Property Weekly

Inspired living

June 19 - 25, 2013
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Gulf Weekly Inspired living

Gulf Weekly Mai Al Khatib-Camille
By Mai Al Khatib-Camille

Durrat Marina, located just north of Durrat Al Bahrain, is preparing for Stage 1 of a retail development that will run alongside it.

The project’s developers say they have made significant strides in the infrastructure and construction work on its residential and marina areas.

Envisioned to be the ‘downtown’ of Durrat Marina, the final promenade will host cafes, restaurants, boutiques and a wide range of leisure activities. 

Waleed Saffy, CEO of Durrat Marina, said it had attracted interest from people seeking either a weekend retreat or a marina-based residence. 

“We are working towards the creation of a concept in inspired living, elegant yet simple; a space that embraces an energetic and vibrant lifestyle. To that end, each of the elements we have introduced within Phase 1 of the development works towards this aspiration.

“Construction of the first set of sea-facing villas is on schedule and we expect to complete construction by the end of the year.”

The plans and set-up for Phase 1 of the project’s Marina is also underway. This includes berths and pontoons for over 95 boats and yachts of various sizes. Simultaneously, two residential apartment buildings are also soon to be developed, offering spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments. 

“For us, this retail zone caps off our residential offer by bringing in a high quality community environment nearby, that offers retail and leisure outlets within a lively boardwalk environment,” added Mr Saffy.

This project is planned to serve as a destination where families can enjoy a day alongside the serene waters of the Durrat Marina Yacht Club. The retail strip is being designed by Spanish Design Consultants HCP and will have 44 outlets with a total built-up area of approximately 5,200sq/m (3,800sq/m of retail space and 1,400sq/m of terrace space). 

The two-storey retail area is being developed so that almost every outlet will be able to enjoy terrace space with views of the marina below. Shops will range from approx 40 – 220sq/m in size and be ‘competitively priced’.

Speaking on behalf of design consultants HCP, resident engineer Jose Carrion said: “We have a close working relationship with Durrat Marina, and through our standing partnership have developed an insider’s perspective on their vision for the project. 

“To us, it us just as vital to deliver on this promise through designs that are attractive and practical. We have designed this retail strip to mirror a youthful simplicity, distinguished by neutral colours that create a chic ambience, where good food, good company and a vibrant environment are the focus.”

The villas will start from BD203,000 and the apartments will range from BD59,000 to BD169,500.







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