuman. Covering
20,000 sq. ft., the new outlet
includes a sleep centre,
where you can test and
purchase everything, from
pocket spring mattresses to
adjustable bed bases.
For the man
of the house
Can’t think what to buy your
man this Valentine’s Day?
If he’s an adventurer, we
recommend a Victorinox
swiss knife (Dhs315). For
another practical gift idea,
you can’t go wrong with a
smart Ferrari ball point pen
(Dhs920), while a Delonghi
EC685.M Espresso machine
(Dhs999) will ensure his day
gets off to a good start.
All available from Jashanmal.
14 | bhomes.com

Trending | UPDATES
TIMOTHY OULTON
LAUNCHES IN
THE CAPITAL
Want to inject some British
vintage-inspired relaxed yet
sophisticated style into your
home? Then check out the
new Timothy Oulton Gallery
at Marina Home in The
Abu Dhabi Mall. The latest
collection includes the use
of rock crystal and is also
available from Marina Home,
Al Barsha, Dubai.
ITALIAN
STYLE
Bathroom solutions manufacturer
Ideal Standard recently
announced its collaboration
with top Italian architects and
design studio Palomba Serafini
Associati, with the first results
of the collaboration being
previewed during ISH 2019, the
trade fair on innovative water
and energy-saving design, which
takes place in Frankfurt, Germany
next month.
TAKE TWO
SOFT-HUED VASES
SAVE
Coral and white vase,
Dhs299, Zara Home
Save
SPLURGE
Puiforcat sterling
silver tumbler in
rose gold, Dhs9,500,
Moda Operandi
Splurge
On our radar Decorations of love
SAY IT WITH A MIRROR
DECORATION. We love this simple
design (Dhs133) by Kare.
A SPLASH OF LIFE-AFFIRMING CORAL on
blue ensures this hand-knotted rug is also a
piece of art. Kaboom rug from Design
Collection by Illulian.
THIS PINK CANDLE under a glass bell
cover adds a fun touch to a
contemporary console. Dhs85, Maisons
du Monde
bhomes.com | 15

SHOP | Must-shop
WHAT’S IN
STORE
GEORGES
OF DUBAI
THE STORY SO FAR: While working
for real estate development company
Emaar, interior designer Georgie
Trigg realised there was a market
for beautiful home accessories and
pretty gifts beyond those offered by
the big brands based in the malls.
Easily accessible destination spot
The Courtyard in Al Quoz 1 provided
the perfect place for Georges of
Dubai to launch in 2016. Her store is
complemented by Boston Lane, a café
offering speciality coffee, located next
door and run by her sister Ali Hickey.
The pair is now busy hosting a sixmonth
pop-up (launched in November
2018) overlooking The Dubai Fountain,
transforming a shipping container
into a design-savvy shopping and
dining experience, while Georgie is
also offering more larger pieces of
furniture, available to see in her new
showroom in Umm Suqeim.
THE LOOK: Clean, contemporary
and affordable.
WHAT TO CHECK OUT NOW: As well
as a selection of commercial grade
ceramics by Australian brand Mud;
scrumptious candles and glassware
from Maison Balzac and hand-printed
artworks and cushions by Bonnie
& Neil, the pop-up has a super
comfortable sofa by cult Australian
brand MCM House.
GOOD TO KNOW: Want to know how
to incorporate the colourful pieces in
an interesting, fun way? Just ask for
some of Georgie’s interiors expertise.
DELIVERY DETAILS: A speedy
delivery service across Dubai is
available for a flat Dhs20 fee.
Dubai Mall Pop-Up, Sheikh
Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard,
050 558 6746, georgesofdubai.com
WHY WE RATE IT
You’re guaranteed to find a beautiful
artisan gift for that person who is tricky
to buy for, as well as statement-making
homewares for yourself.
FAVOURITE FINDS
Tarrazzo wall clock, Dhs180
Paper mâché
red lucky star
bowl, Dhs105
From left:
Small
oval vase,
Dhs355,
small
tear vase,
Dhs245,
small carafe,
Dhs320,
by MUD
Australia
16 | bhomes.com

DuraSquare: Now with the new bathroom furniture series XSquare.
The exact and precise edges of the DuraSquare bathroom series blends perfectly with the latest furniture collection
XSquare designed by Kurt Merki Jr. Handle-free fronts, striking chrome profiles and 28 furniture finishes enable an
individual bathroom design. Co-ordinating mirrors feature a touch-free control panel for demisting and light or
dimming functions. Duravit Middle East SAL (Off-Shore), info@lb.duravit.com, Duravit Middle East SAL Off Shore -
UAE Rep Office info@ae.duravit.com, Duravit Saudi Arabia LLC, info@sa.duravit.com. www.duravit.com

SHOP | Cushions Glasses
UPON
REFLECTION
Play with colours at your dining table and
add a splash of style to your home
Anticlockwise: Coral-coloured glass, Dhs15, Zara
Home; Two-piece set of Tiki glasses, Dhs39,
Tavola; Ruby-coloured Nemo tumbler in size small,
Dhs485.43, White Almonds; Purple-coloured
Nordal drinking glass, Dhs70, Bits & Pieces; Twopiece
set of Konungslig glasses, Dhs49, IKEA; Sixpiece
set of multicoloured Mixed Cuttings glasses,
Dhs549, Pols Potten at Amara; Blue-coloured
Nordal drinking glass, Dhs57.14, Bits & Pieces
18 | bhomes.com

Discover a Revolutionary Beauty Line!
Renew for the journey ahead.
We have something new and exciting for you.
Behold the mind-blowing, anti-aging and hydrating facial treatments by an innovative
Korean product line, which uses Diamonds. Yes, you read that right! Diamonds are
known for their ability to deliver ingredients to the deepest layers of your skin.
Want to know the best part? You get to go home with your own box of exquisite
products after each treatment.
For more information or to make a booking please call +971 4 414 6754.
JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE
mhrs.dxbjw.spa@marriott.com | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com

Better buys | SHOP
BARBECUES
Whether you’re heading to the desert,
entertaining in your garden or staying
inside, we’ve got the perfect grill for you
FOR A SMOKY
FLAVOUR
Give your meat and veggies an
authentic smoke taste with this
versatile smoker. With its four
adjustable stainless steel cooking
grids, adjustable aluminium damper
system for maintaining a constant
temperature, and two rugged steel
doors, it is durable and easy to
maintain. Vertical charcoal smoker
grill, Dhs3,499, Broil King. Available
from Al-Futtaim ACE, aceuae.com
FOR
GASTRONOMES
This statement piece, with its refined stainless steel finish, boasts four
individual burners for a consistent and nuanced control; an infrared sear
zone, which can generate 29 MJ/h when sealing in juices; alongside two
temperatures types, direct and radiant. Outdoor gas BBQ OG42, price on
request, Wolf. Available from Iconic Home, iconichomeuae.com
BEST FOR
INDOORS
It’s the only indoor-approved,
fold-away barbecue and it
only takes 10 seconds to set
up. The award-winning Space
Grill is perfect for apartment
living and those with
minimalist aesthetics.
Space Grill, Dhs3,799,
ae.space-grill.com
THE
ADVENTUROUS ONE
This take-me-anywhere grill boasts all-terrain
wheels, spacious side shelves for prep, plus
integrated towel and tool holders. Another
award-winner, it’s easy to store and use,
folding down and opening up with a quick lift
and pull. TravelQ 285 with scissor cart in red,
Dhs2,729, Napolean. Available from Better Life,
betterlifeuae.com
THE FAMILY
CHOICE
This fuss-free, lightweight
barbecue features a lid lock
and lid holder for convenient
transportation. Simple to
assemble, its handle is protected
by a clever addition of a heat
shield. Smokey Joe Premium BBQ,
Dhs399, Weber. Available from
Al-Futtaim ACE, aceuae.com
BEFORE YOU BUY...
The first step to choosing which barbecue is right for you is deciding whether you want to use charcoal or gas as a
fuel source. Gas barbecues are convenient: they’re easy to start and the temperature can be accurately controlled
for a long period of time, plus they’re easy to clean. Many barbecue purists argue that cooking with charcoal gives
food a unique, smoky flavour. Whichever you go for, consider how many people you will regularly be catering for, your
budget, lifestyle, what size and type of barbie suits your space and be realistic about how often the barbecue will
be used and what styles of food you will be cooking.
bhomes.com | 21

IN THE KNOW
Three innovative interior designers and stylists
reveal what’s in, where to look, and how to craft
your most stylish home ever
Image: Lar Glutz
Kathryn Hawkes of
House of Hawkes
houseofhawkes.net
@houseofhawkes
WHAT ARE YOUR
FAVOURITE DÉCOR TRENDS
THIS YEAR?
I’m seeing a definite shift towards darker
autumn-inspired colour palettes, which is
pretty different for me – think mustard,
ochre and dusty pinks complemented
by natural hues. There’s also a move
towards a more aesthetically obvious use
of sustainable, handmade, artisanal pieces;
cane webbing is big; plus cosy, relaxed
bedrooms, with linen headboards, fewer
scatter cushions and dare I say, more
messy beds; and busy wallpapers that add
serious life and statement to a room.
YOUR TREASURED PLACES TO
LOOK FOR INTERIOR IDEAS?
Instagram and Pinterest are my first
port of call, but I also love to get lost in
interiors magazines.
ONE TIP FOR TRANSFORMING
SMALL ROOMS?
Use lots of practical (and vertical) storage,
preferably wall-hung to create an illusion
of floor space; multi-tasking furniture
pieces; and take a less is more philosophy.
WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR MAKING
QUICK AND EASY UPDATES TO
YOUR HOME?
Soft furnishings, such as cushions and
rugs; new pieces of wall art (Etsy has a
plethora of affordable digital downloads)
and accessories are a good call. For high
impact, change the wall colours, too.
WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND
BLOWING THE BUDGET ON?
This depends entirely on your personal
/family circumstances. For instance,
I would say invest in a good rug, but
probably not while you have small
kids. I do, however, always recommend
mixing affordable options with one or
two bucket-list pieces, like an item of
furniture from a designer you admire, an
investment rug or a vintage piece – the
choice differs from person to person.
YOUR TOP INTERIOR TIP?
Make sure your interiors work for your
family. It can’t be just about the aesthetic.
For you to love your space and for it
to reflect your character, it needs to be
practical and suit your lifestyle.
Image: Marli Smith
Image: Lar Glutz
22 | bhomes.com

Interior designers | INSPIRATION
Image: Natelee Cocks
“Define your interior style by creating a Pinterest
board of spaces that appeal to you”
bhomes.com | 23

Linda Dekkers of
Live Loud Girl
liveloudgirl.com
@liveloudgirl
WHAT ARE YOUR
FAVOURITE DÉCOR TRENDS AT
THE MOMENT?
It’s great to see the return of earthy tones
– I’ve seen them in Copenhagen, at Milan
Design Week and in the Middle East. I also
love to use tone on tone. It gives a space a
sense of calm without shying away from
colour. In terms of accessories, a crate is
very cute and versatile to use for storage.
YOUR TREASURED PLACES TO LOOK
FOR INTERIOR IDEAS?
At Live Loud Girl, we work with products
that we fall in love with, no matter
where they are from. A few favourite
online shops include Studio Mini Shop,
Smallable and Archive, while the likes of
Maison Sarah Lavoine in Paris, Loods 5 in
Holland, as well as restaurants and hotels,
such as The Hoxton in Amsterdam and
Merci in Paris inspire us.
ONE TIP FOR TRANSFORMING
SMALL ROOMS?
The easiest way to change the vibe of
a room is by giving it a feature wall.
There are some beautiful warm colours
that are very on-trend right now. If
you have the courage, paint all the
walls in one shade for a fantastic effect.
Wallpaper can also do the trick, giving
a room more structure.
Portrait image: Moez Achour; room images: Natelee Cocks
WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR
QUICK AND EASY UPDATES?
I usually change around some items
and rarely buy new furniture. For
example, a former cabinet for toys in the
playroom is now used for clothes in the
boys’ bedroom. Vintage items can also
be given a new life by adding a fresh
coat of colour and an old chair can be
reupholstered. Play around with what
you have and you will be surprised how
easily you can change the look of a room.
WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND
BLOWING THE BUDGET ON?
A design piece that has stolen your heart.
It might be painful when swiping your
credit card but your chosen item will make
you smile every time you see it. And it will
stay with you for a lifetime – you will bring
it to wherever you live.
24 | bhomes.com

Interior designers | INSPIRATION
Kalthoum Dumonceau
baytkalthoum.com
@baytkalthoum
WHAT ARE YOUR
FAVOURITE DÉCOR
TRENDS THIS YEAR?
Curved sofas; mix-and-match styles;
floral fabrics and wallpaper plus boldpainted
walls; passementarie; velvet and
light wood floors.
YOUR TREASURED PLACES TO
LOOK FOR INTERIOR IDEAS?
Inspiration comes from everywhere:
trendy restaurants, boutique hotels, art
galleries, Instagram and even the store
next door.
ONE TIP FOR TRANSFORMING
SMALL ROOMS?
Lots of white, light and airiness but
always with a pop of colour; acrylic
furniture will make your space appear
less busy; and a big floor mirror will
fool your eye into thinking the space
is bigger.
WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR
QUICK AND EASY UPDATES ON
YOUR HOME?
Refresh your home with a lick of paint
– it can soften, bring drama and give
style to a space; declutter to create a
sense of calm; and choose home décor
items carefully to make an impact –
think coffee table books, mementoes
picked up on travels, candles, vases
and wall art.
WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND
BLOWING THE BUDGET ON?
A soft carpet and a comfy sofa.
YOUR TOP INTERIOR TIP?
Create a personalised look by mixing up
your styles: old and new, precious and
cheap pieces, patterns and textures.
“I love using
paint as a visual
separator”
bhomes.com | 25

Inspiration. Expertly crafted.
Comprising two iconic towers, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, the world’s tallest 5-star hotel,
is centrally located beside the Dubai Water Canal and offers a spectrum of facilities and services for
a seamless experience. The hotel features: 1,608 luxurious guest rooms and suites,
over 15 award-winning restaurants and lounges, Saray Spa featuring traditional hammams,
a Dead Sea Floatation Pool and 17 treatment rooms, state-of-the-art health club and fitness facilities,
as well as 8,000 sqm of spectacular meeting spaces.
JW Marriott® Marquis® Hotel Dubai
jwmarriott.com/DXBJW
Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE | T +971.4.414.0000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com

Trends | INSPIRATION
Eye
candy
Brighten up your
home with our pick of
mouth-watering ideas
D.Tales
bhomes.com | 27

Mix and
match
Make like artist and rug
designer Cecilia Setterdahl,
who started with a white base
for her Jumeirah Islands villa
before adding her signature
colourful rugs, along with a
mix of vintage and new pieces,
geometric patterns and shapes.
“Group colours
together in your
home. It could be
a pop of pink in
an artwork paired
with a fuchsia
element in the rug
below,” Cecilia
Setterdahl
TIP
28 | bhomes.com

Trends | INSPIRATION
Jonathan Adler
TIP
You can make a
space super cheerful
just by adding a
single bold accent
piece of furniture
From left: Cocktail chair, Dhs2,974,
Kare; Lloyd’s Building, brushed
aluminium limited-edition print,
Dhs4,562 (GBP950), Michael Wallner;
Dark pink-coloured cushion, Dhs149,
Zara Home; Ella bar stool, Dhs3,300,
Chattels & More
bhomes.com | 29

INSPIRATION | Trends
Sweet treats
Children need a space they feel comfortable and inspired in. This
can be achieved with candy colour palettes and décor accents and
accessories, unusual beds and bunk beds, kids’ desks and chairs,
plus colourful storage solutions, combined with soft textures.
IDdesign
TIP “Start off with a
neutral base and
stick to two or three
colours for a playful yet
balanced look.” Olivia
Corsi of Caramel & Sun
From top and left to right: Betty’s butterfly wall clock,
Dhs26, Home Centre; Laurette night table, Dhs990,
Caramel & Sun; Alpaca money box, Dhs826, Kare;
Lemon-coloured cushion, Dhs149, Zara Home;
Franzi stool, Dhs566, Kare
30 | bhomes.com

TOPS ON TOP
Cindy Crawford on Silestone ® Eternal Calacatta Gold
A product designed by Cosentino ®
On Top
Feel the new
velvety texture
Discover more on silestone.com
Follow Us F CosentinoMiddleEast ô @cosentinomiddleeast
COSENTINO CITY DUBAI Dubai Design District (D3) Building 4-A, Unit 401 - 042428131 - infomiddleeast@cosentino.com

10 ways to
create a cosy
home
CREATE A CONVERSATION
CIRCLE BY CHOOSING
A CIRCULAR DINING OR
BREAKFAST TABLE AND
ARRANGING SEATING
SLIGHTLY FACING EACH
OTHER IN LIVING SPACES.
2“Tactile textures, such as
super soft cushions on your
sofa and a soft blanket
will create aw feel-good
atmosphere,” says interior
designer Alexandra Conti.
5mm Design
32 | 32 bhomes.com |

Warm touches | INSPIRATION
MAXIMISE THE
NATURAL LIGHT WITH
SHEERS FOR WINDOW
TREATMENTS.3
bhomes.com | 33

David Scott Interiors Ltd
4
INCORPORATE A CALM,
LIGHT COLOUR PALETTE
TO CREATE A WARM,
RELAXING VIBE.
6
BALANCE YOUR LAYERS OF
LIGHT – AMBIENT, ACCENT AND
TASK – TO CREATE INTERESTING,
INDIVIDUAL ROOMS. ADD
DIMMER SWITCHES TO LIGHTS,
OR BETTER STILL, INVEST
IN A CONTROL DEVICE FOR
SWITCHING AND DIMMING. YOU
CAN ASSIGN PRESET ‘SCENES’
THAT CAN BE ACTIVATED AT A
PUSH OF A BUTTON.
Use lots of lamps, as
they can be moved
around for even
greater flexibility in
your lighting design.
5 7
Wooden table lamp
from Al Huzaifa
“RUGS CAN BE
USED TO DEFINE A
SPACE, AND TO ADD
CHARACTER AND
CHARM, THROUGH
PATTERN, COLOUR
AND TEXTURE,” says
Elizabeth Morrison of
From Jaipur With Love.
34 | bhomes.com

Warm touches | INSPIRATION
8 10
Scents can be used to create different
ambiences in each room. Fresh, clean
scents, such as lemon and eucalyptus, are
perfect for your spa-like bathroom; while
cinnamon and orange evoke warmth and
calm, so are great for welcoming guests as
they enter your home.
REMOVE CLUTTER. BE
SURE TO KEEP BATHROOM
ESSENTIALS ON HAND, BUT
TUCK EVERYTHING ELSE
NEATLY AWAY IN DESIGNATED
STORAGE AREAS. CONSIDER
CUSTOM SHELVING, FLOATING
GLASS SHELVES, MIRRORS WITH
STORAGE COMPARTMENTS AND
CORNER STORAGE CABINETS.
9ADD GREENERY
FOR A CALMER,
CLEANER
ATMOSPHERE.
PLANTS AND
FLOWERS LIVEN UP
A SPACE.
Plants from Sass & Belle
at Namshi
Bathroom by David Scott Interiors Ltd
bhomes.com | 35

INSPIRATION | home renovation
Emilie Jacob at her home in Umm Suqeim
36 | bhomes.com

Ask the designer | INSPIRATION
Ask the
DESIGNER
Interior stylist Emilie Jacob
on creating an inspiring home office
Consider how much time you’ll be
spending in your home office and
how hard you need the space to work.
This room was previously my daughter’s
bedroom, but when my baby boy was
born, I swapped the rooms around for two
reasons: firstly, my business had grown
so I’m now spending a lot more time in
my home work space; and secondly, the
natural light is better here. Meanwhile, a
darker room helps the kids get to sleep.
My home office also doubles up as
a guest bedroom. I’ve had the sofa bed
from IKEA reupholstered in monochrome
geometric fabric, with yellow piping
to complement the black and white
striped wallpaper (from the limitededition
Omedelbar IKEA collection in
collaboration with costume designer
Bea Akerlund) and the yellow-edged
glass shelving on the other side of the
room. The embroidered, velvet cushions
on the sofa and IDdesign chair are by
Dubai-based brand Wear The House
(@wear_the_house).
It can be really difficult to work
in a room by yourself, so a bland
room definitely isn’t going to
create a stimulating environment.
I worked with affordable online art store
Drawdeck to create this gallery wall and
I’ve decorated this space like I would
any other room in the house, taking into
consideration practicalities but creating
a space that reflects my personality,
including adding mementoes, trinkets
and framed photos to shelves.
In any room, I always ensure
two or three points of eye-level lighting.
Two Seletti lamps – a monkey and a
mouse – provide these in my home office,
while a string of bulbs hanging from the
corner of the window creates ambience.
For the overhead lightbulb, it took several
trials before I found the right intensity.
I didn’t have much budget to
work with, so I did two IKEA
hacks – I wrapped the plain white table
in marble print paper and I used the
same paper for the bottom shelf on the
shelving unit, plus I spray-painted the
metal edges in bright yellow.
Use the space before attaching
storage units to walls. At the
beginning, I had a basic set-up and the
more I used it, the more I realised what
was needed and what needed moving
around. I knew I needed a big desk to
work on, but otherwise I’ve had fun with
the space so I’m happy to come to work.
@stellaandthestars
Rather than considering cabinets and
TIP
drawers for filing away things that you can’t
access easily, think about using organising
systems, such as labelling. Check out the blog on
The Home Edit (thehomeedit.com) for ideas.
bhomes.com | 37

POSITIVE
BALANCE
38 | bhomes.com

At home with | INSPIRATION
With careful consideration
to space, this Desert Palm
villa boasts a calm and
harmonious feel
“You have to love where you live and
I adore the open aspect of this home,”
enthuses Emma Goodall, referring to
her Desert Palm family villa, which
she shares with her husband Tim;
18-year-old daughter Maddy; two
dogs, Tilly and Charlie; and elderly
rescue cat Molly. The family chose
the location 14 years ago for the
outdoor lifestyle, while the villa
offered a slightly larger garden than
others they’d viewed.
With its neutral palette, soft
lighting, artwork picked up on
travels and focus on natural
materials indoors and durable
materials outside, Emma’s home
has a serene, Zen-like feel. Having
previously lived in Hong Kong,
the entire space and surrounding
garden, in particular, is influenced
by her love of the Far East and
inspired the launch of her stylish
outdoor furniture company The
Loungerie. “You look outside your
window every day so why have
plastic furniture outside?” Emma
muses. “The garden is an extension
of your home and I’ve created that
here.” Indeed, there are outdoor
sitting and dining areas, while the
lush green and pops of bright pink
bougainvillea complement the soft
bhomes.com | 39

“You have to love where you live and
I adore the open aspect of this home”
40 | bhomes.com

At home with | INSPIRATION
EMMA’S LOVE OF THE
FAR EAST INSPIRED
THE LAUNCH OF
HER OWN OUTDOOR
FURNITURE COMPANY
bhomes.com | 41

INSPIRATION | At home with
THIS ARTWORK IS
BY A THAI ARTIST,
WHOM EMMA
DISCOVERED DURING
HER HOLIDAYS
“Some pieces have been sanded
down for a lighter colour
palette, while the remaining
darker items add contrast ”
42 | bhomes.com

THIS INDIAN
DOWERY
CHEST FROM
LUCKY’S
FURNITURE
IS USED AS A
DRESSER
“The garden is an extension of your home and I‘ve created that here”
LAYERED TEXTURES
GIVE THE SPACE
COLOUR AND DEPTH
blues and neutrally furnished rooms.
What’s more, layered lighting is used
throughout the garden to create a
cosy ambience.
To enhance the flow of energy
throughout her home and the
connection between indoors and
outside, Emma called on the expertise
of Feng Shui wellness designer
Simone Osswald, whose starting point
was the home entrance.
“The entryway represents the
mouth of the home,” Simone explains.
“When I arrived, there was lots of
overgrown bougainvillea and a palm
tree.” To free up the entrance, the
greenery was cut back and some pots
were removed.
Simone transformed the interior
by working with Emma to reposition
furniture, change and add materials,
colours and shapes.
“Previously, the sense of flow went
straight through the living space,
directly outside,” she says. “The
realigned furniture creates curves
in the space – it still feels open but
there are now soft breaks within it.”
Meanwhile, elements representing
fire and earth, such as pyramidshaped
artworks and earthy shades,
were brought in, adding calmness,
contrast and dynamism to the space.
Additionally, Feng Shui salt water
cures, which help to purify the air,
were strategically placed, along with
a water fountain in the garden.
bhomes.com | 43

THIS RUG, BY
WEAVERGREEN,
IS MADE FROM
RECYCLED
PLASTIC BOTTLES
“Previously, the sense of flow
went straight through the living space, directly outside”
INCREASE THE WELLBEING
FEEL IN YOUR HOME, WITH
SIMONE’S TOP TIPS…
1 Maximise the natural
light. Choose a light colour
palette to reflect the light
and sheer draperies that are
easy to open fully so you
can let in sunlight through
your windows.
2 Ensure there is no clutter
in your entrance. The
door should open freely
and the entryway should be
very inviting.
3 Create a clutter- and dustfree
home. Every item should
add value to your life in
some way.
4 Bring room fragrances into
your space. Scents add depth
and character, plus they allow
you to give each area
a different feel.
5 Use natural elements as
much as possible. These
help you to enjoy the
relaxing and rejuvenating
benefits of nature.
THIS MARINE GRADE
STAINLESS STEEL COFFEE
TABLE WAS DESIGNED BY
EMMA ESPECIALLY FOR
THE SPACE
44 | bhomes.com

At home with | INSPIRATION
Antique brass cowbell,
Dhs85, White Moss
EMMA HAS
PICKED UP
MEMENTOES
ON HER
FAMILY
TRAVELS
Industrial metal
and wooden
bookshelf,
Dhs1,850, Allure
Collectives
Premier
Steller
small vase,
Dhs110,
Namshi
GET
THE
LOOK
Cushion
and
blankets,
Dhs699,
Zara
Home
MADE FROM
PORCELAIN TILES,
THIS DESIGN IS
USED ELSEWHERE
IN THE OUTDOOR
ARTWORKS
AND IN THE
HOME, BRINGING
COHESION TO THE
DIFFERENT SPACES
Monte chair,
from Dhs5,529,
BoConcept
El Banco vase, Dhs200,
Marina Home
Vintage
entrance
console,
Dhs1,850,
Allure
Collectives
bhomes.com | 45

INSPIRATION | | Outdoors home renovation space
46 | bhomes.com

INSIDE
OUT
Want to make the most of your
garden? Just apply the same rules
that you use inside your home,
advises Heather Drake
Photographs by: Muthu Kumar and Hiral Kapadia
bhomes.com | 47

“We chose this house
because of its view,
overlooking the lake,”
reveals Heather Drake,
who moved into her Meadows 7 villa
with her husband and two children
12 years ago (two rescue cats have
since joined the family home). On
arrival, bright orange and yellow
interlock bricks and dead grass covered
the ground. “It looked awful,” says
Heather. The garden’s only redeeming
features were the bougainvillea and
a large Washingtonia palm tree.
Heather’s starting point was
planning different zones. “We wanted
a convenient sitting area, a dining spot
that is close to the kitchen and a lawn
located where we could put a pool in
at a later date.” The existing palm tree
remained where it was and became
part of a desert planting area, while
the borders were planted with tropical
and Mediterranean plants and trees.
A holiday feel was enhanced with
raised platforms for certain areas, while
sandstone tiles, divided with pebbles set
in concrete create interest. Elsewhere,
sandstone gravel, river stones and
desert rocks are used, while bark, added
in the planted beds, keeps moisture in
the ground and the weeds at bay.
Comfort is a major focus in the
garden furnishings. Indoor IKEA
sofas, for example, have been
reupholstered in materials more
suited to the outdoor climate, while
accessories are updated as seasonal
trends change. “A couple of years ago,
I had turquoise Marimeko cushions,
but now I’m following the popular
palm print style.”
Heather’s interiors-oriented
approach to her garden ensures she
and her family make the most of it.
“I like to sit, relax and enjoy the space
with friends and family,” she enthuses.
“Our latest addition is our Sonos
speakers that was our little Christmas
present to ourselves.”
MADE FROM
NO-MAINTENANCE
COMPOSITE WOOD,
THE DURABLE
PLATFORMS ARE FROM
FLOORWORLD
Bin Ghanim (050 351 4044) built
Heather Drake’s garden
48 | bhomes.com

Outdoors space | INSPIRATION
WANT A LUSH GARDEN LIKE
HEATHER’S? FOLLOW HER TOP TIPS
FOR GARDENING IN THE UAE…
1
Work out where the sun and shade falls
in your garden and plant accordingly.
Grow what works well in the area.
Look to the municipality and what your
neighbours are growing for inspiration.
Treat outdoor lighting like indoor
lighting. Layer lighting and use
spotlights to light up trees, mood
lighting for sitting areas and put a
dimmer switch on the pendant over the
dining table. Solar-powered fairy lights
look pretty and come on automatically.
2
FRANGIPANI, OLEANDER,
A CARDBOARD PALM, A
LIVISTONA PALM, A
LEMON TREE, AN OLIVE
TREE, A COCONUT
PALM, AND SANSEVIERIA
HAVE BEEN PLANTED
IN THE BORDERS,
CREATING A BALANCE
BETWEEN PRIVACY AND
ACCESS TO THE VIEW
BEYOND THE GARDEN
3
4
1 Crested euphorbia
2 Sansevieria bacularis mikado
3 Agave
4 Prickly pear cacti
bhomes.com | 49

Wonderwalls
Give your home the wow factor with these creative
ideas for transforming a blank wall
Walls are often the starting point for styling a room because
they’re a sure-fire way of transforming the entire look. Whether
you want to add warmth and colour with a textural paint or
make a statement with a patterned wall, there’s plenty of choice
out there, such as this Floral Waterfall wallpaper from Paper Pop,
which is perfect for a child’s bedroom and can be printed as a full
wallpaper or cut out as a decal...
50 | bhomes.com

Walls | INSPIRATION
Feature walls
One of the easiest ways to give a room
some design clout, a feature wall gives
a room tonnes of personality. If you
want to create a rustic feel, choose a
brick, wood or slate effect wallpaper to
achieve the look without the mess, cost
and hassle of the real thing.
D.Tales
TEXTURAL TRANSFORMATION
Because you are decorating one wall
only, you can add a lot of style to a
room without making it feel too busy.
There are a broad range of materials
available, including leather, cotton
fabrics or marble, while a vertical
garden (also known as a living wall)
can really bring a space to life.
Margeza Design Studio
Tip
GREEN OVER YOUR
WALL WITH A
VERTICAL GARDEN.
MAINTENANCE IS
EASY - THE MOST
CRITICAL THING IS
WATER SUPPLY.
bhomes.com | 51

Light it up
For something totally different, check out the work
by some of our favourite locally-based designers, such
as this stunning backlit Arabesque-style seating
area (pictured above), with its accent colour, by XBD
Collective. The wall niche offers a bespoke seating area
without taking up any of the existing floor space.
XBD Collective
CREATING AN AMBIANCE
In this young boy’s bedroom (pictured right), the backlit
head board uses dark navy paint to mirror the night sky,
while the twinkling LED lights add the finishing touch.
52 | bhomes.com

INSPIRATION | home renovation
Divide
and rule
Walls are often used as design elements
to separate areas, while simultaneously
creating a flow between them. The
addition of flowing water in the pretty
wall by InDesign (pictured right) adds an
additional soothing aspect.
Zen Interiors
InDesign
Tip
“THIS DECORATIVE
FEATURE CREATES
A DIVISION BETWEEN
THE ENTRANCE AND
THE LIVING SPACE
BEYOND, WITHOUT
INTERRUPTING THE
VIEWS TO THE BACK
OF THE HOUSE,” SAYS
NEMR SIDANI
OF INDESIGNS
SAOTA
Real home design
Brief: To capture the warm Miami
climate and maximise flow between
the interiors and the surrounding
landscape, with its Miami Beach views
Location: Collins Waterfront District,
Miami, US
Company: SOATA
Due to the large size of this sixbedroom
family home, the interior
design needed to make the house
less overwhelming, without stealing
focus from the spectacular views. This
mirrored wall (pictured left) creates
private areas within the large, openplan
and luxuriously furnished space,
while also creating a streamlined look
and maximising the light for a refined
and comfortable look.
bhomes.com | 53

GLASS
ACT
This contemporary swimming
pool in Jumeirah Golf Estates
is to dive for
was a great project to work on,”
enthuses David Russell, general
manager at Pools by Design “The
“This
client wanted a contemporary
swimming pool that is big enough to swim
laps in, with a garden that included plenty of
entertaining and relaxing areas.”
The original outdoor space was narrow, with
a number of different levels, so the pool deck
level provided the starting point. It was raised
to create a seamless transition from the terrace,
which leads from the villa to the pool, with the
golf course views beyond.
David and his client worked together on a
pool design featuring clean lines, white tiles
and infinity edges for a fresh, on-trend look.
“People are moving away from traditional blue
tile finishes and being more adventurous in
their choice,” David says. “White is very popular
and can give a stunning effect, but we also have
some amazing pearlescent tiles that provide a
very cool and funky finish.”
54 | bhomes.com

Home renovation | INSPIRATION
THE STATEMENT GLASS
WALL WAS SPECIALLY
DESIGNED AND
MANUFACTURED IN
SOUTH KOREA
TIME
TAKEN:
3 to 4 weeks
Turn the page to read our tops tips on
planning a similar renovation in your home ➤
bhomes.com | 55

INSPIRATION | Home renovation
The logistics
You will first require your
Development Approval for any
project in Dubai. You must also
obtain the relevant Dubai authority
approval. Most authorities now
require mandatory safety fencing to
be installed, an added cost that must
be factored into your budget. On most
projects, without security deposits, you
are looking at an approximate outlay
of Dhs10,000 to Dhs15,000.
THE APPROVAL PROCESS: Normal
approval for swimming pool
installation can take four to six
weeks, but if you have all the required
documents, this may be quicker. It
generally takes two months from the
time the approval is submitted until
its signed off, although it can take
as little as two weeks. so reckon on
four weeks as a guide figure.
THE TIME FRAME: Once all the
approvals are granted, the installation
time frame depends on size and type
of swimming pool being installed.
As Pool by Design swimming pools
are bespoke, it takes four weeks
to manufacture the pools, then
a standard skimmer pool can be
installed within approximately 20
working days.
THE MAINTENANCE COSTS: Weekly
cleaning and regular monitoring of
your water balance is a must, and
reputable companies will charge
anything from Dhs350 to Dhs800 per
month, depending on the pool size.
THE WHITE
TILES GIVE A
BEAUTIFULLY
BRIGHT
EFFECT
“ The best swimming pool projects are the ones that
the client has been involved in and wants to design an
incredible pool with me,”says David
A handy how-to
Want your own sleek
swimming pool? Pools by
Design’s David Russell has
these top tips...
Before
INFINITY EDGES
CREATE A
SEAMLESS LOOK
1 Be prepared: Put together a picture
board of pools you like, taking into
consideration usability, versatility and your
home interior style.
2 Ask to see your contractor’s trade licence:
All contractors must have public liability,
and to get the correct development and
authority permission, their trade licence
must include swimming pools.
3 Check your contractor’s credentials:
Always ask to see previous jobs. And
speak to previous clients to ensure that
the company you are liaising with will
be building the swimming pool and not
contracting it out to another company.
4 Be wary of any warranty offer of more
than 10 years: Any reputable company will
not be offering more than this.
5 Choose the right season for installation:
Summer working hours can be very
restrictive due to the uncomfortable
working conditions, although this is the
time that you will be less likely to use the
pool due to the summer heat and holiday
season. If you choose winter for the
project, a quick installation is key.
56 | bhomes.com

The all new
ZeeZee
Tower in
Al Barsha.
Next to The Mall of the Emirates.
برج زيزي الجديد
بالكامل في
البرشاء.‏
بجانب مول امارات.‏
تبدأ اسعار من
Prices start at
AED 69,999
69,999 درهم في السنة
a year.
أتصل على الرقم 044090998 لحجز شقتك اليوم
Call 044090998 today to secure your unit.

INSPIRATION | home renovation
58 | bhomes.com

Family life | INSPIRATION
Ruling
the roost
Transform your home into the
perfect pet sanctuary
Whether you have a pet that
moved with you to the UAE,
have since adopted one or
are thinking of fostering or
adopting a four-legged friend (we’re
advocates of adopting an animal in
need rather than shopping for one), we’ll
help you choose the right location and
transform your home into a purr-fect
sanctuary for your little friend…
If you don’t happen to live in a spacious
villa, high-rise living needn’t get in the
way of adding a pet to your family. “As
well as taking size into consideration
when living with pets in an apartment,
consider an animal’s energy level,
noisiness and even friendliness,” advises
bhomes.com | 59

PLAY, SHOOT
& WIN!
Ready to take a shot at the JA Prize Target?
Simply book a pistol session at JA Shooting Club with three or more friends
and the highest scorer gets to try their luck at our target of prizes.
We’ve got all sorts of exciting experiences to aim for,
including a grand prize so hurry on over and shoot to win!
Book now to take your lucky shot, call 04 883 6555, email on jasc@jaresorts.com
or visit www.jaresortshotels.com

Family life | INSPIRATION
Dr Sara Elliott, founder and director of
veterinary services at British Veterinary
Hospital. “Large dogs with mellow
personalities may do better living in an
apartment compared to small, highenergy
dogs, such as toy poodles and
terriers that bark a lot. Just ensure lively
breeds, such as Labradors and Alsations
get plenty of daily exercise, including
outside playtime, and hire a professional
dog walker if you don’t have time to
exercise your pet every day.” Cats, on the
other hand, are curious by nature and love
to explore. They enjoy climbing high and
looking down on their surroundings, “One
tried and tested tactic is to ensure cats
have access to multi-level cat towers and
kitty condos with scratching posts,” Dr
Sara recommends.
ROLL OUT THE ENTERTAINMENT
Our pets can get depressed and lonely
if they don’t get enough playtime and
exercise. If your pets seem restless
or bored, it may mean they need
more entertainment or one-on-one
time with you. “Give pets plenty of
fun, interactive toys to play with,
especially if you are out all day,”
says Sara. “Place toys in different
rooms and locations throughout the
apartment. This gives pets a good
reason to explore and exercise as
they search for their favourite toys in
another room. Switch their toys every
few months so pets don’t get bored
playing with the same toys.”
KEEP YOUR PETS OFFICIAL
According to Dubai Municipality, every
pet must be vaccinated and microchipped
before registering with the
municipality and getting their unique
identification. Even if you have an
indoor pet, such as a cat, it still needs
a form of identification. Should your
pet become lost and taken to a shelter
or veterinarian, routine scanning will
reveal the microchip and a phone call to
the microchip company will reveal the
information in the database for that chip,
to help locate its rightful owners.
PET-FRIENDLY INTERIORS
When it comes to creating a harmonious
living space for you and your pet, choose
durable materials that will withstand
the test of claws. Beware of exposed wood
Places to let
your pets
run wild
Here’s Dr Sara’s pick of pet-friendly
communities in Dubai…
Burj Park, located next to the Burj
Khalifa, is dog-friendly and open
24/7. Near Zero Gravity, in Dubai
Marina, there is a substantial strip
of grass where dogs are allowed to
run around off their leashes, and
you’ll find a lot of them running
amok there in the evenings. The
Greens has walkways, paths and
lakes around which you can walk
your pet, along with a dog park for
residents, where you can let your
dog run around off its lead and
make some new furry friends.
Green Community is perfect
for dog owners who want to
spoil their best friends with all
the open space.
“ Hire a professional dog walker if you don’t
have time to exercise your pet every day”
bhomes.com | 61

INSPIRATION | Family life
“ Ensure cats have access to
multi-level cat towers and kitty
condos with scratching posts”
on your furniture, which could become your
puppy’s favourite teething toy, while wicker,
rattan and sisal could also become your cat’s
new scratching post. Choose metal and chrome
for good pet-resistant materials.
When it comes to fabrics for reupholstering,
avoid those that are a magnet for fur, including
velvet, mohair or chenille and highly- textured
walls that will attract pet fur. Steer clear of
delicate materials, such as silk, too to avoid
damage by your boisterous friend. Instead, opt for
smooth tapestries, leather and synthetic fibres for
upholstery and satin or semi-gloss paint for walls.
Floor finishes within the UAE are ceramic or
marble at the time of construction, and for good
reason. Durable and low maintenance, these
finishes have the additional benefit of keeping
your pets cooler when the A/C is switched off.
Pets love to peer out of the window to watch
the world go by and see when their owners
are coming home so it’s also worth carefully
substituting heavy curtains with lightweight,
sheers to allow them to enjoy their view.
With a little consideration for incidents that
can happen around bushy tails and clumsy
claws, you can avoid mishaps and enjoy a happy,
harmonious home.
Pet beds
An essential part of a
pet-friendly home
Madam Fringe beanbag,
from Dhs910, Fringe Society,
fringesocietydesign.com
Cobana, from
Dhs555.45,
DOGit at D.Tales,
design-tales.com
Cheese house, Dhs89, Pet
Brands at Al-Futtaim Ace,
aceuae.com
62 | bhomes.com

Happy, healthy homes
Avoid any major hiccups by ensuring your home is well maintained
We’re all used to being responsible and paying for utilities, rent
or mortgage, insurance and living expenses, but what about
the general maintenance, repairs and replacement costs that
come with living in an apartment or villa in Dubai? How do
you know what things need to be done, what you are responsible for, how
regularly, as well as how much you should pay and who to call to get the
job done? We get the lowdown from those in the know...
ASK THE EXPERT
WHAT HOME MAINTENANCE SERVICES
SHOULD BE CONSIDERED?
Mohamed Ayed, managing director
at Fixperts: A house that is maintained
rigorously by a professional company
generally attracts more value than
other properties. Tasks, such as routine
servicing of HVAC units, electrical and
plumbing components of the house and
regular touch-up painting to avoid a
major paint overhaul will maintain a
feel-good home.
Raashi Pachisia, director of
marketing at HomeGenie: There
are three types of home maintenance
services: preventative services that
ensure there aren’t any unplanned
breakdowns; reactive to ensure that if
there is a breakdown, then the issue
is fixed i.e. water leakage; and routine
maintenance, which includes cleaning
services, like general cleaning and
water tank cleaning. It is important
to have all these in place to keep your
home in order.
HOW DO I CHOOSE A
MAINTENANCE COMPANY?
Raashi: Due to the extreme weather
in the Middle East, homes require
regular professional maintenance.
Simultaneously, the maintenance
industry suffers from a highly
transient population. Therefore, here
are a few things to consider when
choosing a company:
•Ensure that the company has a trade
license and relevant services listed
•Ensure staff has a valid residency visa,
under the company sponsorship
•Ensure the company has the correct
insurances, including a third party
liability insurance, in place to cover
any accident or eventuality
•Do a quick reference check on the
company to ensure that they have
been in business for a while, and are
not a “man and a van”
•A good quality website and an active
social media page is also a good
indication of the company’s credibility
in the market
•Don’t get lured by advertised
attractive starting prices –
they are often misleading, while
64 | bhomes.com

Home security | PROPERTY
recommendations on social media could
be clever marketing.
Mohamed: There is no standard pricing.
However, the rates for each company
are based on the skillset of its staff and
the ability of the in-demand company
to be able to give a reasonable response
time. The more experienced and skilled
the staff, the more they are paid; and
the easier it is for them to diagnose and
resolve the issue swiftly and without any
inconvenience. This allows you to avoid
inaccurate charges you will have to bear
if you consider a company with lower
rates for annual maintenance – paying
a little more for quality means greater
savings in the long run. Always ask
about the skillset of in-house staff – no
company can be an expert in all services
so subcontracting is common. History
and references are a plus point – ask if
the company has worked on properties in
the same community as yours.
IS IT WORTH INVESTING IN AN ANNUAL
MAINTENANCE CONTRACT (AMC)?
Mohamed: An AMC is becoming
accepted as a norm in Dubai. People are
more aware of the advantages of having
a professional service provider always
available when needed, particularly
with A/C and leakage issues common
GO GREEN
If you haven’t had
a recycling bin
installed in your
community just yet,
expect one soon:
Dubai municipality
intends to
add about 10
neighbourhoods to
its list per year.
to this part of the world. Routine
maintenance and a reliable response
time for call-outs are being considered
a real value, as people cannot wait
extended amounts of time without a
cool home. As the Dubai real estate
market is moving more towards
the tenants’ favour, the only way to
acquire higher rents in a community
of 1,000 similar villas is to have a well
maintained home, with a history and
job record of a professional company,
along with providing a maintenance
contract with the tenancy.
Raashi: Signing an AMS does
have some benefits. However,
it is well recognised that AMCs
increasingly fail to deliver, based on
the following reasons:
•Potential drop in eagerness to serve
and service levels, as soon as the
customer is tied in
•Reduced flexibility for customers to
get alternative estimates, due to
AMC contract terms
•Sometimes more expensive than
paying per service, as prices charged
are generally higher for parts
and labour
•Unused AMC spend during years
in which there isn’t any major
maintenance required.
GO FOR SOLAR POWER
Dubai has set an ambitious goal to
increase solar capacity to 7% by
2020. If you want to do your part
to get us all to this sunny standard,
check out Shams Dubai (dewa.gov.
ae), DEWA’s first smart initiative
for connecting solar energy to
buildings, which offers guidelines
for installing solar panels at your
home. Electricity generated is for
your own use and any excess is fed
back into the grid, for which you
can be credited for on any future
energy bills. You can estimate your
potential electricity production
and savings on electricity bills
that can be achieved, using
Shams Dubai Calculator.
Words: Claire Malcolm
WHAT SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN RENTAL CONTRACTS REGARDING
YOUR HOME MAINTENANCE?
“Responsibility for maintenance should be included in the contract and should be as specific
as possible. If there is a maintenance dispute that cannot be resolved between the landlord
and the tenant, the tenant may open a case at the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre DLD
(fees/costs apply),” Richard Waind, Director of Brokerage, Betterhomes
bhomes.com | 65

HOMES
WITH
SPA-LIKE
BATHROOMS
Six
of the
best
Relax and unwind in a home
with luxurious bathrooms
FOR SALE
AED7 million
1ADDRESS DOWNTOWN, DOWNTOWN DUBAI
Check out the stunning city skyline as you step into the bathtub at this
gorgeous two-bedroom apartment. Experience the five-star life, with
access to the awarding-winning hotel’s services, including 24-hour security,
gym and the state-of-the-art Fitness Centre. This corner apartment also
comes with two balconies to maximise the amazing views.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: AP300380, RERA Permit
No. 0449674150. Nearby school and nursery: Dubai International School;
Blossom Downtown Nursery Dubai
Beds: 2
Bath: 2.5
Parking: 1
FOR SALE
AED14,999,000
2JUMEIRAH ISLANDS
This new, custom-built villa boasts a spa by Grohe, porcelain fittings
by Villeroy & Boch, and Grohe; a steam room and private sauna by
Tylo; plus a Jacuzzi and free flow indoor-outdoor swimming pool, offering a
sumptuous spa experience. Tucked into a private corner of Jumeirah Islands,
this stunningly designed 10,500 sq. ft. villa is executed on three levels.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: VI351928, RERA Permit No.
0953060932. Nearby school and nursery: Dubai British Foundation; Amity
Early Learning Centre
Beds: 5
Bath: 7
Parking: 2
66 | bhomes.com

View more listings at bhomes.com
Beds: 5
Bath: 6
Parking: 2
FOR SALE
AED2,190,000
3LAGUNA TOWER, JUMEIRAH LAKE TOWERS
Enjoy the amazing city skyline while soaking in the bathtub at this
two-bedroom apartment located in Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT).
A popular location for families, couples and single people, the community
has plenty of walking and jogging tracks around the lakes, play areas for
children and other amenities built in and around the residential buildings.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: AP362076, RERA Permit
No. 0141839740. Nearby school and nursery: Emirates International School;
Four2Four Nursery & Day Care JLT
bhomes.com | 67

SHOP | Betterhomes Magazine
FOR SALE
AED4,550,000
4ZULAL 3, THE LAKES
Meticulously renovated and
upgraded by an interior designer,
this four-bedroom family home, with
separate maid’s and study rooms,
includes designer sinks and bathtubs,
marble-floored bathrooms and subtle
lighting imported from Italy. There is also a
state-of-the-art kitchen, which has been
lenghtend by two metres and comes with
Bosch appliances; a tiled outdoor sitting
area; while the living room window has
been enlarged, plus its ceiling heightened.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and
quote REF: VI361556, RERA Permit No.
1310227525. Nearby school and nursery:
Regent International School; Learning
Ladder Nursery
Beds: 4
Bath: 4
Parking: 2
68 | bhomes.com

View more listings at bhomes.com
FOR SALE
AED38 million
5GSBSA VILLA, EMIRATES HILLS
This lake-facing, two-storey luxury villa, located on a 14,545 sq. ft. plot, boasts
more bathrooms than bedrooms. The first floor of this beautifully furnished
home, accessible by stairs or elevator, consists of five bedrooms, which all come
with unique interiors, walk-in wardrobes, full-sized baths and showers.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: VI352961, RERA Permit No.
0803162296. Nearby school and nursery: Dubai International Academy;
Raffles Nursery Emirates Hills
Beds: 6
Bath: 8
Parking: 3
FOR SALE
AED6,500,000
6MIRADOR LA COLECCIÓN 1, ARABIAN RANCHES
Wow your guests with this fully upgraded family villa - the ground floor guest
bedroom features a dressing area, bathroom with Jacuzzi, marble walls
and flooring. Meanwhile, the master bedroom has a huge dressing area, a beautiful
bathroom with a contemporary stand-alone bathtub, standing shower, luxurious
finish, and hidden lights in the ceiling.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: VI356162, RERA Permit No.
0368625247. Nearby school and nursery: Jumeirah English Speaking School; Building
Blocks Nursery
Beds: 5
Bath: 4.5
Parking: 2
bhomes.com | 69

THE PLACE TO MOVE TO
Downtown Dubai
This is the place to live if you want to
be next to some of the most impressive
landmarks of earth, including the
world’s tallest building (Burj Khalifa),
the world’s largest performing fountain
(The Dubai Fountain) and one of
the world’s biggest shopping malls
(The Dubai Mall).
WHY MOVE THERE?
All the properties are within walking
distance of its record-breaking
monuments, along with the muchloved
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid
Boulevard, famous for its palm trees,
which offer shade in the day and are
illuminated with thousands of lights at
night – it is also popular for its fantastic
restaurants and range of shops.
THE COMMUNITY
With a mix of modern high-rise towers
boasting traditional Arabic influences
and low-rise residential communities,
along with the convenient location
and the vibrant lifestyle it offers, the
neighbourhood attracts a mix of local
and international singletons, couples
and small families.
TRANSPORT
Well connected to both old and new
Dubai, Downtown Dubai links to most
of the high roads, such as Sheikh Zayed
Road and Al Khail Road. Burj Khalifa/
Dubai Mall Station offers a metro within
a five-minute radius, plus there are a
few bus stops in the area, while taxis are
available throughout the neighbourhood.
SCHOOLS
Nearby educational facilities include
GEMS Wellington Primary School in Al
Wasl, plus North London Collegiate and
Hartland International School, which
are both located in Mohammed Bin
Rashid Al Maktoum City. Local nurseries
include Blossom Downtown Nursery,
Jumeirah International Nursery and
Babilou Downtown Nursery.
SHOPPING
Find high street favourites and designer
labels among the 1,300-plus shops in The
Dubai Mall, while across the walkway,
the charming Souk Al Bahar offers an
Arabian shopping experience. For a
regular grocery shop, there are several
Choitrams in the vicinity.
Meet the neighbours
Hamid Al Hamid has lived with his wife Karima in their two-bedroom apartment,
which boasts a full Burj Khalifa view, for five years
I love the buzz of Downtown, while the views of Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain
are spectacular – it reminds me of Venice. I never get bored living in this neighbourhood,
as everything is on my doorstep.
70 | bhomes.com

Area guide | PROPERTY
Ask the Agent
Betterhomes’ top
consultant 2018, Sherif
Nabil is the Downtown
Dubai expert. If you
would like to contact
him to arrange a showing
or to learn of any ‘open
house’ dates in the area,
call +971 44 090 911
OFF-PLAN PROPERTY
FOCUS
Palace Residences -
Dubai Creek Harbour
Initially known as Downtown Burj Dubai,
construction on this large-scale, mixed-use
development started in September 2004.
Downtown Dubai is easily one of Dubai’s most
iconic neighbourhoods. It’s known for offering
a luxurious lifestyle in the heart of the city and
consistently attracts residents and tourists alike
every day.
All the properties boast high-end finishes, with
plenty of facilities within the buildings, such as
swimming pools, spas, gyms, saunas and Jacuzzis.
The prices range from Dhs90,000 to rent a onebedroom
property and up to Dhs280,000 to rent
a three-bedroom property; and start from Dhs1.3
million to buy a one-bedroom apartment and
up to Dhs8 million for one of the priciest threebedroom
apartments.
For a full Burj Khalifa view, two-bedroom
apartments start from Dhs2 million and cost up to
Dhs5 million.
The one- and two-bedroom apartments are
the most popular to buy. Expats, single people
and couples generally prefer the one-bedroom
apartments, while small families go for the twobedroom
apartments.
PROPERTIES IN DOWNTOWN DUBAI
For Sale
AED1,270,000
Old Town, 1-bed, furnished
2
Square
kilometres
– the area
covered by
Downtown
Dubai
For Rent
AED135,000 annually
Business Bay, 2-bed, furnished
WHAT IS IT?
Consisting of 587 branded one-, two-,
three- and four-bedroom apartments,
this five-star waterside residence is
part of the portfolio of Address Hotels
& Resorts, an award-winning brand
known for its lavish hotels.
WHERE IS IT LOCATED?
In the prime spot of Dubai Creek
Harbour, adjacent to the new Palace
Hotel. Just steps away from Creek
Marina, the apartments offer direct
access to the adjacent hotel and
boast unobstructed views of Dubai
Creek Tower.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN FEATURES?
Comprising of two contemporary
44-storey towers, rising above the
Creek Canal and Creek Beach, the
Palace Residences include access to
a host of exclusive amenities, such
as on-demand five-star hotel service,
valet parking, 24/7 concierge service,
an infinity-edged swimming pool, gym,
spa and all-day dining.
WHAT IS THE STARTING PRICE?
Dhs1 million for a
one-bedroom apartment.
WHAT IS YOUR EXPECTED
COMPLETION DATE?
Early 2019.
IS THERE A PAYMENT PLAN AVAILABLE?
There’s a three-year post completion
plan, which includes 60% payment
during construction and 40% payment
post completion.
RERA Permit No. 1211631600
For further information, call
Betterhomes 04 409 0998
bhomes.com | 71

BACK PAGE | Search for a home
cover
star
search
Know a beautiful
UAE home that’s perfect
for the cover of
Better Living magazine?
HEY GOOD LOOKING
Are you obsessed with interiors or do you know someone else who
is? Do you find yourself spending ages hunting down that perfect
accessory or returning from your travels with fab finds for your home?
Or are you always commenting on how gorgeous one of your friend’s
homes is and asking for advice on how to style your own space?
We’re looking to feature stunning local homes, whether it’s a
palatial Emirates Hills villa that has been furnished with the help of a
professional interior designer or a rented apartment complete with
DIY hacks and easy fixes. If your property is stylish and individual, we
want to hear from you. Or if you know someone else whose home fits
the bill, tell them to drop us a line.
If we choose your home, our professional team will photograph you
at your home, to appear in an issue of Better Living in 2019.
GET IN TOUCH
To be in with a chance of being featured,
send us a selection of snaps of the main
rooms or areas of your home, such as the
living area, dining room, kitchen, bedrooms,
bathrooms, garden or balcony. Send the photos
to lucy@hotmediapublishing.com and include
‘My Home’ in the subject line. We look forward
to hearing from you!
72 | bhomes.com

EXPERIENCE 1001 ARABIAN NIGHTS AT AL HADHEERAH
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa presents Al Hadheerah, its spectacular desert
entertainment and authentic food. Explore the sights, sounds and tastes
of Arabia at an authentic desert venue amidst the rolling dunes.
Feast under the stars, and enjoy a night of entertainment, live music, belly dancing,
traditional instruments and exclusively on Thursday & Fridays
BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA
Dubai,United Arab Emirates
T:+971 4 809 6194, bas.restaurants@meydanhotels.com
alhadheerah.com
alhadheerah alhadheerah alhadheerah

A NEW WATERFRONT
DESTINATION
AT PALM JUMEIRAH