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Open House: La Mer South

Harrisoni la mer villa

Designed by XBD Collective, Harrisoni La Mer bridges local sensibilities and contemporary design in an exemplary way

Words by Aneesha Rai in Portfolio · Jan 30th, 2024

In this edition of Open House, design studio XBD Collective & developer Almal Investments share their thought process on designing this Harrisoni La Mer villa. With a strategic focus on combining coastal charm, architectural innovation, and cultural resonance, this villa stands as a beacon of opulence in one of Dubai's most exclusive locations.

XBD Collective: The overarching design concept for Harrisoni La Mer is deeply rooted in the coastal locale, seamlessly integrating Miami-style architecture with contemporary Dubai aesthetics. Horizontal lines assume a pivotal role in creating aesthetically pleasing elevations, conveying an essence of simplicity and elegance. This amalgamation results in an architectural masterpiece that adeptly captures the spirit of sun-soaked beaches and urban living.

The villas showcase distinctive architectural elements, including a double-height entrance door, motorized shading screens, and a sunken seating area with an acrylic wall facing the swimming pool. Outdoor entertainment zones, a captivating water feature on the façade, and a glass elevator contribute to a unique living experience. Local culture is artfully woven into the design, with motorized screens inspired by Mashrabiya shading and water features reminiscent of the traditional Falaj system. The carefully chosen color palette, premium materials, and reflective surfaces collectively encapsulate the essence of the desert and ocean, creating a culturally rich living space.

Harrisoni la mer villa
The infusion of local influences, such as Mashrabiya shading and Falaj-inspired water features, adds an enriching cultural dimension.
Harrisoni la mer villa

A refined palette comprising warm browns, deep greys, and accent colors creates a cohesive and elegant ambiance. High-quality materials, including stone and wood, contribute to both construction and interior design, ensuring a luxurious living environment.

The open ground floor maximizes spatial flow without compromising on elegance. Thoughtfully designed bedrooms, a glass elevator, an outdoor bar, and a barbecue area exemplify a delicate equilibrium between functionality and luxury, mindful of Dubai's unique climatic considerations.

Cutting-edge technologies are seamlessly integrated into both architectural and interior design, offering home automation, smart lighting, climate control, and security features. The inclusion of solar panels and water heaters not only enhances sustainability but also contributes to the overall convenience and efficiency.

Harrisoni la mer villa
Harrisoni la mer villa

Sustainability takes precedence in the villas, evident in the incorporation of solar panels, water heaters, and eco-friendly practices in both construction and interior design. Measures such as super-insulated external walls, AAC blocks, and mineral wool insulation address challenges posed by the coastal climate.

Addressing challenges associated with the coastal climate involved the meticulous selection of corrosion-resistant materials, implementation of waterproofing techniques, and collaboration with reputable suppliers. The realization of luxury market expectations was achieved through the incorporation of unique design features and employment of top-tier materials.

Harrisoni la mer villa
Harrisoni la mer villa

The design aspires to evoke a sense of tranquility, awe, and a profound connection with the vibrant surroundings of La Mer, Dubai. The Harrisoni La Mer villas aim to provide residents with a harmonious amalgamation of luxury, sophistication, and cultural richness.

Strategically positioned within La Mer, the villas harmonize seamlessly with their surroundings by maximizing panoramic views of the beach and ocean. Large windows, expansive open terraces, and a rooftop terrace offer breathtaking vistas of the sea, iconic skyline, and prominent landmarks like the Burj Khalifa.

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