A sublime Mumbai home by Insitu Design Studio sketches the visual role of fluidity

Continuing the philosophy of embracing the role of an architect and melding it with the exemplar role of revived modernity and craftsmanship, Sahiba Madan of Insitu Design Studio, also our EDIDA India winner crafts a contemporary home in Mumbai for a newlywed, brimming with the couple’s vision for a home that not only reflects their current lifestyle, but also emerges as a versatile canvas for the future.  

The four bedroom apartment opens into a large expanse that seamlessly integrates the bar, dining, and living spaces. This open layout promotes a sense of connectivity and fluidity, creating an inviting atmosphere for social gatherings and daily activities. The kitchen is near the bar and dining area and cleanly tucked away behind a fluted glass partition door. 

Getting in and around

“The living space is flanked by two bedrooms each on either side that include the master bedroom, parent’s bedroom, guest bedroom, and a study, with attached bathrooms. These bedrooms are designed as tranquil retreats, incorporating elements that reflect the personal style and preferences of the individual users of the space while balancing the larger cohesive material palette,” explains Sahiba. 

The team found designing the study room, where creativity and functionality converged seamlessly, the most enjoyable. “Crafting the space with its micro topping flooring and wall dado allowed for seamless integration of textures, offering a tactile experience that added depth and character.”

The challenge was creating a balance between the open shelving, and ensuring it was functional and aesthetically pleasing. As Sahiba continues to tell, incorporating comfortable seating amidst plenteous natural light was invigorating, especially within the rafter ceiling where lighting became an integral part of the design. “However, infusing a bright pop of colour using an organic rug required meticulous consideration to achieve the desired harmony within the vibrant space,” she says.

Colour coded

The home embraces a vibrant colour palette, seamlessly blending vibrant greens and terracotta accents throughout its interior, which is a key feature of contemporary design. These hues not only infuse a modern aesthetic but also contribute to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, breaking away from the conventional notion that contemporary spaces are often characterized by cool, neutral tones. “Furthermore, the home showcases a unique approach to the strategic placement of prints, adding a layer of visual interest to the spaces. The incorporation of modular spaces is another trend that the home aligns with, offering flexibility and adaptability to the dynamic needs of its inhabitants,” says Madan.

Design details

The larger theme of the space is a contemporary space designed using warmer tones and an earthy material palette. There were no structural changes, the layout was planned and organized in the existing structural framework. 

“The design conversations with the clients revolved around achieving a contemporary aesthetic with a material palette that exudes freshness. Vibrant greens and terracotta accents were strategically incorporated to infuse the space with modern warmth and a lively atmosphere,” says Sahiba Madan.

This home sees the designer’s signature love for detail that reflects in the design of the flooring, individual furniture pieces designed in-house, and a creative collaboration for upholstery, wallpapers, and cushions with their sister brand Kalakaari Haath. This home is a great example of craftsmanship meeting design and how it splendidly makes the house a home.

Also read: A spatial story of art and solo travel triumphs in a South Delhi home by Sanjyt Syngh