Shabnam Gupta unveils a Mumbai duplex where art, heritage, and modernity collide. Her new-age maximalist design combines eclectic elegance with contemporary flair, setting a fresh standard in luxurious living.
A magnificent duplex in Mumbai portrays an artistic fable, where tradition and modernity hold hands amidst comfort and lavish luxury. Shabnam Gupta, the maestro of maximal interior aesthetics moulded each element into a character in the narrative where bold, delineated geometric shapes, strong hues and innovative textures stand as the protagonists in this coruscating home. While the usual markers of opulence -plush fabrics, sparkling chandeliers, intricately carved wooden doors, and exquisitely printed wallpapers find their distinct places in the décor, what gives the home its distinctive personality is the liberal use of fine craftsmanship, a luxury in its own right.
In the heart of Four Bungalows, Mumbai, Shabnam Gupta’s artistic exploration comes alive in this sprawling home boasting 7,500 square feet of living space, rightfully dubbed ‘Writers Retreat’. Adding her insight Shabnam adds, The clients, ‘writers of great reckon, aspired for a warm, inviting yet not overbearing space for their familial festivities and a prolific cocoon for their creative musings. They wanted a visually vibrant space, a reflection of their contemporary persona yet with a deeply rooted locus. A visual echo of maximal with a joyous identity, the ground floor has an open layout and houses the family bedrooms, dining and living spaces. The upper area hosts a study, a den, and an informal meeting area for the couple’s creative teams.”
The sensorial experience starts at the entrance itself where an exquisite hand-carved wooden door hosted within an intricate frame enchants with its majestic appeal. Beyond, a wave of eclecticism pervades across the space, a welcoming visual of a dramatic teal interior accented with a daring red art piece and curios and stunning lighting welcomes inside. Dotted with art, beguiling contemporary curved archways serve as a compelling foil to ornate molding along the ceilings. The hallway opens into a majestic space with a 14-foot high ceiling where a royal-looking black helix-shaped staircase leads to the upper level exuding a grandeur vibe. A stellar set of vintage temple panels hand beaten and aged, set within antique mirrors evokes awe with its beauty. This pièce de résistance is highlighted with the gold and silver within the panels to get reflected in the metallic hand-painted walls around the staircase.
The dramatic contrast of black and white in the living room is further highlighted with unique pieces of art and craft that bring life to the living room. Wooden flooring, wainscoting on the walls and a dripping chandelier are a further testament to the glamorous aesthetics. The dining room breaks the monotony of the black and white theme with framed fuchsia pink Suzani textiles on the dining room wall, the stunning backdrop for the vintage-styled dining table. The customised velvet lights are reflected in the cushions that accent the space. A black and white contemporary mandir beams through with a sanctimonious vibe in black and white tones.
The bedrooms reflect modern sentiments delving deep into our heritage aesthetics. With traditional motifs adorning the walls, headboards, and furnishings, vintage louvred wardrobes, trunk-like side tables, and colourful rugs lend a charming sensibility to the spaces. The master bedroom exudes the natural charm of rattan details and Warli art that is creatively balanced by a delightfully opulent dressing area. Black and white panelled furniture complement jewel-toned chairs and loungers, with ornate decorative lighting from Peacock Life overhead. A glamorous bathroom with Art Deco flourishes completes this space. A bed canopy drapes the child’s bed in the private space next to a cosy teddy bear chair. The ensuite bathroom in pink and blue with aquatic flavours has fishes swimming around on the walls bringing nature in for the youngster.
The real luxury lies in the abundance of open spaces in this home. A glass conservatory, in the upper zone, is transformed from the terrace and includes a bar, an outdoor seating area, and a quaint vintage water feature, imbuing the space with charm and tranquillity. Vibrant art pieces from Baro adorn the outdoor walls. A creative and brainstorming cove the upper space with its macho den and study is an oasis where imagination unfurls in every corner. Sunlight dances through large windows, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere, perfect for artistic pursuits while the walls come alive with artwork.
“The clients’ aspiration was for a home that blends Indian aesthetics with their modern lifestyle, which was the themeboard while designing this space. This welcoming home is more than just a place to reside; it’s an everlasting source of joy where time is cherished, and memories are crafted while fostering a nurturing environment for their creative endeavors,” says Shabnam Gupta, Founder & Principal Designer, The Orange Lane and Peacock Life.
Photography Credits: Kuber Shah
