Prioritising simplicity and sophistication, SBD Design Studio and WalltoWall create a tranquil and comfortable home in Pune.
Curated by: Rupali Sebastian
Photographs: Anuja Kambli; courtesy SBD Design Studio
The site
The house is a part of a gated society in the interiors of Baner, Pune away from the hustle and bustle of the city. As it was given out on rent prior to being purchased by the current owners, this was a renovation project in which most of the elements in the existing home were dated and makeshift.
The brief
The clients sought a functional yet stylish redesign of their apartment, prioritising optimal utilisation of space to accommodate the needs of their growing family. “We proposed enhanced storage solutions to reduce clutter and maintain a clean, organised living environment,” says Srinidhi Badarayani of SBD Design Studio, whose design was deftly executed by Mithil Bagal of WalltoWall.
Aesthetically, the clients sought a contemporary design that would reflect their modern lifestyle and personal tastes. Additionally, incorporating natural elements and earthy tones to create a warm and inviting ambience and integration of smart technology for added convenience and efficiency were part of the deliverables.
The design intent
“To seamlessly blend modern elegance with functional practicality, we tailored the design to the client’s lifestyle. Prioritising simplicity and sophistication, our aim was to create a tranquil and comfortable space,” states Srinidhi. “Through thoughtful spatial planning and strategic material selection, we maximised functionality while fostering a sense of well-being and joy.”
The civil intervention
The design team undertook a complete overhaul of all the bathrooms, the kitchen area, and transformed the terrace. Notably, they introduced a cosy bay window seating area, elevated by luxurious marble cladding, to enhance the space’s relaxation and aesthetics.
The material palette
Considering the diverse needs of three generations residing in this home, the aim was to blend modern, contemporary, and traditional elements harmoniously, crafting a welcoming sanctuary. This is embodied through a rich array of natural materials: teakwood, rattan, marble, brass, lime plaster, laser-cut bricks, and quartzite. The selection evokes an ambience of refined elegance, ensuring every detail contributes to a sense of timeless grandeur.
The challenges
The challenges encountered during the designing and execution stages included spatial constraints of working within the confines of a pre-existing layout with limited space and structural framework; and incorporating diverse client preferences and accommodating individual needs while maintaining design coherence. “Despite these challenges,” reveals the architect, “effective communication, creative problem-solving, and meticulous planning ultimately enabled the successful realisation of the design vision.”
The highlights
Natural elements such as indoor plants, natural wood finishes and stone accents, bring a sense of the outdoors inside, fostering a connection to nature and promoting well-being. “These biophilic design elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to a healthier and more harmonious living environment,” points out Srinidhi.
The takeaway
This project reinforced the idea that constraints can often spark innovation and lead to unexpected solutions. Additionally, effective communication and collaboration with both clients and contractors were critical in overcoming obstacles and ensuring the project’s success.
Favourite aspect of the project
“One of the aspects we particularly enjoyed was the transformation of the main living area into a multifunctional space that seamlessly blends style with practicality,” says Srinidhi. “By removing walls and integrating custom storage solutions, we created an open-concept layout that accommodates various activities, from family gatherings to entertaining guests, without sacrificing functionality or aesthetics. The versatility of this space, coupled with its inviting ambience and cohesive design elements, makes it a standout feature of the project and a true reflection of the client’s vision and lifestyle.
Fact file
Project: Sandy Utopia
Location: Baner, Pune
Area: 1,250 sq ft
Principal architect: Srinidhi Badarayani (SBD Design Studio)
Execution by: Mithil Bagal (WalltoWall)
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