The Arches Apartment

Abin Design Studio creates a modern and luxurious apartment for the Goenka’s in Kolkata which takes hints from the architecture of the building.

Curated by: Deepa Nair
Photographs: Ashish Sahi, courtesy Abin Design Studio

The site

The Story of Arches project designed by Abin Design Studio in Kolkata is located on the 19th floor of a prominent upscale residential tower. The design takes cues from the existing architecture of the building and enhances the experience of the spaces. The private lift lobby, arrangement of spaces, and the large opening provide the canvas within which the design takes shape.

The design intent

“One of the larger design objectives was to alleviate the severe feel of the apartment building. With the intent to break from the rigid structure and linear forms, the interior design employs the use of soft colour tones, arches and curved edges to subdue the existing straight lines of the home,” explains Abin Chaudhuri, principal architect, Abin Design Studio.

The design and material details

Starting from the lift doors, arched portals create a sense of journey between the lobby and the main doors. The apartment foyer becomes another transitional space as one walks through the great arch into the formal living room. This story of arches is carried through in the detailing of furniture, handles, artwork and elements as well. From consoles to the treatment of walls, there a subtle continuity in the design language that softens and elevates the feel of the spaces.

A dominantly shear-walled structure meant that there was a level of inflexibility that needed to be overcome. Glazed partitions replaced solid walls wherever possible to unify the zones such as the formal and informal living, dining and terrace areas. This additionally enabled an easy flow of abundant natural light through these connected spaces while maximising the open views to the skyline outside.

Panelling was required on the remaining walls to achieve a more desirable interior layout. Subtle wooden wall treatment over a darker graphical floor adds buoyancy to the living areas. Paired with bursts of vibrant colours, an eclectic composition of artwork, sculptures, furniture, and rugs bring character to this cookie-cutter apartment. A customised automated sliding partition, utilising a bespoke colourful rug as wall art, hides the TV away when not in use. Crafted elements such as Murano glass inlaid floors, handmade furniture, choice rugs and a curated collection of art breathe luxury into the residence.

Fact File

Project: Story of Arches
Client: Pankaj Goenka
Location: Kolkata
Area: 3,600 sq ft
Principal architect: Abin Chaudhuri
Design team: Paromita Chatterjee and Snehashri Nandi
Execution: Jibendra Basak, Debkishor Das and Sentu Das