Dubai vs London Interior Design & Architectural Differences

We’re advocates for creating spaces that capture the character of their surroundings, and this is expressed perfectly in the way our developments differ between two of our main service areas:  London and Dubai. While there are certainly some similarities that exist, there’s a lot more to be said about the differences and overall nuances in property design between both locations. Join Riccardo Vicarelli Architects as we focus on how architecture and interior design choices differ from east to west, explaining the hallmarks of each city.

Architecture in Dubai

Dubai’s architectural landscape has truly established itself over the past decade, after experiencing a significant shift away from some of the styles that were once favoured. In the past 10 years, we’ve seen a break from the convention that was once followed in the city, and concepts became significantly more innovative, giving Dubai architects a chance to make use of cutting-edge features both inside and outside. 

Overall, exterior architecture has experienced a prominent evolution, and this is partly related to the development of many of the now popular districts (new Dubai) – such as Dubai Hills, Jumeirah Village, and DAMAC Hills. Older communities such as Arabian Ranches, Al Garhoud and Al Karama (old Dubai) are best characterised by the traditional, uniformity of their architectural choices; whereas properties in new Dubai often feature extravagant exteriors, all while staying within the zoning laws of the district. 

The demands of modern life has also meant that properties in the emerging areas of Dubai provide different interior experiences for occupants. Many of the projects that we have worked on in Dubai have followed this principle – whether it’s accommodating for family life by creating expansive, open-plan living spaces, to allowing for outdoor living opportunities by blending the exterior and interior together harmoniously. Our recent residential villa renovation in Dubai Hills showcases both concepts perfectly, creating a space that breaks the boundaries of traditional living. These boundaries are still often found in many homes in old Dubai, but property owners are able to adapt the spaces they have to embody this new way of living. The contrast in architectural styles, whether in old Dubai or new Dubai, only adds to the appeal of this urban metropolis – and it’s an enticing prospect for both existing property owners and prospective buyers. 

Architecture in London

It’s no surprise that history still dominates many of the architectural styles in London; examples of the Georgian, Edwardian, and Regency eras can all be found across the city in residential and commercial buildings. Preserving their characteristics through bespoke joinery is almost always a priority for homeowners, and this is where modern architects can use their eye for detail to find ways to aggrandise period features, rather than conceal or completely remove them – and the latter is almost always prohibited if the property is a listed building. The way that age-old history can feature in modern home renovations gives London architects a unique blueprint to follow; take a look at our residential renovation of a Victorian property in Dalston Junction to get a clearer understanding of this.

That’s not to say that there’s no space for innovation in London architecture – there’s certainly still properties that sway towards some of the principles we described for the architectural style of Dubai. Bespoke designs with exuberant facades and glass extensions are all shaping the style of many of the modern residential dwellings nestled in London’s leafy boroughs. The contrast between these exciting advances, and the historical tie that the city has creates a charming yet captivating characteristic for the bustling capital. 

Interior design in Dubai

Moving towards the aesthetics that truly define a space, Dubai interior design certainly offers an eccentric mixture of styles. From drawing upon the city’s geographical position with rich, desert-inspired indulgent decor and Arabian influences, to creating chic, cosmopolitan, contemporary interiors, there can often be a myriad of styles in one space. We captured an equal measure of both styles in our Arabian Ranches villa renovation, choosing playful, abstract furniture fittings in colour palettes that were inspired by the city’s heritage – gold, muted pinks, reds. 

We’re always eager to ensure that our interior design choices suit the architectural decisions that we have made too, and these harmonies serve to enhance the overall appeal of the property. Our interior design team will review your architectural drawings and the vision that you have shared with us, suggesting ways that we can embody exactly what you’re looking for from your own Dubai villa renovation. 

Interior design in London

London’s interior design identity is best described as a melting pot; it can be influenced by history in the same way as the architecture is, but it can also lean towards a modern, minimalistic alternative. Regency-inspiration is carried into many spaces, from creating eye-catching centrepieces with chandeliers and marble kitchen islands, to emphasising Victorian medallions with baroque-style decor. 

Heritage-inspired styles are another strand of interior design in London, serving to capture a rustic, quaint ambience – charming libraries, cottage-style kitchens, and ornate details often come to the fore with this style. 

Create the space you’ve dreamed of in Dubai or London with us

Here at Riccardo Vicarelli Architecture, we create spaces that transform everyday living in both London and Dubai. We can capture exactly what you’re looking for with our design and build service, simply contact us for more information, or arrange a free design consultation online now.