Opulent Vibes

Photography by Ashish Sahi

KARAN DESAI Architecture + Design designed two-bedroom sea-facing apartment conceived as a bachelor pad in Mumbai.

The owner is very much with-it when it comes to a trendy lifestyle; however, he expressed no particular demands vis-à-vis the interior style. So, it was up to me to envision the interior concept. Going by his dashing personality, it was not difficult to gauge what suits him the best.

Located in Versova, an upmarket neighbourhood in north-western Mumbai known for its beautiful beach, this 306 m² apartment was designed to cater to the tastes of a 36-year-old fashion-forward bachelor with a penchant for travel. The goal was to harmonize with his charismatic personality and contemporary lifestyle, resulting in an interior space that radiates the chic ambiance of a Manhattan penthouse, boasting edgy design and sophistication. Carefully curated, top-of-the-line furniture and lights from international brands adorn the highly stylised interiors of this home. The design plan of Karan Desai, the founder of the studio, came up with was initially a bit radical for the client as it involved major structural changes. However, when he went through Karan’s presentation, with 3D renders bringing alive the snazzy interiors, he could immediately connect with the proposal. The project envisaged that of the four bedrooms, two are kept as the master bedroom and guest room, while the other two have been converted to create a walkin closet attached to the private bathroom, a dining room and a gym, offering a high customization of the space.

One enters the home through a small passage leading to the long living area divided into two parts: one formal and another informal. On the left of the entrance is the guest room.

As every detail is fashioned keeping the colourful personality of its owner, the living areas come to reflect a highly individualistic appeal.

Colour block glass partition from Glas Italia separates the informal living area from the dining room. Thanks to the Moooi wallcovering Menagerie of Extinct Animals used on the ceiling, it seems like immersing into a fantastical world. The riot of colours and prints is balanced by the stunning oval dining table in white from Roche Bobois, and Poliform’s dining chairs in a complementing bright hue. Also, the architectural pendant by Flos restores a certain balance to the room. At the entrance to the dining, on the right is the powder washroom. Similar glass partition on the left side of the central bar leads one to the gym.

From the dining room you enter the master bedroom. At its entrance, there is a walk-in closet on the left, and en suite bathroom with shower and bathtub by Antonio Lupi on the right. Karan used the elegant shapes of the fittings in a flattering manner against the stark background to create a peaceful, yet charming atmosphere.

Tucked away in an intimate corner of the home and with its arched entryway and doorway to the bathroom, the bedroom quite literally appears like a man cave. The primitive hut-inspired bed by Edra evokes sensuality and mystery (it was also the first time that this bed furnished a home in India). The side tables and the master vanity on the right, both made of marble and fluted wood, have been designed by Karan. The bow-tie mirror from Fiam Italia adds a quirky touch. Roche Bobois' study table and chair in the left corner add a spot of brightness to the otherwise neutral space.