The design process involved extensive reconfiguration of the original layout. Walls were added and repositioned, floor plans were reworked, and both levels of the duplex were carefully reimagined to function as a unified home rather than two separate floors. Every intervention was guided by how the residents live day to day, ensuring that form and function worked seamlessly together.

Beyond spatial planning, the project is distinguished by the symbolism embedded throughout the design. A rose motif serves as a central narrative thread, not as surface decoration but as a meaningful representation of the client’s identity. This theme appears in key architectural and design elements, including a bespoke artisanal chandelier that anchors the living space and a custom staircase crafted from Viola Rose marble, visually and physically connecting the two levels of the duplex.

Material choices and design decisions were approached with intention. Rather than prioritizing trends or visual impact alone, each element was evaluated through a simple lens: does it support the way this family wants to live? The result is a home that balances luxury with authenticity, and design with personal meaning.

While the International Property Award is a significant achievement, Alpago views the recognition as validation of a long-held philosophy. True luxury is not defined by excess or expense, but by understanding the people who inhabit a space and designing around their lives, stories, and needs.

The One Za’abeel Duplex stands as an example of this approach, a home designed for its residents first, and one that resonates far beyond the award itself.