Words By Allegra Salvadori | Photography By Natelee Cocks

Leila Khalil’s design philosophy focuses on creating spaces that are not only visually striking but also offer a profound sense of comfort and harmony. In one of her most celebrated projects, a villa in Dubai, Khalil brings this vision to life.

From the moment you step inside, the expansive layout, complemented by stunning views of Burj Khalifa and the Canal, envelops you in a world where every element serves a purpose. Khalil’s choice of materials, such as travertine and brass, reflects her ability to create a sophisticated atmosphere without sacrificing warmth or livability.

Thoughtfully designed spaces, such as the serene lounge/ library, offer a retreat for relaxation, while the living room, with its double-height windows and carefully chosen furnishings, strikes the perfect balance between openness and intimacy. The villa embodies Khalil’s ability to create environments where elegance, comfort, and practicality coexist in perfect harmony.

For Leila Khalil, interior design is about much more than aesthetics—it is about creating spaces that resonate deeply with the individuals who inhabit them. The villa she designed is a testament to her philosophy, where elegance, comfort, and functionality converge to form an atmosphere of refined luxury. As she explains, “The key approach was to prioritize both functionality and aesthetic harmony. We made sure the flow throughout the home was smooth and effortless.”

The key approach was to prioritize both functionality and aesthetic harmony. We made sure the flow throughout the home was smooth and effortless.

Khalil’s design process began with a simple yet profound intention: to balance visual appeal with practicality. “Elegance is important, but the space must also offer comfort and ease of living,” she says. This balance is reflected throughout the villa, where high-quality, tactile materials and selected furniture pieces not only serve a functional purpose but also enhance the overall experience.

Every corner, from the sweeping spaces to the smallest details, was designed with the goal of making the home not just beautiful but deeply livable. The thoughtfulness behind each piece ensures a comfortable, smooth integration between style and purpose.

One of the villa’s standout features is its living room, with double-height windows offering sweeping views of the Burj Khalifa and the Canal. In order to ensure the interior design complemented this stunning external vista, Khalil turned to a neutral color palette, allowing the view to remain the focal point. “By using a neutral color palette, we achieved this while enhancing the space with beautiful materials and textures,” she explains. The addition of a Gervasoni chandelier, positioned strategically to avoid obstructing the view, anchors the space and draws the eye upward, enhancing the grandness of the room while preserving its sense of openness.

Natural stone and brass, timeless materials known for their elegance, play a pivotal role in the design. Khalil selected travertine marble for its calming effect, while brass adds a touch of opulence. “Travertine marble has a calming quality, while brass exudes a luxurious appearance,” she notes. Together, these materials bring a refined sensibility to the villa, perfectly complementing its overall aesthetic. The way these materials interact with natural light throughout the day further elevates the home’s serene atmosphere.

The design also prioritizes creating spaces that serve specific purposes, such as the lounge/library. The space was designed to provide a retreat for reading, relaxing, or working while enjoying the breathtaking view. The warmth of a moss-colored sofa paired with a Cassina chaise longue creates a stylish yet inviting atmosphere. The earthy tones, varied textures, and evocative artwork combine to make this one of Khalil’s favorite spaces in the villa.

Art has the power to completely transform a space and bring it to another level.

Art plays a crucial role in shaping the villa’s atmosphere. As Khalil shares, “Art has the power to completely transform a space and bring it to another level.” She curated pieces that not only complement the architecture but also evoke positive emotions for the inhabitants. Some of the artwork was already part of the family’s collection, while others were chosen specifically for the space. The art introduces an additional layer of personality to the home, adding vibrancy and depth to the tranquil spaces.

The design process for the villa began with a deep sense of trust. Khalil reflects on her journey: “This project was a true blessing for me, and I am eternally grateful for the experience.” Despite being seven months pregnant and having no team at the time, Khalil’s dedication and the collaboration with top-tier vendors like Cherwell, Obegi Home, and Nordic Homeworx made the project a resounding success. “When people like these come together, something good is bound to emerge.” This project not only represents her talent but also her ability to foster connections that create something extraordinary.