A Regal Retreat: Raghav and Nikita Welcome Bazaar Into Their Emirates Hills Home

The couple open the doors to their opulent, neutral-hued three-storey villa which exudes positivity and radiance

Nestled in the luxurious Emirates Hills community, this Dubai-based family, also known as ‘the Aroras’, have designed a home that perfectly aligns with their Indian culture, values and personality. Founders of two companies, City Diamond Contracting and Architectural Corner, a construction and design firm, the family business works on projects across several sectors in the region. Having lived in the villa for over four years now, the Aroras have truly invested themselves in crafting this beautifully designed abode – calling it one of their many ‘passion projects’.

“We moved in 2018, and it took us six months to conceptualise the layout,” explained Raghav. “We wanted to incorporate as many natural elements as possible as our vision was to create a living space that felt airy and positive. The glass elements capture the beautiful skyline and golf-course view along with providing as much sunlight as possible to light up the house.”

Living in a joint family, Raghav and Nikita ensured that the house features elements catering to everyone’s style and personality, which was then folded into a central colour palette. “We were on the same page,” admitted Nikita. “We wanted to create an environment where we had enough space for entertaining friends and family, such as our multiple living rooms on the ground floor, the basement, or even the rooftop with the panoramic view.”

The 60,000 square-foot mansion spreads across three floors, with a flowing neutral tone coupled with bespoke pieces that add a timeless and stylish touch to the overall aesthetic of the house. Complementing the space’s theme, the soft hues comprise natural woods and concrete amid large, glass windows that bring the beauty of the outside surroundings into sharp relief.

“The shades we used perfectly tied into the whole natural façade we wanted to have,” Nikita told Bazaar. “We included whites, beige and a bit of pearl to highlight the true essence of the house while complementing the spectacular golf course and skyline view, which is seen from all corners in our house, so you always have the green and blue reflection coming in from outside.”

With a minimalistic vision, the dynamic design duo has shaped the home to incorporate their favourite luxury designers, adding a touch of fashion and character to the overall aesthetic. “We have included furniture and lighting from Fendi and Minotti, which we absolutely love,” said the interiors enthusiast. “It creates a modish statement to the living space while being subtle at the same time. 

I think that fashion, architecture, and design are all interrelated; one leads to the other. The aesthetic sense remains similar throughout all these creative fields. While the medium is different, decorating a home is a lot like how someone dresses. So, for instance, somebody likes wearing neutral tones, whereas some prefer prints and vibrant hues. There is no right or wrong way to do it. We kept it very subtle, and I think it just shows how we are as people.”

After studying architecture in the US, Raghav found himself inspired by the modern white villas in Miami – the high ceilings and the artworks by local creatives – which subconsciously led him to create such a regal residence in Dubai for his family. Adding to his home collection, one of the most beautiful sculptures – which also catches visitors’ eyes – is a face sculpted by renowned South Korean artist Seo Young Deok. Built with industrial machinery and bicycle chains, the masterpiece makes a bold yet peaceful statement in the basement lounge. “Art plays a big role in decorating a home and portraying who we are as people,” explained Raghav. “So, every piece here has a meaning behind it. We have a nine-metre-long artwork by Indian painter Sujata Bajaj custom-made for our home.” The combination of technique, colours, textures, and even the scale of the piece make it the perfect addition to the home’s entrance.

The highlight of the house, along with being the family’s favourite corner, is the ground floor courtyard – they’ll often enjoy an afternoon tea while spending quality time with the kids here. “This spot is extremely special to us as the olive tree anchors the whole house,” he said. “Along with it being such a beautiful addition, it has an emotional significance as well. We’ve seen the tree change and grow as we as a family have evolved over the years. After all, it is 430 years old, so there’s a bit of heritage and culture associated with it,” he added.

The multipurpose area upstairs on the top floor of the home serves as a space for yoga classes, birthday gatherings, movie nights, the kid’s play area, and much more. “It’s a fun yet calming space as you don’t hear sounds from the street or from the rest of the home. It’s our peaceful sanctuary,” said Raghav. 

The creative partnership between the couple and family is the main driving force behind the whole execution of the Arora residence. The couple has the perfect ‘yin and yang’ situation where Raghav brings his design know-how while Nikita adds her aesthetic eye. “One of the biggest advantages of living with a big family is that there are multiple perspectives that come into place. The women in the house have taken the lead entirely in terms of the décor of the walls to the bathroom marbles and even the minor details which tie the whole look together,” he explained.

Though 2020 was a devastating year for everyone, the Aroras felt blessed in their family abode as they ventured to make the most of their living space during the lockdown. “During those months, we felt super grateful to have ample room to continue our work and routine,” said Raghav. “Everyone understood the importance of personal space. Moreover, we have seen people around us build and improve their existing homes while we upgraded our home office as we were operating out of there solely during the year.”

The design experts share some tips on the best way to build and decorate your home: “It’s crucial to visit spaces, whether it’s hotels or other people’s residences. First, you need to realise where you feel comfortable, what aesthetic gives you a sense of peace and happiness and then bring those elements inside. Furthermore, being aware of your ideal colour palette, materials, and architectural style is the best way to go rather than opting for what’s trending. And lastly, think of the future. Things change but try to create a layout that would be sufficient for your long-term plans,” advised the creator.

The house’s marriage of elegant volume, nature and light perfectly blend modernity with evergreen chic. Every corner, artwork, and piece of furniture has been carefully selected to mirror a shared vision of inviting sophistication.  

Words by ANAHITA GHAI. Photography by EFRIAM EVIDOR. Styling by NOUR BOU EZZ

From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s October 2021 issue