There is no doubt that the UAE is home to some spectacular properties. From penthouse apartments to plush villas with sprawling gardens and incredible pools, it’s a real estate haven.
Each week, The National showcases some of the best homes on offer in its Property of the Week. This week, it's a penthouse at 1/JBR in Dubai's Jumeirah Beach Residence ...
1/JBR – the key details
This new five-bedroom penthouse is set within what is regarded as the jewel in the crown of Dubai's JBR district. The 53-floor tower is less than 150 metres from the beach and was designed with two principles in mind according to its architects: waterfront views and spatial clarity.
It is on the market for Dh60 million through LuxuryProperty.com and is spread out across almost 10,000 square feet encompassing a full floor.
What's the story with this Dubai penthouse?
Well, at that price you are expecting something special – and this home delivers.
It's a case of where to explore first: the balconies with the endless views out to sea and around the Marina district, the furnishings that have some dazzle without being too much, and then there's the swimming pool .
Normally reserved for the cavernous villas in the suburbs with backyards the size of a football pitch, there are a handful of apartments in the city which have incorporated the luxury of a private pool in the sky.
But, when kitting out a home in the Dh60m bracket, why not? And who doesn't want to catch the six o'clock news on the TV in the lounge from the comfort of the pool?
As for the views, it doesn't get much better than this in Dubai. The only one comparable in terms of impact and wow factor is in the close vicinity of Burj Khalifa. The endless windows make sure the most is made of the outdoor glory.
Inside, the eyes are drawn to the Jupiter-like pillars giving it an other-worldly feel, while the decor features an array of artwork and hanging lights.
The one area that is more reserved is the kitchen. The breakfast bar and island bring convenience, though there isn't anything here, besides the wonderful sea views, that provides any wow factor. But then does a kitchen need to do that?
There are two living areas – one formal, one adjoined to the pool, while the master suite is positioned on a corner and includes his and hers walk-in closets.
As for the black cat, no, he doesn't need feeding.
What the brokers say...
At Dh60m is this the most expensive property in JBR?
Yes, this is certainly the most expensive property in JBR and is truly the definition of super prime real estate. Each of the principal bedrooms enjoys amazing beachfront views, and the six car parking spaces mean there is enough space for one's classic car or super car collection.
The tower must be the most prestigious?
JBR is blessed with two spectacular new developments – 1/JBR, which is ready and occupied, and the Address Jumeirah Resort, which is handing over imminently. 1/JBR is definitively a prestigious address that offers private beach access, and excellent facilities and amenities with good arterial road links.
The outdoor / indoor pool is quite the thing to have in the Marina area?
The indoor pool is a gorgeous amenity to have in what is a truly gorgeous penthouse. The infinity aspect of the pool allows you to enjoy views afforded from the high floor, and it has been designed with a waterflow system that enables users to have a swim exercise session. Apartments and penthouses with their own pools are in fact a bit of a rarity in this community, and are the hallmark of a world-class home.
What’s the thinking behind the interior?
The penthouse has been subject to a full and extensive refurbishment, and the interiors have been designed to maximise the sense of interior space, so your eyes are drawn across the room and directly out to the views outside. The lavish use of onyx and other high-grade materials creates an unmistakable style statement, adding a brilliant contemporary touch to the home.
Are the glowing Jupiter-esque walls a new trend?
This is back-lit onyx and yes, we are seeing more and more homes adopt this design style. It adds a unique character to the interior aesthetic, can help accentuate certain facets of the design, and with the right combination of colour, polish and lighting, it also makes for a stunning art piece.
Who will be looking to buy this property?
International clients looking for a five-plus bedroom home with the convenience of penthouse living. We have European clients, as well as clients from North America taking a keen interest. The unique beachfront location, close to well-established areas of the city such as Marina, with the plethora of restaurants and retail mean that a home in this neighbourhood is incredibly sought after.
Jason Hayes, founder and chief executive of LuxuryProperty.com
