Scandinavian Charm

Limehouse Design Studio brings the Scandinavian design philosophy of making everyday living beautiful, intimate, and comfortable to a Mumbai apartment.

Curated by: Deepa Nair
Photographs: Bizou; courtesy Limehouse Design Studio

The site

Interior designer Tanushree Lakhotia was commissioned by Priyanka and Chetan Mahapatra to renovate the lobby, living and dining areas and kitchen of their 3BHK Mumbai apartment. The entrance foyer, lobby, living and dining areas of this home are large open spaces, with some natural light flowing in through French windows which run across the entire length of living room wall. Situated on the ground floor, the apartment boasts of beautiful green views of the gardens right outside. The greenery almost seems like an extension of the home to the lovely, landscaped gardens of the neighbourhood.

The brief

The clients wished for a subtle yet stylish look for their spaces. It also needed to be steeped in comfort, and be highly functional. The requirement also included creating adequate seating while keeping spaces open and uncluttered.

A view of the bar, and the lobby beyond from the living area. A Scandinavian vibe, warm natural light, ample seating, a clutter free design and lots of greenery are the highlights of this space.

The spatial configuration

One enters the home into the lobby, and faces the sprawling living area, a level below to the left. To the left of the lobby is the dining space; with the kitchen placed opposite to it. From here a passage leads to the three bedrooms and attached bathrooms. The areas to be renovated were laid out in a multi-level layout with varying heights.

The design intent

The residence is an apt reflection of a minimalistic Scandinavian concept with large open spaces, plenty of natural light, and the use of subtle and stylish elements to create a cosy comfortable look. The first impression one gets as they enter the apartment is of a soothing, warm, inviting and calming environment to relax. “The Scandinavian design concept fits in beautifully here considering our mutual soft spot for minimalistic and green spaces,” says Tanushree.

One enters the bright and warm lobby area which sets the mood for the living, dining and bar areas.

The material palette

A neutral material palette defines the space, with signature whites, greys and monochromes dominating the colour scheme. Natural materials like rattan, jute and wood have been used extensively along with greenery dotting the indoor spaces. While the flooring is wood; a highlight wall at the extreme end of the step-down living room has been done in a concrete finish, and the rest of the walls are painted white. The dining area wall is bedecked with a soft texture wallpaper. The wall unit in the foyer behind the accent chairs is custom made in wood and has a soft soothing vibe to it.

The material and colour palette used are a hallmark of the Scandinavian design theme which ties in wonderfully with spaces that allow plenty of natural light to flow in, along with unobtrusively tying in with minimalistic trendy spaces. The designer has also created green corners with the use of suspended planters, and as a part of the side rests in the living room. Most accessories were locally/India made or sourced.

The natural light brought into the living area is enhanced the white walls, making the space bright and light. The pops of colour is added by the plush L-shaped sofas, textiles and potted plants.

The challenges

“The challenge was limited to ensuring optimum space utilisation within the multi-level lobby and living room despite a rather sizeable area at disposal,” says Tanushree. Since, one of the requirements was to have sit-outs suitable for get togethers – the designer utilised the mezzanine space between the entrance lobby and the living area by designing a trendy bar next to the steps leading and opening into the living area. “Another layout constraint which was turned around to our benefit was the pillar standing right in the middle of the living area. We created a seating around this pillar which instead of becoming a limiting factor in the overall design ended up as a highlight with a cantilevered circular bench clad in soft grey and replete with planters atop,” she adds.

A close-up of the cosy sit-out area in the lobby. Two comfortable chairs, and a jhoola are perfect to relax and have a cuppa overlooking the expansive living room, and the greens outside the window. The wall unit in wood displays books, artefacts and potted plants.

The highlights

The mezzanine bar is designed to be an independent yet coherent space within the high ceiling living area. Black and white chevron tiles, dried twigs, a white counter, and black cluster drop lights — all congregate to form a chic, informal and artistic hangout area. A cluster of black framed artwork created by the owner himself adorn the wall opposite the bar.

The cosy and comfortable jhoola occupies prime spot in the home, and is perfect to enjoy a hot cup of morning tea while enjoying unadulterated views of the landscaped gardens outside. Since it is perched at a higher level than the living room, and being placed right next to the bar, it offers a relaxed and serene views of the rest of the living room.

Set on a split level, the bar features black and white chevron tiles, dried twigs, a white counter, and cluster of drop lights.

Fact file

Project: Light & Bright
Client: Priyanka and Chetan Mahapatra
Location: Nahar Amrit Shakti, Chandivali, Mumbai
Area: 700 sq ft (the renovated areas)
Principal designers: Tanushree Lakhotia