Words By Allegra Salvadori | Photography by Natelee Cocks

In one of the original Shoreline buildings of Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, a 130-square-metre apartment has been transformed into a refined vacation home by Saudi interior architect Urjowan Alsharif. Conceived for a longstanding client, the brief called for a space that prioritised warmth, privacy, and ease — all within the constraints of a modest footprint.

The renovation was comprehensive, allowing for a clean structural reset. Every surface was reconsidered: walls and ceilings received a soft, mineral finish in limewash; hardwood floors were laid throughout to establish continuity and depth. Spatial transitions were handled through light architectural gestures — notably the use of Rimadesio glass doors to divide zones without disrupting the flow of light or line.

The material palette does the heavy lifting, delivering warmth without noise. In the dining room and primary bedroom, hand-painted Fromental wallpaper offers subtle texture and a sense of intimacy. Custom joinery by Artwood reinforces the commitment to craftsmanship and permanence.

Furniture and lighting were selected with similar restraint: key pieces from Cassina, Poltrona Frau, CC-Tapis, Molteni, and Bocci anchor the design in contemporary elegance without overwhelming the space.

Though smaller than Alsharif’s typical projects, the apartment makes a case for precision over volume. Its quiet clarity reveals the potential of compact living when every surface, finish, and transition is given thoughtful attention.