Waking up to birds chirping is a lifestyle choice for those who live in Al Barari; the villas at The Nest offer the newest option to do just that and more. Set in the lush greenery of this large development, 55 four-bedroom villas come in two different sizes and layouts ranging from 6,340-7,470 sq ft and plots measuring 10,600-13,300 sq ft.
But never mind the generous sizes, the design inside and out is what stands out.
The contemporary style villas feel cosy, despite the space and open-air layout. High ceilings and corresponding windows from top to bottom allow for natural light to flood the interior. A gallery, rather than an enclosed hallway, leads into a multifunction room and three en-suite bedrooms, including the master bedroom, surrounded by terraces — an open invitation for breakfast outside.
The villas have plenty of natural light. “It’s all about bringing the outdoor in and connecting people back to nature,” reasons Nadia Zaal, CEO of Al Barari.
This is a fact appreciated by Finnish resident Hanna Karonen, who lives with her family in The Nest.
“The Nest villas are modern and there are lots of natural light with big, full-height windows,” says Karonen, an interior designer.
The fourth bedroom, also en-suite, is located on the ground floor, along with an open-plan living area and an elegant kitchen dressed with white quartz stone tops and quality cabinets and appliances.
Looking into the landscaped garden, the infinity-edged pool immediately catches one’s attention, sparkling in turquoise, complete with outdoor shower and a barbecue area — it is the perfect setting to just chill out.
Apart from its luxurious simplicity, the designers looked at functionality. The driver’s and maid’s quarters, with kitchen and plenty of light, adjoin a spacious two-car garage.
The homes and the community’s lifestyle were designed with young families and their children in mind, explains Zaal.
“Creating a strong sense of community is at the heart of everything we do,” says Zaal. “A community where you can live, feel and think differently. A community our residents look forward to coming home to every day. Where they can thrive and their loved ones can blossom.”
She adds: “Residents can stroll through our beautiful gardens, they can walk their dogs and let their kids play in dedicated playgrounds. It feels so peaceful.”
As a mother of two, Karonen confirms the sentiment. “The kids are happy to go biking around the lovely and safe Al Barari area.”
Karonen moved to Al Barari after living for eight years on the Palm Jumeirah. “I love living in The Nest. After staying on the beach, it was a nice change to move somewhere green and into a more zen and relaxed atmosphere.”
Indeed, her family has taken such a strong shine to their new lifestyle that they have started pondering whether to make their ‘nest’ more permanent.
“We are renting, but we are seriously thinking of buying in this area,” she says. The homes start at Dh9.9 million and go up to Dh16 million depending on plot size and location.
However, either one of the two tastefully furnished and decorated show homes would set one back about Dh14 million. The developer has agreements with several large banks for both resident or non-resident buyers to obtain mortgage.
“By end of January all homes will be completed. Residents have already started moving in. It’s a finished product and we only have a few left for sale,” says Zaal.
The neighbourhood
The homes are a delight, but maybe the best part is the forest-like surroundings — peaceful, yet close enough to get around Dubai, with the Burj Khalifa glistening in the distance.
“Al Barari is truly differentiated from other communities in Dubai. After driving on the highway surrounded by sand, bridges and one high-rise tower after another, the moment you enter the community, you feel you’re in another city,” describes Zaal.
“That’s why Al Barari is considered the green heart of Dubai. Most people, regardless of background, long to be in nature. This is why our community is diverse, with residents from European, Asian and Middle Eastern backgrounds.”
Living in such vast greenery may raise questions about sustainability — a subject very closely associated with the developer, the Zaal family, which has ensured that the greenery is sustainable by adopting various conservation techniques, including the use of treated and recycled water within Al Barari. The Nest also features solar panels for the water heater, smart control irrigation and other environmental pluses.
Residents can also avail of the other existing facilities at Al Barari, including the Body Language health club with tennis courts, the Heart & Soul spa and wellness centre, as well as The Farm restaurant.
“We love, and enjoy the good food of The Farm,” says Karonen.
The future
The Nest borders The Reserve, where eight plots are still available to build one’s own home, and by mid of next year the Seventh Heaven apartments, including its retail offering, as well as the canopy Ashjar apartments, will come online.
“We are currently completing The Nest villas and expect to deliver Seventh Heaven and Ashjar by mid of next year,” details Zaal. “Ashjar and Seventh Heaven are currently at 80 per cent completion.
“We are also working on creating a truly exciting retail experience at Seventh Heaven for the whole community. The offering will feature a kids’ zone, a wellness and beauty zone, a retail and services zone and a host of exciting food and beverage outlets.”
Al Barari’s second phase, including a hotel resort, medical facilities, an assisted living unit, school and more themed gardens, is expected to begin after the under-construction projects are handed over.
“The design of phase two has already been concluded and we are now moving aggressively on bringing this design to life,” says Zaal.
“Our overriding vision is to build a truly unique community that is beyond bricks and mortar. A community with a way of life that is about connection, nature and the joy of living.”
