Slowing Down at Home, Even in Fast-Paced Dubai

Dubai moves fast. It’s all noise, movement, and big shiny buildings. So honestly, it’s kind of funny that this summer’s interior trend is about the complete opposite: slowing down.

Lately, I’ve been noticing this shift: more people wanting homes that feel calm. Peaceful. A little more natural. Not just pretty pictures for Instagram, but spaces that feel good to live in. That’s where biophilic and sustainable design come in.

Biophilic Design, in Simple Words

It’s really just about bringing nature inside. Plants, sunlight, earthy textures... anything that helps your space feel alive, not sterile.

And let’s face it—in Dubai, where we spend months hiding from the heat indoors, this kind of design isn’t just cute, it’s needed.

It can really help with things like:

  • Reducing stress

  • Making the air feel cleaner

  • Helping you focus

  • Making your space feel like home, not just a place you sleep

Sustainability That Doesn’t Feel Complicated

I know “sustainable” can sound heavy or expensive. But it’s not about being perfect. It’s about choosing better when you can.

A few things I personally love looking out for:

  • Wood that’s reclaimed or certified (so you’re not supporting deforestation)

  • Fabrics like linen or cotton instead of synthetics

  • Things made in small batches, or locally (less waste, less shipping)

  • Paints or finishes that don’t stink up your house or mess with the air quality

Little Ways to Bring That Feeling Into Your Space

You don’t need a whole renovation. Even small things can change how your home feels:

Plants
Start small. Even just one or two. Snake plants or pothos are super easy to keep alive.


Natural light
Swap heavy curtains for light ones. Move your mirror to reflect some sunlight. Open the window when the weather lets you.


Textures that feel real
Terracotta pots. Woven baskets. A wooden stool that doesn’t look mass-produced.


Scent + sound
A candle. A little bit of soft music. Anything that makes your nervous system say, “okay, I can breathe now.”


Mindful shopping
Try to pick things that actually mean something to you. Not just trend-led stuff that ends up in storage next season.

Final Thought
This summer, maybe try to create a home that feels like a break from everything else. A space that makes you feel safe, and at ease, and more you.

That’s what we’re trying to do at HomeKode. Not just sell decor, but help people build homes that actually feel like home. One piece at a time.

Valeria Abou Ghazaleh