A Vadodara apartment that exudes timeless appeal

IK Architects use muted hues, natural materials and carefully curated furnishings to render a refined aesthetic.

Curated by: Rupali Sebastian
Photographs: MK Gandhi Studio; courtesy IK Architects

This 3,000-sq-ft, 4BHK apartment was designed to ensure timeless design, with functionality firmly at the core of the narrative. The brief architects Krimmy Patel and Ishank Patel of IK Architects received from the clients specified Vastu compliance, a spacious feel and an enduring appeal. “This was articulated as a minimalist interior backdrop against which strategic application of colour and curated artwork wove a modern living environment,” says the duo.

The apartment comprises four bedrooms: one for the couple, one for the son, one for the single parent and a guest room cum a multipurpose room. A large balcony that offers cityscape views is a definite highlight.

From the main door, a vertical slatted wood panelled accent wall travels from the foyer to the living room. The use of vertical slats is strategic in concealing the guest bedroom door for a clean seamless look. A Floating console table and mirror add class and functionality to the space. The veneer ceiling throughout the passage foyer draws the eye upward.

The guest room also functions as a multipurpose room, and is used to entertain close family and friends, practise yoga and just lounge about. Vertical grooves in POP on the wall and a multi-coloured flowy abstract artworks from an artist who is a friend of the family adds an interesting backdrop to the sofa cum bed. A storage unit with louvred shutters keeps things tidy.

The reflective grey floor seen clearly in the living room is actually used throughout the apartment, and binds the narrative. Here, it is paired with an aqua green texture wall in the common area. The living room consists of a set of sofas, a bench and modern coffee tables, which are orchestrated against the wall with an abstract artwork. Oversized indoor plants create a more relaxing and peaceful environment. The large balcony adjoining living room creates a beautiful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. A combination of a swing and outdoor chair seating is a peaceful spot to unwind.

A key civil-work move was opening up the kitchen and dining towards the living space. The custom-made rectangular grey Italian marble dining table top with wooden base seamlessly fit into any décor style and adds sophisticated charm. A bespoke metal pendant lamp helps define the space. The kitchen is carefully planned ensuring that surfaces remain clear and uncluttered. While it features acrylic finishes on the drawers and the tall unit, the overhead unit is fitted with fluted glass shutters.

The parent’s bedroom focuses on comfort and connection with nature. It is bathed in sunlight coming in large windows and features bedside reading lamps, a light to warm colour theme, softer edges and an upholstered bed back.

In the master bedroom, the challenge was to strike a balance between storage requirements and aesthetics. However, the space was effectively used through smart panelling and hidden door details. A light grey MDF panelling is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also serves a functional purpose by cleverly concealing the wardrobe, closet and washroom doors.

The son’s room brings together grey walls and natural wood elements. The partially wood-slatted and upholstered bed back draws one’s attention. The grey textured wall adds a sense of depth, while partially panelled backdrop creates a cohesive and stylish look. The abstract artworks on the other wall compliments the overall design aesthetic.