Interior designer Ramzy Alaa, founder and head designer of Ramzy Alaa Interiors in Cairo, Egypt, is known producing glamorous and unconventional spaces around the globe. For a 6,207-square-foot villa in Cairo Festival City, a mixed-use urban community near New Cairo, Alaa appointed the space with an artful blend of contemporary design mixed with antiques and Parisian influences. “This project was designed for a large family who was interested in mixing contemporary with Parisian design,” says Alaa. Here, he gives us an overview with some of the highlights, and offers some of his insight and design ideas.

“By working alongside our client we decided not to strictly follow one design style but instead explore various styles until we found the perfect blend to make the home one-of-a-kind,” says Alaa. “We achieved this by starting with a modern foundation for the home and then adding antique elements throughout the design process. Using this transitional style of design, we were able to come up with a space that encompassed the best aspects of contemporary modern as well as the Parisian style of design.”

But, the final design comes with no shortage of surprise elements and custom details by Alaa including the fireplace and gold dome. “This detail speaks for the home by showing exactly what it means to mix completely different design styles from different eras and have them work together seamlessly,” explains Alaa. “Being in the center of the reception area, the fireplace with the gold dome above allows there to be an even divide in the space so that art pieces can be added to either side of the room without overpowering one another.”

“The columns on either side of the fireplace in the reception area are a unique, yet important structure for this space because they bring symmetry  and frame the paintings hung between them,” explains Alaa.

For added visual interest, Alaa selected a giant slab of Orobico marble for the wall adjacent to the staircase. “The open book grey Orobico marble wall behind the staircase is a masterpiece on its own, with a height of 9.8 feet. It provides a significant natural element to the space,” he says. “And, the spiral staircase is very different because of its size, curvature, and material allowing it to act as both a functional staircase and a monumental piece of artwork in the home.”

Alaa’s Transformation Tricks

Ponder the Palette

Change up the color palette through paint and furniture fabric. Our suggestion is to change up the color palette based on the mood of the room and the use of the room. Neutrals give a space the feeling of warmth, whereas darker colors give the space a more dramatic feeling. Choose the color palette that suits the intention of the space.

Don’t Forget Walls

Add wall panels. Because there are so many different designs for wall panels, it’s easier to find your specific style. You also have the ability to do-it-yourself if on a tight budget.

Consider Art

Add artwork (paintings and/or sculptures) in order to add value to the space. Art pieces catch the eye and also speak to individual taste so that a space is unique to each person.