Dubai Dream: Video tour of the chic Lakes mansion with a classy Barbie spin
Mariam Azmy's five-bedroom upgraded UAE villa is all things classy, pretty, and pink
More Barbie, less flashy—that’s the unspoken design credo behind Mariam Azmy’s chic, pastel-drenched villa in The Lakes.
There are no screaming designer logos here. Just quiet luxury, calming colours, and the kind of charm that makes you want to kick off your heels and stay for coffee.
From a show-stopping white piano to a one-slab marble dining island and colour-coded wardrobes that could rival Gossip Girl hit show, this five-bedroom mansion is built for beauty and ease.
Take a full video tour of the incredible home here:
In this exclusive interview, Mariam Azmy opens her doors—and her heart—to talk about the details, decisions, and daily joys that make her house a true Dubai dream home.
Tell us about your home—it feels very personal.
I wasn’t thinking that it would come out as beautiful as this... but I was involved in curating every piece and corner of my villa. I didn’t leave it to the architects and the designers alone.
Do you believe in the idea that ‘God is in the details’?
God is in each and every detail... regardless of whoever you believe in, that’s what gives peace to the house.
White and pastels dominate your space. Why did you go with that palette?
My previous home was gold and black. It was beautiful but heavy. Pastels and light colours give me peace of mind. It’s scientifically proven.
What made you choose The Lakes as your neighbourhood?
When you enter The Lakes, you feel like you’re in an oasis. It’s in the middle of the city but so green, peaceful, and calming.
Tell us about the art in your home.
Even before I worked on the home, I was already thinking of which art piece goes where. I sat with an amazing painter and told him exactly what I wanted. Some of the artwork took months. Like that Mickey Mouse sculpture in my living room? It’s quirky, but that’s what makes it different.
Was the Mediterranean theme in your patio intentional?
I wasn’t thinking Mediterranean. I was thinking calmness, serenity, peace... and it just came out that way. There are stools inside the pool and a counter for drinks and snacks. It’s not just for swimming—it’s for living.
Do you use the pool often?
I don’t use it as often as I should. But when I do, I enjoy it to the max. It’s totally worth it.
You have formal and casual living areas—why so?
I didn’t separate by gender. The formal space is for adults. The casual is for the kids and their friends.
You clearly love to host—tell us about your dining setup.
Inside, I can seat 12. Outside, 14. I love having people over. I love having an open house.
The kitchen looks pristine. Be honest—do you cook?
I am not a fan of cooking—I’m very good at eating. I’ve got a show kitchen and a real kitchen.
Your wardrobe sounds legendary.
My wardrobe is bigger than my daughters’ rooms! It’s colour-coded, mood-coded... and I wear for myself.
How do you make your guests feel welcome?
My parents visit often. The guest kitchenette is ready with a red Smeg fridge, kettle and coffee machine. I want everyone to feel at home.
Do you want your luxurious home to be featured in our Dream Dubai series? Email us at readers@gulfnews.com or phone 04 4067666.
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