The UAE is known for opulent real estate, with interior design playing a crucial role in the appeal and value of uber-luxury properties. Our nation is renowned for going beyond conventional interior design boundaries, incorporating décor and styles that could be considered legitimate works of art – elevating the living experience for existing and prospective occupants.
However, as in any walk of life, interior design in the uber-luxury space is highly personal. Creating a property that offers liveability, possesses a ‘wow’ factor, and isn’t off-putting to potential buyers is rarely straightforward.
So, here are my top tips for ensuring your luxury residence is elevated and not hampered by its interior design.
Function over fashion
My number-one recommendation for interior design is to focus on practicality. Whether you plan to make your luxury property a home or leverage its revenue-generating potential, the space must be liveable.
Take time to consider how you can create lavish surroundings without being constrained by unusable furnishings or impractical designs, and always prioritise comfort. While it can be tempting to concentrate on your property’s aesthetic, even the most eye-catching couches and chairs will soon lose their novelty if nobody uses them.
It’s also a good idea to furnish your property with sturdy, durable items rather than fast-fashion options. High-quality wood and marble, for example, never go out of style. Glass and crystal, meanwhile, are rarely the best fit for frequently used fixtures and fittings.
Homes are meant to be lived in, so be careful not to choose style over substance.
Tune into your surroundings
Whether you own a luxury country house or a penthouse in the city, you should always match your interior designs with your property’s location. For instance, modern, sleek interiors tend to suit luxury apartments. Beachfront properties, on the other hand, lend themselves to more informal, playful designs.
Of course, it’s always best to style your property in line with your personal tastes, but interior designs that complement their surroundings represent a great way to make a home feel simultaneously luxurious and effortless.
Become lost in space
Luxury homes are typically large and spacious, but filling a home with furniture and possessions can make even the biggest premises feel claustrophobic. At the same time, no one wants to sit in an empty property for fear of losing square footage, which is why space planning is so important when it comes to uber-luxury real estate.
Effective space planning is an art form in and of itself. Creating extra room, designing open layouts and maximising natural light can make the difference between a home that feels inviting and one that seems cluttered.
Minimalism is another excellent way to maximise space while ensuring your property maintains its luxurious look and feel. Avoiding bulky furnishings, opting for compact or hidden appliances, and investing in innovative storage solutions can help to keep your home clean, open and free.
I also recommend optimising your space by allocating a specific purpose to each room.
Embrace smart living
Thanks to the wonders of technology, it has never been easier to create a smart home. Embracing the latest innovations can help elevate your living experience significantly, and the space and budgets associated with the uber-luxury segment mean that cutting-edge tech can be integrated seamlessly without compromising your property’s aesthetic.
My personal favourite home innovations include light sensors, air purifiers, integrated audiovisual systems and automated cleaning units, but the list of advanced tech that can be woven into our living spaces is seemingly endless.
It is important to incorporate technology that is easily upgradable, as both hardware and software in this field tend to progress at a rapid pace. Nevertheless, the seamless integration of state-of-the-art innovations can help to raise an uber-luxury property from impressive to downright futuristic.
Select neutral colourways
Last but certainly not least, one of the most effective ways to ensure your uber-luxury property remains sleek and stylish over the longer term is through your use of colour. While some people prefer their home’s hues to be bold and bright (there’s nothing wrong with that), vibrant décor can sometimes be a barrier when the time comes to sell your property.
Placing the onus on neutral colourways minimises the risk of clashing designs and shades. You can then use easily interchangeable items, such as cushions, ornaments and framed artwork, to add splashes of colour, thus invigorating your environment.
Natural colours and pastels, such as light browns, creams and beiges, are incredibly versatile when it comes to interior design. Nude walls can also be an intelligent choice as they tend to complement livelier colours, meaning you’ll have greater freedom to personalise your property with impactful flourishes that reflect your specific tastes.
Ultimately, it doesn’t matter whether you intend to turn your luxury property into your primary residence or make it more saleable. Similar interior design rules apply.
Homes that are practical, open, innovative and tastefully decorated are far more likely to appeal to visitors and prospective buyers alike.
