By lined Column by Eng. Alya Mohammed, Engineering Department, Vilal Housing
Dubai, UAE, 22 October 2024: In recent years, the UAE has experienced a shift in the housing market, driven by evolving lifestyle preferences and the need for more efficient living spaces. However, even as these trends reshape the architecture and design of Emirati homes, a deep connection to cultural heritage remains central to the identity of these spaces.
At ‘Vilal Housing’, we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring that Emirati homes continue to honour tradition while embracing the demands of modern living.
One of the key features of the 2024 Emirati home is the incorporation of mashrabiya screens. Traditionally used for privacy and ventilation, these intricate wooden lattice designs have been reimagined for smaller, urban living spaces. Whether used as partitions, window treatments, or balcony enclosures, mashrabiya screens serve a dual purpose: they enhance the aesthetics of a home while contributing to sustainable living. By facilitating airflow and natural light, they reduce reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning, aligning with the growing demand for energy-efficient homes.
The majlis, a timeless cornerstone of Emirati culture, has also undergone a transformation in the modern home. Historically, the majlis was a separate room dedicated to hosting guests and fostering a sense of hospitality. Today, in more compact spaces, the majlis has been integrated into open-plan living areas. This shift allows for more flexibility, blending the traditional concept of hospitality with the multifunctionality required in contemporary homes. The majlis continues to be a space for gathering, but it now serves a dual purpose, adapting to the modern lifestyle while retaining its cultural significance.
Arches and ornate doorways, long associated with the grandeur of traditional Emirati architecture, have also found a place in today’s compact homes. These architectural elements, known for their elegance and ability to define spaces, are being used to create the illusion of larger interiors. In smaller homes, arches delineate different areas without the need for solid walls, promoting an open, airy feel that is both functional and visually appealing.
At ‘Vilal Housing’, we are equally committed to sustainability in our designs. By incorporating locally sourced materials such as stone and wood, which harken back to the architecture of traditional desert homes, we ensure that our developments are aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible. These materials, which connect modern homes to the UAE’s rich architectural heritage, contribute to reducing the ecological footprint of new housing developments.
The design of modern Emirati homes continues to reflect a delicate balance between heritage and modernity, by reinterpreting traditional elements in a way that aligns with contemporary designs to add a sense of modernity, simplicity, and elegance simultaneously. As we move forward, the opportunity and challenge lie in continuing to honor these traditions while adapting to the demands of a changing world. At ‘Vilal Housing’, we are committed to being part of this transformation to ensure that the essence of Emirati design remains a fundamental pillar in every home we design, with the quality and affordable prices that guarantee our customers’ happiness.
