Betterliving September/October 2019

Complimentary copy
Sep/Oct 2019
The magazine of Betterhomes
HOT PROPERTY
HOMES
WITH
ROOM
TO GROW
FAMILY
SPECIAL
30 pages of top
tips & buys
HOW TO
CREATE A
STYLISH
LIBRARY
WALL
ECO-FRIENDLY
IDEAS TO
TRY NOW
Playful
touches
for kids’
rooms
Go on, dive in!
A Palm Jumeirah villa that’s perfect for bringing up water babies
2 | bhomes.com

Welcome to the issue
Feathering a family nest in the UAE, when you’re far from
home, can take time, money, and a whole lot of creativity.
The good news is that, whether you’re renting for just a
while or putting down roots for the long haul, there are lots
of ways to make your own mark on a place. In this issue,
we have devoted a whopping 30 pages to happy family
living. From brood-friendly bathroom designs that tick all
the boxes (page 22) to easy ways to bring the cute factor to
kids’ bedrooms (page 28), and our guide to creating a library
wall that bookworms of all ages will adore (page 54) – our
tip-packed features have you covered. One family that has
it sussed is the Viel clan, who are making the most of their
Palm Jumeirah address with lots of quality time outdoors
– turn to page 48 for a sneak peek at their stunning abode.
Feeling inspired? On page 62 you’ll find six fabulous family
homes on the market that offer plenty of room to grow.
Happy nesting!
The Better Living team, @bliving.me
Kids Teepee Bookcase from
Woood, around Dhs891 (GBP199),
Cuckooland.com
4 | bhomes.com

welcome letter | CONTENTS
48
Managing Director
Victoria Thatcher
Chief Creative Officer
John Thatcher
Managing Editor
Faye Bartle
faye@hotmedia.me
Content Writers
Sophia Dyer
Habiba Azab
Editorial Assistant
Ronak Sagar
Art Director
Kerri Bennett
Senior Designer
Hiral Kapadia
Production Manager
Muthu Kumar
Advertising Group Manager
Sukaina Hussein
+971 50 515 9691
To contact any of the
above people, email
firstname@hotmedia.me
CONTENTS
Reproduction in whole or in part
without written permission from
HOT Media is strictly prohibited.
HOT Media does not accept liability
for omissions or errors in Better
Living magazine.
SHOP
06-16
Animal accents to go wild over; all the latest news;
what’s in store at Kulture House; slow cookers
designed to get dinner on the table, pronto
INSPIRE
17-60
How to welcome beautifully bold shades into your
home; family bathroom designs that tick all the
boxes; playful touches for kids’ bedrooms; C’est Ici
founders Monica and Tatiana share how to let your
style DNA shine; easy ways to run a more eco-friendly
house; at home with Comptoir 102’s Emma Sawko;
Edwina Viel invites us to experience beachside living
MOVE
62-67
Family homes with room to grow; our guide to
living in Motor City
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 | 5

UPDATES | wish list
MOST COVETED
Top
picks
Animal accents on our radar…
1 Hold your horses... this noble steed statue
will take pride of place in your living room.
Horse Head, Dhs107, 2XL Furniture &
Home Décor, 2xlme.com
2 Cute as a button, there’s nothing cheesy
about these cheese board knives. Three Mouse
Knives with Cheese Board, Dhs135, Kikkerland,
available at Namshi, en-ae.namshi.com
3 This eye-catching tiger wall hanging is the
perfect addition to your little cub’s room.
Fiona Walker Large Tiger Head, Dhs450, Tribe,
tribedubai.com
4 Bring a touch of the wild into your bathroom
with this leopard-print set. Home Centre,
Dhs29, homecentre.com
5 Practical yet with a friendly face, this giraffe
stool will brighten up a kids’ room or study
nook. Funny Giraffe Stool, Dhs298,
KARE, kareuae.ae
6 | bhomes.com

This issue’s
Pinboard
Our round-up of the latest in
homewares, news and interiors trends
LIGHT
WORK
Recently launched in
the UAE, these Tobias
string bulb lights by
Sirius are a dreamy
way to illuminate your
outdoor space. Pick
yours up just in time for
winter entertaining at
tablelights.me
Baguette Mirror, Dhs15,967.40 (US$4,347),
Pheasant for Baker, bakerfurniture.com
The midas touch
GOLD TONES COMMAND ATTENTION,
AND WE’RE LOVING THESE GORGEOUSLY
GILDED PIECES IN STORE NOW. THE
STRIKING PHEASANT FOR BAKER MIRROR
IS PART OF A NEW COLLECTION INSPIRED
BY GEOMETRY WHILE THE COFFEE TABLE
FROM THE NEW JONATHAN CHARLES
COLLECTION AT INTERIORS PUTS HIGH-
QUALITY WORKMANSHIP IN THE SPOTLIGHT.
Curved Edge Antique Satin Gold Brass & White
Calcutta Marble Coffee Table, price upon request,
from Interiors, interiorsfurniture.com
Good scents.
73% of people
in the UAE
prefer fresh
aromas to
warm, woody
or spicy scents,
says a survey
by IKEA. View
the 2020
catalogue,
in store and
online now,
ikea.com
8 | bhomes.com

trending | UPDATES
DESIGNER DREAMS
Inspired by the hues of the ocean and the beach, the
aptly-named Pacific bed linen by Hugo Boss brings
the allure of the shimmering coast into your bedroom.
Part of the fashion brand’s first ever home collection,
the high-quality cotton sheets feature blue-green tones
sitting pretty alongside golden hues, with a soft ribbon
detail running through the design. From Dhs1,395,
available at Robinsons, robinsons.me
Feel the power
WHY NOT TACKLE
THOSE MINOR HOME
IMPROVEMENTS
YOURSELF? ALL
YOU NEED IS SOME
FANCY NEW HAND
TOOLS, LIKE THESE
SLEEK DIY HEROES
FROM BOSCH.
Bosch Zamo digital
laser measure, Dhs399;
Bosch IXO cordless
screwdriver, Dhs199,
bosch.com
bhomes.com | 9

Hacker Kitchens Studio
Dubai, Al Barsha, Sheikh Zayed Road
+971 (0) 4 3990425
hacker.ae
innerspaceME.com
info@innerspaceME.com

trending | UPDATES
By Caprice Home Freya Duvet
AT HOME WITH CAPRICE
If you want to turn your bedroom into an
ultra-feminine boudoir, look no further
than the glamorous By Caprice Home
collection, which is now available at Dwell
stores in Dubai. The dazzling range,
which includes bedding, cushions, throws
and home accessories, is the brainchild
of supermodel turned entrepreneur
Caprice Bourret, who decided to put her
modelling days behind her in order to
reinvent her career at the age of 35.
“My mum is a successful interior
designer based in LA and I learned a
great deal from her growing up,” says
Caprice. “She helped inspire my passion
for interiors and property. Your home
is where you spend the majority of your
time and it’s important you feel happy,
relaxed and comfortable there.”
The London-based star, who has
appeared on the cover of Vogue, found
this season’s inspiration in decadence
and sparkles. The result is a new drop
of matching bedding sets, duvets,
pillowcases, cushions, runners and
curtains that really shine.
“Everyone needs a little glamour in
their life and By Caprice Home doesn’t
disappoint. One of my personal favourite
bedding sets this season is the By Caprice
Loretta set – it is very sophisticated and
combines fresh simplicity with pretty
sparkle,” she says. “The material is super
soft and features a silver bow as the
perfect finishing touch.”
Available at Dwell stores in Dubai.
To find out more, visit bycapricehome.
com and follow @bycapricehome
On our radar
Cool new buys we can’t keep our hands off…
TIME FOR TEA Throw a fashionable tea party
and sip on brews made using the loose leaves
from these pretty caddies designed by Matthew
Williamson. Dhs310, Newby London, newbyteas.ae
BIRD SONG This special edition Alexander
McQueen cushion features iridescent
hummingbirds hand woven in silk. Dhs3,900,
The Rug Company, therugcompany.com
STELLAR ADDITION This rattan mirror in
jet black will be the star of any living space
or bedroom. Dhs523.95, Versmissen at
chattelsandmore.com
bhomes.com | 11

UPDATES | trending
A BISHOP DESIGN FEAT
WE’RE COVETING THIS WOW
FAMILY HOME IN PEARL
JUMEIRAH DESIGNED BY THE
INNOVATIVE BISHOP DESIGN
BY PAUL BISHOP. LUXURY
WAS THE BRIEF, WITH A
TOUCH OF KARDASHIAN
GLAMOUR SETTING THE
TONE FOR GRAND PARTIES.
A DESIGN ELEMENT
THAT CAUGHT OUR EYE
IS THE UP-LIT ELEVATED
PLATFORM IN THE LOUNGE
AREA, WHICH PROVIDES
AN INSTANT FOCAL POINT.
WEAREBISHOPDESIGN.COM
REVIEWED FOR YOU
THE WHISPER MATTRESS
When Italian mattress brand Whisper asked us to trial a mattress,
we were delighted. We felt a little less special, however, when
we learned that every Whisper customer gets to trial their new
mattress for 100 days, with a full refund if they aren’t happy.
Backed by 30 years of sleep research, the mattresses have
space-age features, including a silver yarn stitching to keep dust
mites at bay and a plug-in grounding technology called silver
shield, which blocks EMF waves from mobiles and other gadgets.
With a promise that we’d wake feeling happier and healthier,
we were keen to hit the sack. After adjusting the foam to our
desired firmness, we are sleeping a little better and our bad back
has improved so we won’t be sending it back any time soon.
Now, if only Whisper could invent a ‘child shield’ to prevent our
kids jumping in at 2am. From 2,999 for a 90x200cm mattress.
Exclusively available to buy online in the UAE, whisper-sleep.ae
We’re loving this
eye-catching wall
décor by KARE.
The statement
pieces are ideal for
walls that require
more than just
a lick of paint.
kareuae.ae
Wall Light Vintage
NY, Dhs2,099
12 | bhomes.com

GROHE x Better Living
BATHROOM
SYNC
Say “hello” to the toilet of tomorrow
GROHE Manual Bidet Seat
As technology evolves all
aspects of our life, the humble
toilet is not forgotten. Experts
in innovation, GROHE’s smart
toilet solutions take personal hygiene to
the next level. The range consists of two
hi-tech devices that fit harmoniously
in your bathroom, so whether you are a
homeowner or tenant, you can bring your
standard toilet into the 21st century.
The GROHE Sensia Arena is a smart
toilet with a sleek, high-end finish.
Combining the functions of a toilet and a
bidet, you can expect a new standard of
personal hygiene at the touch of a button.
Use either your smartphone or the
control panel to customise your perfect
settings. The broad range of intelligent
features include two adjustable selfcleaning
spray heads, odour extraction
and a powerful triple vortex flush, while
the HyperClean ceramic finish means
bacteria is kept at bay.
There’s no need to remodel your
bathroom with GROHE’s Manual Bidet
Seat, which requires no electricity.
Designed to fit seamlessly on to your
current toilet, you can wave goodbye
to the handheld shattaf, thanks to the
hygienic built-in bidet system. Two
dedicated spray arms, with adjustable
intensity, are designed to keep you feeling
fresh with the turn of a handle.
To find out more visit,
grohe-middleeast.com
GROHE Manual Bidet Seat
14 | bhomes.com

etter buys | SHOP
SLOW
COOKERS
Bring out the flavour in your food
and free-up precious time with these
all -singing, all-dancing kitchen aids
THE CREATIVE GENIUS
Consider the Thermomix TM 5 your full-time sous-chef.
Its impressive prep and knife skills mean your time spent in
the kitchen is dramatically reduced. Plus, you can still take
all the credit for the cooking. What’s more, you can access
a recipe book by Cuckidoo via the touchscreen, so you’ll
never be without inspiration. Price upon request,
uae.thermomix.com
CULT CLASSIC
There’s no faffing around with this simple
yet reliable slow cooker. The Kenwood
Multicooker 350W has a simple oval
shape with a no frills dial so you can select
your perfect setting and simply leave it
to do the rest. Its 6.5-litre capacity means
second helpings are always on the cards.
Dhs219, available from Jashanmal Home,
jashanmalhome.com
THE GRAIN
SLAYER
Versatile and easy to use, the
Breville Multi Chef (BRC600) is a
3.7-litre searing slow cooker, 10-
cup rice cooker, risotto maker and
steamer in one. As such, it’s a dab
hand at making creamy risottos,
fluffy rice and even quinoa. You
can remove the cord and serve the
food directly at the table. Dhs549
including VAT, breville.ae
THE HARD WORKER
Keep your kitchen free from clutter with this handy
nine-in-one cooking device. Along with being an
excellent slow cooker, the Nutricook Smart Pot by
Nutribullet also has dedicated functions to cook rice,
eggs and soup, as well as to make yoghurt, sauté
vegetables and more. Use the 14 Easy Touch Cooking
Programmes to dream up quick yet nutritious
homemade meals in super-fast time. Dhs559, available
from Danube Home, uae.danubehome.com
BEFORE YOU BUY...
Useful and economical, the humble slow cooker makes it a cinch to prepare healthy meals from scratch. Simply load
up your ingredients, choose your setting and leave the clever device to do it all for you. Before you buy, consider how
many mouths you need to feed and if your favourite meals are a good fit for your prospective model’s shape and size.
Batch cookers and families seeking hearty meals, such as whole cooked chicken, should look for larger, oval-shaped
designs, for instance. If you won’t be there to switch it on and off, opt for one with a digital timer that can be preprogrammed.
Lastly, if you’re not a fan of washing up, make sure the lid and cooking pot is dishwasher safe.
bhomes.com | 15

SHOP | must-shop
WHAT’S IN
STORE
KULTURE
HOUSE
THE STORY SO FAR: Located in
the heart of Jumeirah, occupying a
renovated villa, Kulture House is a
vibrant café cum boutique that’s sure
to catch your eye. The owners of the
inviting space have curated a curious
collection of travel-inspired pieces
from around the world, born from their
love of exploration. On top of serving
up delicious eats that draw a crowd,
the venue hosts several pop-up shops
throughout the year, creating a lively
community feel.
THE LOOK: An eclectic mix of brightly
coloured artistic designs that’ll add a
uniquely bohemian look to your home.
SIGNATURE BUYS: Pick up a rare find
from the tribal-inspired homeware
range that’s sourced from Africa
and Portugal. The funky collection,
available in store all-year-round, will
provide a talking point for alfresco
dinner parties, while the woven tribal
vases are a tasteful addition to any
living space.
WHAT’S NEW? The most recent
pop-up, running until 30 September
is TropiKulture, a fashion-based
collection of pieces from local and
global brands.
GOOD TO KNOW: Most items are
sourced ethically and abide by fair
trade regulations. So not only will you
be nabbing a stunning piece that’s not
available to the masses, but you’ll also
be supporting independent artisans
with every purchase.
Find Kulture House at 106 Jumeirah
Beach Road, opposite Beach Centre.
Call 04 399 1790, and follow
@kulturehousedubai
WHY WE RATE IT
Frequent pop-up shops mean
there’s always something
new. Plus, most of the items
support fair trade.
FAVOURITE FINDS
Wooden bowl with
African beading,
Dhs185 each
Yellow African
bowl, Dhs189
16 | bhomes.com

trend | INSPIRATION
Colour
WA S H
Stand out from the
crowd by welcoming
beautifully bold
shades into your home
Photo credit: Furniture Village
GREEN LIGHT Soothing
shades of green are commonly
used to help bring the outdoors
in, and now the hue has made its
way to the dinner table. “Start
small with teal linens topped by
a green dinnerware set accented
with deeper green charger plates,
emerald accessories and tinted
glasses,” says Rabia. “You can
enhance the look by placing
plants around your home – be
sure to go with oversized pots to
master the outdoors-in effect.”
DO IT YOURSELF In the mood
for a little DIY? “Pick up some
mismatched vintage candlesticks
and sponge-paint them in a
translucent shade of aquamarine.
You can then proudly display your
workmanship,” suggests Rabia.
bhomes.com | 17

TIP “If your room is mostly neutral, add
interest with red accents. If you’re
feeling bold, paint a wall red, but use
a dark or unsaturated shade – the sombre
hue gives an elegant feel,” says Anam.
Photo credit: Furniture Village
18 | bhomes.com

trend | INSPIRATION
SINGING THE BLUES “Paint your hallway a daring
shade of deep blue for a surprisingly regal feel, or use a blue
backdrop for a photo wall for a contrast that really pops,”
says Rabia Sarfaraz, principal interior designer at In House
Interiors (inhouseinteriors.me). “For larger rooms, keep the
walls white and hang oversized metallic frames featuring
blue toned patterned wallpaper.”
SOFT FURNISHINGS If you don’t want to commit to
paint, “you could introduce bright blue armchairs or a wing
chair into your lounge to complement a light-coloured sofa
adorned with cushions in a variety of shades of blue,” says
Rabia. Check out KARE’s range of blue sofas and armchairs.
We rate the Sofa Black Gianna Velvet Bluegreen 3-Seater
(Dh6,654, available at kareuae.ae).
Photo credit: Furniture Village
bhomes.com | 19

INSPIRATION | trend
Using colour to make a statement in your home is an easy
and cost effective way to switch up your surroundings.
“Don’t be afraid to use bright colours,” says Anam
Siddiqui of The Home Boutique (@thehomeboutiqueuae).
“The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating a
vibrant yet stylish home. If you’re feeling apprehensive,
however, simply start by introducing some choice accents.
Yellow and red tones add warmth to a room, which means
they’re the perfect pick for comfort pieces, such as sofas.”
Blues are considered calming while greens hues are
known to be grounding. Read on for some expert tips on
introducing washes of wonderful colour into your abode
Photo credit: Furniture Village
20 | bhomes.com

worldtravellermagazine.com
Your passport to the Middle East's first fully
bookable travel inspiration website
Extend your journey with World Traveller magazine
by heading online to read more inspirational and
exclusive travel content and take advantage of upto-the-minute
hotel and holiday features
Dream Read Click Book

One for all
Make bathtime fun with these family-friendly
bathroom designs that tick all the boxes
Hansgrohe, hansgrohe.com
22 | bhomes.com

family bathrooms | INSPIRATION
SPLASH
AROUND
Take the stress out
of shower time by
choosing a design
with safety features
for little hands. The
Croma E shower
design by Hansgrohe
uses CoolContact
technology, meaning
the theromstat mixer
is cool to touch at all
times. The height of
the hand shower can
easily be adjusted.
bhomes.com | 23

family bathrooms | INSPIRATION
TIDY TOTS
Keep a shared bathroom clean and
well organised with lots of extra open
storage. These Brookline shelves from
Home Centre are affordable, practical
and stylish. Plus, they’ll help keep
sibling squabbles at bay.
Home Centre, homecentre.com
bhomes.com | 25

INSPIRATION | family bathrooms
Duravit, duravit.com
SOFTLY
DOES IT
Got a baby on the
way? Steer clear of
sharp edges. Duravit
has teamed up with
Sieger to design this
sleek, rounded edge
bathroom that’ll
stand the test of
time. Handleless
cabinets add to
the streamlined
aesthetic, and
will help keep
little fingers out of
those drawers.
26 | 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

LET’S
P L A Y
Design a bedroom your
little one will adore
Havhusene loft bed by JYSK
Help the bedtime routine flow a little easier by choosing a fun bed that your
child can’t wait to climb into each night (some form of ladder is usually a
good incentive). This cabin bed from JYSK (so popular it’s sold out until
2020), not only looks cute but maximises the space beneath it, creating extra
room to play. Havhusene Loft Bed, Dhs1,950, JYSK
28 | bhomes.com

2kids’ rooms | INSPIRATION
KEEP MONSTERS AWAY WITH A
FEARSOME NIGHTLIGHT. OPT FOR
A DESIGN THAT’S EASY FOR LITTLE
FINGERS TO SWITCH ON AND OFF,
AND WHICH IS IN KEEPING WITH
THE ROOM’S THEME. WE LOVE
THIS ANIMAL LED WALL LAMP
FROM IKEA. DH125, IKEA.COM/AE
Place shelves at a
child-friendly height,
so toys can be easily
reached, and then
collected and stashed
away again when it’s
time to tidy up.3
bhomes.com | 29

DISCOVER MAGIC
Presenting you with our unique floating dessert at Masala Library
by Jiggs Kalra. Enjoy this delicious 70% dark chocolate treat as
part of the restaurant’s signature 12-course Tasting Menu.
Available daily from 6pm until 12am
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai
Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE
T +971.4.414.3000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com | masalalibrarydxb

A Montessori-style floor bed not only looks magical, but it can
help to support your child’s independence and spacial awareness
by giving them the freedom to explore.
kids’ rooms | INSPIRATION
4
Home styled by
C’est Ici. Photos by
Natelee Cocks
A DESK IS A
USEFUL ADDITION
FOR KIDS OF ALL
AGES WHO’LL
BENEFIT FROM A
DEDICATED SPACE
FOR EVERYTHING
FROM COLOURING
TO CRACKING
THROUGH THEIR
HOMEWORK.
ANNA STUDY
DESK, DHS560,
HOMECENTRE.COM
5
6
They’re only little once, so be
open to being guided by their
interests and desires for their
room. Kids’ bedroom furniture
and accessories have come a
long way, so you’re sure to find
lots of fun yet stylish ways to
run with a theme. Elephant
Lamp, Dhs149, Zara Home.
zarahome.com
bhomes.com | 31

INSPIRATION | kids’ rooms
7
Make sure there’s at least one
playful element in the room,
whether it’s a hammock-style
swing or a ball pit. Flex your
creative muscles! Ball Pit
Round M Jungle Balls, Dhs799,
Misioo, fivelittleducksme.com
WITH
Photo: Five Little Ducks
Tribe Dubai Zara Sofa styled by Escape Home
8
A TWO-TONED WALL IS AN
EASY WAY TO ADD SOME
INTEREST. THE MOST COMMON
WAY TO DO SO IS BY DIVIDING
THE WALL HORIZONTALLY
– JUST BE SURE TO APPLY
YOUR DARKER SHADE ON THE
LOWER PART. YOU CAN USE
THE LINE AS A GUIDE FOR
PLACING SHELVES ADORNED
VIBRANT PRINTS.
Stay organised with cheap
and cheerful storage
solutions. Savvy parents
swear by the Trofast unit
from Ikea, which adds a
pop of colour to the room.
Dhs205, ikea.com/me
9
10
A simple way to jazz up a plain white chest
of drawers is by switching up the knobs –
there are loads of cute designs in the shops.
Animal-shaped kids’ door knobs. Dhs49
(pack of two), Zara Home, zarahome.com
32 | bhomes.com

34 | bhomes.com

expert advice | INSPIRATION
Ask the
DESIGNER
C’est Ici founders Monica Durou and Tatiana Jaramillio
explain how to let your style DNA shine
Your style DNA is a reflection of
who you are, and therefore a key
component when approaching
interior design. One of the reasons
we co-founded C’est Ici was because
we wanted to help people define their
authentic interior style. We live in a
world full of trends, so we say focus on
what makes you happy, not what is in
fashion. The most important part of
building a home is to feel comfortable in
it, so make it personal by adding your
own unique touch.
Get to know what you love by
seeking lots of inspiration. Mood
boards are the best place to start when
approaching a space. We recommend
creating one for each room you want
to design. Your physical or digital
board can include just about anything,
including photography, designs,
illustrations, colour palettes, textures
and descriptive words. Anything that
inspires you will help you to define the
direction you want your project to go in.
A home’s design and personality
should reflect the lives lived
within it. We believe your home should
be a reflection of who you are and a
collection of what you love. Showcasing
your personality in your space is all
about imperfection, it is a combination
of your life, encompassing the past,
present and future.
It’s not what you have but how you
style it. More often than not, we hear
our clients say, “I love this, but it doesn’t
really go with the style of the room”.
We think that pieces you love can look
great in any space, so we always use our
clients’ most beloved belongings in our
designs. Don’t put a heavy emphasis on
style. Simply display your oldest, most
treasured objects and adorn the walls
with memories from your travels.
Start with your favourite colour,
or the one you have in mind for the
room. The first step is deciding what
you want the vibe to be. Next, choose
colours that feel like the mood you want
to evoke. In general, pick dark shades
if you want to ramp up the drama. Or,
if you’re going for a serene feel, opt for
lighter hues. Follow the 60-30-10 rule:
60% should be the dominant colour on
the walls and rugs, while 30% is the
secondary tone, supporting the main
colour with soft furnishings. The final
10%, which is the most fun, is the accent
colour designed to add a vibrant pop
with accessories.
To find out, more visit
cesticidecor.com and follow
@cestici_ on Instagram
Monica and Tatiana, founders of C’est Ici
Window shop some of your favourite
interior brands and make a list of all the
things you like. Adding them to your mood
board will give you a good visualisation of
your style and guide you budget wise.
TIP
bhomes.com | 35

Photo: Tribe Dubai,
tribedubai.com
FOOTPRINTS
IN THE SAND
Concerned about the impact your home life is having on the environment?
Follow these easy tips for leading a more sustainable lifestyle
36 | bhomes.com

eco living | INSPIRATION
MATERIAL GIRL
There’s a growing collection of local
businesses flying the flag for ecofriendly
furniture and accessories.
Tribe Dubai (tribedubai.com), located
in The Courtyard in Al Quoz, only uses
biodegradable materials and avoids those
obtained through deforestation. Plus, its
products only feature all-natural dyes.
Its founder Jo England lists bamboo
and rattan as top sustainable choices.
“Bamboo is one of the eco-friendliest
products out there as it grows quickly
and is ideal for furniture, bowls, plates
and storage. Look for handcrafted pieces
that stand the test of time while also
hugely benefiting the communities in
which they were made.”
Similarly, Home and Soul
(homeandsouldubai.com), located in
Al Wasl, is incorporating sustainable
materials into each new collection to add
to its existing line-up of pieces made
from ethically-sourced materials.
“We source globally and work with
enterprises that are committed to using
sustainable materials, and not producing
in sweatshops,” says founder, Carol
Sukkar. “We need to take collective
responsibility to save our planet and
purchasing sustainable pieces is a small
but impactful stride you can make in
your home.”
Clockwise from top left: The Odger
Chair, Dhs295 from IKEA, is a woodplastic
composite containing wood
fibre waste; Halle Vase, Dhs175 and
Cirebon Basket, Dhs250, both from
Home & Soul
The Blueair JOY S,
Dhs699, is ideal for
compact living spaces,
blueair.com
CLEARING
THE AIR
Keeping your indoor air quality in
check will help to create a healthier
environment. A major cause of indoor air
pollution is volatile organic compounds
(VOCs), which are emitted as gases from
a variety of household products, such as
paint, carpeting and laminated furniture.
Keep a lid on it by getting an air purifier
that’ll help to trap airborne pollutants
and remove allergens from the air. Next,
consider swapping chemical cleaning
agents for eco-friendly alternatives. Local
maid service Eco Clean (ecoclean.ae) will
make your home sparkle using all-natural
products. “Our main priority is to improve
the air quality and hygiene in our clients’
homes while protecting the environment,”
says operations manager Sevda Garaeva.
“We use only non-toxic, environmentally
certified products.”
bhomes.com | 37

KITCHEN
SMARTS
While you may already be a dab hand
at recycling, and have made the switch
to energy-efficient lighting, there are
lots more ways to run an eco-friendly
kitchen. Waving goodbye to singleuse
plastics is a hot topic, and there
are plenty of alternatives to hand.
Simply swap out plastic straws and
containers in favour of metal, glass, and
bamboo versions, or washable fabric
pouches. They are widely available,
including at The Goodness Company
(the-goodnesscompany.com), which has
recently launched in Dubai, offering
everything from glass straws, to pure
copper tumblers and more.
Cookware may also deserve a rethink,
with non-stick pans under the spotlight.
If you’re concerned, consider opting for
a more traditional option, such as cast
iron or stainless steel.
Once mealtimes are over, throw
any food leftovers into an organic
composting bin, for an easy way to turn
kitchen waste into a nourishing treat
for your garden. You won’t need to
worry about the smell, as most modern
designs will lock away any odour. Check
out the Bokashi Bin, Dhs294, from
mygreenchapter.com.
The Goodness Company,
the-goodnesscompany.com
“Swap out single-use
plastics for metal or
glass containers when
storing food”
4 My Earth Sandwich Wrap,
Dhs45, Eggs & Soldiers,
eggsnsoldiers.com
Eco Lunchbox Tri Bento Stainless Steel
Stacking Lunchbox, Dhs103, Eggs & Soldiers,
eggsnsoldiers.com
38 | bhomes.com

eco living | INSPIRATION
BE A WATER
WARRIOR
An effective way to save water is to fit a water
flow reducer to shower heads and taps. This
can help to cut down your consumption by
upwards of 50 percent, and that’s going to have
a significant knock-on effect on your DEWA
bill. We recommend The Power Shower by Pure
Blue, as its patented technology maintains a
high pressure feel, so you can do your bit for
planet Earth without sacrificing on luxury. If
you’re in the market for a totally new shower,
consider the GROHE SmartControl shower,
which has a handy ‘Eco’ setting.
When shopping for appliances, look for
a UAE Energy Efficiency Standardization
and Labelling rated (EESL) model. The most
efficient washing machines and dishwashers
use around 30 percent less water and consume
roughly 40 percent less energy than standard
models so are well worth the investment.
GROHE Smart Control shower
bhomes.com | 39

INSPIRATION | At home with
40 | bhomes.com

at home with | INSPIRATION
A HOUSE
LESS
ORDINARY
Rock chic with a dash of funky charm, Parisian
entrepreneur Emma Sawko, owner of Comptoir
102, shares the secrets of her eclectic abode
bhomes.com | 41

INSPIRATION | at home with
verybody said ‘you’re crazy if you
“Etake it; it’s an absolute mess’. But
there was a certain kind of energy that
lured me to this Jumeirah villa, and I
haven’t looked back.”
A true Parisian, Emma Sawko is
a connoisseur of all things design,
fashion and food. Always choosing
instinct over logic, the interiors
aficionado followed her design vision
through, despite the scepticism. “I
always go with what I feel; I go with
passion. The place always inspires how
it’s going to end up. At first glance, I
liked the volume of the house and the
natural lighting cascading in. It had a
vibe that piqued my interest”.
Her move to the Middle East in 2010
was the driving force that launched
her cool concept store Comptoir 102.
The boutique-meets-organic-café is a
treasure trove of curiosities, with its
curated collection of fashion, jewellery,
furniture and home accessories from
around the globe, something that is
strikingly reflected in the décor of
Emma’s own home. “I don’t know
what inspired what. My aesthetic is
in the way I dress, decorate, eat and
work. Be it New York, Paris or Dubai,
all my houses have the same feel.
Interior decoration has always been
something that I love and take with
me everywhere I go. Especially when I
moved to Dubai, it was extremely hard
to find anything in the market that
matched my taste. I wanted to create
something different that mirrored who
I am and that would enable me to add
my own touch to the community.”
THE NEUTRAL HUES OF THE LIVING ROOM WALLS PUT THE
BEAUTIFUL WORK OF ARTIST REZA DERAKSHANI INTO FOCUS
EDGY FINDS
The contemporary design of Franck
Dorat’s wire sculptures add a distinctive
touch that stands out.
42 | bhomes.com

at home with | INSPIRATION
bhomes.com | 43

INSPIRATION | at home with
MIX AND MATCH
The curved staircase catches the eye with
its sleek shape and elegant finish. The
striking artworks and accessories allow
Emma’s personality to shine through.
SET THE TONE
Earthy tones exude tranquillity and create
an inviting haven for sleep.
Just a few minutes away from her
store, the property’s convenient location
was a key factor that sealed the deal
for Emma. “I knew I was going to
work a lot, so the proximity was very
important to me. I wanted to be near
my kids and involve them in my project
as much as possible. Every day after
school they would pass by the shop,
have a snack and then walk back home.
I love the neighbourhood, everything is
so accessible and you can simply walk or
cycle – there’s no need for a car”.
Currently living between Paris and
Dubai, Emma attributes her French
roots to her boho-chic-meets-rockchick
aesthetic. “I don’t know how
or why, but anyone who sees me
instantly knows I’m French. As far as
I remember I’ve always had a taste
for decorations, it’s something that’s
very important to me. Even when I
was studying with no money in a small
studio, I still wanted to feel really good
in my space and create a creative vibe
with the small details”.
44 | bhomes.com

“I wanted to feel good
in my space and foster
a creative vibe with the
small details”
bhomes.com | 45

With travel an integral part of her
everyday life, it follows that many
of the pieces adorning every nook
are sourced from abroad. “I collected
most of my art pieces from travelling.
In New York, I spent a lot of time in
galleries and at art exhibitions but
when I arrived here I started to get
interested in the art of the region –
the scene is very rich. Currently, my
absolute favourite is Rokni Haerizadeh,
an Iranian artist represented in
galleries such as Gallery Issabelle Van
Den Eynde in Alserkal Avenue.”
With a thriving business,
adventurous spirit and creative
ventures, everyday is a whirlwind in
the Sawko household, something that
makes time spent with family extra
special. “My favourite space in the
house is the kitchen. My husband and
I work a lot, but here we exchange
stories over good food and talk with
the kids about their day. It’s a moment
that’s warm and precious, and I look
forward to it every day. I also love
to cook so, to me, the kitchen is the
beating heart of our home”.
“I always go with what I feel; I go
with passion. The place always inspires
how it’s going to end up like”
46 | bhomes.com

at home with | INSPIRATION
Sass & Belle Tribal
Skull Wire Jewelry
Holder, Dhs55,
Namshi, en-ae.
namshi.com
Willow Easy Fit
Pendant, Very,
around Dhs310
(GBP69.99),
very.co.uk
Ballet Flower Canvas Painting, Dhs399,
Home Centre, homecentre.com
GET
THE
LOOK
Flower-shaped Bowl, Dhs39,
Zara Home, zarahome.com
Bishop stool by
India Mahdavi,
Dhs6,550,
available at
Comptoir 102,
comptoir102.com
Short Vesuvius Vase, Jonathan
Adler, around Dhs746 (GBP168)
uk.jonathanadler.com
bhomes.com | 47

INSPIRATION | outdoor space
BEACH
BABIES
Lazy days on the sand and plenty of pool-time fun... Edwina Viel and
family are embracing life on the shore at their Palm Jumeirah villa
Photographs by: Muthu Kumar
48 | bhomes.com

homes.com | 49

Suncream slathered on and
inflatables at the ready. The
Viel clan – Luca, 10, Sofia, 8,
Lorenzo, 7 and Leonardo, 5 – are
excitedly getting ready for a dip in the
sea, a simple joy they have the pleasure
of experiencing every day due to their
coveted address on Palm Jumeirah.
Indeed, their gorgeous villa comes
complete with its own private stretch
of beach, fulfilling Edwina’s dream to
swap city life for a more outdoorsy
lifestyle. “The kids are dedicated water
babies,” she laughs, as the family’s
West Highland terrier Whiskey
scampers around her feet. “Each of my
children could swim from the age of
around 20 months, and we definitely
aim to make the most of our location
by the water.”
Edwina (a Singaporean raised in the
UK) and her Italian husband Maurizio,
a plastic surgeon, moved to Dubai from
London in 2009 to set-up a branch of
his business here. They immediately
started looking for a home by the
sea as an antidote to the built-up
environment they’d experienced in
the UK capital. “Although it was only
available to rent at the time, this villa
appealed to us as it was jointly owned
by two Australian families so we knew
they would be likely to want to sell
at some point in the future,” explains
Edwina. Two years later, her prediction
came true and the Viel’s seized the
opportunity to snap up the property.
Ever since, as the brood has grown,
the villa’s dreamy outdoor space has
provided an idyllic playground. “Walks
along the beach have become a family
ritual,” says Edwina. “We often cycle
down to the edge of the frond for a
picnic on the sand. As the beach is
THE VIEL FAMILY’S GORGEOUS
PALM JUMEIRAH VILLA COMES
COMPLETE WITH ITS OWN
PRIVATE STRETCH OF
BEACH, PROVIDING AN
IDYLLIC NATURAL PLAYGROUND
FOR THE CHILDREN
50 | bhomes.com

outdoor space | INSPIRATION
“Each of my children could swim from the
age of around 20 months”
bhomes.com | 51

private, there’s never many people
around, which is nice, and at the
weekend we can throw open the patio
doors without feeling overlooked.
“Luca is the keen fisherman of the
family,” she says. “Maurizio taught
him how to fish and, depending on the
season, he can often catch hammour
and crab. He has the patience to wait
for two to three hours for a bite, which
is great for a boy of his age. Plus, he
knows how to prepare them so we can
eat them for supper.”
An accomplished sailor (a skill he
learnt at Dubai Offshore Sailing Club),
Luca is clearly confident on the water,
and naturally takes on the role of
sibling herder, helping his mum ensure
all the younger ones are towing the
line when it comes to paddling across
the waterway.
“Sofia has had a passion for
watersports from a young age while
Lorenzo excels at kayaking, although
he’s currently much more obsessed
with Formula One. Leonardo is a
strong swimmer in his own right,”
she summarises.
Over the years, the outdoor space,
which has a sparkling swimming pool
and elevated garden area, has played
host to numerous kids’ birthday parties
complete with bouncy castles and
Shetland ponies. Edwina has made
some stylish upgrades to the space
by laying new tiles, buying some cosy
seating from Al-Futtaim ACE and
planting banana trees for a tropical
vibe – “we use the leaves to wrap
around the fish Luca has caught for
cooking”. Currently, she’s devoting
all her attention to establishing a
herb garden, with lemongrass from
Sri Lanka and coriander already
taking hold. In the future, Edwina
is considering moving the site of the
swimming pool so it’s directly in front
of the house, creating an infinity-style
edge overlooking the beach. “It’s a big
job as it involves extending the garden,
but I think it’ll be worth it, so watch
this space.”
“Luca is the keen fisherman of the family
– he often catches hammour and crab”
A former investment manager,
Edwina runs a popular parenting
and lifestyle blog, Seashells
On The Palm. Check it out at
seashellsonthepalm.com and
@seashellsonthepalm
52 | bhomes.com

outdoor space | INSPIRATION
THE SPACE HAS PLAYED HOST
TO NUMEROUS KIDS’ BIRTHDAY
PARTIES OVER THE YEARS
bhomes.com | 53

Neville Johnson
54 | bhomes.com

library wall | INSPIRATION
Wel l
read
Whether you’re a selfconfessed
bookworm,
or want to encourage
your kids to read, an
at-home library wall is
a stylish solution that
gives back
You don’t need a grand estate in
order to have a library at home.
The rise of bespoke fitted furniture
solutions, and the luxury of having
a large number of skilled carpenters
to call upon in the emirates, means
that the stylishly high-brow library
wall concept is now open to everyone.
“Even the most awkward of angles,
corners and alcoves can become a
useful and integral part of your
home’s design,” says Simon Tcherniak,
senior designer at Neville Johnson
(nevillejohnson.co.uk). “By using these
typically wasted areas, new spaces
for bookshelves, storage and display
shelving can become a stylish and
feasible option. If you have the space,
you can consider incorporating an
bhomes.com | 55

elegant sliding ladder that’ll add
an interesting element, with the
additional benefit of allowing you
to reach books in the tallest part of
the room.”
It’s a good idea to seek the opinion
of a contractor for peace of mind
that it’s built on solid foundations.
“To ensure your shelving will have
longevity and strength enough to
hold all your books and trinkets, it is
essential to consider if there is a solid
wall to fix the units to,” says Simon.
“Bespoke fitted furniture companies
will individually fix back panels to
the wall to further strengthen the
design, but a solid base is a must.”
An expert will be able to help you
decide upon the best fit solution
for your space. “When planning the
design, to reinforce that strength of
the shelving, the lower tall cabinets
can act as supporting units,”
suggests Simon. “This combines both
practicality with an individual and
striking design.”
BRILLIANT BOOKENDS
Neville Johnson
From left: 1 Ferm Living Luru Bookends (set of two), around Dhs529 (GPB118), available
from Amara, amara.com 2 Peacock Book Ends, around Dhs152 (GBP34), Oliver Bonas,
oliverbonas.com 3 Debenhams Star by Julien Macdonald white agate bookend, around
Dhs89 (GBP20) per piece, available from Debenhams, debenhams.com
CARPENTERS WE RATE
MLIDS Technical Services in Al Quoz
(give Khalid a ring on 050 420 4182);
Handy Scandy (Bjorn and his team
do a stellar job, call 800 722639,
handyscandy.com); Jumeirah Carpenter
(+971 4 338 3231, jumeirahcarpenter.
com) is a popular choice.
Cuckooland.com
Tip
STOCK YOUR
LIBRARY WITHOUT
SPENDING A FORTUNE
THANKS TO DUBAI’S
SECONDHAND BOOK
SHOPS, SUCH AS
HOUSE OF PROSE
(HOUSEOFPROSE.
COM)
56 | bhomes.com

library wall | INSPIRATION
DO IT
YOUR SHELF
From top: 1 Vita Wooden Bookshelf
in Black and Acacia, around Dhs6,479
(GPB1,445), cuckooland.com 2 Dorothea
Metal Book Case in solid mango wood
and brass, around Dhs1,789 (GBP399),
Cult Furniture, cultfurniture.com 3 The
Frama Shelf Library, around Dhs10,109
(GBP2,254), nest.co.uk
Novel accents
Neville Johnson
When building your own library, think about how you would prefer to organise it. “You
could sort your books by colour, author, series or genre,” suggests Stephany Hanna,
interior architect and designer at Step into Detail (@stepintodetail). “Also, don’t be too
formal. Add a twist with some candles, frames, small plants, and stylish book ends.”
Relaxing furniture placed around the shelves will help create a welcoming space. “It’s
a must for enjoying your reading time,” says Stephany. “Even if the library is located in
your office, it would be nice to add a comfy furniture piece in one corner, such as a sofa
bed, rocking chair or a lounge armchair. Lastly, choose some ambient lighting fixtures,
like wall lamps or LED strips inside the shelves to give the space a cosy feel.” All that’s
left to do is add some accent lights to your reading nook, and get stuck into a good book.
bhomes.com | 57

A TWIST ON
TRADITION
How a starter home in Mirdif was
transformed by marrying tradition
with contemporary flair
58 | bhomes.com

home makeover | INSPIRATION
Before
When Dubai-based newlyweds Yara and
Eddy contacted Nisrine Moghraby
of Harf Noon Design Studios to help
create their Mirdif love nest, they
were certain of one thing – that it be built
around their collection of vintage carpets.
Given to the couple as wedding gifts, their
ensemble of richly bold rugs were a sure place
to start for Nisrine. “I instantly knew that
the colour scheme had to complement them
without being overpowering,” she says. The
young couple wanted to focus on makingover
the entertaining spaces, including the
l i v i n g/d i n i n g s p a c e a n d t h e T V r o o m u p s t a i r s .
Since the carpets were naturally colourful,
they became the focal point for each of the
rooms. Nisrine selected shades from them, and
chose funky accessories to match. Meanwhile,
the walls were kept simple, with a lick of
white paint and a large black and white
p h o t o g r a p h fo r “ s o m e a r c h i t e c t u r a l i n t e r e s t ”.
Moving upstairs to the TV room, Nisrine
removed all of the couple’s existing furniture,
leaving just the sofa. The multipurpose room
was made-over with a slender desk, TV cabinet
and storage units for the couple’s books and
trinkets. “We wanted to nod to the Star Wars
theme that was afoot in the room previously, as
this was a part of the husband’s bachelor days,”
says Nisrine. “We kept the youthful spirit alive
by framing some fun posters and adding a bean
bag for hours of comfortable gaming.”
Upon completion, the once blank slate
had taken a starting point from the antique
carpets and run with a quirky yet trendy feel.
In Nisrine’s words, “the house has a consistent
charm and unique character that mirrors its
owner’s optimism and new life as a couple.”
Turn the page to read our tops tips on
planning a similar makeover in your home ➤
bhomes.com | 59

INSPIRATION | home makeover
Make it happen
Want your own funky
yet original space?
Nisrine Moghraby
shares her top tips
1 Use one main element as your focal point,
as we did with the rugs here. Complement it
with a statement artwork in muted tones that
doesn’t distract.
2 Start with simple white walls so that
everything pops against them. You can always
add wallpaper or bright posters to bring some
colour in.
3 Keep the rest of the furniture colours neutral
– we opted for light grey, which stands out
against the walls without overpowering the
brightness in the carpets. We used throw
cushions to tie in the neutral colours and the
bright carpets.
4 Opt for a glass coffee table, which will
allow a statement carpet or flooring to show
through. A dark metal hardware table works
well, as the industrial feel complements
traditional elements for a modern spin.
5 Accessorise with minimalistic yet statement
pieces that are fun and young. This will add a
quirky vibe without it feeling cluttered.
THE VERDICT
“We love our home’s new
look. The creative, super
sleek finish is better than
anything we could have
imagined for our home.”
Yara and Eddy
Photos by Harf Noon Studios, harfnoondesignstudio.com
Before
60 | bhomes.com

FAMILY
ABODES
Six
of the
best
Fab family homes, with
plenty of room to grow
FOR SALE
AED3,550,000
1TOWNHOUSE, MOTOR CITY
Located in the highly sought-after Green Community, this three-bed
townhouse is ideal for family get-togethers with its spacious extended
kitchen, large lounge, separate dining room and roomy reception areas.
Being a corner unit, alfresco entertainment is also on the cards as the
property has ample garden space with a barbecue area and pergola.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: TH355049,
RERA Permit No. 1475723839. Nearby school and nursery: Jumeirah English
Speaking School, Building Blocks Nursery.
Bed: 3
Bath: 4
Parking: 2
FOR SALE
AED15,900,000
2AL BARSHA 3, AL BARSHA
If you have a taste for the finer things in life, you’ll appreciate this
fully-furnished villa where a theme of contemporary luxury reigns
supreme. Perfect for large families, each of the five bedrooms have an ensuite
bathroom and fitted wardrobes. The showstopper abode is decked out
with high-end furniture from the likes of Fendi and Roberto Cavalli, while the
landscaped garden and swimming pool has the wow factor.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: BHM-S-170347,
RERA Permit No. 0574909058. Nearby school and nursery: American School
of Dubai, The Children’s Garden.
Bed: 5
Bath: 6
Parking: 2
62 | bhomes.com

View more listings at bhomes.com
Bed: 4
Bath: 5
Parking: 2
FOR SALE
AED3,800,000
3SADAF 2, JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE
This fully upgraded, duplex apartment situated in the popular JBR
is the modern answer to family living. Natural light floods the space
through the large windows and provide dreamy Dubai Marina views. The
sleek kitchen is another highlight, along with the wooden floors upstairs.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: AP300281,
RERA Permit No. 1685276749. Nearby school and nursery: Regent
International School, Kidville JBR.
bhomes.com | 63

SHOP | Betterhomes Magazine
FOR SALE
AED5,000,000
4ORANGE LAKE, JUMEIRAH
GOLF ESTATES
Get acquainted with this brand
new lake view property in the familyfriendly
development of Orange Lake.
The Spanish-style villa benefits from
smart home technology and highquality
finishings, including parquet
flooring and marble countertops. The
European vibe continues outside with a
private pool and dining area.
For further details, call 04 409 0998
and quote REF: VI364315, RERA Permit
No. 0642861431. Nearby school and
nursery: Dubai British School, Building
Blocks Nursery.
Beds: 4
Bath: 5
Parking: 2
64 | bhomes.com

View more listings at bhomes.com
FOR SALE
AED6,300,000
5SAADIYAT BEACH VILLAS, SAADIYAT ISLAND
This distinctive four-bedroom villa is situated on the family-friendly Saadiyat
Island in Abu Dhabi. A stone’s throw from the beach and close to Louvre Abu
Dhabi, among other attractions, there’s plenty to keep the brood entertained here.
Come home to this spacious, arabesque designed home (think arched doorways
and gleaming mosaics) complete with lush garden.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: VI349995. Nearby school and
nursery: Repton School Abu Dhabi, Redwood Montessori Nursery.
Beds: 4
Bath: 5
Parking: 3
FOR RENT
AED230,000 per year
6LEGACY, JUMEIRAH PARK
Having been upgraded with family living in mind, there’s living space aplenty
here. The large lounge and dining area has been extended to provide a
garden facing, sun room while the granite-topped kitchen is fully-equipped with
appliances and comes complete with a breakfast bar. Sitting pretty within the villaonly
community of Jumeirah Park, this is suburban living at its finest.
For further details, call 04 409 0998 and quote REF: VI339612, RERA Permit No. 1633676627.
Nearby school and nursery: Dubai British School, Marina Village Nursery.
Beds: 4
Bath: 5
Parking: 2
bhomes.com | 65

THE PLACE TO MOVE TO
MOTOR CITY
Located beside Dubai Autodrome,
Motor City is a popular residential
area and self-contained
neighbourhood in Dubailand with a
variety of amenities on the doorstep.
Home to apartments and villas,
this popular area nurtures a strong
community feel with its mix of
convenience, activity and fun.
WHY MOVE THERE?
On top of being, as its name suggest,
a thrilling hub for motorsports, Motor
City is a coveted residential community
with an impressive roster of shops,
attractions and entertainment. Those
with an active lifestyle will feel right at
home here, with the landscaped parks
attracting dedicated joggers and the
fully-equipped gym at Fitness First
drawing a motivated crowd. If you
prefer to relax over a cup of coffee
with friends, there’s plenty of places to
do so here.
THE COMMUNITY
The spacious plots and green areas
draw families and professionals
alike who value the relaxed feel of
the neighbourhood, which is largely
pedestrianised. Green Community
Motor City comprises a number of
villas, while Uptown Motor City offers
townhouses, apartments and studios.
TRANSPORT
With easy access to Sheikh
Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and
Al Khail Road, you’ll reach Dubai
Marina in around 15-minutes by car
and Downtown Dubai in around 25
minutes. There are several bus routes
that connect the community to the
wider city.
SCHOOLS
GEMS Metropole School is situated
in Uptown Motor City, while Victory
Heights Primary School is a short
drive away. For tots, Emirates British
Nursery and Jebel Ali Village Nursery
are located within the community.
SHOPPING
The large Spinneys supermarket is
ideal for the weekly shop, while First
Avenue Mall has over 50 shops and
15 places to eat and drink, including
Bath & Body Works, Al-Futtaim ACE,
Chili’s, Burgerfuel and Starbucks.
Meet the neighbours
Anna Wallentén (@anna.wallenten) has lived in Motor City for 12 years
“My parents were two of the first residents to move into Motor City in 2007. Twelve years down
the line, and three apartments later, I can’t imagine living anywhere else. I love it here due to
the community atmosphere and the close proximity to pools and shops. I work from home as a
Peak Performance Expert, and I love welcoming my clients to this homely neighbourhood.”
66 | bhomes.com

area guide | PROPERTY
Ask the agent
Robert Villalobos is the
Branch Manager at Motor City
Betterhomes. If you would like
to contact him for property
consultations, or to learn of
any open house dates in the
area, simply call 04 408 1000.
OFF-PLAN
PROPERTY FOCUS
Arabian Ranches III,
Spring
Motor City is suitable for a variety of people.
Professionals and couples will enjoy the apartment
style living and array of amenities on the doorstep
in Uptown Motor City. Families who require a
larger living and outdoor space, however, will feel
right at home in Green Community, Motor City.
There is a lively community feel that is very
family orientated, especially during the cooler
months when the residents spend more time
outside. The weekends are bustling due to the
fantastic high-street, which has restaurants, a
variety of shops, and soft play areas. Of course,
Dubai Autodrome creates a buzz in the community,
especially on race days. Various events throughout
the year attract a steady crowd of motorsport
enthusiasts and make for great family days out.
Currently, prices are falling, so now is a great
time to rent or buy. In Uptown Motor City the studio
apartments start from Dhs500,000 to buy and from
Dhs40,000 per annum to rent. In Motor City’s Green
Community, townhouses, villas and bungalows start
from around Dhs3.2m to buy and Dhs180,000 to rent.
If you’re interested in living here, you’ll need to be
quick, as the properties in the Green Community
go quickly, so there is often low availability.
Visit the new Betterhomes branch at Office 2101,
Control Tower, Motor City, 04 885 1848
PROPERTIES IN MOTOR CITY
For Sale
AED975,000. Sherlock House 2, Motor City.
2 bed, 3 bath, 2 parking, 1,471 sq.ft.
3.2m
could buy you a
bungalow in the
coveted Green
Community
Motor City
For Rent
AED43k per year. Weston Court 1, Motor
City, Studio, 2 bath, 1 parking, 641 sq.ft.
WHAT IS IT?
Spring is one of three neighbourhoods
in Arabian Ranches III – a premium
family-centric gated community that
follows the blueprint of the existing
Ranches developments in Dubailand.
It offers a blend of indoor and outdoor
attractions for residents of all ages.
WHERE IS IT LOCATED? Along Sheikh
Mohammed bin Zayed Road,
20-minutes from Downtown Dubai
and just five-minutes away from the
popular Global Village.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN FEATURES?
Encouraging outdoor living with a
community clubhouse, tree house
play area, kids’ pool, trampoline park
and barbecue area, the community is
pegged as a family-friendly haven in
which to escape the buzz of the city.
Its modern townhouses each feature
landscaped plots.
WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS?
Three- or four-bedroom townhouses,
with plenty of natural light. there are
two design options: the elegant Cream
facade design or the deeper-hued
Chestnut aesthetic.
EXPECTED COMPLETION DATE?
October 2022.
IS THERE A PAYMENT PLAN AVAILABLE?
There is a 5% down payment upon
booking; 5% is to be paid within
30 days of booking; the 2 nd to 10 th
payments of 5% every four months;
15% upon completion; and the 12 th -17 th
instalments of 5% paid post completion.
For further information, call
Betterhomes on 04 409 0998
bhomes.com | 67

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