“Wahida and Minhas wanted a Calicut apartment that would reflect their individual tastes while blending seamlessly into a shared space,” says Bilal, principal designer at Prekshaa Design Studio. “His preferences leaned toward bold, dark shades like grey and black, while she preferred calm, neutral tones like beige. The challenge was to combine both of these distinct styles while creating a harmonious flow across the entire space.”
All through their 1,150 square foot home, Bilal struck this very balance. On a canvas of warm woods, soft neutrals, and plush textiles, the designer experimented with sleek black curios and strong sculptural accents.
Swathed in shades of ecru, cream, and beige, the living room is soft and minimal. An undulating wooden centre table decorated with deep black accessories from Zara Home sets the tone for the rest of the interior. Narrow wooden wall panels break the starkness of the walls, and a carpet from PAN Home lines the floor. Beyond, a striking textured wooden cabinet adds a sense of textural nuance to the space. “The design revolves around a neutral base, with black and ash wood accents playing a key role in creating depth. The black details are strategically placed to complement the softer beige and grey tones, giving the space a balanced, dynamic feel,” says Bilal.
In the sun-dappled kitchen, this sense of toasty warmth is carried forward. Ash wood cabinetry is paired with a sandy beige backsplash and kitchen counter, which extends into a breakfast bar. Here too, metal details sport a matte black finish. Beyond the kitchen, the dining area features a robust wooden table with lightly curved legs. “The use of ash wood is both a contemporary and timeless choice, providing a natural warmth that contrasts beautifully with the bold design elements,” says Bilal Colour takes a subtle backseat, allowing a nuanced interplay of materials to come to life. From the natural grain of the wood to the speckled stone in the washbasin area and the soft carpet underneath, each texture adds depth and visual interest to the space. A paper pendant light hangs overhead.
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As per the clients' desire, the two bedrooms were designed to radiate subtle masculine and feminine energies, each with its own distinct character. In the first bedroom, a brutalist textured grey wall commands attention. On the opposite wall lies a work desk and a wardrobe with tinted glass shutters. “Custom-built storage solutions ensure that functionality is woven into the aesthetic, creating an inviting yet organised space,” Bilal says.
In the second bedroom, delicate beige tones bring forth a sense of calm. An intentional layering of textiles, including fabric wallpaper, plush carpets, and satin bedding from Bloomr, adds to the feminine warmth. Contemporary, clean, and wholly meditative, the Calicut apartment is a warm manifestation of two individual visions brought to life with an expert hand.
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