Hyderabad, often referred to as the “City of Pearls,” is a kaleidoscope of history and modernity. Its architecture ranges from the opulent Qutb Shahi tombs to the sleek facades of contemporary IT parks, creating a rich tapestry of contrasts. Nilasha, of her eponymous studio, has drawn upon this unique urban fabric to design a home that reflects the city’s essence. Infused with cultural nuances and modern sensibilities, the residence stands as an ode to the evolving narrative of Hyderabad—a city that cherishes its heritage while embracing the future.
Project Name: The Serene Edge
Studio Name: Studio Nilasha
Location: Hyderabad
Square Footage: 13,500 sqft
Photography Credit: Talib Chitalwala
When the project commenced in 2020, the home was little more than a bare structural frame with some floor plans and interior walls in place. The task was monumental: to transform this skeletal structure into a fully realized, luxurious residence. This transformation demanded a reimagining of outdated HVAC systems, a reworking of architectural elements, and significant spatial expansions. The homeowners—a couple in their mid-50s—brought their distinct vision to the project. The wife, an avid art collector, envisioned a space that would serve as a gallery for her collection. Her brief was precise: the residence needed to exude understated luxury, highlight Indian craftsmanship and act as the perfect backdrop for an extensive collection of art. However, it was equally important for the design to avoid ostentation, focusing instead on subtle elegance and functionality.
Spread across three acres in Hyderabad, this 13,000 sq. ft. residence is surrounded by a tranquil landscape that evolves with the seasons, most vividly during the monsoon. The setting offers a quiet retreat, seamlessly blending with its natural surroundings. At this time, the dining deck, extending towards the water’s edge, seems to float above the shimmering surface, creating a surreal and almost magical ambience. The design embodies the essence of a modern Indian farmhouse, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Local materials, such as Kota stone and river quartz sourced from the Ganges, form the foundation of the home’s material palette, while brass accents, handcrafted by Sage Living, add a touch of opulence. Antique furniture pieces thoughtfully placed throughout the home infuse it with a sense of history, harmonizing with the sleek, minimalist lines of modern design elements. This interplay of old and new is further accentuated by the home’s focus on spaciousness, natural light, and fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.
A project of this scale required a confluence of talented minds, and the collaborative efforts shone through in every corner of the home. Renowned designer Sandeep Sangaru lent his expertise to create bespoke furniture that balanced modernity with tradition. Notably, the furniture pieces are characterised by a balance of clean lines and organic forms, with natural materials such as wood and leather being a central part of the design language. The furniture pieces also reflect a deep respect for Indian craftsmanship, with intricate woodwork and detailing that pays homage to traditional methods while infusing a modern sensibility.
The dining table, a standout feature of the home, was designed to mimic the shape of a lotus leaf, with individual, smaller leaf-like sections for each diner; it ultimately became a beloved centrepiece, reflecting the family’s admiration for Indian design and culture. The use of natural, earthy materials such as wood and stone throughout the space brings warmth and connection to the environment, while subtle, neutral colour palettes in shades of beige, grey, ivory, and warm taupe create an atmosphere of serenity and timelessness. Many of the home’s brass accents were sourced from Sage Living, adding a layer of understated elegance that complements the traditional craftsmanship.
Arjun Rathi’s expertise brought a bespoke touch to the residence through three decorative lighting pieces that added character and charm. His designs act as focal points, elevating the visual appeal of specific areas. Complementing these artistic lighting elements, the technical lighting was meticulously designed to ensure the residence was not only beautifully illuminated but also highly functional. Together, these efforts highlighted the architectural features and art collection with precision. The interplay of light and shadow created dynamic moods that shift with the time of day, transforming the spaces from cosy and intimate to airy and expansive.
Upon entering the residence, one is welcomed by a grand foyer that sets the tone for the entire home with its understated elegance. This space flows effortlessly into an expansive living area, where curated artworks take centre stage, bathed in natural light streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows. The central seating arrangement in the living room, a bespoke piece by Sandeep Sangaru, was thoughtfully designed to complement the art while ensuring comfort. Its triangulated form allows multiple perspectives of the surrounding artwork, creating a subtle yet engaging environment for conversation. The muted colour palette, enriched by soft textures, enhances the serene atmosphere while ensuring the focus remains on the art and architectural details.
