We're continuing our series of interviews with developers working in Cyprus. We're going to take a look at the people behind the projects that are giving the island its new look and chat about their approach, philosophy, and some interesting facts. Today, we're chatting with Victoria Royal Investment (VRI), a company that brings together architectural beauty, cutting-edge technology and smart investment ideas into one project. We had a chat with Victoria Royal Investment CEO Dr. Hanan Auri about projects, flamingos, zoning and benches. Dr. Auri is a visionary, entrepreneur and design expert whose projects have been featured in top North American luxury publications.
— So, why Larnaca? So, what's the deal with the sea, business or flamingos at Salt Lake Aliki?
I mean, flamingos are a nice bonus, right? For us here at VRI, Larnaca ticks all the boxes: it's got that seaside charm, it's got great amenities, and it's got huge potential for investment. We saw potential, not just charm. Larnaca's in a great spot and people really want to visit, so it's the perfect place to bring our idea to life: affordable luxury with a high quality of life.
— So, your motto is all about creating space for a better life, right? What's the secret? The sun, souvlaki, or architecture?
All three — with a dash of technology on top. As part of a holding company that's really involved in AI and technology, we integrate intelligent systems and progressive, future-oriented design into our projects. But the real "secret" is collaboration. We work with amazing professionals like architect Dimitris Kaimakliotis and developer Buildex to create homes that look great and work well. For us, "better living" is all about spaces that make everyday life better and are good value for money.
— So, how do you come up with designs that'll appeal to both Cypriots and foreign buyers who think "traditional" means Wi-Fi in every olive tree?
We design with respect and empathy for the local culture and an understanding of global expectations. We've been doing this for 10 years in Canada and Italy, so we can mix Mediterranean family values with the tech needs of our international clients. Our projects combine privacy, comfort and innovation, so whether you want underfloor heating or Wi-Fi in the courtyard, you'll feel at home in our buildings.
— Got any funny stories about the Cypriot regulations? Too many balconies or not enough parking spaces for goats?
The regulations in Cyprus are a real test of patience and willpower. Every approval is a bit of a balancing act between what you want to do and what the rules say you can do. Luckily, we've got great local partners and experience, so we turn red tape into creative solutions — sometimes with a bit of humour and a lot of persistence.
— Larnaca is developing really quickly. How does it compare to Paphos and Limassol (apart from the lack of crowds of Instagram influencers)?
Larnaca is real life, not just real estate. It's got the charm of a coastal town, the soul of an old town, and the energy of modern development. Larnaca is a lot different to Paphos, which is all about the resort vibe, and Limassol, which is all about the skyscrapers. Larnaca is a place you can actually live in and explore on foot, and it's got a real sense of comfort. That's why we chose premium locations such as Fenaromeni and Vergina — authentic neighbourhoods with long-term value.
— You talk about community-oriented design. Can you give an example of when this actually made a big difference to a project? Or is it just an excuse to argue about where to put the benches?
You know, when you're designing spaces for people to interact, placing benches can be a real game-changer! For the Victoria 23 project, we totally redesigned the courtyard based on early feedback from buyers. And that small change made a bigger difference, turning it into a warmer, more inclusive space. For us, luxury isn't just about marble and glass, it's about emotions and making people feel at home.
— How do you balance sustainability with profitability, especially when you've got solar panels and ancient Byzantine ruins fighting for space on the roof?
For us, sustainability isn't just an expense, it's an investment in the future. We use energy-efficient solutions, eco-friendly materials, and technologies from our tech team. Yeah, we really did have to design buildings around historical treasures. But now we're experts at it!
— So, what's the biggest misconception foreign investors have when it comes to buying property in Cyprus? (Apart from the idea that buying any apartment comes with permanent residency and a yacht as a gift, of course!)
That everything will happen by itself. Cyprus is a great place to invest, but it's important to know what you're doing. Here at VRI, we're with you every step of the way, from the legal bits to picking the tiles. We can't promise yachts, but we can guarantee transparency and peace of mind.
— Is it hard to work with international clients and teams? Ever found yourself Googling "architectural terms in Russian" at 2 a.m.?
Absolutely! We've got pretty good at dealing with cultural differences, language barriers and time zones. It's a part of our lives and our strength. We're just as comfortable with code and concrete, whether we're working in technology or real estate. And yes, we keep Google Translate handy!
— So, tell me, what's the most common thing that makes you want to pour yourself a glass of Zivania and rethink your priorities in life when you're working on a construction site in Cyprus?
So, we're looking at zoning in historic areas here. I'll leave it at that.
— So, what projects is VRI working on in Larnaca right now, and what makes them so special?
At the moment, we're working on three big projects in the best areas of Larnaca: Victoria 21 and Victoria 22 are modern residential buildings in the Fenaromeni area, just minutes from the city centre. The location's got great infrastructure, schools and green areas. We've also got Victoria 23, our flagship project in Vergina, which is one of the most promising and peaceful areas of Larnaca. Here, we're all about quality, privacy, and having nice public areas. The building's got a roof garden, a infinity pool like you'd see at a resort and a gym with all the latest equipment. Every VRI project is a mix of design, technology and investment appeal.
Here are the properties that are currently available as part of the Victoria 21 project
Properties avalablein the Victoria 22 project
Properties avalablein the Victoria 23 project
— That's impressive! What are your plans?
And this is just the beginning! We're already preparing new properties in both Larnaca and Limassol.
— Thank you for the interview, and l hope see you again soon! We're excited to see what Victoria Royal Investment will do next in Cyprus and elsewhere!
Read also:
- Cyprus Developers Alliance (CDA Group): Affordable Luxury in Cyprus
- Elite Island Properties: Continuing the Middle East Tradition in Cyprus
- Larnaca Airport: The History of Cyprus' Main Air Gateway
- Introducing Makespace Development Ltd: A Creative and Professional Property Developer in Cyprus
- How to buy real estate in Cyprus: A Complete Guide
