Alibaug’s swaying palms and tropical greenery become the perfect backdrop for Villa Varsoli, a 4,000 sq ft eco-chic holiday home that’s just as picturesque as it is responsible in its design. The villa’s nuanced construction was handed over to Studio Grid and its co-founders Rugved Rane and Rohit Mahadik who employed a play of organic lines and natural materials to connect the indoors and outdoors with spatial fluidity.
The owners aspired for a calming cocoon that serves as an idyllic escape. The duo took note of their preferences and crafted a larger-than-life biophilic villa that radiates paix et tranquillité.
The living room overlooks the swimming pool. The connection to the pool area through large windows creates a bright airy ambiance. The furnishings are from West Elm; Photography by Siddhesh SavantThe living room imbues an organic colour palette with a rustic stone wall, hand-poured stone tiles, vintage artefacts, a raw wooden coffee table, classic couch and wooden armchairs. A blue-beige rug from West Elm lends a weathered beauty to the space; Photography by Siddhesh Savant
Preserving the ecosystem
“This time our approach was to strike a balance between modern and traditional styles and sustainability was key,” Rugved and Rohit share. “In the initial phase, we conducted a thorough site analysis to assess the location and made sure no trees were cut during the construction process because it’s important to preserve the beauty of the local, existing ecosystem.”
The informal seating area is draped with white walls and hand-poured black tile flooring. It effortlessly bridges the gap between the communal living areas and the private spaces on the upper floor. The furnishings are from West Elm; Photography by Siddhesh SavantThere is an emphasis on woodwork and rich earthy textures. The sleek chairs with tapered legs and curved backrest are reminiscent of mid-century furniture. The round side table complements the sofa, adding to the overall organic feel. Nearby, a slender console table with a sculptural vase and candles makes for a balanced composition. Furnishing is from West Elm and artwork is by Akshaya Naik; Photography by Siddhesh Savant
Sunny and sumptuous
The word ‘flow’ comes to mind as you take a stroll of this stunning villa that unfolds section by section. A rustic wooden entrance door leads you into a well-furnished living room with pristine white walls and natural stone flooring, offering views of the pool and its serene surroundings. The sunlight streams in through the large glass fenestrations and the interiors are warmed by the presence of rustic elements, chosen for their distinct tones and textures.
A mix of colonial-style charm elevated by warm woodwork and earthy touches lingers. The open layout links the living and dining area, where a sturdy dining table paired with classic upholstered chairs emphasise on enduring craftsmanship.
The overall colour palette of the space is neutral. The rustic wooden door and the warm-toned triptych artwork and furnishings balance this palette and create a harmonious atmosphere. The furnishings are from West Elm; Photography by Siddhesh SavantIn line with the design aesthetic found in other areas, the master bedroom has a regal four-poster bed and curvaceous seating arrangement. The plant adds a touch of greenery, further connecting the bedroom to the outdoor environment; Photography by Siddhesh Savant
Studio Grid’s choice of all-white walls proves apropos of curating an array of elements that aligns with the overall concept. The abstract nature-inspired artworks, vases with fresh blooms, potted planters and vintage sculptures add layers of luxury and character.
Ascending towards privacy
An undulating staircase takes you to the upper level where an informal seating area and bedrooms are tucked away for unperturbed privacy. Each bedroom explores the same colour theme and material combination, yet is imparted with diverse attributes.
The bedroom is like a vintage hotel-suite that bathes in natural light courtesy of the large windows. Muted bedlines, rattan bed, rich wooden furniture and textured rug adds a touch of old-world charm; Photography by Siddhesh SavantThe window nooks in the bedroom allow moments of relaxation and to take in the picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. The abstract artwork by Akshaya Naik, black chandelier, armchairs inject a sense of luxury and sophistication. The furnishing is from West Elm; Photography by Siddhesh SavantThe ground floor rooms overlook the tranquil blue water of the pool, while the upper floor is more intimate with balconies. The large windows and glass doors provide an abundance of natural light; Photography by Siddhesh Savant
The master bedroom with large windows, a four-poster bed and versatile wooden furniture exudes a stately presence. “One of our favourite spaces in the bedroom is the cosy window nook with billowy cushions and upholstered seat, that promises of cosy afternoons spent lost in the pages of a beloved novel,” Rohit and Rugved exclaim. From the informal seating area, you can access the expansive balcony to catch the golden hours in the open-air lounge.
The furniture and lighting deployed throughout the villa are tailor-made by local artisans. The underlying theme of Villa Varsoli is however a play of sustainable materials and textures that feel vintage. The weatherproof structural design, eco-conscious practices and glimmering interiors reflect Studio Grid’s time-tested ingenuities and contemporary design interventions.
Lounge chair and table are strategically placed next to the pool, providing a spot for sunbathing or simply enjoying the serene surroundings, furnishing from West Elm; Photography by Siddhesh SavantThe balcony is accessible from the informal seating area, and offers an ideal setting to appreciate the picturesque outdoor surroundings, furnishing from West Elm; Photography by Siddhesh SavantThrough careful planning, the villa has been designed around the existing trees. A tranquil swimming pool with sleek black tiles and clean lines serves as a focal point, offering leisure and relaxation. Black vintage lantern lights illuminate the exteriors; Photography by Siddhesh Savant
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