Homes

This Mumbai apartment recites how to bring the art of Wabi-sabi home by Nikita Dhoble Interior Design

OCT 24, 2024 | By Anaya Zubin
Botticino marble flooring, a vibrant rug from Humming Haus, custom-made furniture, lush greenery from Plant People, and a bespoke art piece by Sanchita Chamankar come together to create a serene space; Photography by Vineet Velandy

Nestled in Maximum City Mumbai, this home basks in the simplicity of earthy colours. A calming combination of comfort and functionality, the space draws inspiration from the timeless tenor of Wabi-sabi crafted by Nikita Dhoble Interior Design

Sprawling 900 sq ft, this home prioritises the beauty of purpose. Nikita Dhoble, the principal designer reveals that being childhood friends with the homeowner ensured she understood their design aspirations better. “We want the space to feel zen, away from the outside chaos of the maximalist city. The neutral colours evoke a sense of calm and the ambient lighting makes you feel cosy and comfortable,” she says.

Mumbai abode by Nikita Dhoble
A bespoke art piece by Sanchita Chamankar, a Humming Haus rug and custom-made furniture add personality and warmth to the room; Photography by Vineet Velandy

Moments of authenticity

Adorned with artefacts that hold unfiltered memories and an underpinned poise, the home is dotted with a selection of materials like wood, stone, cane and linen. The weathered lime wash adds texture to the walls, providing an inviting backdrop for handmade objects of art. 

On the other hand, a series of bespoke furniture pieces showcase meticulous attention to detail, each a work of art in its own right. The living room sofa wrapped in the soft embrace of bouclé fabric invites moments of relaxation. At the same time, fluted wooden panels encase the dining table and chairs, adding to it a sculptural depth. Out on the balconies, brightly coloured tiles inject a playful pop of colour, a delightful contrast to the soft hues and sand-like tones that flow throughout the abode. Every corner from inside to out asks you to pause, reflect and reconnect with nature’s quaint beauty.

Mumbai abode by Nikita Dhoble
In the open dining area, custom-made furniture rests on Botticino marble flooring, complemented by striking wall art from Claymen & Calcuttan; Photography by Vineet Velandy

 

Mumbai abode by Nikita Dhoble
A cosy earth-toned corner with a custom television panel for added style and functionality; Photography by Vineet Velandy

Every corner doused in the softest earth-toned hues and creamy whites also highlights a significant design decision, “Every artefact is carefully handpicked to promote crafts techniques of Longpi, paper mâché and clay pottery.” While the challenge to carve out optimum storage spaces in the home has been successfully achieved, for Nikita, some of her favourite elements beyond minimalism and an uncluttered space include the artefacts, the study table unit and the Chandigarh chair. These details emphasise the Wabi-sabi ethos, accompanied by an environment that echoes an effortless authenticity.

Monochromes and minimalism 

On entry, a panelled main door leads to an entrance foyer, where a built-in bookshelf doubles up as a stylish bar unit. From there, one moves into the living and dining area defined by an organic curved ceiling.

Mumbai abode by Nikita Dhoble
A versatile space for relaxation, featuring Botticino marble flooring, art pieces from Dessine Art, a dhurrie from Obeetee, and custom-made furniture accented with a throw and cushions from Amazon; Photography by Vineet Velandy

 

Mumbai abode by Nikita Dhoble
Wooden tile flooring paired with a custom-made bar unit, each section showcasing artefacts from Ikai Asai and H&M Home; Photography by Vineet Velandy

 

Mumbai abode by Nikita Dhoble
The master bedroom boasts Botticino marble flooring, a mirror from Ikea, a dhurrie from Obeetee, and a cosy pouffe from Amazon; Photography by Vineet Velandy

The television wall, with its end-to-end panelling, cleverly hides the door to both the kitchen and a small, delightful mandir, maintaining a sense of fluidity. An arched passageway gently curves to two airy bedrooms, each parading its own balcony. Every turn reveals raw, beautifully articulated materials that invite touch and admiration. 

The overarching feeling in this home is one of serene tranquillity. Every detail, from the ambient lighting to the curated decor, contributes to a zen-like atmosphere that nurtures the mind and soul. As Nikita says, “Minimalism takes centre stage, not in starkness, but in intentional curation”.

Read More: City living and minimalism: Neha Kachhara designs a Japandi-style home in Mumbai