What happens when a house becomes more than just a shelter, transforming into a sanctuary from the hurried cadence of modern life? In the southern landscape of Bengaluru, Villa Calmora offers such a refuge for Shilpa, Vijay, their teenage daughter, and his father.
“The essence of the home? It lies in its name,” muses Ananya Jois of her eponymous studio, whose expertise was recommended by a trusted family friend. “The directive was clear and simple - a home that exudes peace and joy, with generous doses of grey and lilac - their personal favourites” she reveals. Ergo, a palette of soothing colours was devised for the 4000 sq ft duplex, embodying the tenets of Modern Minimalism. Here, subtle details weave a narrative of repose —a vivid reflection of the life Shilpa and Vijay had imagined for their multigenerational haven.
The multi-storied villa greets visitors with its main entrance on the first floor. Upon stepping in, the foyer, clad in fluted panel and concrete wash, sets the intended tone of simple sophistication. “The concrete wash evinces throughout the abode across diverse surfaces to form a cohesive look ” Ananya explains. And rightly so - this texture transcends into the living room, and mingles with the soft hues of light oak treatments to establish an atmosphere that is both warm and contemporary. Anchored by ivory and mauve furniture, the space is complemented by a live edge coffee table and a sleek TV unit. Each element finds its place with intention, making it an ideal setting for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
Ananya elaborates on the communal zone, “The free-flow spatial planning grants the family the flexibility to establish a future dining area between the living room and kitchen.” This area illustrates a delicate balance of function and visual harmony, with streamlined cabinets—a crockery unit and a puja space—flanking the kitchen entrance. Inside, the mauve acrylics echo the living room’s furnishings, presenting an unconventional yet delightful hue that imparts unique charm to the kitchen. The gentle aesthetic flows further, as the tint extends onto the grandfather’s bedroom, which features a refurbished bed and a cream suede wardrobe with teak details.
Descending to the ground floor, a spacious parking area seamlessly flows into a versatile guest and media room. Cloaked in blush pink and teak wood laminates, this inviting space is predominantly used by the gentlemen of the house for moments of camaraderie and indulgence. “A bachelor pad of sorts”, teases Ananya, capturing the room’s playful spirit.
On the second floor, the daughter’s nook doubles as a family zone and exemplifies storage optimization for the bibliophilic family’s literary collection. White glossy surfaces coalesce with light oak, sculpting a bright and airy environment. Shades of blue course through Shilpa’s study room, where a daybed provides a tranquil pause from the rigours of work. Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes and bookshelves adorned with lacquered glass highlight the home’s dedication to maximizing space without compromising style. Another bedroom, defined by walnut finishes, has been transformed into a flexible zone that forgoes traditional furniture. Hidden from view is a walk-in wardrobe, discreetly integrated behind the cupboards. An open space on the third floor has been cleverly transformed into a storage annexure, paired with a study desk that allows Vijay to work from home with ease and privacy.
“Vijay’s discerning eye for bathroom design shaped our approach,” Ananya notes. “He sought a sober look, which guided us toward a neutral color scheme. We layered the lighting to create a soft glow, elevating the overall ambiance.”
With an understated yet masterful touch by the designer, Villa Calmora evokes quiet luxury and thoughtful restraint. “It feels as though the family’s cheerful energy has imprinted into every corner of the home”, Ananya fondly concludes.
The Author is a Faculty at School of Design &Innovation, RV University, Bengaluru.
Team:
Architects: Jois Design House
Other participants: Principal Architect Ananya Jois, ID Aditi
Text Credits: Mehar Deep Kaur
Photo credits: Janvi Thakkar (Wabi Sabi Studios)
Materials Used:
Sliding lacquered glass wardrobe: Aristo
Wall finishes: Asian Paints
Texture paint: Royal Touch
Modular furniture: Sticks and Bricks Building Solutions
Wallpaper: Material Depot
Rug/Carpet (Living room): Jaipur Rugs
Curtains & Drapes: Drapes Avenue
