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    • Design

    A grey box of wonders: Chirag Torawala repurposes a bungalow to sculpt his studio in Surat

    MAY 30, 2024 | By Aaushi Kaur
    Textural depth is achieved as rough concrete is met with polished glass and uneven wooden grains; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala
    The entrance welcomes the arriver with serenity as bonsai tree sits in front of a floating white wall that carries the studio’s name; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

    Minimal but make it industrial. Or well, vice versa! A visible demeanour that trickles beyond the ordinary idea of minimalism takes centre stage in this studio in Surat wrapped in the delicacy of grey. Helmed by Chirag Torawala of Studio GreyBox, the principal architect reveals, “Our need for a studio space led us to repurpose an unused area within a residential bungalow. 

    Awash in daylight, with the facade facing north, the 700 sq ft studio stands as an almost sylvan emblem of calm, portraying an affinity for raw materials and an equal appetite for modern functionality.

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    Cement walls are contrasted with rich wooden tones and hints of black. The green plant brings vitality into the room; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

     

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    An earthy palette of greys and textured wooden accents add to the raw character of the space; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

    Authenticity and spatial utilisation are at the cornerstone of the studio’s ways of creativity, which undoubtedly forms the backbone of this space. The walls are wrapped with exposed cement boards whilst the columns stand bare-skinned with their plaster stripped off. Things become even more transparent as sheer glass spans across the entire north façade, maximising the light that comes trickling through — extending a sense of poised contemplation. 

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    The reception and waiting room achieve a contemporary look as it features a curved desk made from Canadian oak wood and dramatic red chairs; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

     

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    A bonsai tree sits in front of a floating white wall that carries the studio’s name at the studio’s entrance; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

    All attention on details!

    With grey tones draping the canvas and elevating the utilitarian elements of the studio, an otherwise monochromatic palette and warmth of brown tones further intersperse with an astute layering of textures. “Complementing the grey walls, the flooring features grey terrazzo tiles, infusing the space with a sense of continuity and cohesion,” adds Chirag.

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    Across the desk is a spacious window nook. Perfect for taking a break and quietening the mind; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

     

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    A play with gravity and geometry is at present here as a suspended cantilever desk sits below an overhanging linear pendant; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

    Bespoke reception desks and cupboards are crafted from an assortment of wood, bringing in snug accents that sit amiably against the cool interiors. Adding a rather welcoming sense of play and pause in the waiting area is also the lean yet curved red chair. “In essence, this studio unfolds as a narrative of intentionality and thoughtful design,” says Chirag. 

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    An enfilade opens up the space with an efficient route from the pantry and utility area to the main working area; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

    The art of contemplation

    A sense of tranquillity wafts across with a wise-old bonsai tree sitting in front of a grand white wall. This feeling of vitality is further carried through the floor-to-ceiling glass and all the way to the principal cabin where lies a little niche that invites one to pause and meditate upon the overlooking garden. Just opposite this cabin, is the heart of the studio. A vast open space is partially separated with glass dividers so as to inspire collaboration within the team.

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    Cement walls are contrasted with rich wooden tones and hints of black. The green plant brings vitality into the room; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

    An uncluttered mind needs an uncluttered space, especially in a design studio. There are clever elements throughout, such as niches functioning as storage as well as concealed storage areas that look and feel very sleek. Not to mention the discreet pathway that embarks on a journey to the pantry and then to the restrooms, moulding this transitional space into a fluid layout.

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    A modernist style forms the design with an emphasis on linearity and clean contours; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

     

    Chirag Torawala,Studio GreyBox
    The washroom is found tucked away within the pantry. It exhibits shiny stainless steel elements that reflect light hence making the room feel brighter; Photograph by Ishita Sitwala

    As Chirag sums up about the space where function meets the studio’s commitment to authenticity seeped in every detail, “In a world often cluttered with distractions, our studio stands as a beacon of clarity and intentionality. It invites visitors to pause, breathe, and engage with their surroundings on a deeper level.”

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