The concept of branded residences, often associated with luxury and exclusivity, has seen a remarkable surge in popularity. They have emerged as a prominent focal point within Dubai’s real estate landscape, garnering significant attention. According to a Knight Frank report from 2023, the anticipated expansion of branded residences globally is expected to grow by nearly two-thirds.
Completed projects predominantly exist in North America, while the most significant projected growth in developments is observed in the Middle East. The UAE boasts the most extensive array of branded residences across Europe and the Middle East, featuring remarkably high prices for completed and upcoming properties. In 2023, luxury automobile brand Bugatti unveiled its collaboration with BinGhatti, a UAE-based real estate developer, to introduce Sky Mansions, priced at around USD 204 million. This announcement followed the sale of a Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab–branded apartment for USD 114 million, breaking previous records set by a USD 33 million Bulgari property on Jumeirah Bay Island.
Dubai boasts a growing population of affluent individuals seeking luxury abodes or vacation retreats, driving the demand for properties exuding exclusivity and extravagance. Branded residences fulfil these desires, often nestled in prime locales and offering access to top-tier amenities and architectural finesse.
In Dubai, a city famous for its luxury and fast development, serviced hotel apartments have led to the creation of new branded residences. These residences, linked with well-known brands, offer investors a feeling of reliability and uniqueness. Their growing presence in Dubai’s property market combines luxury, exclusivity, and international appeal. This attracts both local and international buyers, particularly those interested in investment opportunities. However, with the rising demand for luxury in these properties, there’s also a growing need to include inclusivity and accessibility.
Inclusivity in design
Architects and designers are tasked with the challenge of creating spaces that are not only luxurious but also cater to the diverse needs of local and international residents from around the world. Creating an inclusive environment involves initiating the design process with fundamental principles that embrace universal design concepts, prioritising usability for all. Such an approach merges functionality with luxury, ensuring that elegance is not compromised but rather enhanced through practical design solutions.
Part of this inclusive design strategy includes making buildings and environments universally accessible and easy to navigate. Features like wide doorways for wheelchair users, ramps for accessibility, tactile paving for those with visual impairments, and thoughtfully designed furniture all contribute to creating a welcoming environment for a diverse range of users. Additionally, incorporating cultural sensitivity into design is crucial. This means integrating cultural elements such as colour schemes, symbols, and spatial arrangements in a way that is both relevant and respectful to various cultural contexts.
Inclusivity within design, however, extends far beyond physical accessibility, fundamentally it involves embracing sensory inclusivity. Thoughtful and purposeful design prioritises human needs and experiences takes into account the diverse range of sensory experiences individuals encounter and creates spaces that resonate with and cater to everyone. For instance, the selection of lighting considers not only visual aesthetics but also addresses different visual requirements and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and accommodating environment for everyone. Similarly, attention to acoustics factors is a consideration for individuals sensitive to sound, creating spaces that minimise disturbances and promote calmness and productivity. While designing inclusive residences, each element is curated to embrace diverse sensory perceptions and needs, developing a more universally welcoming environment.
In modern architecture and interior design, integrating sustainability practices into sensory-inclusive designs represents a holistic approach. This method involves using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems while ensuring that spaces cater to a diverse range of sensory needs. For instance, natural light and ventilation are utilised not only for their environmental benefits but also to create a sensory-rich environment. Acoustic design is considered to reduce noise pollution, enhancing the comfort for all users, especially those with auditory sensitivities. The use of non-toxic, sustainable materials also contributes to a healthier indoor environment, beneficial for both the planet and the people using the space.
A focus on education
Balancing luxury with inclusivity in design involves both collaboration and education. Educating stakeholders on the importance of inclusivity is key to a shared commitment to creating spaces that embrace everyone. Educational institutions and industry players play a crucial role in shaping the future of inclusive design, especially in branded residences. These entities serve as hubs for innovation, research, and learning, driving change in architecture and design.
Universities, through interdisciplinary collaborations and specialised courses in universal design, sustainability, and accessibility, equip future architects and designers with the knowledge to prioritise inclusivity in their designs. Research in academic settings also provides critical insights into best practices for designing luxurious yet accessible branded residences.
Designing inclusive branded residences that strike the perfect balance between luxury and inclusivity involves integrating universal design principles, embracing personalisation without exclusion, considering sensory experiences, and fostering inclusive community spaces. Collaboration, education, and a holistic approach that encompasses sustainability are crucial to ensuring that these residential spaces meet the diverse needs of their residents while also showcasing luxury and sophistication.