Identifying a Good Living Space: What Makes a House a Home?

By Co-founders of Elysian Developments – Masood Naseeb and Noman Mahmood

A house is often considered one of the most significant investments in a person’s life, turning that house into a home is what truly matters. A home has more than four walls and a roof—it’s a space that nurtures, comforts, and reflects the personality of its inhabitants. Finding the right living space requires careful evaluation, ensuring that it not only meets practical needs but also resonates emotionally.

Here’s how to identify a good living space and transform it into a home that feels truly yours.

Location and Connectivity

Choosing the right location is crucial when finding the perfect home, as it influences daily convenience, commute times, and access to essential services. A balance of locale and landscapes – think beach fronts, sea views, and serenity along with modern amenities and infrastructure in the neighbourhood makes attractive options for residents. Even for a developer like us, we look at the best of connectivity, area development, and infrastructure that we can offer customers to choose from. The pristine beaches, beautiful green landscapes, scenic waterfront promenades, nine marinas, two golf courses, and a stunning new mall in Dubai Islands was an ideal location for our debut project, Esmé Beach Residences. It pairs the tranquility of beachfront living with excellent infrastructure, quick and easy connections to Downtown Dubai.

Space and Layout

Beyond location, the actual living space must align with individual and family needs. A well-designed home should offer space that is not only aesthetic but also functional. It should take into consideration the current and future requirements such as a growing family, a home office, or additional storage. There is a growing trend now for most residents who are looking for a space that offers them a holistic lifestyle and well-being. Well-being is an integral cornerstone for our business too, reflecting the customers’ demand for a holistic and healthy lifestyle. This positioning fulfills the need in the market where well-being is purposefully woven into the architecture and design of our projects.

Amenities & Lifestyle offerings

Not only parks and recreational surroundings but amenities offered to bring a balanced lifestyle are one of the biggest asks for residents and investors. When we conceptualised Esmé, we wanted to ensure that the building itself can offer the best of well-being amenities. For example, our project will feature a central water filtration system for all residents along with amenities such as contrast therapy zones with saunas and cold plunges, as well as a rooftop 25-meter infinity pool with aqua cycling. Residents will also enjoy family pools with poolside cabanas, state-of-the-art fitness zones, outdoor CrossFit areas, and purified water systems, all of which reflect Elysian Developments’ focus on fostering a lifestyle of health and balance. While we have gone over and beyond to bring alive the best of amenities, there is a trend among buyers who are asking for more and better amenities that create an elevated lifestyle. 

Quality of Construction and Maintenance

A home should be structurally sound and built with quality materials to ensure longevity and comfort. When assessing a property, consider factors such as durability and finishes, as high-quality flooring, doors, windows, and fixtures contribute to long-term value. Proper insulation and ventilation play a crucial role in maintaining energy efficiency and year-round comfort. Additionally, well-maintained water and electrical systems are essential to prevent future maintenance issues. Natural light and airflow should also be evaluated, as homes with well-placed windows and effective cross-ventilation enhance well-being while reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning.

Sustainability and Smart Living

A good living space is one that not only meets functional needs but also nurtures the soul. Identifying the right home requires assessing practical elements such as location, layout, and construction quality, but the true transformation happens when the space resonates emotionally. A home should be a sanctuary—where memories are created, comfort is felt, and personal style is reflected. Whether through décor, family traditions, or simply the feeling of safety and belonging, a house becomes a home when it aligns with the heart and mind of those living in it.