Take the lift up to the apartments. On the island side of Al Barza, red brick frames the sunlight streaming in through the windows. Studio, one-bed and two-bedroom designs command beautiful views of the marina from the balconies. On the seaward side, two-bedroom apartments feature larger tiled sun terraces overlooking the infinity pool and turquoise seascape beyond. Duplexes of two or three bedrooms enjoy panoramic windows on both levels, and even more outdoor space on their expansive terraces. Just above the retail boulevard next to the piazza, all Al Barza residents have parking directly below and a two-minute walk to the terminal to hop on the ferries traversing the waterfront. Each layout has an open-plan gallery feel to inspire artistic interior design.A row of recessed floor spotlights pick out the contrast of textures. Timber underfoot meets matt sheen walls and brick, framed with black beams and granite worktops. A bowl of fruit shines in the crisp bright kitchen. Elegant fittings feature unobtrusively throughout. And the view from the dining room beats any contemporary art print. Head downstairs, past reception and out to the pool. Thirty lengths after work is the perfect way to exercise, then relax in the jacuzzi and let your mind wander. And there's nothing like a sauna before the first stars appear and residents gather at the café to catch up on gossip. The restaurant is booked for eight. The waiter doesn't need to ask, just a familiar smile and your favourite table waits.
