丨阿联酋迪拜

This Vastu-compliant home in Dubai reflects an Indian-origin homeowner’s life journey

Designed by Sunayana Rao of Soul Space Design Studio, this home integrates elements from Indian, French and English design styles.

What does a designer do when homeowners ask for “a design they cannot refuse”? They weave their magic and create the home in Dubai of their dreams. Sunayana Rao of Soul Space Design Studio was blessed with this unique challenge— designing a house for an Indian-origin family that has lived in Tanzania since the 1800s. This two-story, 6000-square-foot home in Dubai reflects the family’s global experiences and love for English homes while adhering to Vastu principles. Named the Amba House, it “stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity,” says Sunayana.

The main entrance of the house.

Retaining only the structural framework of this coveted corner house, the design team—Sunayana, Raichel, Bhumika, Neha, and Ruchi—transformed every nook and cranny. The opulent entryway, featuring a 9-foot grain black veneer door, is beautifully complemented by custom hand-painted rise tiles, adding a breath of fresh air to the space. The entry leads to the dining area through the entrance foyer, which features veneer-clad walls adorned with real gold foil artwork. A powder room, decorated with Morris & Co wallpaper and a custom-built leather finish marble sink, exudes luxury and warmth.

The flooring of the house is by Lobo and Listone, Glaze, Porcelanosa and ‘by Shivani’.

The expansive living and dining areas are thoughtfully divided into three distinct zones: a formal living room, a central dining area, and a vibrant informal living space designed for family time. The formal living room features comfortable sofas and an Ethan Allen cabinet owned by the homeowners, evoking the charm of an English home. This serene space, adorned with white mouldings and neutral furnishings, is ideal for business meetings.

The decorative lights have been sourced from Black Steel, White & Velvet and Luxxe Home, while the architectural lights are from Sunrise Oasis Lighting L.L.C.

Home furnishings are sourced from Home Stories and Silk Land.

At the heart of the home lies the dining area, situated beneath wooden rafters and illuminated by a beautiful brass pendant light. The centrepiece is a custom-built solid wood dining table with vintage Indian-style legs, complemented by traditional chairs. Adjacent to the dining area is the informal living space, separated by a custom-made buffet unit. A magnificent 10-foot Pichwai artwork, specially commissioned from artisans in Udaipur, graces the informal living area, celebrating the clients' affinity for Lord Krishna. Bespoke sofas echo the artwork's vibrant colours, beautifully tying the space together. The client’s love for corniches and classic wooden furniture is reflected in these spaces.

Adjacent to the staircase, the pristine white kitchen exemplifies meticulous organization. To create a more spacious and efficient layout, a previously attached bathroom was removed, allowing for the expansion of the kitchen and the creation of a separate utility area. The shutters, painted in "Breeze" by Jotun, enhance the kitchen's airy ambience. A large island, offering ample storage, serves as an additional prep zone, ensuring that the kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful.

The kitchen which is located on the ground floor.

The family room.

The mezzanine floor.

The staircase ascends to a mezzanine terrace, adorned with understated checkered tiles and vibrant bougainvillea plants, ensuring year-round privacy and natural beauty. Upstairs, the family room showcases a solid wood sliding door with fluted glass and wall-to-wall built-in shelving. A fireplace, reminiscent of the family's time in the UK, adds a nostalgic touch, while a Crate and Barrel sofa promises maximum comfort.

The custom furniture is sourced from multiple places like The Lofts, Crate and Barrel Middle East, 5th Avenue Interiors, Pottery Barn and Gulmohar Lane.

The rugs are sourced from Jaipur Rugs and Carpet Centre.

The daughter’s room is immersed in a calming blue.

The guest bedroom.

The bedrooms, located on the first floor and bathed in natural light, serve as personal sanctuaries within the house, each boasting unique design styles. The master bedroom features checkered veneer panelling reminiscent of a London hotel. A bespoke bar unit adds a touch of luxury, while the master bathroom offers an unparalleled spa-like experience with its patterned marble floor and volakas supreme walls. One daughter’s bedroom embraces wooden tones and a contemporary upholstered bed, complemented by walnut LVT flooring. In contrast, the other daughter’s room captivates with a moody yet refreshing blue palette, cleverly using colour to create an illusion of spaciousness.

The outdoor deck.

The poolside area.

Each indoor area seamlessly integrates with a picturesque view of the sparkling swimming pool and the elegant deck, maintaining a seamless connection with the outdoors. Thoughtfully selected furniture, both indoors and outdoors, enhances comfort and style.

Despite facing a challenging timeline due to reduced work hours during Ramadan and unexpected Dubai storms, our team successfully completed the project within four months. Remarkably, 70% of the furniture, fabrics, and lighting were sourced and exported from India, adhering to the tight schedule. The home stands as a testament to the homeowner’s unique taste, lifelong experiences, and contemporary decor trends.