Amira Sajwani explains that leading developers are designing spaces where ‘home’ extends beyond just the interior to embrace the surrounding neighborhood
Peace and tranquillity are precious commodities in our always-connected age, which is why the best real estate developers always strive to deliver the sense of calm and relaxation that a good home should provide. Naturally, ‘home’ extends far beyond the four walls of an apartment or villa to include its immediate surroundings and wider neighbourhood.
It was the pristine shores of the Mediterranean, for instance, that inspired DAMAC Properties’ DAMAC Lagoons, which features thematic clusters based on the idyllic environs of Portofino, Santorini and Costa Brava. Our fifth master community, DAMAC Sun City, also draws heavily on natural elements, boasting forest hiking trails, open-air yoga studios and even camping spots.
These developments and others like them mirror a growing demand among consumers for eco-friendly homes, community living offerings and healthy outdoor lifestyles. They provide a sanctuary from the busyness and excitement of Dubai’s bustling urban centres without isolating residents.
So, why do UAE homebuyers find this new wave of nature-inspired communities so appealing? Let’s dig a little deeper…
Embracing health and wellness
The rise of nature-centric communities echoes a broader, long-term global trend towards wellness, recognising the myriad advantages of spending time in the great outdoors. Access to parks, running and cycling trails, fresh air and other exercise opportunities is linked to a plethora of mental and physical health benefits, from lower blood pressure and heart rate to reduced stress, incidence of diabetes, and heart disease – selling points that are attractive to people from all walks of life.
When nature inspires project development, it influences not only the site plan and hard landscaping but also the architecture and design of homes and shared spaces. Features that bring the outside in – think panoramic picture windows and versatile indoor-outdoor living – are more than just nice-to-haves. Biophilic interior design, for example, connects us with nature and makes the most of natural light and materials, reducing stress and anxiety.
In addition to trees and greenery, Dubai’s most sought-after communities typically incorporate lakes, pools and other waterscapes into their designs – therapeutic features that also have positive psychological and mental impacts. For instance, DAMAC Lagoons not only features stunning Mediterranean-inspired views but also offers residents a range of water-based activities, from kayaking to paddleboarding.
The community lifestyle
While privacy has its charms, the sense of belonging offered by community living appeals to many homebuyers, and projects like DAMAC Hills, DAMAC Sun City and other similar developments demonstrate that residents can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Nature-inspired complexes tend to cater particularly well to young and multi-generational families, with spacious footprints, generous private and communal outdoor areas for socialising and relaxing, and plenty of opportunities for safe but adventurous play.
Aligning with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Quality of Life Strategy 2033, new community developments and the buyers investing in them are embracing the ‘20-minute city’ goal, whereby schools, doctors, convenience stores and other essential services are within walking distance for everyone.
Eco-conscious credentials
Alongside promoting physical health and mental wellbeing, walkable communities reinforce the eco-friendly credentials that modern consumers are increasingly demanding. DAMAC Properties has long been an industry leader in this regard. DAMAC Hills, for example, has received widespread praise for incorporating energy-efficient homes, water conservation systems and renewable energy sources.
Sustainability is a key concern for many buyers, and nature-inspired communities are proof that luxury living doesn’t have to cost the earth. By leveraging sustainable landscaping, green construction materials and methods, and the latest smart technologies, high-quality developments enable homeowners to mitigate their environmental impact while enjoying all the benefits of a new-build unit.
Urbanisation will continue to reshape the face of our cities, and as it does so, demand for nature-centric living spaces is only going to grow. Offering a combination of sustainability, serenity and society, homes in such communities present an attractive long-term investment prospect as well as an idyllic place to live.
The popularity of these developments is increasing precisely because they embody a broader vision that aligns with the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and liveability. By promoting physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing, nature-inspired communities enable residents to escape from the hustle and bustle of city living while enjoying improved quality of life.
And what could be more appealing than that?
Originally written by Amira Sajwani. Edited by Reeba Asghar.