British resident Lucy Gibson has made a vibrant home in Victory Heights, Dubai. Over the past 13 years, this five-bedroom villa has become a central part of her life, serving not only as a family abode but also as a backdrop for her entrepreneurial ventures, including the swimwear brand Sand Dollar Dubai and the homeware company Heart Cottage Lane.

Exploring the Villa

This villa, situated on one of the largest lots within the community, offers a unique blend of privacy and spacious living. Located at the end of a tranquil cul-de-sac, the house showcases breathtaking views of a nearby golf course. With five bathrooms and a generous garden featuring a kidney-shaped swimming pool, it is perfectly equipped for both leisure and practical living. The home includes three garages, one of which accommodates an electric vehicle charging station, catering to modern sustainability needs. Gibson emphasizes comfort over formality, describing how the design encourages quality family time and relaxation. Instant access to the course’s halfway house adds to the allure, allowing for casual coffee breaks or lunches amidst stunning surroundings.

Choosing Victory Heights

The decision to purchase in Victory Heights was influenced by familiarity; Gibson and her family were already part of this robust community. Despite initial hesitations concerning the house’s design, the oversized plot proved to be a rarity that outweighed their concerns. While considering the cost—Dh11.6 million (approximately $3.1 million)—the extraordinary appeal of the property persuaded them. Just prior, they had nearly settled on a smaller lot, but the unique characteristics of this property, particularly the spacious surroundings, were too enticing to ignore. Gibson even took the step of meeting the neighbor beforehand, an encounter that solidified their decision as it exuded community warmth.

Improvements and Personalization

Upon moving in, Gibson recognized that the villa needed significant updates to transform it from its previous life as a rental property. The garden, once stoned over, was redesigned into a vibrant landscape, integrating lush grass around the pool. Extensive renovations included redesigning the kitchen, replacing all windows, and updating bathrooms with modern finishes. Emphasizing warmth and livability, adaptations—like transforming a maid’s room into a tack room—reflect their evolving lifestyle. The interiors prioritize comfort; subdued tones and classic elements create a homely ambiance, accented by personal photographs and family memories that narrate their life story within the walls.

The Perks of Home Ownership

Owning their villa has offered financial advantages, as the Gibsons purchased the property outright. This decision has afforded them a sense of stability without the burdens of a mortgage. Over time, the choice has proven rewarding, allowing for personal investment into home improvements that reflect their family values. With no plans to leave this cherished space, Gibson expresses a strong emotional connection to Dubai, reinforcing her commitment to her home and the community that surrounds it. The villa stands as a testament to their journey, characterized not just by its size but by the life they continue to cultivate within its walls.