Villa 93

Shamanth Patil

• Architects

Contemporary design may lean toward minimalism, yet it offers room for warmth and character. For a weekend home in North Bengaluru, Office of Cognitive Design adeptly melds these facets, sculpting a space that is equal parts restful and engaging.

“Clean, modern interiors that resonate with the sharp lines of the villa’s exterior - this was the directive given by our clients, a family of three with a fur companion”, avers Principal Architect Kshitija Venkatesh, who envisioned the 3900 sqft residential interiors alongside senior architects Nihitha Sreenath and Khushi Jain. ”We focused on a careful harmony - a relaxed ambiance punctuated by vibrant details.”

photo_credit Shamanth Patil — Shamanth Patil

Neutral tones set the tone for minimalist sophistication, accented by daring pops of color, layered textures, and striking patterns that vitalize the abode. In the communal section, sunlight pours through expansive windows, allowing the carefully curated elements to shine. Calming hues and plush seating envelop the living room - “the most frequented space of the abode” - fostering an atmosphere that encourages both relaxation and camaraderie. Though, what captivates the gaze is a flamboyant floor spread from Jaipur Rugs, a statement piece that infuses the room with visual intrigue. Walnut wood lends an earthy warmth, cohesively uniting the TV cabinet with the coffee tables.

The dining area adjoins in free flow, assuming a more luxurious avatar through the opulent presence of brass touches. "Since the space lacked continuous walls to incorporate artwork," Kshitija explains, "we conceived the furniture itself as artistic objects”. The centerpiece is an eight-seater table, perfect for cherished gatherings, accompanied by teal blue chairs. A buffet table with fluted silhouette completes the space, offering a tactile contrast to the smooth marble tops.

A burst of orange on the staircase frame offers an unexpected yet delightful surprise, but it’s the adjacent wall that transforms the ascent into an artistic journey. Reminiscent of the moon's phases, a constellation of custom-crafted metallic discs grace the wall, shimmering in an interplay of matte, metallic, and reflective finishes.

Composed as peaceful oases, the bedrooms embody the family’s penchant for suave grey. Kshitija reveals her personal favorite space in the home—the master suite. “Muted hues were a clear preference for the couple, so our challenge lay in layering interest into the palette,” she explains. The bed, fabricated on-site, features a frame tailored to echo the tones of the existing flooring. Behind it, a striking shiplap wall becomes the room’s focal point, its hand-painted grey and beige stripes creating a compelling contrast. Brass accents gleam subtly, manifesting as wall sconces and trim details on the bed. Nestled near the window, a plush grey chair becomes an irresistible perch for quiet moments of indulgence.

In the son’s bedroom, tones of blue converge to form a peaceful sanctuary. A teal-upholstered bed introduces a geometric statement against a gentle, nature-inspired wallpaper from Kalakaari Haath. Floating side tables in a softer hue complement this arrangement - a favored choice for easy floor upkeep.

A whimsical tapestry from Asian Paints imprints a distinct charm in the home office, seamlessly fitting into the subdued aesthetic. Paired with a marble study table and PU cabinets, the space is replete in sheen finishes, laced with rattan shutters for an organic flair.

“Our endeavour was to draw from elements of modern design to craft spaces for easy weekends and a feeling of togetherness” Kshitija concludes, alluding to the interplay of restraint and character that harmonises the dwelling, where streamlined furnishings coalesce with statement lighting to cultivate an air of quiet luxury.
The Author is a Faculty at School of Design & Innovation, RV University, Bengaluru.