The client were a family of 5 – parents, 2 daughters who are married sand stay in the same city and a 24 year old son who would be married in the near future. They wanted a large spacious 4 bedroom apartment – a master bedroom, sons bedroom and 2 bedrooms for their daughters which would also double up as guest rooms if and when required, a multi utility space which could be used for – yoga, family room for viewing TV, a place where their granddaughters could dance and a home theatre with capacity to seat@ 6-8. The apartment had a large terrace abutting the 3 sides of it and all the spaces were planned so that each space had an outdoor extension on the terrace. The terrace was to be used for gathering and outdoor dining as well as extension to each of the bedrooms.
Project type : The Ashva – Residential Interiors
Studio Name: Veekas Studio, Pune.
Design Team: Ar.Kalpak Bhandari & Neha Malpani.
Interior Styling: Pooja Bhandari (@veekas_studio, @kalpak_veekas_studio, @sparshdesign.poojabhandari)
Area: Carpet area @4600 sq.ft + 5000 sq.ft terrace garden.
Location: The Ark, NIBM Rd, Pune
Consultants : Veekas Studio (Everything was designed and detailed inhouse)
Photography Credits: Studio colorblind (@studio_colourblind)
Ease of maintenance was another criterion which governed the choice of materials.
Along with these criteria which are generic, the clients said this would be their final home and wanted the interiors to be customized to each members liking. One big want was also that the interiors appeal to all those who visited.
Two adjacent 3.5 BHK bare shell apartments having carpet area of @2290 sqft each with large terraces were combined to plan one large 4 BHK apartment having carpet area of @ 4600sq.ft with a large 5000 sq.ft terrace which was accessible for each space within the apartment giving it a feel of a large ground floor villa. The apartments were on the first floor over the parking floors of a high-rise building allowing us to modify and customize the interior layout and finish it as per our choice of materials and finishes.
CONCEPT NOTE
The clients had decided to name the apartment – THE अश्व (ASHVA).
Ashva in Sanskrit means Horse. The memory of a flying Pegasus over the entrance portal at the client’s ancestral home in Rajasthan is very close to their heart and hence the name. This reflects in the interiors through the art, artifacts and embroidered detailing throughout the house.
Planning– All the spaces in this residence are planned to be east facing. The morning sunrays fill the spaces through the floor to ceiling glass sliding doors and these also provide expansive views of the city. The large terrace garden can be accessed from each habitable space.
Bespoke Interiors– The idea of having abundant space in urban cities itself is luxury these days. Beyond the abundance of personal space, luxury revolves around Rarity – the idea of possessing something bespoke, unique, and personalized to individual liking and preference has its speciality. Each space within this residence is custom designed as per the individual preferences of the client and the family members.
Detailing for achieving Speed of Execution- The design and detailing of various elements like the veneer panelling, woodwork, wardrobes, vanity units, and other furniture units was done meticulously and manufactured in specialized setups. This was done to shrink the execution time and maintain the highest control over precision and built quality.
Quality– The strong unifying element in the interior is the sophisticated use of materials, high attention to detailing, use of layering, colours, and textures. The high control on the quality of execution also exudes a sense of luxury.
Collaboration and Co-ordination – with all consultants, execution team and specialized agencies at all stages and at micro levels was the key to achieve the desired outcome in the least amount of time.
DESIGN PROCESS
Understanding the client’s requirement: the said brief and the unsaid brief is the beginning point of any planning and conceptualization process.
The clients were in the business of manufacturing products using metals like copper and brass and wanted us to incorporate these in the interior as much as possible. Brass is used as an unifying element throughout the interiors in all the spaces in some form – either as inlay in the marble or wooden flooring, as frames to shutters, inserts in panelling, etc.
Colour palettes consist of neutral tones such as white, beige, and grey, with occasional pops of colour introduced through accessories or artwork. These subdued hues provide a calming and sophisticated backdrop, allowing the furniture and decor to take centre stage. Bright colors are used in some private spaces as per individual’s liking.
Lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing the chic ambiance of this project. Statement chandeliers are used as focal points, creating a sense of grandeur. Additionally, ambient and accent lighting, such as recessed lights or table lamps, are strategically placed to provide both functionality and ambiance.
Accessories are carefully curated and thoughtfully placed. Artwork, mirrors, and decorative objects serve as eye-catching accents, adding personality and charm. A mix of textures, such as plush rugs, and suede cushions, contribute to the cozy and inviting atmosphere.
To achieve a cohesive look in chic interiors, attention is paid to every detail, including window treatments, flooring, and wall finishes. Curtains or blinds in luxurious fabrics, like silk or linen, are used to frame windows elegantly. Hardwood or marble floors provide a classic foundation, while textured wallpapers or accent walls introduce subtle patterns or a touch of drama.
