“I like the design to be functional while complementing the tastes and preferences of the client,” maintains Khalida Al-Busaidi, Founder and Senior Architect of KDesigns, which has found its grove in designing residential properties with its flair for client-centric approach. “Every client has different style, different lifestyle and demands. I like to reflect on what they like,” she states, pointing out that her functional orientation is in tune with all the scenarios that are bound to happen in a house – from children playing to hosting guests.
An architect from Sultan Qaboos University, Khalida has been in the business of design for six years, with the last three as the head of KDesigns. Her personal style is more modern and simple, as she feels a simpler house has a wider canvas to explore. She says, “With a simple house and empty walls you can change things to suit your needs. I may not be uncomfortable seeing walls with no paint or rough wallpaper just to give texture, but I like to use all the corners as functional features. I like to give scenarios for every space. For example, when you go out, you want to put your shoes and so you have a bench; when you get in and take off your abaya, you have to have a hook to do that. Functionality is my line. I believe the design should be as much organised as it is functional, with no waste of space, while being simple in approach and context.”
Although KDesigns is largely into residential design, they have flexible approach to different projects and have implemented even commercial works in and outside Muscat. In addition to a completed project in Bidiya, they are now working on the concept design for a resort. Khalida is also big into landscapes and is quick to advise her clients to consider landscaping as part of the design. For, she believes that even a beautifully designed house can seem dull and insipid without a neat garden. “Outer space is needed to have the full picture of the house and also to enhance quality of life,” she maintains.
Changes in Design
Changes in lifestyle -with both men and women engaged in careers that keep them out of home for major part of the day – has created a demand for homes that are more relaxing, while also being practical and easy going. “Everyone today wants their space. When they wake up in the morning, they want their coffee in the coffee corner. And that means a space for it. Previously, people used to have bigger home gatherings and more lavish invitations. These days they are concerned about creating more family time. There is no time for gatherings – like those when extended families lived next to each other. So yes, the design concept is changing. Today, people want the architect to consider their family demands and are specific about who comes home for what occasion. The design then is very casual with open spaces; there are no enclosures and separate entrances. Although some do ask for separate entrances for majlis and sleeping room, most people are in favour of open spaces and open plan designs,” explains Khalida, pointing out that technology has also become a part of many a home.
However, despite the changing concepts in design, the challenges that most professionals in the market have to contend are the restrictions and regulations from the governing bodies. “We have to comply with the rules and follow architectural uniformity. For example, we cannot use certain colours on the exterior, or use bricks or have pitched roofs – it has to be flat. But things are slowly changing and you get to see big windows or modern designs. People are receptive to these change,” she observes.
But while there is a perceptible change in that quarter, what has remained almost stagnant is the furniture segment. “As far as interior-designed furniture is concerned, there are very few suppliers or dealers. It is challenging to have nice designs as you tend to get the same styles in the furniture shops. So, sometimes we have to opt for custom made furniture, which is costly for the client,” she points out.
According to Khalida, people’s perception of design has changed in the recent times, more specifically since the last year. “You can see the difference. Previously, people hesitated to spend on design; they felt it was a waste. But nowadays they are spending, because they know it is the most important part of their big project. The cost of building a house will come to nought without a proper design. If someone is spending, say RO200,000 in building a house, investing in a design means reaping 100 percent of the value of money spent,” explains Khalida.
Advice for Home Builders
Her biggest advice for all wannabe homemakers is to educate themselves before they seek a designer. A home is a huge project, just like a mother having a child, she opines. “When a mother is having a baby she has to learn new things about the baby and the care the baby requires. It is the same thing; it is their project and they need to educate themselves accordingly. They need to educate how to choose their designer and what they need to receive from the designer. Often, people are not aware what to receive, rather they receive a plan but there is no furniture layout, which is the most important. They need to know which designer to go to, what to expect from the designer and which style they want. It is best to read about design styles and see what is reflecting their dream home. People, sometimes, ask for modern design but are not aware what defines it – they confuse neoclassic design with modern. This calls for self education to be better placed to make the right choice,” she suggests, pointing out that KDesigns is flexible with whatever design the clients want. The crux of the matter, however, is identifying what one wants; what reflects one’s lifestyle, taste and personality and come together in one integrated design.
She takes personal interest in advising and educating her clients. “I give them tasks – I give pictures and ask them to comment on each one. This helps me know what they want. Sometimes, when I see that they are unsure about what they do want, I tell them to come over to check the pictures together and decide which style is their favourite. In contrast, there are others who have educated themselves, who follow Instagrammers and know what is trending,” adds Khalida, who calls Kuwaiti architect Sarah Sadeq her inspiration.
Dream Home
Personally, her dream home, rather her weekend home is a small one on a cliff. “My normal house could be anywhere in Muscat…but it has to be modern, simple and organised. I like practicality and functionality. I believe every room has its own function and feeling – for example, the kids’ room has to be magical and inspirational… And when you walk from one room to the other there should be unity; some integration of design. It is all modern but at the same time gives out a sense of the function of that space,” she describes.
Mistakes to Avoid
One of the common mistakes people make while planning their house is not connecting the floor plan with the ceiling, notes Khalida. “People need to know that the ceiling has to reflect what is on the floor, and for the place to be functional, one needs to plan the furniture that the floor would occupy. Oftentimes, people finish the plan according to the space, not having a clue how they will furniture it. They feel an open ceiling is a safe space but do not know how to functionalise that space. They may do the ceiling design with false ceiling, without considering what will be placed on the floor. What is essential is a furniture layout,” she stresses.
Another misconception she has observed among potential clients is the request for 3D designing. “People need to be aware that it is just an image; it is not functional unless you get the things that are there on the image. If, say a chandelier or a sofa on the image does not exist in the market, then your design is in trouble. Even if the 3D looks realistic you cannot custom make everything; it will cost you. However, if you have perfected a plan and are convinced with the style then you can decorate your home in whatever way you like, even without a designer,” she stresses.
Check out KDesign on www.kdesignoman.com and on Instagram @K-designoman