The one positive that came out of the lockdown was that it opened a new way of working - from home. And this obviously translated into the creation of some of the most aesthetic home-offices. A case in point is the home-office of Nikhil Gandhi, the ex-COO of MX Player, who wanted this apartment to be converted into a space that could give him a more focussed area to work and a space to unwind with his friends and colleagues in the later half. Suvidha Gandhi of Papersky Studio was very clear that the space had to be efficient and clearly adaptive to both, its day and evening use, with a layout that would be suitable for work, meetings, collaborations and even some relaxed down time.
Being located on the third floor of a 50-year-old building in a quaint lane of Santacruz west, the location became a guiding force for the space to have an old-world charm, a feeling of belonging, and a sense of surprise on walking into this unexpected Colonial home-office.
Elements like the different tones of wood, light and neutral-coloured walls contrasting against dark furniture, herringbone wooden floor, fluted glass in ceiling lights and doors imparting a cut-glass feel, etc. add to the drama. Textures like baskets, sisal, cane, natural bamboo, etc. underscore the warmth while brass handles and bespoke wall lights complete the Colonial ambiance complemented beautifully by the artwork.
Interestingly, tiles were used sparingly and instead a waterproof finish is used on the walls in the bathroom, including the ceiling and counters. The space is layered with foliage inside and outside. The subtle contrast of Lichen green, with its underlying blue tone, perfectly binds all the heavy tones of wood and the feel-one-with-nature undertone.
