Located in the vivacious locality of Worli, Mumbai, the apartment is strikingly contradictory to traditional design norms. Conceived as Mōrahi by the DesignHex team under Principal Designer Shimona Bhansali, it is a testament to what design can transform. Every nook and corner speaks of discovery while the resultant artifact communicates stories from far-off lands.
Project Name: Mōrahi
Studio Name: DesignHex
Location: Worli, Mumbai
Area: 2,000 sq. ft.
Completion Date: April 2022
Principal Designer: Shimona Bhansali
Photography: Vishesh Kanani
The starting of Mōrahi began with a simple brief — the clients loved their art and artifacts collection and wanted it to be the mainstay of their home. The design team reverberated with the clients’ vision, bringing this space to life. Clients being passionate about travelling, had become collectors of memorabilia from all over the globe. The apartment was turned from a mere display to the embodiment of their wanderlust, and each item began to have its own story.
From the outset, Mōrahi was conceptualized with a fully embracing approach to maximalism in design. It is an idea that gels perfectly with the design ethos of DesignHex. The concept was to create a space that would celebrate mixed collections by the clients and form a beautiful harmony in spirits behind their exploits in adventures. This home encapsulates the thrill of discovery within the warm comfort of a home.
The fusion of old and new elements creates a striking contrast, where intricately carved wooden chests sit beside sleek, modern lighting fixtures. This blend reflects the clients’ diverse tastes and adds layers of depth to the space. However, the challenge of maximalist design is finding harmony between visual richness and clutter. DesignHex’s thoughtful curation, a standout feature of this project, skillfully achieves this balance.
Materials play a pivotal role in shaping Mōrahi’s design narrative. DesignHex chose a mix of cool hues and vibrant tones, providing a backdrop that enhances intricate details and décor. This intentional selection not only creates an illusion of spaciousness but also ensures visual coherence. Outside, the balconies are lush with greenery, extending the maximalist theme. These outdoor spaces offer a calming contrast to the lively interiors, inviting residents to relax in nature’s embrace.
The name – Mōrahi – epitomizes the design philosophy of this home, as it the Maori word for ‘Maximum’. It was a silent adaptation/reference to the Urdu word ‘Rahi’, meaning traveller, that echoes the clients’ boundless wanderlust, seamlessly blending with the essence of the space.
Mōrahi is far more than just a home; it spells global experiences. DesignHex brought to life the visionary approach to conceive this space as an endless tale of memories and dreams. This harmony between personal passion and design creates a unique environment that feels both curated and effortless, proving that spaces can be crafted to resound with the human spirit.
