When the client’s assigned the design execution of this 2,200-square-foot space, they informed us instantly the reasons for choosing this apartment — its ceiling height and openness. Interestingly, these attributes were also instrumental in the clear and simple brief we received from them. The client’s primarily wanted us to maintain the freedom of space, and to make the apartment look larger. The 3BHK apartment had two balconies, one attached with the living (on the west), while the other was close to the dining space (on the east); and already had a Bottochino marble flooring, which was preserved.

To create more leg space and retain the openness of the apartment, we altered the floor plan slightly; and carefully planned the services to maintain the height. The kitchen was moved to the house help’s room, while the wall between the original kitchen and dining was knocked down to make room for a study. We used folding doors to contain the study… this feature would also allow the family to merge the study with the living-dining during social gatherings by simply folding away the doors on either side. The resultant floor plan after the modification was a 3BHK apartment with a large living-dining and study space.

The colour palette developed for this project adheres to the studio’s belief in the versatility of natural tones and materials. Lime-based plaster by Limocoat and stone textures by Stonelite were our choice of materials for the walls. Further, wood and veneer were used (in the form of mouldings and ceiling panelling) in the living-dining and study to render a homely and natural feel. All the other furniture for the project are bespoke pieces made from wood, veneer, natural stone, wood and fabric. Though all the furniture was custom-fit for the project, we designed and crafted a wood and natural stone veneer console especially for the entrance foyer, a standout piece which welcomes everyone into this earthy space. The furnishings, decor, artwork and lighting elements were picked by the team from local bazaars and popular lifestyle brands.

The three bedrooms, each has a personality of its own. While we received a free hand in designing the grandparent’s and children’s bedrooms, the clients wanted their private space to be dominated by a beige colour tone. A highlight of the master bedroom is the geometric panelling finished in lime plaster which forms the backdrop for the bed, and also extends to the wardrobe shutters. In the grandparent’s room we constructed floating cabinets featuring fabric sandwiched glass — it has a pooja unit on one side of the mirror, while the other side holds a dresser. Subtle but important design details like tailored doors and windows with wooden frames, handpicked handles on the wardrobes, the selection of indoor plants… every element comes together to create an indulgent home for this multi-generational family.