If architecture is akin to classical music, often echoing its rigid structure and proclivity for rules, then interiors are more the likes of jazz where spontaneity and improvisation are hallmarks of a good sound. No matter the genre – form, rhythm, and harmony all play tremendous parts in making a space, or song, emotive. The Dubai-based interior designer and founder of Mizanna Designs, Natalia Contova, draws on her expertise as a former jazz singer to compose rooms that resonate with minimalist allure and riffs of vibrant color in this soothing oasis apartment.
Scene building begins with the site where a 2,345-square-foot residence overlooks the Dubai marina from its swath of the Al Murjan tower and highest skyscraper in the complex of six, which gets its name from the popular Arab gemstone. A visual narrative of off-white keeps time with a peaceful flow of neutral backdrops and light gray floors stringing together an entry, office, coffee corner, living and dining room, kitchen, and three bedrooms. Establishing a soothing tempo allows for home furnishings to be staged in an interesting syncopation such that unexpected objects and pops of color break the rhythm in delightful ways.
The theme is one of expressive minimalism, unencumbered by clutter but still a place with room to improvise. “I get inspired by people I work with,” Contova says. “I want to create homes that will be a reflection of their owners. In this apartment, the ambience is tranquil with a lot of character and the moment you step in, it definitely makes a statement.” Decorative finishes, wall panels, textured artwork, and unique accent furniture pieces are integrated throughout and articulated well by the otherwise clean background. Lamps and pendants grace individual spaces in a showcase of fashionable forms. And quirkier elements such as curves and soft rounded edges provide welcome respite from rectilinear movement.
Contova imbues the home with warmth and depth using a variety of dark chocolate and espresso wood tones, black marble, brown leather, creamy upholstery, and dazzling terrazzo. Terracotta, clay, burnt orange, and coral accents throughout add bursts of excitement in staccato. Graphic pieces, fluted objects, and a variety in scales add to the composition’s dramatic effects. Other textures include micro-cement finished feature walls and wardrobe facades as well as gypsum used in a variety of artworks.
While certainly a machine for living, this project becomes another testament to the value in cross-pollination between disciplines and interests. Personalization is what inspires a more inviting side of minimalism in resistance to sterility.
To see more of Contova’s work visit her portfolio here.
Photography by Alina Lupu.