From Forever Homes to Flexible Living: Rethinking the Saudi Villa

In the 80s and 90s, it was a common dream among Saudi families to build large, beautiful villas. These homes were designed with the future in mind — a future where children would grow up, get married, and remain under one roof. It was a noble vision, rooted in strong family values and a culture that celebrated togetherness.

But today, that vision has changed.

Children grow, explore, travel, and build lives in different cities — even different countries. And the large family villa? It often ends up quiet, echoing with memories, with only the parents left in a space that once buzzed with energy.

Maybe it’s time we look at homes differently.

Why We Need to Rethink the “Lifetime Home”

Building a house for life made sense when families stayed together in one place. But today’s world moves faster. People's lifestyles are more dynamic, and flexibility is more valuable than permanence.

So here’s a new idea: Instead of building for a lifetime, build with a 10- to 15-year mindset. A home that fits your current needs — not just your dreams of the past.

Ideas to Give Old Villas New Purpose

Rather than leaving these beautiful villas to age quietly, we can breathe new life into them — creatively, purposefully, and even profitably.

1. A Boutique Family Hotel

Turn the villa into a seasonal retreat for extended family. Imagine a hotel-style setup with private suites for each family, a shared majlis, and a warm kitchen for big breakfasts during Eid. It becomes a gathering place — not just a memory.

2. Move to Your Hometown — Let the City Villa Work for You

Parents might consider relocating to their hometowns for peace and reconnection. The villa in the city? Turn it into:

• A serviced home for young professionals

• A venue for workshops, cultural events, or art shows

• A co-living or co-working space for family-run businesses

Let the villa earn its keep while preserving its value.

3. Build Smart, Not Big

For new home builders: consider modular designs. A flexible layout that grows or shrinks based on your needs. When the kids leave, it’s easy to convert parts of the home into guest rooms or private rentals.

4. Preserve Legacy, Create Function

Keep one part of the villa as a private museum — with old family photos, Qur’ans passed down generations, wedding dresses, and school trophies. Use the rest as:

• A reading lounge for the community

• A small library

• A creative workshop space for young relatives

A house that still tells a story — and keeps writing new ones.

Closing Thoughts: A New Kind of Home

Tradition doesn’t have to mean repetition. We can honor our roots while evolving with time. Our homes can reflect who we are today — not just who we once hoped to be.

Let’s rethink the concept of “forever homes.” Let’s build purposeful homes — adaptable, meaningful, and full of life, even if just for a season.