#AIExclusive: The pastel abode with a classical touch of minimalism.

Conceived and conjured to reality for a small joint family in the bustling neighbourhood of Lower Parel, Mumbai, this quaint 2-BHK apartment packs in a robust design scheme within the walls of this 875 square feet residence. The resident family’s brief revolved around the creation of a home that was elegant, minimal, and hewn with subtle play of pastel colours.

Maximising the dynamics

The impetus stems from the end-users desiring a space that was reminiscent of a luxe home detached from the stereotypical design typologies, subdued yet elevated in its character was made rich by its palette of hues and materials. The limited square footage was ingeniously interpreted to maximize storage in the urban dwelling whilst weaving together a dynamic visual canvas that amalgamates curved, linear, and soft-hued surfaces.

Metallic and neutral accents

The apartment’s entrance is constituted of a clearly defined foyer space; this is composed of a triad of elliptical brass-framed partition system with fluted glass infills which playfully create a sense of privacy for the dining area tucked behind, and lead one into the expanse of the communal living area. Neutral tones of taupe and walnut oakwood rule the roost in the living space and anchor tasteful doses of blush pink and emerald green. Metallic brass accents pepper the space in the form of art, furniture, and curios. A collage of circular art installations on the wall iterates the overarching colour scheme with their sinuous forms. A reeded wood-tone clad focal wall poses as a backdrop for the fluted console, adding to the geometricity displayed in the space. The living area is the epitome of panache and timeless design that allows the family to convene and host in with comfort at its apex.

A living space and dining nook

The open living space unfurls into a dining nook ideal for the users to congregate in. Headlined by quartz pink tones, brass, and the presence of tinted mirrors, the dining area is a flagbearer of silent sophistication. The pink tones seep into the upholstered pieces, with brass dotting the dining and statement pendant light. The gridded mirrored wall frames the nook and adds a touch of luxury while visually amplifying the space’s apparent volume.

Aesthetically compact

An inconspicuous wash area flanks the dining section, it combines additional storage with a utilitarian purpose while complimenting the design narrative seamlessly. The galley kitchen binds together function and pared-down aesthetic within the compact blueprint. The soft pink hue acts as a leitmotif and is carried through in the form of pops of colour displayed via the hexagonal backsplash tiles that line the kitchen’s perimeter.

The classic blues

The parent’s bedroom is doused in warm neutrals and umber tones to create a classic sensibility. In a light-flushed space, the focal wall anchors a geometric upholstered bed that is held between scaling cladded panels, adding visual height to the space. A hint of blue carries through in the form of art and pairs beautifully with brass accents in the sizeable bedside wall sconces. The custom wardrobe assumes a pragmatic spot, enlarging the room’s layout; sleek brass hardware highlights the carpentry, injecting a whiff of opulence into the bedroom.

The French ethos

The design intent that drives the ensuite master bedroom’s ethos originates from the client’s desire to feel mentally transported, delivering them in a milieu reminiscent of classic French country bijou spaces. The room is prologued by a passageway that hosts elegant wardrobes swathed in white, replete with moulding detailing and gold circular hardware. The other wall of the passageway is clad in mirrors to visually double the space’s expansiveness. 

Greying the pinks

The room is immersed in shades of greys and pinks, creating an ambience for the end-users to relish kudos to its tranquil demeanour. Designed with a penchant for French influences, the walls are earmarked by bespoke moulding and fluting details, wherein the latter tactfully conceals the air conditioner unit. The high back upholstered bed in deep charcoal velvet is paired with upholstery in a dusty rose hue, amber globe sconces, and metallic nuances that are spotted across the bedroom. An elegant vanity nook is embellished with a heart-form accent chair that is the object d’art in the space. A reading nook by the floor-length windows creates a snug spot laden with shades of pink, grey, and brass tones, completing this sanctuary for the end-users.

The Pastel Abode, true to its name, presents itself as a physical manifestation of the aspirations of its resident family. An oasis of comfort melded with emotive design — this dwelling sets the stage for creative expression to engage with a grounded persona.

Fact File

Project Name, Location – The Pastel Abode, Mumbai
Typology and Square Footage – 2-BHK Apartment, 875 Square Feet
Month and Year of Completion – March 2021
Interior Design Firm – Manvi Vakharia Designs
Principal Architect – Ar. Manvi Vakharia
Photography Credit – Anish Padalkar