A Harmonious Balance

Utopia Designs overlay a muted shell with selected bold elements to create a harmonious and balanced narrative in this show-flat in Surat.

Curated by: Rupali Sebastian
Photographs: Photographix India, courtesy Utopia Designs

The living room is the highlight of the design.

The project

A 4BHK show-flat for a mixed-use development located in one of Surat’s elite precincts.

The brief

A bare shell flat with basic provisions had to be converted into a show-flat that would demonstrate the usage of space vis vis structural elements.

The design intent

Functionality was at the core of the narrative — but at the same time the design was orchestrated in a way to make the space appear larger and plusher. Certain internal walls were demolished to make the space more functional.

The dining area, though part of the common spaces, gets its own nook.

The spatial flow

The sequence of spaces are planned in such a way that all the common spaces achieve maximum view, natural light and ventilation. Starting with a narrow entrance foyer, the space opens up to a large living room which is also the highlight of the project. It flows seamlessly into a dining area. While one bathroom is a common one, three bedrooms have their own ensuite bathing spaces. These have been designed using mirrors to make the space look larger.

The material palette

Textured Burma teak wood, veneer, engineered wood and Italian marble form the material highlights. Bathrooms are mostly finished with tiles on the walls and granite on the floor.

Adequate storage has been created in an unobtrusive manner.

The highlights

The stone and wood panelling that runs from the entrance to the TV unit balances the neutral tones of the floor and ceiling. Certain furniture pieces and carefully selected artworks heighten the quality of the narrative. Small bespoke elements are also worth noting — such as custom made-handles and a furniture piece near the entrance that conceals the switchboard and video door-phone. These illustrate the balance of functionality and aesthetics.

FACT FILE

Project: 4BHK Show-flat for Sangini Evoq
Location: Surat
Area: 2,049 sq ft
Principal architect: Apurva Desai
Principal designers: Bhavin Swami, Urvakhsh Chichgar and Vipul Nakrani
Design team: Unnati Patel