To Neoclassical Europe and back: A Gurugram home by Studio Mehrr is a visual twist to European vintage style

15 Jun 2023

In Gurugram’s Greenwood city stands a villa that is reminiscent of a time travelling tale. Nestled in the heart of the city, it is a picture of European neoclassicism with a red brick facade, white French windows and a green Parisian front door. But as you enter, you are transported to the present with contemporary, minimalistic interiors that embrace simplicity and the home’s natural surroundings. While the interiors were envisioned by Studio Mehrr, Sahni and Associates designed the exteriors of the 3000 sq ft three-bedroom duplex for a retired couple who were looking for a respite from the fast-paced city life.

A light breeze enters the spacious living room through the french doors that overlook a monochromatic porch. The cane floor lamp, a commissioned piece from Daisy Life, adds a natural touch. A chandelier designed in both industrial and traditional styles takes centre stage; Photograph by Avesh Gaur

The living room is a confluence of various design elements that work together to create a pleasant space; Photograph by Avesh Gaur

A confluence of the old and new

Walking past the neatly manicured garden and the rose creepers on the white picket fence of the exterior inspired by the couple’s travels to Europe, one may believe that the interiors are similarly decorative and ornate. However, the homeowners wished for interiors that are a reflection of their dispositions – simple and close to nature – and chose a restrained and minimalist approach for the interiors. “We went for the popular beige-neutral home trend to reflect a sense of sophistication without ostentation,” explains Divya Chadha, Founder and Creative Director of Studio Mehrr.

The foyer sets the tone for an elegantly minimalistic design approach maintained across the home. A console in dark wood tones from Fabindia, a traditional hand woven rug from Obeetee, mirror, and wall lights from the White Teak Company characterise the space; Photograph by Avesh Gaur

The foyer sets the tone for a clean elegance maintained across the home. Daylight enters through the lunette and frosted glass windows and reflects off the monochrome white walls, making the space awash with a soothing brightness. A touch of homeliness is added through earthy and organic accents such as teak benches and a traditional handwoven rug. To the left of the foyer is the kitchen with sage green cabinets and live-edge wooden open shelves. The passageway opens up to semi-open dining and an entertainment room to the right.

A cosy nook in the living room by the side of a faux fireplace features Chandigarh chairs from Savana Living, a brass and marble side table from Fleck and an industrial wall light from Black Steel, forming a smaller sitting area in the space; Photograph by Avesh Gaur

Adjacent to the dining area, a wood-toned French door with frosted glass marks the entrance to the spacious living room. A neutral yet light palette is maintained throughout the space with 11 feet high ceilings, warm white walls, wooden beams and dark wood flooring. While it remains true to the ‘quiet luxury’ trend, vintage elements from bygone eras such as the custom-made haveli window sourced from Jodhpur create interest and soften the crisp beauty of the modern furniture.

The living room is characterised by African Tonga baskets exhibited on the wall, a Jeanneret-inspired chair by Savana Living, the coffee table designed by Beyond Dreams and a hint of black added through a small side stool from Peacock Life by Shabnam Gupta; Photograph by Avesh Gaur

Plants, plants and more plants!

A black-and-white tiled checkerboard floor on the porch makes for an elegant juxtaposition with the red brick facade of the house; Photograph by Avesh Gaur

The homeowners’ love for nature resonates across the home. The French doors in the living room open into the garden where the couple can enjoy a morning coffee. Bridging the gap between urban life and the natural surroundings even further, a vertical garden brings the outdoors inside with a dramatic flair. “Plants, plants and more plants. Nothing transforms a space like a hint of greenery,” professes Divya.