A Layered Narrative

The Auburn Studio creates compelling juxtapositions involving colours, materials and textures while rejuvenating a 25-year-old apartment in Chennai.

Curated by: Rupali Sebastian
Photographs: Yash R Jain; courtesy The Auburn Studio

The site

The site was the first floor of a 25-year-old house in Nugambakkam, Chennai. The house had a private entrance accessible via a staircase outside the house. “We received the bare shell of the site after all the old walls and tiles were knocked off,” reveals Sushmitha Ramesh of The Auburn Studio.

The brief

The client wanted a complete makeover of the space to match his evolving idea of a home. Like all millennials, he didn’t want his house to be confined to a particular style. “His brief to that end was to seamlessly blend in different elements and brighten up the space that was devoid of natural light,” says the architect. “He also wanted the living room to stand out, serving the dual purpose of being cosy enough to retreat after a long day and lively enough to entertain friends.”

The design intent

The intent of the space was to keep it clean and clutter free. The team wanted spaces to flow into each other to make the place feel bigger. They also opened up the space to make room for natural light. “The site initially consisted of two bedrooms and a living room. We knocked down one of the bedrooms and created an open kitchen with dining,” discloses Sushmitha, adding that they wanted the home to be sophisticated with a touch of quirk.

The spatial configuration

The narrative unfolds as a large living room with an open kitchen and dining space to its left. Nestled in the corner of the living room is the entrance to the master bedroom. A washroom and a walk-in closet make up for the additional space in the master bedroom.

The material palette

Colours, patterns, textures and finishes were used in a layered manner to create a nuanced living environment. “We opted for light wood for the flooring of the living room and the master bedroom to make the spaces feel lighter and more airy,” says Sushmitha. “We played with neutral tones of beige, green and yellow all over the house tied in with touches of black and walnut wood shades.”

The takeaway

“The fact that we played around with multiple styles and yet nothing seems out of place is a true win,” says the architect. “The diversity of it all brings the place together beautifully to celebrate maximalism. Out with less is more; it’s time for more is more,” she smiles.