Homes
Read rustic with a modern flair in this Mumbai home designed by Shahen Mistry
JUL 12, 2024 | By Paakhi Baranwal
Vintage wedding chairs. A rustic Parsi cabinet. Oftentimes in life, you’re given a blank canvas to work with. But sometimes if you’re really fortunate? You’re bestowed with heirlooms that don’t just bedeck the house, but form the basis for it.
This quaint 2,400 sq ft home designed by Shahen Mistry Architects for a Parsi family in Parel weaves a classically modern tale around these pieces. Soft and subtle, yet vibrant enough to indulge the homeowner’s whims.
Wedding chairs, Parsi cabinets and a custom bar
Walking through the grand wooden entrance acquaints one with the touch of palatial, further emphasised by the arching passageway that leads into this abode. Right from the get-go, one is familiarised with the concept behind the space — to shift and fulfil functionality for every family member. The multifunctional space bedecked with vintage Parsi furniture features sliding black profile doors that allow for an easy transformation from a play area during the day, to a guest room when called for.
“The use of vintage furniture, such as the refurbished wedding chairs and an old Parsi cabinet, combined with modern accents like lighting and custom black bar showcases a seamless fusion of old and new,” says Principal Architect-Founder Shahen Mistry, who worked with Devang Surelia alongside Vijay Shetty and Vandana Shinde for styling from the team.
White is a colour of utter significance in Parsi culture and it forms the backdrop for the living room with stunning wall panelling. Amongst the grandness of a colloquial English themed living space, the backlit shelves and a custom black bar add a touch of contemporary. along with Devang Surelia of the Team
Pastel and patches of floral make up the grandmother’s bedroom. Mickey and Minnie reside with the kids, in the pastel bubblegum and mint covered room. An earthy palette and an elegant atmosphere make up the magnificent master, suffice with the refurbished wedding chairs and a 4-poster bed (and a walk-in closet).
Helming heritage
The home comes together with a material palette dominated by wood, with glass and fabric adding a suave nuance to this modern yet rooted abode. Pastels and neutrals tie in with the thoughtful nature of the home, to bring comfort to this Parsi family.
Recyclable materials and energy efficient lighting, along other environment conscious choices, add the final flourish to this beautiful family home. “While there is a cohesive theme of luxury and elegance running throughout the space, there’s also a deliberate experimentation with design and decor ideas,” says Shahen. These conscious choices are evident in the helming of heritage with contemporary concepts for a home you never want to leave.