Celebrating culture and intellect through the lens of quiet luxury, this South Bombay abode is a captivating fusion of Indian heritage and classic elegance. Spanning an expansive 5000 sq ft, it commands sweeping views of the golf course, the sea and the bustling city.
Project Name: A Timeless Classic – Dr Kulin Kothari’s Residence
Studio Name: Studio Design Inc
Area: 5000 sq ft
Location: Mumbai, India
Date of Completion: February 2023
Principal Architects: Kunal and Khushboo Khandelwal, Studio Design Inc
Photo Credits: PHXIndia
Khushboo and Kunal Khandelwal of Studio Design Inc. were entrusted with bringing the client’s concept to life, a home that would stand the test of time, reflecting their identity, culture and ideals.
The client, renowned as one of India’s most distinguished eye surgeons, had a very clear vision for this home; to be a sanctuary for entertaining close friends, family as well as hosting high-profile guests, and curating cultural events. The design of the house captures these intricacies, offering both a tangible and intangible stage for the client’s distinctive style. The central concept was to create an apartment that exuded the grandeur of a villa, magnifying the living experience to a larger-than-life scale by seamlessly intertwining public and private spheres for the client, his wife and mother.
The journey into this space begins right from the lift lobby at the end of which was an old Brass Ganesha sculpture with a black and white inlay floor leading into a grand arched wooden door with circular beaten brass handles. As soon as one one steps through the door, a grand sense of arrival is orchestrated as you enter into a grand circular foyer space. A concentric checker-board flooring pattern with light grey panelled walls, glass doors, a vaulted ceiling, brass detailing and a beautiful glass chandelier create an awe inspiring entrance and an atmosphere of regal opulence and timeless elegance, setting the stage for what else is to come.
The house unfolds along a linear axis through the grand foyer offering panoramic views of the racecourse and the sea. Parallel to this, the private quarters span two distinct wings: one allocated to service and functional areas, with the other cocooning the family’s intimate living spaces. Setting the tone for the entire ambiance, a timeless black-and-white palette takes center stage, enriched by the warm embrace of antique brass accents layered with the clients personal collection of old Indian art and antiques.
The main living area, designed for grand gatherings, exudes opulence and sophistication. It features an array of distinct seating arrangements, separated by sleek black marble platforms adorned with an antique brass Radha Krishna figurine and the Bhagvad Gita mounted on a wooden book rest. Textured sofas in different shades of white with gold metallic accent along with black and white centre tables in marble and glass form the seating arrangements over a white marble floor with black marble inlay patterns.
At the heart of the living space sits a grand piano under a customised pearl inspired light from Hive Home studio, drawing all eyes towards its presence. Inspired by the grandeur of Tansen’s performance area of Fatehpur Sikri, a black marble platform, nestled within a serene water body, serves as a stage for hosting cultural programs, elevating the entertainment experience to new heights for the family and their guests.
The living area seamlessly extends into a formal dining space, separated by art deco-inspired brass sliding mesh glass panels which disappear when not in use. The pièce de résistance in the dining area is a breathtaking 12-seater custom-designed table crafted from blue lapiz lazuli with a magnificent blue and green glass chandelier from KloveStudio hanging over the table infusing the space with drama and vibrant hues.
The dining area extends into a tranquil puja room, a spiritual haven bathed in serene deep blue tones, reminiscent of the divine aura of Lord Krishna. Adorning the walls is a venerable Shrinathji painting, lending an extra layer of celestial grace to the room. This sacred enclave featuring a gentle swing effortlessly connects to a balcony space craved out within the glass apartment, connecting one with the spiritual presence in perfect serenity.
The living area extends to the opposite end, revealing an Oxford-inspired library space, discreetly separated by an art deco-inspired sliding brass mesh panel. This space exudes a very unique character, distinct from the rest of the public areas, reflecting the client’s profound literary passions while evoking a timeless charm.
Within, an awe-inspiring collection of books spanning the rich tapestry of Indian culture and medicine along with vintage brass antiques, grace the shelves of exquisitely crafted wooden cabinetry. A round leather poker table is surrounded by plush tan chesterfield sofas, accompanied by an exquisite crocodile-patterned faux leather study. A concealed bar seamlessly melds with the cabinetry, while a discreetly tucked-away screen resides within the ceiling, culminating in a sanctuary where intellect and leisure unite in elegant harmony.
The family’s personal living spaces are a reflection of the individual tastes of each member of the family.
The mother’s room is elegantly designed, featuring a blend of broken white textures with hints of champagne gold. Arched elements create depth for the headboard and walk-in closet. A juxtaposition of fluted white PU paneling and walnut wood, accented by sage green, adds warmth to the space.
The master bedroom with a requirement to be the simplest space in the whole house exudes a calmness with its serene monotone palette of whites and beiges and subtle hints of gold. A wallpaper featuring shades of white, beige, and gold beautifully contrasts with arched white wall panels. The Chevron oak wood paneling serves as a backdrop for a light grey textured armchair, creating a serene ambiance throughout the bedroom.
The guest room is a serene space featuring an ebony-carved four-poster bed, which takes the spotlight against a backdrop of wallpaper inspired by Indian florals. This design blends the elegance of black, white, and sage green, with light oak accentuated with brass elements.
The den is a place where family members can enjoy movies and engage in intimate conversations, all while taking in the stunning vistas of the Arabian Sea. This space embraces a contemporary and modern design, featuring a focal point of a fawn grey leather wall paneling, complemented by deep blue leather sofas and teak wood furniture. A harmonious blend of textures in beige, grey, neutrals, and subtle black metallic accents creates a casual and comfortable atmosphere.
The guest room is a serene space featuring an ebony-carved four-poster bed, which takes the spotlight against a backdrop of wallpaper inspired by Indian florals. This design blends the elegance of black, white, and sage green, with light oak accentuated with brass elements.
Taking inspiration from Rajasthan’s havelis, the powder room is designed to create a dramatic atmosphere. It all begins with the striking gold infinity mirror at the vanity, leading into the bathroom where the vaulted ceiling, painted in indigo blue, sets the stage. Mirror niches with intricately carved blue glass wall lamps add to the ambiance. The bathroom features a marble-paneled dado that contrasts beautifully with the gold fluted wall panels
With its timeless essence while seamlessly weaving Indian culture into its fabric, this home defies the constraints of time. It achieves an allure through spatial design, weaving of materials, textures and patterns. A villa that captivates, this space is a captivating fusion of taste, style, and culture, embodying the spirit of India’s rich heritage and classic elegance.
