In Dubai’s residential design landscape dominated by modern minimalist interiors, Villa Imperiale by award-winning architecture and interior design practice Etereo, is an audacious statement. Challenging ideas of quiet luxury, this villa is a celebration of Maximalism, a trend that is making a strong comeback in 2025.
Housing 6 bedrooms, an office studio, an elaborate open layout kitchen-dining room, a plush living area, a well-appointed gym and spa, landscaped terrace, 2 garages for the owner’s fleet of luxury cars, a basement with an entertainment room and cinema, outdoor kitchen and lounge spaces, infinity pool, and a sprawling tropical garden, the villa is nothing short of impressive.
A sense of fierce individualism prevails with no two spaces looking or feeling the same. This intentional decision to create different atmospheres for different spaces came with its own challenges:
The evocative use of natural stone, wood, leather and metal define the interiors of the villa. Travertine, in various textures and finishes, finds abundant use in common areas to create a sense of continuity and tie the design together. Calacatta, Onyx, Patagonia, Deep Blue and rare Green marbles feature as accent walls and trims to create focal points and add depth to the spaces.
Statement chandeliers and bespoke installations from Czech Republic based Kolektiv and architectural lighting pieces from Linea Light are used strategically – their forms adding to the opulence, and light reflecting off surfaces to amplify the natural beauty of the prized natural stones.
Impeccably crafted in Italy by fit-out company IFO, the supremely functional show kitchen is the undisputed centre of the home – a multi-functional space for culinary pursuits, everyday living and a lively hub for social gatherings. Noble materials – Patagonia marble, walnut wood cabinetry, bronze, exceptional workmanship and top-notch appliances from Gaggenau and Miele make the space swoon-worthy.
The way the built environment engages with nature is also refreshingly diverse as large window walls and generous step outs blur the boundaries between the indoor-outdoor living. The gym with its enviable view of the landscaped area and golf course beyond offers a passive way to enjoy the outdoors. For an immersive alfresco experience, four lounge areas – one on the first floor and three on the ground, open out into a lush green tropical “jungle” with baobab, banyan and other exotic species. Challenging as it was, Etereo masterminded the landscape design of the garden by implementing an advanced irrigation system and carefully choosing plants that could thrive in Dubai’s harsh weather.
Villa Imperiale stands out as a successful fusion of themes brought together elegantly through the orchestrated use of luxurious materials, natural elements, sophisticated furnishing, intelligent lighting design and fine Italian craftsmanship.
“Curation is the key to creating a maximalist interior that doesn’t feel overwhelming or over-decorated” explains Stefania. “Our objective was to create a fun and fearless place that is a joy to live in, and I believe we have succeeded in that. The result is here for the world to see…a one-of-a-kind residence, a unique living experience that combines luxury, extraordinary levels of personalization, and a profound respect for nature, right in the heart of Dubai.”