In the heart of a bustling township in Ahmedabad, a remarkable transformation has taken place. Workshop Inc., a multi-disciplinary design studio led by architects Varun Shah and Keta Shah, has designed a 2,500 sq ft residential sanctuary that tells a compelling story of escape, intention, and the art of slowing down.
The journey began with a simple yet profound desire. “I think it was important that our home insulated us from the intensity of our high-pressure jobs,” the homeowners share, their voices reflecting the exhaustion of city life. “We wanted to slow down, live with intention and appreciate the simple joys of relaxed mornings, home-cooked meals and intimate gatherings.”
“This yearning became the cornerstone of Workshop Inc.’s design philosophy for the project, a philosophy rooted in the elegant fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics, known as Japandi. The result is a home that breathes tranquillity, where every element whispers rather than shouts, and where space itself becomes a balm for weary souls.” Explains Varun Shah and Keta Shah Principal Designer, Workshop Inc.
As one crosses the threshold, marked by a striking arched entrance vestibule in black metal adorned with rustic blue textile artwork from Morii Designs, the transformation is immediate. The chaos of the city falls away, replaced by what Varun describes as “a restful, monochromatic shell to retreat into. “The home unfolds as a carefully choreographed sequence of sensory experiences, where beige travertine panels create a serene backdrop, their natural elegance softened by a bespoke curved sofa upholstered in a sumptuous creme boucle.
The design unfolds through thoughtful spatial planning. The living, dining, verandah, and kitchen spaces flow seamlessly into one another, creating what Keta describes as “joyful moments for the family as they go about their everyday life.” Natural light floods the open layout, while vintage Chandigarh chairs sit companionably alongside lightweight Pai tables from Josmo Studio, each piece contributing to a narrative of considered, artisanal living.
“We intentionally designed a multitude of tactile experiences that nudged the family to pause,” Keta reveals with a smile. Handmade Longpi pottery totems by Ikai Asai, sheer curtains from Shades of India that dance with the breeze, and a woollen rug from Jaipur Rugs create layers of warmth and texture that invite touch and contemplation ” says Varun Shah
While the communal spaces celebrate connection, the four bedrooms retreat to the rear of the home. The master suite epitomises this philosophy of restful refuge. A pale-grey upholstered bed anchors the room, surrounded by slated and smooth oak veneer walls that exude quiet sophistication. Custom back-painted glass storage shutters keep the space light and airy, while a pair of Aztec-printed armchairs frame a large window with tranquil views.
A hidden gem reveals itself in the living area, a concealed door cleverly integrated within the travertine panelling leads to their son’s bedroom. Here, Workshop Inc. addressed the practical needs of a teen with ingenuity, designing a bed atop storage with a sliding desk system that maximises utility without sacrificing aesthetics.
Throughout the home, Workshop Inc. has orchestrated what Varun describes as “a dialogue between organic forms and rectilinear shells, smooth and textured surfaces alongside light and dark tones.” Deep blacks and metallic brass accents punctuate the tonal backdrop, while natural timber, stone, and linen create a foundation of authenticity. The deliberate avoidance of harsh architectural lighting in favour of subtle pendant lamps ensures that every corner is bathed in a diffused, welcoming glow.
In an age of relentless pace and urban intensity, this Ahmedabad residence stands as a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design, proof that home can be more than shelter, but rather a carefully crafted invitation to live with greater intention, presence, and grace.
Photographs: Ishita Sitwala
