Designing the Ultimate Home: Insights from a Luxury Renovation
In the world of luxury home renovations, collaboration between partners can often lead to remarkable results. One such story comes from Surani, who detailed the journey of transforming her home into a tranquil yet stylish oasis, with her husband’s touch making a mark primarily in his personal space. Surani’s approach to design not only reflects her aesthetic vision but also resonates with the essence of contemporary living.
A Personal Touch in Design
Surani recounted how her husband had the opportunity to design his own sanctuary within their luxurious home — a bathroom that epitomizes his style, complete with an in-house gym and an expansive closet. The design choices leaned towards a sophisticated palette of black, grey, and white, creating a “man cave” that speaks to his personality. “That’s all he got,” she says with a laugh, highlighting the playful dynamics of their decision-making process. “He trusted me with the rest.” This partnership exemplifies how distinct preferences can harmoniously coexist in a shared living space.
Tips for Aspiring Home Designers
With years of experience and a successful renovation under her belt, Surani offers invaluable advice for those looking to embark on their own design journey. Key to her philosophy is the importance of planning. “Plan your layout first, fix your budget, and decide your vibe,” she advises. This clear structure allows homeowners to define their vision without getting overwhelmed by possibilities.
Surani emphasizes the need for coherence in design. “Don’t mix too many styles. Stick to one clear idea — traditional, modern, transitional — and let that guide your choices.” This focused approach helps ensure that each element of the home feels like it belongs, creating a space that is harmonious and thoughtfully curated.
The Reality of Renovation Costs
While planning and vision are essential components of any renovation, the financial aspect often comes as a surprise. Surani initially mapped out a budget of Dh1 million for their renovation. However, the project ultimately ballooned to around Dh15 million. “But honestly, who’s counting after the tenth million?” she quips, showcasing the often unpredictable nature of home renovations. It’s a reality many homeowners face, where initial budgets can quickly escalate with unexpected challenges and changes in scope.
A Prestige Location
The couple’s home is located in a coveted neighborhood known for its luxurious villas, inhabited by Bollywood luminaries such as Shah Rukh Khan and Sushmita Sen. The property itself is valued at approximately Dh70 million or more, reflecting not only its grandeur but also the allure of living in such a prestigious area. “We love living in the Palm,” Surani shares. “If I go to Dallas and tell anyone that we live in the Palm, you can see an instant connect.” This sentiment speaks to the pride and joy of residing in a place that holds significant cultural and social cachet.
Embracing Home as a Lifelong Journey
Surani’s reflections reveal a deeper truth about creating a home: it’s a long-term commitment that transforms over the years. “We have created our home in all these years and wouldn’t swap it for any other home.” This statement encapsulates the idea that a home is more than just a physical structure; it is imbued with memories, experiences, and personal histories.
Through her engaging narrative, Surani not only illustrates the complexities of design and renovation but also brings to light the importance of partnership, planning, and embracing the journey of making a house truly feel like home.
