There are many people who like to adorn their abode with furniture and accessories. But there are few who choose to incorporate greenery in every aspect of decoration. Sabra Tufail's beautiful home is one fine example where one can find a unique combination of greenery and style.
As the gates to Sabra's home open up you are welcomed into her breath-taking floral world. To the left of the gate is a wrought iron stand shelving orchids in small pots. While to the right is a huge bamboo structure, which continues all the way to the backyard, adorned by pristine orchids. "I love working with orchids both for my fresh and dry flower arrangements. I also use orchids in abundance for my wedding stage decor and other decorative spaces," shares this floral artist who is quite an expert in her field.
As you approach the front door you are met by various varieties of flora and fauna. On entering the foyer you see a painting and a creative structure adorning the console. "This structure is actually my first introduction to visitors announcing that this is an artist's house," she says with a smile.
If you look around, you will instantly be soothed by Sabra's choice of shades for her rooms. "I like playing with light colours. It's best to work with a neutral palette because then you can use statement pieces in darker shades. For instance my sofa set in the living room has off white upholstery but I have jazzed it up by using a red cushion for emphasis. Similarly my drapes are off white and so are the walls but I have thrown in a red carpet for aesthetic appeal," shares Sabra.
"We have been in this house for the last eighteen years. My husband, Dr Mohammed Tufail, designed the house himself and together the two of us worked on the interior. My husband is extremely talented. He is also the one who has brought my garden in such pristine shape as he helps me in all my gardening endeavours," shares Sabra who herself serves on the boards of Ikebana International, Ikenobo study group, Floral Art Society Of Pakistan and Floral Art Study Group Pakistan.
"When I was planning my living room I did not have a theme in mind. I just let my aesthetics guide me. I keep my interior interesting by changing the setting constantly. I easily get bored with stagnancy," she says.
Besides, you will also see creatively made structures lining Sabra's dining area and the walls. These structures have been placed as decor items or as accent pieces all over the house. Sabra loves to create structures with dry branches beautifying them with fresh flowers out of her garden. "I collect material for my structures and arrangements from road sides, trees, roots, branches, from barren plots, in fact I collect any and every material that captures my fancy," reveals Sabra about her choice of material for her various award winning creations.
The lounge is also an extension of the Tufail's entertainment area. However, this is used specifically for the family's evening get-togethers. Towards one side is a semi concealed alcove that serves as the children's den. "This spot has always been my kids' favourite. When they were young they would spend hours on end in their specific corner. I opted for traditional seats and terracotta pots and decorative objects to complete this spot," tells Sabra.
The lounge opens out into an expansive garden that has been divided into various pockets. A huge tree overshadows the patio that is an excellent spot to sit and meditate irrespective of the time, for the shade is ample to keep you cool even on the hottest of days. While towards one side of the patio is the waterfall, to the other is a rockery bordered by water plants. There is the tropical corner offering a wide variety of foliage and then we have the small pond adorned with lilies.
"My garden is the result of my hard work and the hours I spend there every day. I check my garden each morning, give my plants a trim, keep them fed with compost and ensure that each and every plant is in perfect condition.
With a house so beautiful and a garden as perfect as an artist's creation, Sabra Tufail has really created a perfect haven for her family.
Photography by Mohsin Ali Noman