Skyrise with a soul

This coastal Mumbai home by Studio Osmosis is rich in Indo-Moroccan tones

14 May 2025

When homes evolve beyond being mere sanctuaries of rest, they often become a delightful blend of balance and cultural storytelling. A similar sentiment resonates within the tranquil interiors of this Mumbai pad by Studio Osmosis, located in the bustling neighbourhood of Prabhadevi.

Spanning 2,500 sq ft, this home epitomises the quintessential aspiration for spaces that express and experiment — interweaving quiet luxury with personal storytelling, while offering panoramic sea views. “The design blends contemporary aesthetics with meaningful elements that reflect the family’s journey. The layout was reworked to maximise openness while ensuring intimate, personal spaces,” share Sameer and Shilpa Jain Balvally, principal architects and partners at Studio Osmosis.

“From the Indo-Moroccan elements in the living area to the Mediterranean kitchen and handcrafted sculptural details, there’s a thoughtful mix of styles that feels unified” — Sameer and Shilpa Jain Balvally

Layered influences

A striking stone artwork, custom-crafted in collaboration with Rawsteen, anchors the foyer with an earthy warmth. A Hatsu chandelier and pop moulding ceiling details add a touch of elegance. The Indo-Moroccan aesthetic subtly comes through in the living area, which offers guests an irresistible invitation — a balcony that opens to breathtaking ocean views.

The homeowner’s penchant for sustainability and a deeply personal aesthetic is reflected in the abundance of natural wood finishes and thoughtful lighting. “The home maximises natural light and cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and cooling. Plus, the selection of organic textiles like cotton and linen aligns with the philosophy of eco-conscious luxury,” the duo adds.

Layered with wood finishes, handcrafted artistic elements and natural textures, every corner of this home is imbued with elegance, warmth and personality; Photography by Kuber Shah

Spiritual secrets

With several corners vying for attention, it’s tough to pick a favourite. We ask and pat comes the response. “Designing the mandir was a truly special experience. It’s a space filled with divine energy, and every detail had to resonate with tranquillity and devotion,” the duo affirm.

They further reveal, “The biggest challenge? Carving out a spiritual calm. To convey subtle emotions and human expressions while sculpting a large piece of stone in three dimensions — yet maintaining its abstract nature — was almost like narrating a mystical story.” Embodying a style that is deeply personal, aesthetically refined and functional, this coastal South Bombay home sparks both curiosity and awe.