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a+t associates weave a timeless Vadodara home submerged in earthy tones

To be acquainted with a residence named ‘16 Screens House’ is an exciting play of imagination as well as all that the space encompasses within. In a gated society in Vadodara, Gujarat, stands tall, a 5,750 sq ft edifice embellished with sixteen screens that form a linear box-like frame juxtaposed with the rest of the earthy-hued facade. Beyond the screens, exists a world of sprawling volumes, beguiling scales and profuse sparkles of sun!

Architected and arranged as a timeless, conventional space by interior designers Archis Patel and Tanvi Rajpurohit of a+t associates, the home cradles lifestyles of a family of five, scaling to two floors.

Formal Living space that spectates the expansive volume, greens and artworks inside the home; Photographs by Tejas Shah Photography

“Our client is a doctor couple who are fond of nature and greens. Keeping that in mind, we designed the house in a way that most spaces are connected with the landscape around,” divulge Archis and Tanvi.

Formal Living with customised wall art ; Photography by Tejas Shah Photography

They go on to add, “Being true to materiality was the concept to articulate every space. To achieve a modern, raw look, we painted the wall surfaces with grey lime paints. In some areas, we also used locally crafted cane to achieve the rawness.”

A visual journey through nature

At the forefront of the abode, sixteen encircling windows beckon sunlight, while the entrance porch, adorned with a pivoting main door, invites you into the space. “Through the door, we first see foyer with Pooja area. The Pooja room is created by box cubic. We have installed a metal artwork on the outer surface of the box which serves as decor to the entry,” reveal the duo.

Family seating enveloped with a sleek staircase; Photography by Tejas Shah Photography

As you continue strolling, you’ll encounter a designated area for family seating. This space is demarcated by a metallic partition adorned with graphic artwork, serving to separate the foyer from the family seating section.

Dining room; Photography by Tejas Shah Photography

“We have designed the living space with free forms. The monotonous space stands out bold and at the same time gives utmost comfort. Greys and browns give the space a rustic look. Fluid forms were the tools to emphasise the language of the area in the form of sofa seating, walnut wood centre table pieces and customised wall art which also capture the spirit of the space. The whole décor represents the wabi-sabi aesthetics,” sum up the duo.The combined space features a dining area that accommodates ten people, alongside a staircase incorporating three floor cut-outs that interconnect all levels of the building. Two single-flight staircases are accompanied by triple-height walls, against which a pair of wall murals are arranged on each level, symbolising the relationship between individuals and the spaces they inhabit.

Elder son’s room; Photography by Tejas Shah Photography

Directly above the family living area, a passage space is accessible from three sides, doubling up as quick stop-over-like gallery, perfect to appreciate the massive mural. The ground floor has two bedrooms — a master bedroom and a guest room. The first floor hosts three bedrooms, a home theatre and a semi open terrace with a bar. Both the sons’ bedrooms have a subtle play of colours and illustrations.

“We enjoyed designing family seating and dinning space which is largely connected to outside landscape area and has artistically designed metal fabricated staircase along with 3 story wall. We got to play with composition as wall serves huge plain backdrop like blank canvas. At the same time, it was challenging to detail out staircase as an element which has delicacy along with strength. So much had happened in the process but with the final result, we got so much of learning,” they sum up

5 questions with Mikael Kruse Jensen and Navin Khanna of BoConcept on the striking fusion of Danish and Indian furniture aesthetics making a new wave globally

From Mumbai’s bustling apartments to Delhi’s serene bungalows, the concept of less is more has become a way of life. With its new AW’23 collection that perfectly mirrors this approach, BoConcept’s furniture becomes a representation of classic, clean and simple living. In conversation with ELLE Decor India, Mikael Kruse Jensen, Global CEO, BoConcept and Navin Khanna, Director, BoConcept India tell us how the latest collection stands as a testament to the blend of Danish and Indian designs to create homes that breathe with character and charm in India.

How does the AW’23 design ethos fit with the Danish approach to design in India?

Scandinavian styles are coming into the mainstream in India. The simplicity and minimalistic nature of Danish design create the sought-after tranquillity, cocooning and escapism our clients demand, a trend accelerated during the pandemic.

The metropolitan style has particular appeal for our Indian customers. Of course, new consumers also appreciate our second style (Scandinavian) which is more about minimalistic design/construction in honest materials. For AW’23, the oversized proportions of our new Salamanca sofa respond directly to a global consumer desire for playful lounging and next-level comfort.

The Santiago dining table reinforces the current trend towards organic, sculptural shapes and tactile materials, whilst our new storage system Calgary will resonate with the huge surge in demand for inspiring, versatile and multi-tasking storage that maximises space.

AW'23 — The Imola chair is a part of the latest collection titled AW’23; Photograph courtesy BoConcept

In view of the frequent eco-awareness linked with them, emphasise any environmentally beneficial or sustainable features of the products under the AW’23 collection.

We have been a member of the UN Global Compact since 2009 and have achieved a number of milestones in our Sustainability journey. Our factory in Ølgod, Denmark is powered by renewable energy, we have achieved FSC certification for our Wooden products and our ambition is to have 90% of our wood FSC-certified by 2024.

Our new collection for Autumn/Winter 2023 will be fully FSC-certified. At BoConcept we also pride ourselves on the quality of our fabrics and the choice that’s available in terms of yarns, finishes and colours. The Oeko-Tex stamp of approval comes with our Skagen, Wellington, Bresso and Tuscany fabrics, which all carry its STANDARD 100 certification.

Moving forward, we will be taking responsibility for every material we use, working in mutual collaboration with our suppliers and seeking transparency and traceability across our supply chain.

When it comes to our fabric materials we strive for quality, performance, and durability. Engineered to withstand the demands of busy everyday life — our ‘Frisco’ material has a unique and patented Aqua Clean technology treatment to resist stains and last the entire lifetime of the fabric.

Are there any defining products that really highlight the marriage of Indian and Danish aesthetics?

Interior design is very personal and choosing Danish Design is a considered choice and preference. It is not about fitting into a Market’s design sensibilities but staying true to the Danish Design principles international consumers demand.

A big advantage of BoConcept is our customisation possibilities so our designs can adapt to our clients’ style preferences. Close to 90% of our products are customisable from size, configuration, functionality, fabric etc. allowing us to create an environment that is truly bespoke to their personal tastes, preferences and needs. It’s what we call Live Ekstraordinær!

We exist to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary places, and that is no doubt where our best-in-class interior design and styling service sets us apart. Scandinavian styles are coming into the mainstream in India.

How has the transition from maximalism to minimalism been significantly shaped by furniture? As the design landscape changes, how does BoConcept’s design impact the Indian and worldwide markets?

Our BoConcept minimalist aesthetic translates well into local traditions and styles. With a ‘Less is more’ design ethos, and a heritage rooted in Danish Modernism for over 70 years, our enduring design approach has been about clean lines, timeless style and craftsmanship.

Neutral colours, classic balanced proportions and understated style ensure BoConcept is always modern and relevant in countries around the world.

Can you share a few interesting insights into the new collection that you are launching?

For the AW23 season, BoConcept is asking, how does great design make you feel? Home is our most important space to recharge, express ourselves and provide protection from an increasingly uncertain world. “With the new Kollektion we lean into the power of design to bring a feeling of deep satisfaction. The new pieces are designed to bring sensorial pleasure into the everyday,” says Collections and Visuals Director Claus Ditlev Jensen.

The trend landscape signals that we are in a polycrisis era. This has increased the desire for calming spaces and comforting products that maximise emotional and physical wellbeing: home as a sanctuary. With WGSN citing that 72.8% of people globally feel anxious about issues ranging from the environment to the cost-of-living crisis, it’s perhaps not surprising to learn they are craving deep comfort.

The ‘Buy less, buy better’ mindset also continues to frame consumer appetite for long-lasting materials and timeless styles. With this in mind, the Santiago dining and coffee tables feature hard-wearing ceramic tops, whilst the Calgary is a piece designed to evolve over the years as the consumer discovers new keepsakes to display or even wishes to adapt its usage to a different room or function.

Where the grass is greener: Nakul Munim rethinks slow and soulful living in an Alibaug home

A simple caress of curiosity is all it takes to be enclasped in the unruffled presence of this family home in Alibaug, the coastal town on the fringes of Southern Mumbai. The space born out of interior designer Nakul Munim’s design intentions, cradles quietude amidst a lush green scape. At the same time, it also carries an unshakeable, soft chatter of the many decor and textural elements around.

nakul munim alibaug home — Photographs by Kurush Thakur

Before this single-level, 6,000 sq ft cove transformed into a rapturous haven inside the estate, which sits on a six-acres area blanketed by plantation in the village of Dhokawade, Nakul and the dwellers discussed and envisioned a distinguished but comforting canvas with fresh colours, organic materials and an overall nonchalant environ.

“I prefer my design to remain within a consistent theme while designing large spaces ensuring a cohesive and harmonious design and the experience of it, however, I do enjoy adding unique elements that add intrigue and personality to the overall thematic composition of individual areas,” reflects Nakul.

Through the green lens

As you enter the abode, a foyer opens its doors to show a magnificent central courtyard brimming with the beauty of foliage. Various rooms seamlessly flow across three sides of the courtyard, each area meticulously created to soak in the naturalness that the home enjoys.

A stunning pool skirted by open plantations assumes the limelight, while a veranda envelops the tranquil bedrooms, allowing you to awaken to the delicate caress of fresh air and the faint rustle of leaves, underlining the evident interaction between inhabitants and their environment.

Neutrals meet natural

The home’s palette revels in a multitude of neutral tones that distinctively bring out a different mood as one passes by each turn and room. With bold stripes, pale greys and whites emerging in focus around the drawing and dining room, Nakul explains, “I love stripes and it is a recurring theme in most of my works. Here too, it became a central motif of the design board.”

The materials find their own character in the house, fronted with sophisticated layers of cotton upholstery, custom-made jute rugs, custom-designed teak wood and cane furniture, along with accents of natural stone such as marble and granite. Completing the cycle of his ingenuity, Nakul also tailor-designed a set of table lamps, floor lamps and ceiling pendants to bedeck the space.

Crafting utility

The designer’s steadfast commitment to employing organic materials comes through in this exemplary abode in Alibaug, where craftsmanship and contemporary living take centre stage and the use of timber and natural stones fills the space with an unsurpassed earthy, warm energy.

A challenge that perhaps was a creative thrust in the right direction for Nakul while crafting this space was remoulding an ancient spa into a guest room. This stone structure, which existed in a separate building, necessitated imagination and creativity in order to be effortlessly integrated into the overall moodboard. Overcoming the challenge of surface-mounted electrical installation, exposed conduits now adorn the ceiling, a testament to the designer’s dedication to preserving the space.

“I infuse culture and pleasure into functionality. I believe good design is the coming together of great aesthetics and the ability to put together and convey an understanding of how we use the things placed within it,” he concludes.

Also read: A whiff of macarons breezes across chef Pooja Dhingra’s Mumbai home by Ravi Vazirani

Embroidered to details: Saniya Kantawala of SKD imagines the Mumbai home of fashion designer Yogita Kadam

The sheer tactility of textiles glides through this gorgeous Mumbai home as a constant reminiscence of the intriguing boundaries of fashion and interior design. Poised within Oberoi Exquisite, this 1,300 sq ft home of fashion designer Yogita Kadam unfolds a charming design narrative helmed by Saniya Kantawala, founder and principal designer of Saniya Kantawala Design, who also envisioned the homeowner’s boutique before.

Bathed in natural light, the living room unfurls a mesmerising tango of intricate designs and soft hues, the clay light is by Harshita Jhamtani Design; Photography by Aspire Studio

Beyond the notion of a residence, the space embodies an orchestra of artistry and fashion. Indicative of the name, the home stays true to the trend of celebrating embroidery in the home. “Embroidery is punctuated across the space, such as the beads framing the mirror in the bedroom and the artwork on the kitchen counter and ceiling. A light handcrafted embroidered fabric has been installed seamlessly on the kitchen counter and ceiling above the dining area,” reveals Saniya.

The tactile dance of Rattan is curated by Yogita. From the personalised embroideries to the curated palette this home has beauty within.

Embroidered narratives

The theme of this space is like the palette of an artist; it has love, emotion, and creativity all laced together. The celebration of threadwork, embroidery, and subtle and vibrant hues come together to brighten the home. The juxtaposition of different scapes and the personality of the homeowner blend seamlessly.

With an open breakfast counter, the kitchen offers a wood and cane sliding door for preferential seclusion; Photography by Aspire Studio

Footprints of creativity

Step a foot through the main door and into a corridor, it is adorned with soft detailing, there are wall hangings, rattan lamps and floral motifs blossoming the home up a peaceful ambience. There is a luminous living room which has a dining room too. Adjacent to this there are the bedrooms. The kitchen has a breakfast counter with motif tiles and a hand-embroidered centrepiece in floral motifs.

The dining room with its painted wall, customised furniture in cane and sheer fabrics from The Pure Concept infuses art into the living space; Photography by Aspire Studio

Treasured Tones

The moodboard is sublime yet subtle. The material palette with the muted hues amplifies the beauty of the space. It helps make the focal point of the texture and lighting. The textures are interwoven and give the space its identity, with rattan blending as an exquisite element. The earthy tones, pastel green and eclectic blues add vibrancy and the play between soft and bright hues give the home its distinctive identity. The harmonious fusion of all the elements balances the home and this choice of tones is indeed treasured.

Indian prints and light hues rule the canvas in this abode; Photography by Aspire Studio

Mosaic tiles and a neutral backdrop with bright furnishings, give this room its due time to leave a mark; Photography by Aspire Studio

The inspiration

As Saniya says, “While we immensely enjoyed designing all the spaces, the living cum dining room was perhaps the most fun and challenging at the same time. Instead of sharp edges, most furniture and accents are curvilinear to create a leisurely conversational space. A custom-made rattan temple and customised arched mirror provide continuity to the design narrative. Embroidery has been used in tie-ups on the armchairs, the ceiling above the dining table, etc.”

Textured walls, cane furniture by SKD, headboard from The Wicker Story and pastel furnishings from The Pure Concept leave this room in zen; Photography by Aspire Studio

Unbox Design Studio weaves joie de vivre with pops of colours in this Noida home

It is oft-quoted that a home is a reflection of oneself. Amidst stillness and transformations, a home naturally becomes a confidant of its dwellers. For an exuberant retiree and her adult son, this is indeed true. Their cove in Noida mirrors their personalities and everyday routines – rooted but effervescent and awash in joie de vivre. Aman Issar, Principal Architect and Founder of UnBox Design Studio with a prompt understanding of the family’s design intentions knew exactly how to remould the original space of 1,500 sq ft area into a refreshed canvas.

unbox design studio noida — Styling by Rya Living and Styling Abode; Photographs by Tarang Goyal Photography

“Through multiple discussions, we understood that their needs would require a creative re-alignment of existing spaces. A typical apartment with small closed-off rooms would not do justice to their lifestyle. We envisioned a series of inter-connected spaces where the living, dining, kitchen and a multi-functional lounge flowed into each other,” he explains.

A case of connectivity

Upon entry, one is greeted by a white foyer console and wicker-accent mirror that sets a homely and bright tone for the rest of the home. A soft glow from the daylight streaming in through the large window invites one further inside.

A snug seating arrangement promises evenings of heartening conversations. The elegant old-world charm of back-wall is offset with Claymen faces that add a hint of whimsy and child-like joy. An azure blue sofa sits across the kitchen, a calming space where the creams and whites of the furnishings are balanced by warm wooden accents.

The rooms are connected by a ‘blue box’ – fluted glass screens beset in azure blue sliding panels. When closed, they create cosy nooks and when opened, they allow a gentle breeze across the space.

The blue box guides one along the passage into the dining room, which draws from the colour scheme of the living room, creating a visual connection between the spaces. The dining room has a simple and minimal design with a Scandinavian vocabulary. Elegant yet dramatic, a chandelier hangs overhead. The blue box opens into a multipurpose lounge, study and guest bedroom.

Hymns of individuality

Tucked away further inside the home are the private bedrooms of the homeowners. The son’s bedroom is a melange of greys, browns and charcoal blacks. A corner bed with a cushioned side panel morphs into a study ledge.

The facing wall is wholly taken over by a metal-and-wood shelf. Its partitions can be moved up and down as per the display requirements of the son, an avid photographer and action figure collector. “In time, as the son adds to his collections, we envision the room to update in alignment with the son’s life experiences,” explains Aman.

In contrast to the thrumming energy of the son’s bedroom, the mother’s bedroom emanates the muted yet vivacious disposition of its inhabitants. A tropical wallpaper nestled in an arch behind the bed back is reminiscent of a relaxing holiday. Rattan accents transport one to a simpler time, making the space a sanctuary of private reveries.

For Aman, a space is an extension of its dwellers. “As a design collective, we begin each project by examining our context. The physical site, our clients’ lifestyles and aspirations inform our design language and intent. We try to experiment with each project. What remains constant is our quest to bring in ample light, and fresh air to highlight the craftsmanship and spatial qualities of any structure we design,” he signs off.

Also read: A whiff of macarons breezes across chef Pooja Dhingra’s Mumbai home by Ravi Vazirani

Oriental Living turns a Hyderabad home into a tapestry of antiquity and heritage

Relocating from the cosmopolitan address of Singapore to the culturally prolific city of Hyderabad, often referred to as the ‘city of pearls,’ a couple’s search for their private cove finally concluded at a 5,000 sq ft residence, nestled within the lush greenscapes of Banjara Hills.

This is the drawing room which consists of an old-style ceiling from Kerala. The three artworks on the wall is an old tangka which was sourced from Nepal and Tibet and it also consists of manuscripts from Indonesia; Photography by Phosart Studio

The dwelling stitched to perfection by Manisha Gandhi of Oriental Living emerges as a testament to the homeowner’s refined tastes, with global design seamlessly interwoven with local heritage. “They are avid travellers. With their travels across the globe, they’ve collected a significant amount of heritage furniture and art. Together with these pieces, we could bring out a confluence between their tastes and aesthetics,” reveals Manisha.

The wallpaper stands out the most in this shot which consists of an old Chinese panel sourced from Guangzhou province in China in the 20th century which showcases a scene of a royal palace; Photography by Phosart Studio

Manisha likes to describe this space as a soothing apartment with a flair of flamboyance and some dramatism. Each wall, akin to a fresh page, narrates a story of its own, celebrating the beauty of tradition and keen affinity for details.

Native nuances

Stepping through the aged entrance door, a relic sourced from Kerala, one sees a small corridor that guides to a formal living room, an informal lounge as well as a bar space. Progressing along the corridor, one finds their way to the kitchen and a dining room. With swaying crystal chandeliers and classic ‘ming-style’ chairs and furnishings, this house keeps up to its expectations.

This is the dining area that consists of a red crystal chandelier from Taherallays which complements the rug. The dining table and chairs are Ming style and have been purchased originally from Singapore; Photography by Phosart Studio

The dining area seamlessly extends to a capacious balcony, thoughtfully designed as a verdant oasis with an array of potted plants. As you proceed, the drawing room showcases an antique ceiling panel refurbished from an existing residence in Kerala.

This is the bar area whose top unit has been designed in a Chinese-style pagoda. Using JJ valaya tiles from FCML to merge the traditional and oriental themes and weave them together. There is timber that has been used on the ceiling and flooring to exude warmth; Photography by Phosart Studio

This perspective shot of the bar area adds a dramatic oriental setting with the wine bottle sitting on the table and using JJ Valaya tiles from FCML to blend in the Indian touch as well; Photography by Phosart Studio

Tapestry of traditions

Dark neutrals like black and maroon with a vibrant touch of green came together seamlessly to achieve the primary goal of infusing this opulent colour scheme with a sense of Asian tradition and essence within this classic dwelling.

The lights on the ceiling and side walls along with the intricate textures on the wallpapers and furnishings brighten the entire ambience, creating a sensory experience and displaying the interplay of colours and lights.

This is a bedroom consisting of a large antique bed that sits in between two hanging chandeliers and other furniture pieces which was passed down from one generation to another; Photography by Phosart Studio

This is the balcony that is opened through the living room that has a Buddha statue and has plenty of space and greenery around it; Photography by Phosart Studio

“The most challenging aspect of this space was to create harmony. The pieces of furniture, textures, and art in the home are a mix of Asian and Indian. Blending these together, given that these are very different, was challenging,” states Manisha. The residence not just brings out the couple’s taste for design and everyday lifestyle, but also indicates the curator’s arrangement of merging both their style and interests rather astutely.

Also read: A spark of art and traditionality meets minimalism in a Hyderabad home by Beyond Spaces Design Studio

Studio Ipsa sculpts a haven in Bangalore with nature-inspired aesthetics

Within the vibrant heart of Bangalore, a city often characterised by its concrete landscape, emerges a haven of tranquillity — The Tropical Melody. In a world where the relentless pace of modern life has distanced us from the joys of nature , this home stands as a testament to the power of design in rekindling our connection to nature. Crafted meticulously by Aniketh Bafna and Sonal Mutha of Studio Ipsa, this two bedroom apartment seamlessly harmonises nature-inspired aesthetics with contemporary design.

A journey through the tropics
As the home materialises, it embarks on an intimate journey, fueled by the homeowners’ yearning for a serene sanctuary. “The client expressed their vision of a contemporary tropical home that would reflect the vibrant colours and elements of nature. They sought a colour palette that brought the real tropics to life within the confines of their apartment” says Aniketh.

From the instance you cross the threshold, the home’s narrative begins to weave itself around you. A minimalist aesthetic entices you, but look closer, you will unravel a tapestry of intricate patterns and intriguing subtleties. A console adorned with vegan bone inlays, boasting bold patterns in stark black and high-contrast white, beckons for your attention in the petite foyer. Gazing upward, the ceiling, adorned in the warmth of banana fibre cloth framed by timber trims, introduces a touch of the outdoors.

After bold textures, it’s time for colours to take the front seat. Offering a mood shift, the living room embraces a bright shade of red adding vibrancy and cheerfulness. The first sight that greets you is a mirror framed with live-edge wood. As you move deeper, a striking burnt orange section commands attention, making a bold statement against a backdrop of solid-coloured upholstery and botanical prints.

The dining zone is designed to counterbalance the living area’s vivid tones. The challenge lay in integrating two doors without disrupting the visual flow. The solution was ingenious – camouflaging doors to create a seamless wall. The dining table stands as a centrepiece, its muted stone top and wooden legs showcasing simplicity. But hidden in this unassuming setup is a magnificent wicker chandelier that claims its spotlight.

With blue-stained wood grained finish and the stark black scalloped backsplash, unconventional choices reign supreme in the kitchen. Every inch of space here is utilised wisely, from the ceiling-high storage to the foldable ladder tucked into the cabinetry for vertical accessibility.

As you wander into the master bedroom, the passage through the closet area intrigues. Banana fibre-clad wardrobe shutters, detailed with wooden beading, welcomes you. The room unfolds into a cosy corner adorned with a tufted chaise in opera mauve, complemented by a handcrafted spindle base floor lamp. Painted by an artist, the wall behind the bed tells a subtle tropical story through muted shades and hints of green.

The multipurpose room with wood and glass arched doors encapsulates an entertainment unit, a reading nook, a sofa cum bed and a study desk.

The balcony is where the flooring, a mix of heavy patterns and simple borders with floret inlays and beachy bamboo accents asks you to pause and soak in the view.

A distinct personality
The journey through this abode is a celebration of contrasts — vibrant and serene, bold and muted, lively and tranquil. As you leave each space, you carry with you a melody of tropical essence. Recyclable materials, reclaimed decor, non-toxic fabrics and low VOC paint in this home showcase the commitment to eco-friendly choices.

Cabin home in Bengaluru by Taliesyn redefines the pleasures of simple living with its earthy tones

Most weekends when they’re there, Aprameya Radhakrishna and Parinita Narain can be found on the katte (Kannada for ‘bench’) in the courtyard, sometimes with a friendly neighbour, always with some piping hot filter coffee. For the couple, such weekend sojourns are a regular occurrence — the happy result of a long-ago manifesto to escape the city more often, albeit on their own terms. “A weekend home was the obvious solution,” says Shalini Chandrashekar, Principal and Director of Bengaluru-based architecture and design practice Taliesyn (co-founded with architect Mahaboob Basha in 2007), who were tapped by the couple to breathe life into their recently acquired 3,800 sq ft plot in Bengaluru.

When it came to the brief, Aprameya and Parinita, who have an eight-year-old daughter, had a checklist ready: open-plan layout, multi- functionality, kid-friendly spaces, and kattes—lots of them. “The initial brief was very simple: just a one bedroom, one bathroom space where they could relax and rejuvenate,” shares Shalini. Adding that for Aprameya—a start-up founder and angel investor, and a fourth generation Bengalurean—it was important that the home nod to its time-honoured neighbours. That meant three things: embracing the vernacular, keeping nature close, and above all, casting the spotlight on the katte.

For Shalini, the main priority was working out how to retain the mango tree and jackfruit tree that presided the site. “We ended up making several architectural edits to accommodate them,” recalls the architect, for whom the trees were welcome emblems of the past, akin to the architecture around. In a bid to ground the dwelling in the landscape, Shalini lent the 2,045 sq ft structure, the character of a cabin house, with high ceilings, imperceptible thresholds, and cement oxide floors and walls (which were completed in a single sitting to achieve a seamless finish).

Set along the east-west axis, the house enjoys the sun’s enduring presence. Of course, it isn’t the orientation alone that helps romance the sunshine. It’s also the way the home unfolds, at once upward and outward, blurring the line between nature and the built form. The entrance, marked by a pair of 18 ft tall bifold doors, serves as a curious antithesis to the home’s scale and signature, which is an object lesson in paradoxes. For example, a double-height volume comprising the living and dining areas and the kitchen, also plays host to a mezzanine floor, which houses the master bedroom.

Likewise, earthy tones throughout the dwelling evoke the Deccan landscape, whilst the cement oxide walls serve as a cooling antidote to the louvred windows and wooden furniture. Below the mezzanine hides a washroom with a full-sized walk-in closet and a concrete basin cast in- situ. For Shalini, the diversity of form and levels is merely a metaphor for the various avatars the home must assume (Aprameya and Parinita imagined hosting friends and family there, so it also had to be suited for entertaining).

The katte makes a reappearance in the dining room, then again outside, beneath each of the windows, masquerading as an extended windowsill. “We imagined it as the home’s protagonist,” explains Shalini, noting that for the family, most days begin and end on the katte, with filter coffee and unfiltered conversation in ever abundant supply.

An arched doorway leads into the bathroom, which holds a mirror to the rest of the home with its brooding walls and ceiling; Photography by Aaron Chapman

Below the mezzanine is a bathroom suite with an extended walk-in closet. The fittings are by Kohler, while the wardrobe and mirror are by Hanuman Suthar Carpenters. The louvred sliding door is a custom design by Dtale Modern; Photography by Aaron Chapman

For Aprameya, the jackfruit tree and mango tree, the friendly neighbours, the katte and the filter coffee are little hat-tips to his childhood, re-lived now through the eyes of his daughter. “It’s as if the decades in between just melted away—it’s life coming full circle,” he signs off with a smile.

A free-spirited home in Mumbai knits a Nordic design style crafted by Dhvani Shah Design Studio

The eventual feeling that wafts across a home after every nook of it has been designed and decorated is paramount – to the one designing as well as to the dweller. In a 1,300 sq ft apartment in Mumbai, a working mother with her teenage daughter sought a nest for themselves, resembling a similar feeling of coming back home. With a visibly modern but muted palette striking the sight, the space emerges from the depths of imagination of Dhvani Shah, Founder and Principal Designer of Dhvani Shah Design Studio.

“The Zen House is a special project for the studio, as we were required to bring the airiness, rusticity and serenity of the modern farmhouse style design to an apartment set in the cacophony of a lively city,” Dhvani divulges.

The symmetrical, neutral-toned room furnished by Bharat Furnishings exudes calmness. The artwork above the sofa crafted by Nimrat Narang complements the texture on the walls by Kemtex contrasting the texture of the flooring by Glitorium. The addition of a modern vase on the centre table by West Elm serves as an aesthetic piece giving a fresh perspective to the room. AA Living and West Elm cushions; Styled by Meetu Swani; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

The Nordic nuances

Encompassing a living room, dining area, kitchen, foyer, bar, study room, three bedrooms and ample storage spaces, the residence is always abuzz with a murmur of activity that chimes through the many spaces here. Underlined with a discernible Nordic style, the designer recalls, “As they host a lot of get-togethers, the family wanted the rooms to flow seamlessly into each other.”

The living room has artwork by Nimrat Narang against an Arava texture wall by Kemtex. The cushions are by AA Living and West Elm while the carpet is from Jaipur Rugs. The Black Steel wall lights adds character in the room. The vase on the centre table is also from West Elm. The flooring is laid out by Glitorium and the furnishings are by Bharat Furnishings; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

The seamless flow from the welcoming foyer designed by Stone Casa to the dining area, enhanced by an open kitchen facade with tiles from Glitorium. The design ensures that space is skillfully filled, leaving no noticeable void. The stunning chandelier by terra lighting in the foyer serves as a contemporary centrepiece; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

The concrete finish flooring in the kitchen is from Stone Casa while housing kitchen cabinets in shaker style in matt finish laminates; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

The bar has black matt PU shutters and a Bevelled mirror in brick format; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

Exploring Spaces…

Situated in the central suburbs of Mumbai, they designed an ‘open house’ which included an open kitchen, glass doors, french windows and a light-neutral tone set in the whole house which gives way for sunlight to reach each and every corner in this space.

“Air-conditioning this harmonious flow of spaces (living-dining-kitchen and study) was a major concern for the homeowners, which was solved by incorporating white aluminium and clear glass sliding doors to cut off the kitchen and foyer at one end, and sliding-folding doors to separate the study from the living on the other,” informs Dhvani.

The daughter’s bedroom boasts hints of blue amidst soothing neutral tones, accentuated by a blend of textures, from striped pillows, brick wall textures by Kemplex and concrete tiles by Glitorium. The pendant light by Hatsu adds charm; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

The painting by Nimrat Narang mirrors the design of the table’s drawers by West Elm; Photograph by Pulkit Sehgal

The study room has a wooden flooring by Ego while the door has a oak finish veneer. The storage is in a white matt finish PU; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

Serenity in neutrality

The entire area is surrounded by a soothing, neutral-toned ambiance, illuminated by abundant sunlight. The modern touch of the concrete floor complements the walls adorned in gratifying shades of beige, white, and black, resulting in an elated atmosphere. Acute green plants scattered throughout the space contribute to a charming farmhouse vibe. The home, however, does not settle to a continued sense of monotony. With a layered rustic canvas, the tones of cane and natural fabrics beautifully merge with wood, plywood and metal finishing.

The master bathroom stands out with its chequerboard floor tiles, white marble walls, and vibrant jade joviet green tiles from Glitorium, infusing the space with a distinct energy that sets it apart; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

“I loved designing the living space with an open kitchen and bar on the side with a study space. It gave a sense of so much openness and the space was utilised and connected so well,” reveals Dhvani. However, the narrative culminates with the significance of space, both to the client and the designer.

Also read: A whiff of macarons breezes across Pooja Dhingra’s Mumbai abode designed by Ravi Vazirani

Maison Twenty-Six: Aesthete Kiran Rao and luxury hospitality operator Luxunlock Private Villas transpire a French colonial manor of dreams in Pondicherry

One summer afternoon, curator Kiran Rao found herself in the “grande salon or formal living” of a charming 120-year-old historic garden house tucked away on a quiet street in the French Quarter of Pondicherry. “The salon stopped me in my tracks with its towering ceilings, original cornice work, green walls with maroon trims, and 20th-century Belgian floor tiles,” Kiran reminisces.

“I was in love, and the home reminded me of how interiors can conjure up a time and feeling,” she smiles. It was this exact feeling that led her to purchase the 4300 sq. ft home on a whim from the descendants of a wealthy Franco-Tamil merchant named Xavier Condappa.

A sloped Mangalore-tiled roof, classic checkered black and white floor tiles, and pockets of greenery form the entrance portico; Photographs by Vignesh Sivakumar

A vintage desk from Phillip Antiques Bombay is paired with an heirloom chair in the Madras suite
harking to the colonial era in Madras; Photographs by Vignesh Sivakumar

She wanted to craft a unique first-of-its-kind experience (a private rental villa) in Pondicherry – a time capsule that transports its visitors to the French colonial era. She collaborated with Ashish and Rucha Gupta, veteran travel consultants who run Luxunlock Private Villas, an initiative for discerning travellers to experience private homes across South India that tell a story while paying tribute to heritage, design and sustainability.

Kiran was determined to restore the colonial mansion without sacrificing its spirit, and she did so with the help of several agencies: Mr Nilesh M Thakkar, a seasoned restoration expert; Poorva Patel, a conservation architect who supervised the restoration and senior Intach members Arul and Abhhay Narkar based out of Pondicherry and Delhi respectively.

Large arch-shaped windows flood the Madras suite with light, which makes for an inviting, light bedroom. Heavily intricate mirrors and woodwork, four-poster from Calcutta and a dresser populate the suite. Colonial bedside lamps, tribal rugs of Gujarat origin from the Artisans Gallery, and art nouveau chests contribute to the layering in this suite; Photographs by Vignesh Sivakumar

The mansion was built on two levels, overlooking a lush courtyard profuse with mango trees, climbing tendrils, and native tropical plants, metaphorically representing the “Tree of Life”, a theme dominant in every bedroom suite. Winding slate pathways arrive at the verandah, which opens to reveal the “grande salon”, admittedly Kiran’s favourite spot in the home. Connected to the salon are two-bedroom suites that beckon you to relax and unwind. A cinnabar red suite was christened Indo-Chine suite in reference to the striking red accent wall and the former owner’s association with family-owned businesses in Saigon and Indo-China. Decorated with Chinese embroidery and chests, fragments from a headboard of a daybed acquired from an opium parlour give the room a heady Chinatown appeal.

The suites were named after British and French colonies across India: Indo-Chine Suite, Bengal Suite, Bombay and Madras Suites.

A pale green wallpaper designed by Toile Indienne founder Akila Seshasayee called the Dhanraj Mahal comes from their Bombay Art Deco Collection. Once the former residence of actress Zubeida Begum Dhanrajgir, the wallpaper design based on this Colaba landmark reimagines the pomp of its royal past. Decorated with campaign furniture, art deco framed beds, and vintage lamps hark to a nostalgic era; Photographs by Vignesh Sivakumar

The Bengal Suite, themed in Indigo blue, is filled with art and textiles from East India. A four- poster bed frames a chintz tree-of-life. Framed Kalighat paintings hang above the nightstands, and art deco mirrors help the room appear more spacious.

“I contemplated minimising the service block (kitchen, laundry and staff quarters) to create a larger garden but decided to disturb as little as possible and enhance the existing layout instead,” Kiran adds. A metal spiral staircase, another Pondicherry-esque feature that Kiran fell in love with, is located in the corner of the courtyard and leads to the Bombay and Madras Suites, both new additions.

The suite is decorated with colonial camping furniture sourced from Bombay. The Art Deco Bed and Mirrors were thrifted from Chor Bazaar. The space is accentuated with vintage mirrors from Bungalow 8 and a photograph of a Parsi couple by ZJM Exports | Sam Manekshaw Bombay; Photographs by Vignesh Sivakumar

“I retained the lime and mortar finish on the external walls but made structural modifications like adding metal rafters instead of wooden ones and painted them to match the interior, which was lighter and cost-effective additions,” she explains. Both suites have air-conditioned lounges and tiny balconies, ensuring a private, tranquil spot. The suites are connected to a verandah – a large covered sit-out where lazy afternoons are spent reading a book or enjoying a hot coffee.

Kiran puts her decorating expertise to good use in the Bombay and Madras suites. “The more layered a room is, the more relaxed it feels. A space needs to be like a person you’d like to get to know, which means it must be interesting and have history and background. A melange of antiques and contemporary furniture has been put together in a happy mishmash of styles that Kiran explains reflects the two decades she has spent decorating and crafting artistic experiences.

The Cinnabar red extends into the bath area. Polished red cement wraps around the wall and the tub. A pale green vintage cabinet is repurposed into a vanity; Photographs by Vignesh Sivakumar

A mint green Dhanraj Mahal wallpaper (from the Bombay Art Deco collection) is an abstract reimagination of a legacy Colaba landmark. The suite is decorated with Campaign furniture, period Parsi pieces, Picchwai, and dated photographs that take you back to Bombay’s heyday. Hand sketches by Harry Hancock, famous for mapping Madras and paintings by Rekha Rodwittiya related to Philomena De Condappa, a pianist from the Condappa family, adorn the Madras suite.

Kiran’s love for maximalism and crafting layered interiors based on history underpins this home. Lovingly restored by its current owner, Kiran Rao, Maison Twenty-Six went on to win the prestigious Vieilles Maisons Francaises (VMF) award for preserving French architectural heritage, a rare honour for houses outside France. “The house captured the essence of Pondicherry in a certain era, and I wanted to retain that sentiment while giving the home a second life,” she concludes.

Maison Twenty-Six welcomes guests and can be booked as individual rooms or as a whole villa rental for intimate family or forum retreats. Book with LuxUnlock Private Villas.