Words By Allegra Salvadori | Photography By Oculis Project
Step inside Bulgari Eclettico with Marie Claire Maison Arabia and discover how a design studio based in Dubai combined timeless Italian elegance with modern eclectic design to create luxurious living spaces.
The Bulgari Eclettico residence in Dubai stands as a stunning embodiment of Etereo’s design philosophy—a fusion of Italian artistry and modern eclecticism that feels both deliberate and emotionally resonant. Every element has been chosen not just for its visual impact, but for its ability to tell a story. For Etereo, design is not merely a matter of function—it’s an ongoing dialogue between texture, light, and soul.
“Our approach is rooted in the philosophy that art and architecture are inherently intertwined, creating spaces that evoke both emotion and function,” the studio explains. “In the Bulgari Eclettico apartment, each material choice, like the radiant Wild Onyx, the refined brass accents, and the warm leather-clad walls, was selected to act as a visual and tactile experience.”
Our approach is rooted in the philosophy that art and architecture are inherently intertwined.
These materials are not simply decorative—they’re expressive. Wild Onyx captures and reflects the changing light, while leather adds a tactile softness that contrasts with the coolness of stone. Brass, with its golden undertones, introduces warmth and timeless elegance. Together, they form a layered composition where each surface invites engagement, reflection, and a sense of wonder.
“Attention to detail and craftsmanship is central to Etereo’s design ethos,” they share. “This cultural approach stems from our Italian heritage, where precision and artistry are integral to design traditions.” This heritage is not used as a stylistic reference but as a foundation. The marble carpet with brass fringes carved into wood, for example, functions as the apartment’s visual anchor—both a floor and a piece of art. Inspired by Italian classicism, it elevates the experience of the everyday.
Etereo’s narrative approach to interiors is also apparent in their furniture selections. Iconic pieces sit beside custom creations, allowing each room to feel curated yet personal. In this apartment, that’s the case with the handles and the Faraglioni table designed by Etereo in bronze and glass for Nilufar Gallery in Milan—its silhouette a tribute to the rock formations of Capri.
“The de Sede sofa, a historic piece, was custom-finished with a gradient shifting from deep green to turquoise to aquamarine.” This chromatic evolution mirrors the hues of the Mediterranean, adding an organic fluidity to the room. The overall effect is one of controlled contrast: bold yet balanced, familiar yet unexpected.
The studio’s selection of materials extends beyond aesthetics and into the realm of sensorial storytelling. “The choice of Wild Onyx and brass was inspired by their natural contrast in texture and color, which mirrors the duality of strength and refinement,” the studio notes. The reflective qualities of Wild Onyx animate the space throughout the day, interacting with the shifting natural light, while brass details echo the warm sunlight, grounding the interior in its maritime surroundings.
“The reflective surfaces of Wild Onyx amplify the luminosity of the environment, while the warm brass accents echo the golden glow of the sun,” Etereo adds. These decisions ensure that the interiors remain in dialogue with the sea just beyond the windows. Large, open sea-view panes frame the horizon, while interior features—like the 10×10 glass cubes in the kitchen inspired by 1970s design—blur the lines between inside and out, past and present.
Even the bathrooms tell a story. Sculptural fixtures and thoughtfully selected stones elevate daily rituals into moments of quiet indulgence. “Craftsmanship in the Bulgari Eclettico apartment transcends functionality, becoming an essential narrative element that embodies luxury and artistry,” Etereo says. “Each handcrafted piece carries a distinct identity, embedding a sense of individuality and legacy within the space.”
Each handcrafted piece carries a distinct identity, embedding a sense of individuality and legacy within the space.
This ethos is reinforced by a subtle layering of design eras. “The two Baxter armchairs and the Ceccotti Collezioni chair were paired with more contemporary furniture,” the studio notes, underscoring the importance of contrast in achieving a truly eclectic space. The presence of architectural nods—such as doors inspired by Carlo Scarpa’s designs—further roots the interior in Italian design culture, while allowing room for reinterpretation.
“The integration of bespoke materials and artisanal craftsmanship ensures that every detail carries a personal touch while maintaining the overarching narrative of elegance and refinement,” Etereo concludes.
In the end, Bulgari Eclettico is not only an apartment. It is a curated world.
In the end, Bulgari Eclettico is not only an apartment. It is a curated world. One where emotion, legacy, and design coexist in perfect harmony. A place that celebrates beauty in every detail—inviting those who live in it to feel, not just see.
