Modern living

studio bruno guelaff has created a modern beachside home in Dubai that allows the surrounding seascape to take centre stage

- Aidan Imanova

“The way a person lives their life with their family should always dictate the way the layout and structure of a home is imagined,” states Bruno Guelaff, founder of Dubai-based studio bruno guelaff. “Family life comes first and not the ego of the architect.”

Guelaff’s studio was commissioned to design the family home of Khalid Kaluti in its entirety, from the architecture to the interior design and landscaping. The 21,000-square foot villa is set on a 10,549-square foot plot on Pearl Jumeirah, adjacent to the beach. The brief called for a modern design that balanced natural light and privacy, while ensuring as much connection to the surrounding seascape as possible.

Kaluti is a long-term entrepreneur who has owned and operated businesses for over 25 years, ranging from upscale restaurants in Washington DC to retail and contracting in Dubai.

“Khalid’s wishes were very simple,” says Guelaff. “He wanted a bridge-like opening over the lower basement areas, allowing direct interaction with the living spaces, rejecting the typical foyer arrival or double-height spaces. We therefore created a simple arrival into a multipurpose living area, with a view to the outdoor pool as well as a customisable open kitchen. Due to the expansive main area, smart structural design was imperative to make sure the architecture matched the clients’ brief.”

Visitors are first greeted by a sleek bridge which hovers over the courtyard below, allowing for a dynamic arrival to the villa. The large open spaces exude minimalism and aim to bring the family together, whether in the kitchen or the areas for lounging.