< PreviousCRAFTED CONCEPTS 70MAY 2024 EVOLVING LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE The scope of U+A’s work extends deeply into sustainability and cultural integration. Zaidi notes that both the projects aim for LEED Gold certifi cation, refl ecting their commitment to environmental stewardship. “Our approach incorporates sustainable practices like green space provision and waste management, ensuring our developments are not only luxurious but also environmentally responsible,” he remarks In addition, U+A has fortifi ed its landscape department, enabling landmark projects that seamlessly blend architecture with natural surroundings. “We’re keen on establishing a renowned landscape design division that sets new standards for excellence and innovation,” Mona Campbell, Landscape Director at U+A states. Today, developers recognise the importance of landscape architecture” Campbell, with extensive experience, provides insights into the transformation of landscape design in the region. “Initially, landscape architecture was an afterthought. Today, developers recognise its importance from the project’s inception,” she explains. CRAFTED CONCEPTS 71MAY 2024 She also describes how U+A’s landscape design strategy now emphasises sustainability and resilience, integrating features such as sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) to enhance environmental benefi ts and climate resilience. Both U+A projects align closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to transform the kingdom into a leading tourism destination. “Our projects contribute to cultural heritage promotion and economic growth through sustainable tourism,” Niknam concludes. This strategic alignment is anticipated to have a lasting impact on the region, elevating its status on the global tourism and architectural map. Through these strategic innovations and a commitment to integrating comprehensive design services, U+A not only leads in architectural and landscape design in the Middle East but also signifi cantly infl uences global standards in the hospitality industry. Their projects, characterised by luxury intertwined with sustainability, are paving the way for future architectural excellence in the region. Left: Six Senses at AMAALA Triple Bay Right: U+A’s Saif Zaidi, Director - Architecture; Mona Campbell, Landscape Director; P. Martin Dufresne, Managing Principal; Tiago Sampaio, Design Director; Sasan Niknam, Project Director; and Muhammad Habsah, Associate Director [from L - R]72MAY 202472MAY 202473MAY 2024 HOMESCAPE HORIZONS Redefining the concept of modern living through smart home solutions, contemporary interiors, and elite amenities 73MAY 2024HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 74MAY 2024 DREAMS IN THE DESERT Helvetia Residences will be a blend of affordable luxury with meticulous attention to detail Words by Shehzin Shaikh HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 74MAY 2024HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 75MAY 2024 HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 75MAY 2024HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 76MAY 2024 Left: 3BR living room; 3BR kitchen Right: Milos Antic, Vice Chairman of DHG Holding and Founder of DHG Properties; Exteriors of Helvetia Residences DHG Properties has consistently delivered top-notch quality in all their projects throughout Europe, crafting over two million square metres of residential and commercial space in the last three decades. Their dedication to improving Europe’s real estate scene remains steadfast, but they have also recently made their debut in the UAE market, following the belief that greatness stems from stepping out of comfort zones. With the launch of their inaugural project, Helvetia Residences, Milos Antic, Vice Chairman of DHG Holding and Founder of DHG Properties, shares how they plan to maintain the same high standards in the UAE as they are renowned for in European markets. What motivated DHG Properties to enter the UAE market after three decades of operating in Switzerland? With the UAE being known as a global leader across several domains, it is a market that has become synonymous with pushing boundaries. Hence, we believe there is no better city than Dubai to help us elevate our company to new heights while also supporting the pioneering vision of Sheikh Mohammed. Moreover, by aligning with initiatives such as the Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan, the aim is to create a dynamic that mutually benefi ts both the country and our company. Additionally, the world has seen Images supplied by: DHG Properties HOMESCAPE HORIZONSHOMESCAPE HORIZONS 77MAY 2024 Helvetia Residences distinguishes itself from other luxury residential projects in Dubai by off ering a blend of aff ordable luxury aimed at a broad demographic” turbulent times in recent years in the form of COVID-19 and overseas turmoil, Dubai and the wider UAE have not only withstood these hardships but ultimately excelled amidst them. This gives us confi dence in the market and is a prime catalyst behind our decision to bring great Swiss Quality to the region. What makes Helvetia Residences stand out from other luxury residential projects in Dubai? We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to own a home they can be proud of. For the last 30 years in Europe, we have prioritised using top-quality materials and paying close attention to every detail from planning to construction. Our willingness to invest more in quality construction saves our clients from long- term issues, ultimately ensuring that they can proudly live in the homes we deliver. This approach has proven successful, as it not only meets but surpasses the expectations of aff ordable luxury, making it ideal for Dubai’s dynamic market. Helvetia Residences distinguishes itself from other luxury residential projects in Dubai by off ering a blend of aff ordable luxury aimed at a broad demographic, including middle-class families and high-net- worth individuals who seek quality homes for both personal use and as investments. Our pricing strategy focuses on providing value that exceeds cost, making luxury accessible to more people without compromising on quality. Residents of Helvetia Residences will have access to a range of amenities, including a fi tness centre, swimming pool, padel courts, HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 78MAY 2024 children’s playground, and areas for relaxation and family activities, all of which are designed to enhance urban living. The project, located in the increasingly popular JVC area, provides easy access to Dubai’s key landmarks and business districts. Our timeline for the completion of construction and the project delivery is scheduled for the fi rst quarter of 2026, with pre-sales having already begun. What unique expertise and qualities do DHG Properties bring to the table, and how will these contribute to the success of Helvetia Residences? In the words of the Italian architect, Leonardo Da Vinci—Details make perfection, and perfection is not a detail. Emphasising great attention to detail has been our greatest strength over the years, as well as a driving factor in our ability to serve thousands of happy customers over the years. Since its inception, our main focus has been to ensure we enter markets with premium quality; and to provide the highest possible value to each investor and end- user. This ambition covers everything from development, design, sizing, and pricing. For example, from an architectural standpoint, we have brought our Swiss engineers to Dubai to be on-ground during the development phase of Helvetia Residences. Doing so will ensure that every step of construction is tended to with the highest level of care, and to ensure that buyers receive exactly what they are paying for; an elevated and unparalleled market off ering. What are the biggest challenges and opportunities that DHG Properties HOMESCAPE HORIZONS Left: 3BR bedroom; 3BR bathroom Right: Pool area; 3BR kid’s bedroomHOMESCAPE HORIZONS 79MAY 2024 anticipates in the Dubai real estate market? As it would be for any company entering a new market, our biggest challenge would be establishing brand credibility in the region. While this is something we already have in Europe, the UAE is a new market and we are treating it as such. Helvetia is an instrumental pillar in our vision of becoming known as a developer that investors and end-users can confi dently trust and rely on. The opportunities in the UAE are countless. The real estate market has been thriving despite the challenges of the pandemic, and the numbers are there to prove it. In 2023, we saw incredible growth in individual unit sales values, transactional volumes, and project launches. And the momentum has only increased in 2024, with over 36,000 sales transactions taking place in just the fi rst three months of the year. The off -plan segment has been particularly strong, accounting for 46% of the city’s total transactions during this time, with about 16,600 sales. With such promising progress in recent years, and industry analysts forecasting a positive outlook ahead, we look forward to contributing to this ongoing growth. How does Helvetia Residences fi t into DHG Properties’ long-term vision for the region? The total value of real estate projects currently planned or under construction in the Middle East currently stands at an estimated $1.68 trillion, up from $1.38 trillion in 2023. Our delivery of Helvetia to the market will help contribute to immediate regional growth in the short term, while future projects that we have planned will further complement the region’s long-term growth. Does DHG Properties have plans for further development projects in Dubai or the UAE? Given our offi cial sales launch of Helvetia earlier this year, our immediate priority is the construction and delivery of this project. As for future endeavours, we’ve already initiated plans for expanding our presence in Dubai. This has been an objective of ours since entering the UAE market last year but we are aware of the importance of taking things one step at a time. We have identifi ed various areas for upcoming projects, ensuring a broad reach for investors and residents across the Emirate, all while embracing the unique off erings of DHG Properties. The company has a long- term vision and is currently in the process of planning for the future. They are excited about the upcoming developments that will be revealed in the coming months. Helvetia is an instrumental pillar in our vision of becoming known as a developer that investors and end- users can confi dently trust and rely on”Next >