In a recent interview on Sharjah Radio, renowned architect and designer Abdulaziz Kannoun Al-Shamsi shared invaluable insights into the challenges and considerations of designing and building a home. Drawing from his extensive experience, Abdelaziz emphasized the importance of thoughtful planning, financial literacy, and cultural sensitivity in creating a home that reflects both personal needs and societal values. Below, we explore the key takeaways from his conversation, offering practical advice for anyone embarking on the journey of building their dream home.
Start with Clarity: Know Your Needs and Limits
The foundation of any successful home project is a clear understanding of your needs and financial capacity. Before sketching floor plans or browsing design trends, ask yourself: What does my family need now, and what might we need in the next decade? A young couple with a toddler may not require the same space as a growing family, and a single family home priorities differ from those of a multigenerational homes. Equally important is setting a realistic budget. In the UAE, where societal pressures and social media can tempt you to overspend, it’s easy to fall into the trap of building a home to impress others. Instead, focus on what serves your lifestyle. For instance, if your budget is 600,000 AED, work with an architect to calculate the feasible square footage based on local construction costs. This ensures your dream home doesn’t become a financial burden.
Build Debt-Free: The Power of Patience
In a world where loans are readily available, the temptation to borrow for a grander home can be strong. However, taking on debt can lead to years of stress, impacting your health, relationships, and peace of mind. Instead, consider a phased approach to building. Start with essential spaces—a modest home with a bedroom, living area, and kitchen—and expand over time as your savings grow. This strategy, rooted in the wisdom of past generations, allows you to live debt-free while gradually crafting a home that meets your needs. For inspiration, look to traditional and local building practices. Families often constructed homes incrementally, adding rooms as their resources and family size grew. This not only kept finances in check but also fostered a sense of community, as relatives often contributed to the process, strengthening social bonds.
Design for Culture and Lifestyle
A home should be a reflection of your identity and values, not a copy of someone else’s vision. In this region, cultural elements like privacy and family cohesion are paramount. Traditional homes often featured inner courtyards, separate entrances for guests, and private family spaces to ensure modesty and comfort. Modern designs, however, sometimes prioritize open layouts or glass facades that may not align with these values. When working with an architect, prioritize designs that honor your lifestyle. For example, consider a small internal courtyard or a screened garden to create a private oasis for your family. These spaces offer relaxation and connection without the need for extravagant materials. A home should be your “resort”—a place where you feel at ease the moment you walk through the door.
Embrace Sustainability and Timelessness
Sustainability isn’t just about eco-friendly materials; it’s about building a home that endures both physically and emotionally. Avoid the urge to chase fleeting trends promoted on social media, like swapping out tiles every few years to match the latest aesthetic. Instead, invest in quality materials and timeless designs that serve a purpose. For instance, traditional homes in the Gulf incorporated ventilation niches not just for beauty but to keep spaces cool—a practical choice that remains relevant today. If you’re purchasing a ready-built home, take advantage of the warranty period to address structural issues before investing in cosmetic upgrades. This ensures your home is sound before you focus on aesthetics. When decorating, prioritize functionality over showmanship. A well-placed bookshelf or a durable, neutral-colored sofa can elevate your space without breaking the bank.
Involve Your Family, but Stay Grounded
Building a home is a collaborative journey, especially when it involves a spouse or extended family. While it’s natural to consider their input, maintain a clear vision to avoid costly changes driven by impulse. For example, a couple might agree on a classic white tile floor, only for one partner to later demand a trendy alternative after seeing it online. Such decisions can inflate costs and delay progress. Instead, set shared priorities early and stick to them, ensuring your home reflects both partners’ values without compromising financial stability.
A Home for Family
Ultimately, your home is the foundation of your family’s future. It’s where your children will grow, where traditions will take root, and where memories will be made. By building wisely—free of debt, aligned with your culture, and designed for longevity—you create more than a house; you create a legacy. In the UAE, where innovation and tradition coexist, you have the opportunity to blend modern comforts with timeless values. Visit historic sites like Sharjah’s or Dubai’s old town or study traditional architecture in Morocco or Japan for inspiration. These designs remind us that a home doesn’t need to be extravagant to be extraordinary—it just needs to be yours.
