Wood and white come together to work wonders in this home crafted by the Alkove-Design. Rendering this space with a warm and comforting farmhouse aesthetic, principal architectsNinada B Kashyap and Komal Mittal celebrate all things natural.
Incorporating creamy ivory, dusky pink and soft grey-blue into the palette, this duplex three-BHK in Pune creates a cosy and familiar space that fosters productivity and growth. The brief involved in the project made it imperative for the designers to plan a space with the least dependency on the outside world.
“Imagine a steaming mug of hot chocolate on a winter day, an afternoon spent curled up in a reading corner, afternoon tea in old-fashioned china teacups accompanied by big slices of homemade lemon cake. The Rohan Mithila house was designed to evoke this imagery—a symphony in wood, brick and soft pastel colours, made to create a sense of comfort and joy in a multifunctional space,” shares Kashyap.
A.A. Memon wall art featuring wall plates alter the landscape of the space, making it look remarkable; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
A multi-faceted space in which the inhabitants could live, work, exercise, eat, spend their leisure time, and host small social gatherings, became the core idea behind the design brief.
Decked up on Asian Paints wall paint is mirror from Alkove Design that complements the subtlety of Altrove cushions and fireplace stone from Rangoli Cera Tiles; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
Forming a great first impression, the main wall of the entrance lobby displays a curated collection of vintage English plates in shades of blue and white. The passage leads into the lower floor of the apartment, which houses the living room, kitchen, terrace bar, and reading room.
The woody tones add a rustic statement to this dining space; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
The living room opens into a large terrace space with a designated seating area. As part of the client’s special request, an old-fashioned manor house-style bar graces the terrace.
These stunning comfy chairs facing the dining table mark the striking quality of the space; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
Done entirely in white, with brick tiling along the counter walls to suggest a cottagelike interior, the kitchen island, with vintage hanging lamps over it, demarcates the dining area from the rest of the living space.
Glistening in white shade, the kitchen cabinets emanate the most trending contemporary look; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
A quaint hooded chimney in true farmhouse style and a feature wall mounted with a quirky art installation completes this friendly and functional kitchen.
This perfectly decorated bedroom tend to calm nerves and offer peace, alongside fan from Atomberg; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
Divine and fine fittings shape the beauty of this washroom; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
The last room on the lower floor is a guest bedroom and library, decorated in shades of black and white. One section of the room contains a bed and serves as a guest bedroom. A chandelier hanging above the reading corner finishes this unique and multifunctional room.
Muted yet balanced shades and colours shape the simplicity of this space; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
A staircase with wooden balusters, running beside a white wall papered with light golden stripes, leads to the upper floor. The upper floor in the original structure only housed two bedrooms. However, the double-height space adjacent to the bedrooms was judiciously used by team Alkove to extend the upper floor.
A well put together reading and relaxing nook feels magical in cool tones of beige; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
With Jaguar installation and black Sonal Tiles, the hanging light from Blue Rays and Aquant River stone basin seem to be a flawless fit; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
This extra space was used to incorporate a fully equipped mirror-lined gym and a dedicated office space. “The thrum of activity and productive energy is concentrated in this one space and does not spill over into the peace and restfulness of the rest of the house, making a work-life balance possible even while working from home,” further divulges Mittal.
Only excellent and essential elements adorn this bedroom with grace; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
With wooden flooring and a pretty wallpaper, the kid’s bedroom looks classic; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
Soothing white and olive green hues adorn the primary bedroom, which can be accessed through the gym through sliding louvre doors. However, the kid’s bedroom emerges as the clear winner in terms of visual appeal. The highlight in her room is a ballet barre with a mirror backdrop for her to practice ballet at home and have the necessary space and arrangements for online ballet classes, thus keeping in accordance with utility.
Rest and chill under this fabricated roof that is adorned with Mangalore Tiles; Styled by Surbhi Mahajan, Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
“Country roads, take me home, to the place I belong”, these lyrics from John Denver’s legendary song fit beautifully with the aesthetics of this home.
Founder and interior designer of A square designs, Ajay Arya not only flamboyantly designed this penthouse, but also dramatically summarises the needs of the owners in every corner of this home. Arya’s idea of design seamlessly clinches the theatrics of palette and patterns, ensuring that the dichotomy between contrast and brightness reverberates throughout the penthouse.
Spread across 5,000 sq ft carpet area, this penthouse designed by Ajay Arya of A square designs is situated at high-end Orbit Victoria Condominium in Kolkata. Cascading down the interiors is a theme of contemporary luxury that enriches the exquisite look of the penthouse. From iconic international brands to majestic aesthetics, every feature in this penthouse balances the other.
Open to pleasing views of Kolkata, each space has been structured in a manner that the interiors at times outweigh the beauty that lies outside. Sometimes, the finesse exuding from the Pratul Dash painting that has been put up in the living room competes with the warmth of the setting sun outside. And at other times, wall panelings like the one in the worship area that features Kashmiri embroidery done on pashmina, amplifies the diverse faiths our country believes in.
A Pratul Dash painting catches the eye, alongside a majestic chandelier from Barovier & Toso that illuminates the living room with a golden glow; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
The double-height living space is a true showcase of contemporary luxury at its regal best; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Plenty of extraordinary textures elevate the aura of the living area; Photographs by Atul; Pratap Chauhan
With a beautifully designed ceiling and furniture from Turri, this wall panelling in the dining area hides storage for crockery; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
The colour palette further keeps the contemporary luxury theme of the penthouse grounded. Most of the vibrant colours emerge from the exotic natural stones used for the flooring and wall panelling, from the fabrics of the furniture as in the Etro sofas in the family lounge on the top floor, and the gorgeous wall coverings from Glamora, JJ Valaya and Ochre at Home. To mute these hefty hues, subtle shades of Sarin Colin marble from France for flooring in the living and dining, and customised wooden floorings from Zonta Mobili and Foglie d’Oro for bedrooms and lounge create a balanced colour composition.
The ornate design of the wallpaper, along with the dramatic hanging light, creates a show-stopping feature; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Maintaining an even distribution of contrast, a diverse range of wall panelings and wallpapers have been incorporated to spin beauty with multifaceted crafts. The staircase wall has panelling in a neutral colour, while the landing wall features stunning Jamevar wallpaper from Glamora.
The sofas and lounge chair near the TV unit are from Turri; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Another wall in the family lounge area is accented with intricate wooden detailing and brass inserts, showcasing how decor choices can be mindfully put together. Speaking of mindfulness, Arya’s favourite spot in the house is the first floor family lounge area and bar. As this is the space which he feels has been perfectly curated. “I enjoyed designing the lounge on the upper floor the most. Employing the exclusive flooring, curating furniture from Etro and putting together décor pieces to achieve an exquisite look was all fun,” he shares.
Quirky elements like the centre tables from Cornelio Cappellini are in control of this space; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Also, one of the fascinating aspects about this penthouse is that it illustrates at length the vast scope, which interior designing encompasses. As Arya adds, “Interior design has been borrowing influences from classic textiles and motifs, which is evident in some of the wall décor and furniture that we have used.”
The straight line design, simple profile handles, gleaming Caesarstone counter, give it a very sophisticated look. The appliances are from Siemens; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chuhan
Further, Arya’s design style exudes effortlessness. How mildly yet with flair, he composes a kitchen that comprises sleek and swanky styles, enhanced by black and off-white tones.
The primary bedroom is done up in an elegant light colour scheme embellished with a Jagannath Paul painting; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Keeping the composure of colours intact, the primary bedroom has been adorned with the best staples like bed and side tables from Roberto Cavalli Home. “The primary bedroom is done up in an elegant light colour scheme embellished with a Jagannath Paul painting. The adjoining expansive terrace is done up with a wooden deck and some outdoor furniture. This place offers views of both the North and South side of Kolkata,” states Arya.
The multipurpose cabinet beneath the TV enhances the value of the space, making it a clutter-free one; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Bed and side tables by Fendi Casa and flooring by Foglie d’Oro; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chahuhan
Moving on to the son’s bedroom—a narrative thrives in the abstract geometric designs on the wall, narrating the persona of the son through shades of blue, grey and brown.
A bed with high headboard and lots of throw cushions, symbolise the delight in this bedroom; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chahuhan
Again, dominating the daughter’s bedroom is a wall that has a gallery of her favourite music brands. To add charm to her interests, Arya has chosen colours like peach, teal, blue and light green.
Scroll down to catch a few more glimpses of this penthouse!
Crisp tones and textures give rise to an element of firmness in this bathroom; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
The quirky textures of the wall beautifully complement the veneer finish on the door; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
An outstanding interpretation of darkness is represented by the bold patterns, embellishing the bathroom; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
From the setting to accessories, everything in this bathroom exhibits sophistication; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Ornamenting this bathroom are aesthetic cabinets that complement the textures and patterns of the walls; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Big, bold and evocative—this residence crafted by founders and interior designers of Beyond DesignsSachin and Neha Gupta rekindles opulence. Sprawling over 7,500 sq ft, it fosters an indistinguishable decor statement just like the city of lakes, Udaipur.
Sticking to their signature style of designing uber luxe interiors, Beyond Designs have explored distinct possibilities with a plethora of materials, colours, patterns and textures. Meticulously detailed elaborate wall and ceiling decorations are a regular occurrence in this two storeyed home.
“The client was familiar with our design style. He wanted a richly detailed, contemporary luxury home with regal touches, so he approached us to design it. While discussing the scope of the project, we gauged his sensibilities and felt that he was looking at modern and sophisticated palatial living. And that’s what we have created—a home decorated with uniquely intricate details, art and craft,” shares Neha.
The console table and the chairs custom designed by Beyond Designs stay true to its style of layered details; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Perfectly crafted pillars and exquisite partition screens celebrate Beyond Designs’ signature style; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
What ties this home together is its largely neutral backdrop replete with bold and saturated colours in the foreground, thus standardising it to suit a contemporary aesthetic. From wood, brass, glass, crystal, cane, a medley of materials induce a rich and sophisticated environment.
Dangling delicately from the ceiling, this dazzling chandelier steals the spotlight amidst other well-thought details of tinted glass vases, brass candle holders; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
An entrance lobby decorated with a splendid chandelier and a painting on the opposite wall marks the inception of this abode. The dining and formal living areas on the right host several custom designed furniture pieces by Beyond Designs. A wooden screen in white creates privacy between the entrance lobby and dining, while a softly curved arch separates it from the living room.
The majestic marble inlay dining table and elegant upholstered chairs live up to the grandeur of this palatial home; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Moving towards the left of the entrance lobby, an informal living area and three bedrooms adorn the space. While the informal living area is a rich space with wooden panelling on the walls, the primary suite on the other hand imparts an old-world charm with cane-panelled walls.
The terrace powder room enchants with show-stopper features – a delicate chandelier and the intricately crafted tiles adding a quaint charm; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
The children’s bedrooms in this home are a departure from the glamorous interiors. Fun wallpapers, interesting artworks and accessories dominate the areas while addressing functional needs like attached dressers and washrooms.
The chic leather bar stools tailor made by Beyond Designs complement the setting perfectly; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
Luxury living takes an enthralling turn as one moves on the top floor—a lift lobby, terrace bar and lounge, a pergola which further leads to a massage room and a powder room render the home an ultra modern demeanour.
Twin crystal chandeliers and artworks by Beyond Designs Home highlight a spectacular entertainment arena; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
The decorative ceiling in a dark shade and black flooring add to the allure of the bar, while the cluster of pendant lights adds a dazzling note; Photographs by Atul Pratap Chauhan
“This residence is a fine example of a home defined with regal details and art—a trend that is fast catching up with people who want to be surrounded by comfortable and functional spaces inspired from our rich past,” concludes Sachin.
If this magnificent residence had you glued to your screens, you must check out this opulent Odisha villa by KNS Architects
What connoisseurs look forward to from a restaurant experience boils down to good food with great ambience, and attractive interiors. The foundation of a restaurant’s design is built on its concept—from the colour scheme to furniture choices, its aesthetics drive the restaurant’s footfall. Another modern-day necessity stems from the obsession of the millennials with Instagram-worthy decor. Fret not, #EDPicks 7 restaurants that not only promise great food, but also document worthy escapades—
Anglo Indian Cafe by Beacon Associates and the Le Sutra Hospitality Group; Photographs by Saachi Jhaveri Shah
Located in the heart of one of the most beautiful areas of Lonavala/Khandala, Anglo Indian Cafe is just 45 minutes away from the start of the Mumbai—Pune Expressway at Panvel.
Anglo Indian Cafe by Beacon Associates and the Le Sutra Hospitality Group; Photographs by Saachi Jhaveri Shah
Project partners Beacon Associates and the Le Sutra Hospitality Group designed this cafe with the aim to provide a culinary experience, extending flair for food and vibrant ambiance. Accessible world-class food is also one of them. As you walk through the gates, you’re welcomed into a whimsical bistro with a European feel and the hills as your backdrop.
Interior designer Amneet Mirpuri designed this space, keeping in mind ‘a timeless effect’. The most prominent decor are the large white colonial pillars, the rustic blue Mediterranean-inspired floor tiles overlooking a lush green mountain. “Creating small nooks and corners has been the highlight of the space,” expressed Mirpuri.
From a day at breakfast, basking in the sun and the breeze from the hills, to an evening enjoying a candlelit dinner with your loved ones, the space is catered for any type of occasion, celebratory or intimate. “Our aesthetic interiors complement the wholesome cuisines we serve at the cafe. So come, join us for some “feel-good vibes” while you indulge in our authentic and delicious preparations by the hills,” cheered Mirpuri.
Driven by the desire to bring fresh, indulgent and gourmet food offerings to Mumbai’s Peddar Road, co-founders Priyal Shah and Raj Shah bring you Gourmet To Go. This new space, located at the iconic New Kampala Service Station (BPCL Petrol Pump), doubles as a convenience store and take-away cafe. From daily essentials and nutritious snacks to gourmet picks and to-go cooked meals, this pure vegetarian store offers it all. Patrons can also pick up freshly-brewed coffee and other beverages, healthy and indulgent desserts, apart from grocery staples like grains, handpicked homegrown products and plenty more.
Gourmet To Go; Photograph courtesy Gourmet To Go
To bring forward the brand’s core philosophy – that of delivering fresh, healthy, gourmet food, Shah designed the store with black-and-white tiles and smooth wooden shelves, interspersed with pops of yellow. “We built Gourmet To Go with one simple thought – to sell only those products that we ourselves would consume. Besides, there weren’t enough eateries in the neighbourhood that offered healthy yet indulgent meals.,” highlighted Shah.
On the cafe menu, you will find all-day breakfast bowls, Indian bowls, Asian bowls and a fresh selection of appetizers, freshly-brewed coffee & other beverages, and desserts. The good news: they cater to everyone from vegetarians and vegans to gluten-intolerant, lactose-intolerant, and consumers preferring Jain food preparations. “Owing to our location, our store is the perfect fit for working professionals, morning joggers or those looking for a quick snack while their vehicles fuel up,” insisted Shah.
Klap by Amit Aurora, Partner GroupDCA; Photographs by Niveditaa Gupta
Staying true to the nostalgia Khan Market evokes, the 3,600 sq ft Klap is adorned in maximalist design with modern interiors to adapt to the changing demands of today’s consumers. Being an intimate space, the restaurant is an amalgamation of two different worlds—a cosy meeting point serving up bespoke drinks and quick Asian bites, and a little corporate escapism. A fantastic venue for those in need of a spot of brunch, dinner or even just casual drinks, the different range of seating techniques complement the various user demands.
Lighting is skilfully integrated, providing ambient illumination and design interest, while creating an atmosphere of relaxation. Layered with the natural afternoon light, it creates an uplifting and energising effect.
Custom terrazzo floors add a splash of colours, serving as inspiration for the entire décor of the restaurant. It brings in playfulness as the beautiful colour palette is reflected in the mirrors carefully placed on the ceiling, creating a vintage romance. Additionally, mirrors are aesthetically placed to complement the slender profile of the restaurant and add up to a mosaic effect, creating an illusory depth of space.
Brought to India in collaboration with the CK Israni Group, world -famous French luxury confectionary brand Ladurée is located at Khan Market, New Delhi. A beautiful classic interior is crafted with a refined style of Maison Ladurée. The ground floor is dedicated for all French patisserie, macarons, other delicacies and a luxurious dine-in setup for a great Ladurée experience.
The menu of the Salon includes the classic desserts from Maison Ladurée, comprising famous 13 great flavours of their classic macarons besides candies, teas and other sweet spreads.
All the traditional sweets & desserts available to try at the Salon can also be ordered as take aways or to order for festive seasons, weddings or private functions.
Bringing the much-needed green supply to our everyday diet, Seeds of Life has launched its second outlet in Juhu with beautiful aesthetics and cozy ambiance making it the perfect place for a refreshing and nutritious meal. This newly launched ‘Green Cafe’ embarks on a new beginning with comforting interiors designed by Sumessh Menon -one of the ace hospitality interior designers.
The concept of conscious food has encouraged the creation of a delicious new menu serving wholesome goodness with exciting recipes like Sweet Potato and Mint soup, with Hawaiian Pesto Salad and Mezze Platter, to the tastiest smoothie bowls like the Ocean Bowl along with classic sandwiches and burgers that are abundant with all the vegan and gluten-free ingredients; providing healthy food at a great price.
Keeping minimalism and freshness in mind, Sumessh has surrounded the cafe with green accents and natural sunlight, bringing a refreshing dining experience.
Café Panama by Salonee Kothari of Studio SKO; Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
Spread across 3500 square foot, Café Panama is an all day café and bar situated in the heart of the city, Todi Mills – Lower Parel. Staying true to its name, the design aesthetic is a blended mix of tropical, bright and breezy with art deco lamps, velvet fabrics, terrazzo table tops, cane furniture and tall plants. Using two different forms of flooring (B&W tiles and wooden slats), the focal point of the restaurant is the bar – cladded in super glazed bottle green ceramic tiles with brass detailing, and a cluster of hanging cane lights with creepers sitting above.
Café Panama by Salonee Kothari of Studio SKO; Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
The 30 feet tall, glass ceiling open to the Bombay skyline, pours in natural light all day thus brightening up the space. The brainchild of Sohel Lalwani and Shaam Gidwani, this restaurant serves up a mix of European and Latin American flavours along with some special additions such as breakfast food, pastas, flat breads and more can be found on the menu too.
The existing big red brick wall has been retained to exude an old mill charm. Certainly, this restaurant’s vibe is vibrant, warm and easy going.
The Sassy Spoon by Rachel Goenka, founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spoon Company; Photographs courtesy The Sassy Spoon
Carrying forward the bling signage from its Powai outpost, the stunning ‘Kiss My Sass’ board is the first to greet you upon entering this resto-bar and would be definitely your first spot to click a picture. The Sassy Spoon, located at Nariman Point, Mumbai, is all set to welcome diners with a new and vibrant look. This look has been created by founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spoon Company, Rachel Goenka and is observed as the flagship outpost being an award-winning resto-bar.
The Sassy Spoon by Rachel Goenka, founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spoon Company; Photographs courtesy The Sassy Spoon
Goenka’s revamp manifests memories . As the new decor illustrates a journey, which has been traversed over the past eight years. “Our flagship outpost at Nariman Point is all sassed up with its vibrant new interiors and exciting new menu. We want our guests to have something new to look forward to and to enjoy a delightful experience when they visit The Sassy Spoon,” adds Goenka.
The Sassy Spoon by Rachel Goenka, founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spoon Company; Photographs courtesy The Sassy Spoon
The Sassy Spoon by Rachel Goenka, founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spoon Company; Photographs courtesy The Sassy Spoon
The vast array of new dishes includes flatbreadslike Mexicanflatbread, Three Cheese flatbread and Crispy Chicken Flatbread. You can pair your drinks with assortment of small plateslike Mushroom olivepate on cheese burst brioche with truffle oil, Whole wheat tortilla with hummus, falafel and tzatziki, Sweet and spicy Caribbean jerk style pork tart with melted camembert, and Soft shell saffron tacos with braised tenderloin, mushrooms and sour cream. Some exquisite additions to their mainsincludeVegetable ramen in an aromatic coconut broth with kaffir lime, exotic vegetables and togarashi, Grilled cottage cheese steak with paprika corn cream and herb rice, Teriyaki tofu with shiitake mushrooms and more!
Heirloom pieces inherited from client Rajeela and Shrinivas Bhat’s ancestors paved the way to the design philosophy of this beautiful Bengaluru home designed by Vedanth Design Studio. Situated on Outer Ring Road, the home has a beautiful pillar sourced from Puducherry adding character to the space, along with traditional architecture seen through teak furniture pieces, colourful heritage tiles and heirloom pieces passed down from generations.
Displaying hints of the Chettinadu style of home décor this three-bedroom apartment is spread across 1800 sq ft. “Since the client had seen one of my previous projects (a Chettinadu Style inspired Villa), they were confident about my design instincts and gave me a free hand,” reveals Nehal Shanghavi, interior designer at the Bengaluru based design studio.
The home screams neo-traditional, “That’s very me,” says Shanghavi. The kitchen is clad in shades of white and grey, fixed in subway tiles, stainless steel appliances, white quartz countertops, quartz island and contemporary light fixtures. While the 110-year-old teak desk beautified by generations old antiques and artefacts reflect a sense of nostalgia.
Laminated wooden flooring by Pergo complements the custom made TV cabinet atop it, alongside elevating the refinement of an heirloom rattan chair and window treatments from Floating Walla; Photographs by Nayan Soni
On the Imperial Knots rug perched gracefully is a custom made brass drum stool. Similarly, accessories like a planter from Studio Palaza and the Fabindia brass tea light lamp, stowed against the Asian Paints Nilaya wallpaper adds to the charm of the room; Photographs by Nayan Soni
“I love the warmth that wood and rattan introduce to any space and the drama and interest that metal and greens create,” shares Shanghavi. Material play is depicted in the oval hardwood TV cabinet with hints of rattan combined with very modern planters from Studio Plaza and a hammered brass coffee table in the foreground showcases Shanghavi’s signature style.
Custom made bedding set against a surreal Asian Paints Nilaya wallpaper enhances the austerity of accessories like a floor lamp and spotlights from IKEA India and wooden frames from Wooden street; Photographs by Nayan Soni
A host of IKEA India decor additions like the study chair, memo board, wall clock, table lamp, table clock and white wall frames binds this kid’s bedroom with acute minimalism; Photographs by Nayan Soni
Tones of custom made wooden desk and cabinet twin with the Pergo laminated wooden flooring, establish a companionship with a pencil holder from The Freedom Tree; Photographs by Nayan Soni
The kid’s bedroom also nods to contemporary design. “Yes, we managed to pull it off—bringing down space to a little boy’s room, who is fascinated by stars and planets,” shares Shanghavi. The alluring wallpaper from Asian Paints steals the show in this room and transports us right into space!
Below the Cloth & Canvas wall art, to top the finesse of the custom made hardwood sideboard are stone marble artifact from The Purple Turtles and Gulmohar Lane table lamp, alongside brassia plant from Make My Garden; Photographs by Nayan Soni
This pillar from Geetanjali, Pondicherry, marks the distinctiveness of the space; Photographs by Nayan Soni
The highlights of the home according to Shanghavi is the relic desk that tells a story against the bare brick wall. “Few books were almost a hundred years old. The little brass stationary holder (that belonged to my client’s grandmother) and the old world switch box evokes nostalgia to the library corner,” shares Shanghavi. Numerous books, ranging from The Pride & Prejudice (1920) and The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (1939) that belonged to the client’s great grandparents are carefully arranged in the home.
The Kohler kitchen faucet fitted against backsplash Ceramique Tiles bring forth a sublime contrast, alongside the chic Kaff chimney; Photographs by Nayan Soni
Also, the large island with antique teak legs, bragging away the lovely grey and white modern kitchen in the backdrop is an appealing design. Speaking of the most challenging design, Shanghavi elates, “The oversized kitchen island was probably the most challenging but eventually the most satisfying design element in the space. It was more like a happy chance.”
On Pergo laminated wooden flooring are tall rattan chairs from Aanai Studio, accentuating the woody aesthetic of the space; Photographs by Nayan Soni
Further adding that the client wasn’t too keen on having a formal dining space for two reasons, “Space constraints, since the pillar bit into a share of the walking space around the dining area and having a six seater dining would make the room feel very cramped.” Besides, “as a brahmin family, most elders in the clients house used the mani (low wooden stool) to have their food on and we had to make room for that,” she says.
Interestingly, the initial idea was to have a folding dining table on the wall where the sideboard is currently fixed. It can be opened and used occasionally when need arises or when guests arrive. However, it did not seem like a viable option both in terms of design aesthetics and functionality. And so, “After some contrivance, we came up with the idea of having an oversized island which also serves as a dining table, consisting of five seats (three rattan tall chairs and two stools),” informs Shanghavi.
Decorated by a table clock, a table lamp and a bookend, all from Fabindia make for an aesthetic nook. The Brick Store brick wall, an Amazon India retro switch and the Home Artisan wall art adds to the elegance, alongside a black planter from The House of Things; Photographs by Nayan Soni
“The little library nook is hands down the space I enjoyed designing the most,” shares Shanghavi elaborating on how naturally and organically the nook came together. Fascinatingly, “the 110-year-old teak desk felt like it belonged there,” says the designer. The floating shelves that adorn the brick wall were upcycled from an old teak unit that had fallen apart, exhibiting a curio camera, a collector’s piece.
Adorning this dining area are a series of furnishings like Aanai Studio rattan chairs, island countertop from Quartz and an Heirloom wooden cabinet. To fine-tune the top of the cabinet, stowed are barnis from Amazon India & Heirloom; Photographs by Nayan Soni
Overall, the color palette of the home is mostly earthy and warm. Showcased through various heirloom teak wood and cane woven furniture, an antique pillar, rafters and the custom made brick wall. Moreover, colorful rugs, hand painted wall art pieces, brass accents and fresh greens, not only accentuate the complete look of the space but are also instrumental in breaking the monotony of the earthy tones. Aren’t you loving this modern take on contemporary design? Because we surely are!
Office interiors are being looked at with an all-new lens all over the world. While the changes had begun pre-pandemic, the event itself sped up the trajectory. The graveness of a healthy work-life balance seems to have finally dawned upon office managements!
To lift the bane of dingy, impersonal cubicles with cool, bright and inspiring work desks, Elle Decor India brings you a list of cool offices to offer inspiration to spruce up yours. Boxy, monochromatic, copy-and-paste office spaces are shenanigans of the past. It’s time to make way for new, exciting and inviting workplaces.
B-Hive 11 by Studio Bipolar; Photographs by Anmol Wahi
Who said fun, bright-toned spaces are reserved just for cafes? A colourful co-working space, the B-Hive 11 by Studio Bipolar—co-founded by Sanjana Mathur and Ujjwal Sagar—adopts invigorating shades and graphics to keep the employees’ spirit up and high. The office can be described best as a space created for the young by the young!
B-Hive 11 by Studio Bipolar; Photographs by Anmol Wahi
An open HVAC system rendered bright yellow, and walls with words of encouragement juxtapose furniture and flooring patterns in warm wood accompanied by novel lighting fixtures in the space. The conference room is lively with birdcage chandeliers and a faux-plant ceiling.
The Saplings Creations office by Artystry is a perfect example of vividity meeting subtlety. Light-toned timber furniture paired with pastel shades of green line the interiors of the office. Cosy break-out spaces, irregularly-lined workstations, and randomly placed dual-toned pouffes giveaway the creative nature of the work at the digital studio.
An innovative feature in the office is a cushioned-top, curved piece of furniture that is a perfect rest for your back while standing to have a conversation with your workmate. It sponsors small talk but also slyly reminds one that they are away from their desk!
Office by Tatvam Concepts; Photograph courtesy Inclined Studio
Oozing undisputable hippie and bohemian vibes is this office designed by Sakshi Arora Poddar, proprietor and principal designer of Tatvam Concept. A wooden bench and black-and-white patterned tiles greet you in the entrance hallway of the studio, acquainting you with the upcoming vibe.
Office by Tatvam Concepts; Photograph courtesy Inclined Studio
An eye-catching black-and-white mural of a woman on a partition made of timber slats separates the intimate co-working space from the main cabin. The magic happens when the large painting splits into two sliding shutters to become the door to the cabin!
Home Office by The ChalkWhite Home; Photographs by Rohan Dayal
The onset of the ‘work-from-home’ situations made employees gleeful until they realised they actually had to work from home without the resources present at their offices. Home offices, since then, have become rampant. This fuss-free, minimal office by Nikita Mahajan in a Delhi home gives Pintresty vibes!
Home Office by The ChalkWhite Home; Photographs by Rohan Dayal
Doused in white—with flirty greens and beige accents—the room makes an excellent case of an inspiring and quiet environment. Illuminated by sunrays, on account of being located on the third floor, the design is a classier version of the boho vibe.
Dental Clinic by Ketaki Poonawala; Photographs by Hemant Patil
Although clinics are dreaded destinations for most, they also happen to be offices for doctors. Such spaces have to employ faint shades to ensure the areas are clean, but that does not mean they cannot be fused creatively with other elements. This dental office by Ketaki Poonawaala makes use of natural materials and flora to do so.
Dental Clinic by Ketaki Poonawala; Photographs by Hemant Patil
To imbue liveliness, plants fringe the waiting area and passages. A deck with raw wooden furniture and a crowd of plants smear the line between outside and inside. Even the windows, which have been specially widened, are accented with greens. Further, tropical fabrics and a grey and wooden colour palette enhance tranquillity. The clinic casually emanates a mid-century modern design language with cornices, wainscoting and bevelled glass partitions.
Coffee Bite by Studio KE Architects; Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
Aspiring to be as refreshing as the first sip of a cup of coffee, Coffee Bite by Studio KE Architects employs local materials and artisans to evoke clarity and wholesomeness in the design. Terrazzo flooring and concrete wall finishes impart a sense of nostalgia to the space, much like the name of the office inspired by the infamous toffee,
Coffee Bite by Studio KE Architects; Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
Coffee Bite by Studio KE Architects; Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
Elements like a blackboard and bamboo-woven seat backrests and door panels transport you to a simpler era. However, the theme of the space does not distract. Instead, its simplicity renders it personal and austere.
Coffee Bite by Studio KE Architects; Photographs by Pulkit Sehgal
Dextrus’ quaint and contemporary office space in Lower Parel is all set to welcome employees from different sectors to work together. The picturesque interiors place the early days of Bombay’s textile supremacy in the lap of a contemporary context.
The subtle use of textiles throughout the space hint at the significance of being located in the same compound which housed the iconic Morarjee Mills. What could be more inspiring than working in a space that was once a centre point of success? Custom art pieces such as thread work on paper by Shamika Desai from Baked Chaplin and large windows sponsoring ample daylight line the space.
With rapid globalisation, design languages are emerging out of borrowing attributes from one another. It’s not an all-bad predicament at all; however, an office that flaunts its Indian context is certainly refreshing. This office for Concept International Business Consulting Pvt. Ltd by Viaanca Interiors imbues workspaces with a calming atmosphere by adopting earthy material and colour palette accompanied by Indian characteristics.
Office for Concept International Business Consulting Pvt. Ltd by Viaanca Interiors; Photographs by Anmol Wahi
Alongside, walnut-hued wood veneer panellings with contemporary vertical grooves, the framed wallpaper from Sabyasachi Nilaya with quintessential Indian motifs in muted shades of indigo, mustard and brick-red and fabric panellings with distinguishing Indian patterns such as the paisley adorned the walls of the office fusing the formal nature of offices with the vibrance of the country’s context.
A home that brings alive the personality of its dwellers without compromising on superlative touches of decor and interiors is always bound to catch the eye. Interior designer Tejal Mathur of her practice Tejal Mathur Design deftly translated this secret recipe of success in this Juhu home designed for a family of three.
Dubbed Neev and The Monsoon Terrace that spans 3,500 sq ft, this home is built across two floors. The first level houses the family home, while the second level generously accommodates an indoor entertainment zone and a breezy, open terrace with arresting views of the Arabian Sea that skirts maximum city from three sides.
The family’s brief was simple, innocently underlined with the only demand to build their own identity through this home. The young couple with a three-year-old daughter entrusted Mathur to concoct their homely dreams dominated by the warmth of teak woods, the modernity of cement walls and the eccentricity of pattern floors with splashes of Indian karigari. And, so she did.
The solid, grey cement walls and foliage outside peep indoors, a cosy space that is done up with warm-toned wood, candle-lit lanterns and an eye-catching pair of wood-carved sea urchins; Photographs by Photographix
The dark grey sofa and marble coffee table by KKD Studio play between the cold and warm moods of the Mumbai downpour; Photographs by Photographix
The home fashions a renewed energy as the structures here have been rejigged to synchronise the space with the outdoor vantage views. What was initially a narrow foyer was remodelled into soft archways to subtly contour the walls.
Playing hide and seek with your sights, the space opens up to an inner foyer to your right, finally leading to the living room, which is fringed with accordion-style charcoal screens that veils the optionally open kitchen area. Embracing a tonal palette dominated with grey, black, white in the living area, the space brings a slice of nostalgic monsoon indoors.
Tejal Mathur has employed furniture pieces that are equally functional and flattering, characterised by their fresh and mellow colour palette; Photographs by Photographix
A sensorial calm engulfs you when you step inside the bedroom outfitted with polished teak wood walls; Photographs by Photographix
The stream of textural overlaps inundates the many corners of the home with a playful variation. But, the balance is such that it never overpowers the basic essence and mood of the space, which can aptly be described as slow paced yet modernly upbeat.
Most of the decor elements at Neev and The Monsoon Terrace scream the beauty of made-in-India crafts. The bedroom is dressed up with an attractive interplay of lustrous wood punched on the walls, hints of linen and jute, a metallic dresser from Dotto: Objects of Curiosity and an alluring artwork from Calcuttan. The eyes also catch the clever integration of different styles of door flaps—in copper, teakwood and charcoal tones—one of the signature interior elements in Mathur’s works.
Turning to this corner of the home, one finds a well-planned storage space that is resourceful and refined at the same time; Photographs by Photographix
A finely laid out Kerala-style sit out overlooks the lush foliage around bringing an al fresco mood to the Monsoon Terrace; Photographs by Photographix
Not an afterthought or a complimentary zone, the monsoon terrace is conceived as a cardinal part of the home, speckled with black limestone floors and asphalt-hued walls that stand tall, come rain or shine (literally!) A staircase lined up with garden hares exposes a joyful string of dense foliage, champa flowers further elevate the beautifully laid out kerala-style sit out and the specially sourced pillars from Kerala.
A chandelier by Arjun Rathi dangles above the Riverrat poker table by KKD Studio, complemented with beautiful wall plates by Gulmohar Lane; Photographs by Photographix
A staircase connects Neev with the Monsoon Terrace, flanked with lightweight concrete panels that lend a visual edginess to the space that just cannot go unnoticed; Photographs by Photographix
A confluence of barefoot living and architectural dexterity, the Monsoon Terrace is an unrestricted, tropical world of its own, contrasted with an urban-themed recreational indoor zone with a long bar, large screens and furniture for poker and game buffs to revel in. A clever exchange of textures between the concrete walls and the wooden roof is further interrupted with the intersection of an exposed pipe above and a cement pattern floor below.
Descending back to the first level, Neev, alongside the master and daughter’s bedroom, there is a hidden door beyond a concrete mural of ‘hands that bind’ by Craft Beton that navigates to a scenic, windowed walkway along the guest and powder room.
Marble inlay flooring adorns the bathroom rivalled with dark grey marble cabinets and countertop washbasin by Kreoo; Photographs by Photographix
A vintage mailbox in the vestibule exhibits handpainted lettering of ‘Neev’ done in mustard tones. This narrow foyer further guides you to the inner foyer of the home; Photographs by Photographix
The framed Concrete hands by Craft Beton adds a silent personality to the space; Photographs by Photographix
When asked which part of the home she enjoyed designing the most, Mathur expressed, “I derived my mojo working on the 3-year old’s room. It was a complete challenge to understand how the narrow, long room could fit in a formal study, multitasking bench, house-shaped bookshelf, a bubble swing, a row of phased moon mirrors as a dresser and the Chicken Chair by The Big Piano.”
As she rightly outlines, “There was enough time spared to layer every corner with soul and conversation.” And if one pauses and ponders for a while, one will realise how the dual meaning of Neev, a Hindi word that translates to the foundation of a building or the basis of familial values and ideologies, fluently coalesces into Neev and The Monsoon Terrace, indeed.
Scroll down to see more glimpses of the space—
Designed by Tejal Mathur, this home is splashed with the use of teak wood, oak wood and some sober colours that add a touch of elegance to every corner; Photographs by Photographix
Pieces that make you stop and stare appear in this Juhu home, too—such as this hair brush bench by Riva by Zolijns; Photographs by Photographix
This exquisite sideboard by KKD Studio is teamed up with an artwork by Josmo, bringing a pop of colour to the space; Photographs by Photographix
Bespoke retro classical concrete panels drape the backside of the bed, amplified with wall lights by AnanTaya; Photographs by Photographix
There is yet again a peppy interplay of patterns and texture, thanks to the striking but sombre flooring by Bharat Floorings; Photographs by Photographix
A corner to think out loud and be creative, this study area features a study table by The Big Piano and the chair by Baro; Photographs by Photographix
The home finds its moments of modernity, especially when accentuated with metal patina work by ICA; Photographs by Photographix
A celebration of tangible humbleness amalgamated with a dash of modernity, this 1,100 sq ft home paints a picture of solace. Located in the heart of Chennai and designed by Sunita Yogesh, it follows a contemporary design style typically offset by neutral colours.
Titled The Grey Home, the space is a modern interpretation of Indian dwellings that melds classic elements with current lifestyle concepts. The clients approached Yogesh, founder and principal designer of her eponymous practice, to renovate their two-decade-old apartment and convert it into an airy, open and bright space.
“They had many functional requirements that included ample storage in every room and our goal was to incorporate that in an aesthetically pleasing way. They wanted the home to get a complete makeover which we were thoroughly excited about,” reveals Yogesh.
Squarefoot wooden flooring and walls decked with Asian Paints greet the visitors; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Art prints by Etsy adds a sense of awe in the living room; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Breaking walls (literally), completely changing the blueprint of the home and improvising in functional areas became imperative for the designer. A south facing main door marks the entrance right inside the living room on the left and entryway storage on the right.
Studio Inniti floor and wall tiles subtly assimilate class and sophistication in the kitchen; Photographs by Yash R Jain
A sliding french door leads the inhabitants into the dining and the open kitchen area; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Harmonious lines, sinuous elegance, balance and sophistication find noteworthy presence in this home. Moving further, the visually attractive and utilitarian dining area and open kitchen garner attention. For further convenience, a breakfast counter has been added to the previously closed kitchen area.
Wall lights from Black Steel glorifies the primary bedroom with unmissable panache; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Wood tones inside the guest bedroom make it warm and inviting; Photographs by Yash R Jain
The bedrooms follow the narrative of a modern minimalistic residence that is made with a consistent expression throughout. On the north-west corner, the primary bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and dressing closet is designed using a free-flowing concept, clean lines and symmetry. On the far right, the guest bedroom displays a peculiar subtleness and imbues a warm tranquil vibe.
Modern and fresh, the nightstand by Orange Tree makes a great addition to the primary suite; Photographs by Yash R Jain
The entryway storage on the right side adds to the utility aspect of the home; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Exuding grace, a timeless charm, along with the perfect amount of contemporary and traditional touches added to it, Sunita Yogesh goes above and beyond to deliver a dream home, in a neatly wrapped package with a bow.
Scroll down to see more glimpses of the space—
Previously used as a rental apartment by the clients, this home was a dated space with glossy floor tiles, old doors, windows, and chipped walls; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Sliding french doors throughout the house add sophistication and ease of movement; Photographs by Yash R Jain
A neutral palette douses the home with whites, greys, beige, and black accents with wooden flooring; Photographs by Yash R Jain
The designers went with a banquette-style dining with upholstered back cushions suspended from an iron rod to make the circulation easy; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Bar stools by TheArmChair and handles by Studio Made add drama and detail in the kitchen; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Clean lines, bright spaces, neutral palettes, and wood tones accentuate the living room; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Rattan bar cabinet by Lap and Dado and mirror by the Dekor Company amplifies the glory of the space; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Ample natural light in the living room acts like an added bonus and beautifies all the other entities; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Peach chair in the vanity closet of the primary suite weaves magic and stupefies the inhabitants; Photographs by Yash R Jain
The end goal was to include ample storage in every room as per the client’s brief; Photographs by Yash R Jain
This little nook instantly lifts the space by adding an element of drama as well as functionality; Photographs by Yash R Jain
The entrance packs a punch with the living room on the left and entryway storage on the right; Photographs by Yash R Jain
Custom made sofa and ottomans are perfectly carved for modern luxury living spaces; Photographs by Yash R Jain
To find a house with interiors so subtle and non-intrusive that everyday life becomes the highlight is as rare as finding an apartment in Bandra with a sizeable terrace. 801 Windsor is a 1,500 sq ft warm and welcoming abode that is flanged by a 600 sq ft terrace and unobstructed views of the woody lanes of Bandra with the Arabian Sea in the distance.
Designed by founding architect Shiraz Jamali and Mammen Paul of Shiraz Jamali Architects, the aim was to curate a home that reflects the personality of the users and the cottage-overlooking context.
A sunlight flooded, generous sized living area greets the visitors upon entering through the main door. The space is multifunctional and acts as the central spine of the home. The expanse flows as three functional spaces—the living and dining area, the TV lounge and the bar.
The dining chairs custom-made of teak wood, the mirrors from Chor Bazaar and the pendant light Pottery Barn impart a vintage theme to the dining space; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
A teak wood bar front finished in white distressed paint and a patina finish brass skirting sports a countertop in a wooden chevron pattern; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
The dining area imparts a regal, sophisticated look with a dash of the rustic. The table from Pottery Barn perfectly stitches together the narrative of vintage chairs and an antique bench from an old chapel. Wooden, arched mirrors and a lantern-inspired pendant light above the entire setting set the mood of the corner.
Across the dining area, a brown leather sofa paired with another in white fabric accentuates the cosy theme. Antique side tables and a simple, robust centre table further the agenda of oozing cottage-like vibes. The dining and living area is an exemplar of the firm’s signature style.
The pendant lights made of woven cane is a locally sourced product that adds delicacy to the setting; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
An antique chest and stylistic art are features that transpire as the hero in the light-flooded area; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
Tucked in the corner, yet eye-catching, a modest bar setting speaks of the design’s contemporary roots. The texture and tone of the wooden bar stools against the pure white bar table pose a serene frame. Handcrafted cane lights hanging from a wooden jamb render it demure.
The TV lounge makes for an informal extension of the living area. Darker tones and an unostentatious wooden ceiling make the space ideal for a family night-in. A c-shaped sofa centred by a wooden chest like centre table sets a genial tone.
Vitrified tiles in an oak wood finish, cabinets made on-site with a blue stained oak veneer and KAFF appliances make for a snuggly kitchen. Teak wood sliding doors and solid wood architrave fitted with fluted glass separate the kitchen from the TV lounge; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
Engineered wooden flooring and a solid pine wood ceiling rafter repurposed from a construction site frame the primary bedroom. The bedside chest is an antique heirloom crafted in solid teak; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
Behind a fluted glass and teak wood framed sliding door lies the kitchen flush with blue stained wooden veneers. The modern appliances are the only feature in the oak-coloured floor kitchen that hint at the home’s actual bearing in time.
The rich, deep hue of the wooden flooring in the primary suite sets it apart from the other spaces. The cane-woven headboard of the bed complements the handpicked artworks peppered in the room.
A custom-made oak wood study table paired with a teak wood chair painted matt black with handwoven cane detailing atop engineered wood flooring speaks of the study room’s rich material palette. Artwork from Line and Coconut by Sanjana Goenka and a carpet from Jaipur Rugs accessorize the demure space; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
Artwork from Line and Coconut by Sanjana Goenka atop the teak wood bed in a glossy black PU paint render the room quirky; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
The quaint study room sports custom-designed furniture resplendent in detail and texture. Modern hanging light fixtures and monochromatic artwork are juxtaposed against the light-green walls in the room.
A welcome material distinction in the form of a traditional brickwork feature wall presents itself in the kid’s bedroom. It adds to the playful theme much like a customised soft yellow wardrobe, a charcoal bed and artwork by Sanjana Goenka’s Line and Coconut in the space.
A teak wood canopy topped with clay roof tiles shelters a small part of the terrace. Wooden French windows and pots and plants from Vintage Nursery ooze cottage cosiness; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
Luscious plants, earthen pots and wooden furniture make the terrace an ideal for unwinding after a long day; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
The duo at Shiraz Jamali created intimate seating areas for the family to enjoy. Each area has its own charm and is surrounded by an array of varied plants; Photographs by Ishita Sitwala
Finally, the most potent space in the home—the terrace—has an outdoor bar and a cabana. Wooden furniture augmented by artwork here and there beautifully frame the uninterrupted vistas. Luscious plants line this dreamy terrace, grounding it in reality.
“Our design philosophy is focused on maximising and delivering a design that is responsible, sensitive and has a harmonising balance between design and function. We integrated the client’s existing furniture pieces and complimented them with carefully designed new pieces along with the perfect selection of lights and décor pieces. The curated marriage of old and new creates the magic in this space,” concludes Jamali.
A sense of nostalgia, even some unrealised sentiments of joy and longing for a certain someone, someplace, something, deluge your mind as you keenly gaze at the ‘Looking Back at The Future’ exhibition by Todo Paintal, a humble, seasoned lover of art.
Showcased at Gallery Threshold in New Delhi, 79-year-old Paintal surprised the audience and the art world collectively with the fact that this was, in fact, her solo debut as an artist. Wife of an armoured corps officer, she has spent more than half of her life calling different, far-flung corners of India her home. She befriended nature and wilderness at a time when the air of urban life hardly pardons anybody.
Her artworks reveal those past experiences with people, animals and landscapes through an emotional dialogue rendered impeccably on the white canvas. With an irresistible urge to dig deeper about her inspirations behind the paintings, we speak to Paintal about it all…
Take us back to your first ever tryst with painting/sketching. Can you recall the moment when you decided to dive deeper into the world of art as an artist?
My first tryst with art was when Mr. Srinivasalu, a Chennai based artist and head of the fine arts department, kindly agreed to teach me art in 1963. Chennai was my husband’s first posting after we got married. He appreciated my efforts and encouraged me a lot.
I dived deep to pursue art very seriously but not as a career. My priorities were clear to me. My focus was on my three daughters, as often, an Army wife has to fend for herself and the children due to many non-family stations, long exercises and devastating wars. But I always remained in touch with painting as it gave me relief from the anxieties of living alone. I never thought of art as a career because the only profession available during Army postings, which are often in remote areas, is teaching. But, I believe, teaching gives you enough opportunity to still be in touch with art.
Todo Paintal, Untitled, Watercolour on Card, 7.5 x 5.5
Some art works in the “Looking Back to the Future” exhibition portray an unpretentious, spiritual and homely mood…
The Army life is a package deal—at times beautiful and at times disturbing. I was exposed to diversity in culture, people, environments, lifestyles, language and climatic conditions. My skills give me new ideas to paint.
Todo Paintal, Baloji, Oil on Board 18 x 18
When you start working on a fresh canvas, do you have a story or style in mind or do things just flow in when you hit the canvas?
I mostly have a concept first in mind and then the things just flow in when I hit the canvas. It is one explosion of ideas and colours with a spatula. I have never consciously tried to develop a style as I find it stifling.
Todo Paintal, Untitled, Acrylic on Canvas, 8 x 12
Which artists inspire you and how has art helped you in leading a better life?
Anjolie Ela Menon, Paramjit Singh and U. Ramesh are some artists who inspire me. Anjolie has influenced me a lot in my art journey. I learnt art from her for a year in the fragrant blue Nilgiri mountains. Art has always proved calming to the frayed nerves of an army wife. It helped me meet like-minded, aware, kind people. It helped me visit museums, art galleries, and archives, which are enlightening for life. All of the above has helped me lead a good life with a lot of learning experiences.
Todo Paintal, the 79-year old artist recently concluded her debut solo exhibition at Gallery Threshold, New Delhi
Please let us in on your future plans and art exhibitions that may take shape in the coming months and years.
My first solo exhibition has brought me a lot of appreciation and recognition. I will definitely have some more solos after some gap. New ideas and techniques added to my skills will help me collect newer ideas to paint.
Todo Paintal, Untitled, Watercolour on Card, 7.5 x 5.5
