This apartment in South Mumbai is, in may ways, a testament to modern living. Saraf began to explain, “Every space demands its own style, and this project encouraged us to explore an uncharted territory. When we first encountered this dilapidated building, it felt jarring. However, as we delved deeper, we uncovered its potential. The height and mezzanine offered luxurious elements in a city like Mumbai, but everything except a few structural remnants had to be dismantled.”
Originally part of a weathered building, the apartment had suffered from years of neglect, leading the interiors in severe disrepair, ravaged by termites, awkward proportions and limited functionality. As a result, the space required multiple iterations of renovation. Saraf explained, “The damage was so extensive that we stripped it down to its bare bones, allowing for a complete re-imagination from the ground up.”
What was once a fragmented, dimly lit area with structural issues has now been transformed into an illuminated zen sanctuary. The design beckoned for hues that are both light and tranquil, avoiding darker shades to preserve spatial breathability. Textured warm grey, softly infused with hints of white, unfurls a calming atmosphere, brightening the space and adding a sense of movement. All furniture is custom-made in-house to harmonise with the decor and incorporate elements of wabi-sabi design. Further, the design prioritised the use of durable materials, opting for WPC over plywood to combat termite issues. This careful selection of limited materials and muted colours provides a cohesive identity to the residence. “Our palette was curated to ensure coherence with the ethos of simplicity; we wielded a limited selection, orchestrating a visual sonnet that resonates throughout,” elaborates Saraf.
The space is an embodiment of the client’s personality, mapping her daily routines and functional requirements. Saraf shares, “The client, in her 30s and living independently, desired a personal sanctuary that accommodates friends and family. As a psychologist, she sought an environment that allows for zen moments while providing space for loved ones. With a relaxed demeanour, she emphasised a casual yet inviting atmosphere. She loves the outdoors and soft textures, and her choices provided cues for the visual design.”
Every edge and curve lovingly contributes to the seamless visual symphony that defines this dwelling—a sanctuary where form and function pirouette in perfect harmony. In this dance of spatial choreography, the bedroom gracefully yields to a floating expanse. The study table and chair engage fluently in the language of the space. The bed embraces the wabi-sabi philosophy with layered stepping, allowing a versatile sofa to tuck itself in seamlessly. Intimacy flourishes as the seating transforms to accommodate guests during gatherings.
All throughout this apartment in South Mumbai, themes ebb and flow, making minimalism a dynamic philosophy—a delicate equilibrium where every subtle detail breathes life without overshadowing the essence. Elements like suspended dressers and lounge units concealing hidden storage enhance this choreography of utility and grace. Throughout the bedroom space, small details cultivate a sense of floating appeal. For instance, the positioning of the shoe cupboard allows one to stretch their legs from the open attic, fostering a sense of flow among all elements.
Amid the intimate embrace of limited space, each corner becomes a treasure trove, making it challenging to crown a favourite. Yet, amidst this spatial ballet, Saraf confides, “My heart finds solace in the mesmerising bird’s-eye view from the ground floor.”
The designers aimed to create a sanctuary that invites the client and her loved ones to pause, reflect, and escape the frenetic pace of modern life. This apartment embodies the designer's pursuit of reimagining a compact space, maximising its potential, and cultivating a sense of luxury. It beautifully illustrates the coherence of design thinking, revealing how narrative, form, and space intertwine to create greater harmony.
Also read: This calm and collected home in Mumbai is a one-way ticket to Bali
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