Homes
A slice of the good life: Inside a holiday home at the DLF Aralias by Essentia Environments
JAN 6, 2025 | By Pooja Prabbhan Srijith
A family heirloom or a thoughtful gift from a doting dad that serves as a beacon to let the good times roll for as long as one is young, wild and free? See it as you may, but there’s no refuting that the Aralias 1106 — an airy penthouse overlooking the majestic Aravalli Hills and the DLF golf course in Gurugram— is a vision and lesson in aesthetic legacies and the art of gifting. “The homeowner required this residence to serve as a bachelor holiday pad for his 20-something daughter,” shares Hardesh Chawla, Director at Essentia Environments, as he takes us through the space that sees a synergistic blend of opulent living and natural beauty.
A masterclass in restraint
Wrapped in a minimalistic allure through a chosen palette of neutral as well as warm brown undertones, and multiple standout elements, it’s tough to put a finger on what arouses maximum visual intrigue in this home. Expansive exterior windows opens up to stunning views of the Aravalli range from every room — blending natural beauty with a sense of luxury, evoking strong bouts of biophilia.
The double-height foyer, accentuated by an intriguing staircase and copper-tinted mirrored panels helps elevate the entrance. Textured fabrics, vibrant artworks organic yet sculptural furniture pieces create a harmonious blend of geometries, lending a refined appeal in overall.
Functional aestheticism at the helm
Spread across two levels, the penthouse’s first level comprises a dining area and a bar, which is seamlessly connected to an outdoor balcony. “The formal living area, illuminated by ample lighting, is meticulously designed with sculptural seating that, when combined, tells a cohesive story,” says Monica Chawla, Creative Head of Essentia Environments. “This balcony serves as a link between the main entrance, formal living space, and dining area, making it an ideal setting for a bachelor’s unbridled lifestyle,” she opines, furthering detailing that the kitchen and utility areas are conveniently connected to the dining space, ensuring enhanced functionality.
The upper floor is accessed by a beautifully designed staircase with spacious steps, leading to a landing adorned with a large artwork. “We kept the colour scheme neutral but introduced texture and depth with warm brown veneers and reflective surfaces,” says Hardesh.
Each room features double doors in fluted veneer, mirror panelling on the passage walls, and fluted veneer on the ceiling, creating a luxurious ambiance. The guest en-suite comes with a walk-in closet, while this choice of design enhances the space’s volume, creating a sense of openness. “The use of tinted mirrors elevates the walls and mass, making the penthouse appear larger than its actual dimensions,” he adds.
Ideal for times when all one yearns for is to be freed from the distractions of technology and yet not forgo the conveniences of modern day conveniences, the majestic Aralias 1106 serves as a reminder of how one can savour the best of both worlds. A haute-spot in the hills? Indeed, there is!
Read more: Essentia Environments reveal their ultimate parameters behind crafting extravagant spaces