Entrepreneur Haya Jarrar Is Making Waves In The Design Industry With Romani Home’s Functional Art

The fashion-turned-furniture designer welcomes Ayesha Shehmir into her gallery-like abode in Dubai

Haya Jarrar is a born artist. The Jordanian businesswoman has been in the fashion spotlight for many years in the Middle East – her edgy clothing spotted on A-listers throughout the region, and now, her creative vision has birthed Romani Home. Set to upturn the status quo of the furniture industry, the brand is a testament to her passion for history, design, and functionality.

It’s no surprise then that her double-storey abode in Dubai’s Palm district is as artistically appealing as one would imagine. “I love this quote by one of my favourite artists, Louise Bourgeois: ‘Tell your own story and you will be interesting’,” Haya smiles.

And that’s exactly what her gallery-like home is: her story. Upon entrance we’re welcomed by two commissioned paintings by Alymamah Rashed, a Kuwaiti artist and master of reinterpreting surrealism and folklore. The left canvas depicts angels protecting us from evil, while its counterpart addresses the darkness in the world. “I just love these pieces and I love the size of them,” she says, admiring their floor-to-ceiling grandeur.

Many other artworks adorn the walls, predominantly by Middle Eastern artists, reflecting a cultural connection close to Haya’s heart. “Each piece means something special to me and has been chosen with care to create the kind of ambience I love,” she explains. “These artworks make me feel something every time I look at them, adding extra uniqueness and personality to my living space.”

Most – and one day, all – of the furniture is by Romani Home. “I’m all about uniqueness and authenticity, which are the core values of Romani Home,” the multifaceted artist enthuses. “When I was decorating my own space, I craved pieces that were more than just functional – I wanted them to be pieces of art. That’s what I found lacking in the market, and it’s what inspired me to create Romani Home.”

In the hallway before the living area is a statement candleholder akin to a sculpture. The piece stands tall, illuminating its neighbouring artwork by Palestinian artist Samah Shihadi, intentionally lending a mysterious and moody atmosphere. “This is my favourite piece,” Haya admits of the candleholder by Romani Home. “I am obsessed and I have this scattered around the home in different sizes. It adds a lot of romance to the room.”

Launching a furniture line was a natural progression for the young fashion mogul. It all started with Haya designing for her own home, to eventually her friends asking for pieces too – giving her the confidence and, not that she should need it, validation of her prowess. “I’ve always been equally passionate about interior design and fashion.

Over the past eight years, I’ve been developing a full collection, and it was only until recently I felt ready to launch my own brand,” she tells Bazaar Interiors. “Just as fashion can be a statement of personality, I believe furniture should reflect individuality and style too. My top tip is to fill your space with whatever brings you joy.”

Every carefully curated area in the home is an expression of Haya’s personality. The pieces are designed for those who appreciate the artistic flair in everyday life, and who look to invest in timeless, statement items that showcase character and elegance. “Home is all about the people who live there,” the designer expresses. “Their energy, memories, and the furniture they love all come together to create a cosy and welcoming space where everyone feels at ease.

Haya may have only debuted her collection for Romani Home very recently, but the brand has found a large and ever-growing community of clients already. Despite the company’s rapid success, the entrepreneur’s humble beginnings are never forgotten: “I was fortunate to grow up in an environment where my parents were incredibly open-minded and supportive of my creativity from a very young age,” she reminisces.

“They recognised and encouraged my artistic inclinations early on, motivating me to explore and develop my talents. At home, I found my first canvas in sketching fashion designs and rearranging furniture pieces and antiques collected by my parents, sparking my passion for design.”

She playfully narrates that it wasn’t Barbie she was amused by, but rather, the world of antiques and collectibles; this set the stage for a star in the making, unafraid, and in fact, excited, to deviate from the norm.

Haya never underestimates her family’s role in her journey, recognising the tremendous support she has felt all around. “Growing up alongside my artistic sister also shaped my love for art,” she smiles.

While living in London, Haya was exposed to several cultures and design influences, which, coupled with travelling from a very young age, carved her creative path.

“These experiences broadened my perspective and inspired me to approach design with a global mindset, drawing inspiration from different places and traditions,” she says. Inspiration surrounds Haya in every facet of life – especially in the people she has met along the way. A collection of these moments form the basis of her eclectic designs, infusing them with stories and purpose.

Reminiscent of an interactive exhibition that celebrates the intersection of art and interior design, The House of Romani showroom in Dubai’s Al Quoz area is a nod to the galleries of East London – where beauty and functionality collide. “I ultimately wanted it to be a place where visitors could wander in and connect with the pieces on display,” Haya reveals.

The display of furniture carries a historic charm that speaks of a rebellious character; the handcrafted statement tables, chairs and couches transcend design boundaries, reinventing the rules of furniture-making. This is of course a reflection of their maker: distinct, innovative and original.

Although the multitalented creative has already disrupted the design scene, it seems her story has just begun. As for what’s next for Romani Home? Haya teases, “You’ll just have to wait and see.”

Editor: Ayesha Shehmir; Photography: Efraim Evidor; Styling: Seher Khan; Makeup: Sarah Sequeira; Styling Assistant: Janhvi Kohli

Cover image: Haya Jarrar in the House of Romani showroom. Haya wears Loewe.

Press play to watch a tour of Haya’s home.

Video by Red Pepper Films. Filmmaker and Editor: Sherief Akram

From Harper’s Bazaar Interiors’ Spring 2024 issue