Quiet apartment in Dubai inspired by former life as a jazz singer

If architecture resembles classical music, often reflecting its rigid structure and penchant for rules, then interiors are more akin to jazz, where spontaneity and improvisation are hallmarks of good sound. No matter the genre, form, rhythm and harmony all play a huge role in making a room or song emotional. Dubai-based interior designer and founder of Mizanna Designs, Natalia Contovauses her experience as a former jazz singer to compose spaces in this calming apartment oasis that exude minimalist charm and sounds of vibrant colors.

The scene-setting begins with the location, where a 215-square-meter residence overlooks Dubai Marina from its perch atop Al Murjan Tower, the tallest skyscraper in the six-building complex. The complex takes its name from the beloved Arabian gemstone. A visual narrative in off-white keeps the beat with a peaceful flow of neutral backgrounds and light gray floors connecting an entrance, office, coffee corner, living and dining room, kitchen and three bedrooms. Setting a soothing tempo allows the furnishings to be staged in an interesting syncopation, allowing unexpected objects and pops of color to break the rhythm in delightful ways.

The motto is expressive minimalism, free of clutter, but still a place with room to improvise. “I draw inspiration from the people I work with,” says Contova. “I want to create homes that reflect their owners. In this apartment, the atmosphere is calm and has a lot of character, and once you walk in, it definitely leaves a lasting impression.” Decorative finishes, wall panels, textured artwork, and unique accent furniture pieces are incorporated throughout and are well expressed by the otherwise clean background. Lamps and pendant lights adorn individual rooms in a display of fashionable shapes. And more idiosyncratic elements like curves and soft, rounded edges offer a welcome change from straight-line movements.

Contova adds warmth and depth to the home by using a variety of dark chocolate and espresso wood tones, black marble, brown leather, cream upholstery and iridescent terrazzo. Terracotta, clay, burnt orange and coral accents add staccato tension throughout. Graphic pieces, fluted objects and a variety of scales enhance the dramatic effects of the composition. Other textures include microcement-finished accent walls and cabinet fronts and plaster, which is used in a variety of artwork.

While this project is certainly a machine for living, it is further proof of the value of cross-pollination between disciplines and interests. Personalization is what inspires a more welcoming side of minimalism in resistance to sterility.

To see more of Contova’s work, visit her portfolio here.

Photography by Alina Lupu.

Joseph holds degrees in architecture and journalism and has a desire to make life more beautiful. His work aims to enrich the lives of others through visual communication and storytelling through design. Joseph was previously a regular contributor to SANDOW Design Group titles, including Luxe and Metropolis, and is now a senior editor on the Design Milk team. When not practicing, he teaches visual communication, theory, and design. The New York-based author has also contributed to exhibitions at the AIA New York Center for Architecture and Architectural Digest, and recently published essays and collage illustrations with Proseterity, a literary publication.