Copyright © 2025 Motivate Media Group. All rights reserved.
The firm has unveiled the design of exclusive mansions and villas
Forming part of the prestigious AJMAL MAKAN City at Sharjah Waterfront, the villas and mansions designed by XBD Collective at AlThuraya island will host tranquil and modern aesthetic that aligns perfectly with the island’s serene surroundings. Ellen Søhoel, Founder of XBD Collective, emphasised the importance of collaboration across the firm’s diverse studios in bringing AlThuraya Island to life. “Our collective expertise has ensured that every aspect of the design, from planning to visualisation, reflects a seamless integration of luxury and nature, creating a one-stop solution for our client, AJMAL MAKAN.”

Each residence on AlThuraya Island is meticulously designed to be a luxurious sanctuary, with interiors inspired by the surrounding landscapes. The villas and mansions feature expansive, full-height windows that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living, allowing residents to enjoy stunning views of the sea, beaches, or gardens from every corner of their home.

The material and colour palettes draw from earthy tones—warm travertine, sandy beige, and soft greys—creating a soothing atmosphere that resonates with the natural environment. Marble, prominently featured on countertops, feature walls, and in the spacious bathrooms, adds a touch of understated luxury. Accents of blue and turquoise, strategically placed throughout the homes, evoke a sense of freshness and tranquillity, complemented by high-end furnishings with organic shapes and rich textures.

“In designing the interiors of AlThuraya Island, our goal was to bring the serenity of the island into every home,” elaborates Søhoel. “Each space is curated to ensure that residents experience a seamless connection with nature while indulging in the comforts of luxury living.”

The formal living and dining areas are expansive, highlighted by the smart use of indirect lighting and sculptural fixtures that not only illuminate but also add elegance and art to the spaces. With chandeliers and glass partitions, the dining rooms create a perfect setting for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations, surrounded by lush greenery. “The cohesion of natural elements with modern design techniques creates a luxurious sanctuary where comfort meets sophistication,” reflects Senior Interior Designer Habiba Shohayeb. “Every residence at AlThuraya Island is not just a home but a retreat into serene island living.”
XBD Collective’s design offering of villas comprise of four types:
The interior design of these residences is further enriched by the use of double-height ceilings in select properties, amplifying the sense of space and light. Custom-made glass sculptures and large glass panels allow natural light to flood the interiors, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the day.
Read more property features here.
This home in Dubai Hills Estate balances sculptural minimalism with everyday ease
We caught up with Karine Obegi, CEO of OBEGI Home and Mauro Nastri, Global Export Manager of Italian brand Porada, at their collaborative stand in Downtown Design.
During Downtown Design, we interviewed the team at Huda Lighting in addition to designers Tom Dixon and Lee Broom.
The fair will run its second edition at JAX District
We discussed the concept of 'Sustainable Futures' with Inge Moore of Muza Lab and Rakan Jandali at KCA International.
During Dubai Design Week 2025, identity held a panel at the Ideal Standard x Villeroy & Boch showroom in City Walk, on shaping experiences for hospitality.
Here’s how you can bring both sophistication and style to every room
Messara Living and Vincent Sheppard Unveil “Outdoor at Its Best 2026”
A modernist landmark is reimagined as a global stage for collectible design, contemporary art, and cultural dialogue.
Presenting the winners of 2025 identity Design Awards.
Here are the winners of the identity design awards 2025
Set along the bend of a quiet river and sheltered within a mature, tree-lined enclave of Toronto, this riverside residence offers a dialogue between structure and softness, restraint and warmth