“How can she live here?” That’s what you’d probably think upon first seeing the Daouk Villa. This magnificent late-19th-century single-story villa sits in Beirut’s Achrafieh district. It offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The villa boasts a stunning sea view and a shaded terrace.
The villa is owned by interior designer May Daouk. She returned to Beirut from New York a decade ago. She was incredibly fortunate to find this charming home. It belonged to one of Beirut’s leading families. Daouk’s international background is reflected in her design choices. She was raised in Beirut with an English nanny. She was educated in Switzerland and Boston before working in New York with Bunny Williams. This experience shaped her unique design philosophy.
The villa’s entrance hall hints at the eclectic style inside. You’ll find Louis XVI-style settees. Bright ikat pillows add a pop of color. A large star-shaped zinc ceiling pendant is a striking feature. The living room is enormous. It could easily hold 200 people. Daouk cleverly divides the space into smaller areas. This makes it feel less overwhelming and more intimate.
A traditional Lebanese triple arch divides part of the living room. This creates a cozy enclave with an Italian fireplace. Here there’s a daybed a brass-edged desk and violet-lacquer bookshelves. The furniture is a delightful mix of styles and origins. There are English pieces Syrian cushions and an Adnet bed upholstered in Hermès leather. Daouk’s style isn’t about matching. It’s about creating a personalized space.
The vibrant lilac walls balance the masculine feel created by the presence of her three sons. A pink rug further softens the space. The living room opens to the dining room the master bedroom and the boys’ den. The master suite features a custom-made striped kilim. The bathroom is adorned with exquisite lace curtains. These are made in the Chouf Mountains southeast of Beirut.
The dining room is another masterpiece of eclectic design. One end is formal. It features a rectangular table and architectural prints of Baalbek. The other end is casual. There’s a smaller octagonal table and a Syrian calligraphic panel. The furniture is equally varied. It features Arabic chairs an antique bergère and an Arts and Crafts table.
Daouk’s approach to her home is refreshingly practical. She uses antique fabrics but replaces them if damaged. The black sofa in the dining room is used mostly by the dog. The Daouk Villa is a stunning example of a home that is both beautiful and comfortable. It’s a living space not a museum. This is a personal sanctuary filled with objects the owner loves. The villa is a testament to Daouk’s creativity and her love for Beirut’s rich history.