Look To This Lake Como Home To Channel Quiet Luxury Interior Design Codes

Harpers Bazaar Arabia

2 days ago

In Al Khawaneej, Noon Design Studio transforms a family home with Lake Como-inspired tones, bespoke design and lived-in warmth
When tasked with reimaging a sprawling home for an Emirati family in Al Khawaneej, designer Noura AlSorougi of Noon Design Studio turned to nature and memory. A trip to Lake Como found its way onto her vision board – the palette of deep greens and watery blues inspired the majlis, while a tree seen on that same trip became the reference for the bespoke cabinet in the master bedroom. 'I love nature's imperfect-perfect beauty, and the countless layers of texture and pattern it holds,' she explains. So it's unsurprising that throughout the space, those same natural layers and details are thoughtfully reflected.
A key part of the redesign was converting a former indoor pool into a warm, multifunctional family area. 'As the family grew, the need for a space that brought everyone together became essential,' she says. Noura's approach, she adds, is always human-centric: 'It's about connecting form to function.'
While Noura and the team sourced from several high-end home décor brands, many pieces were also custom-made to suit the space and her vision. A minimalist oval desk with fluted legs stands out. 'This bespoke piece is close to my heart – we went through several mock-ups, sketches and material trials to get it right. The Italian veneers were sourced abroad, but the final piece was proudly made in the UAE,' she elaborates. Elsewhere, the design team partnered with Zuma Carpets to bring their custom rug designs to life. Another unique piece was the bespoke cabinet in the master bedroom, inspired by the distinctive spotted bark of a London Plane tree.
In the family lounge, the Timothy Oulton Arno coffee table – crafted from black slate satin – adds contrast and character. 'It brings a sense of ruggedness and understated elegance,' Noura notes. Materials were sourced globally, though Dubai's design scene played a key role. Fabrics and wallcoverings came from Nobilis, Holly Hunt, Zoffany, Arte and Yana Svetlova, while artwork was commissioned from both local and international artists. Lighting set the tone throughout, with Italamp chandeliers in the majlis and soft Eichholtz fixtures in the bedrooms. The result? A house that feels lived in and a story behind every design element.