This architect’s Mumbai home features deep marsala ceilings, bespoke pulley lamps, and more
For this Mumbai home, architect Nishita Kamdar took on an entirely new role—one that both challenged her and compelled her to move beyond her comfort zone. Yet, it was a role that, in many ways, represents the ultimate dream for most designers. For this 850-square-foot residence, Kamdar stepped into the character of the client, having just purchased the home of her dreams with her husband. “Being both client and designer, the real challenge is to present yourself—and the occupants—with your best self through the project,” Kamdar explains. This cosy, two-bedroom Mumbai home, then, stands as an unadulterated manifestation of Kamdar’s creative vision.
Daring Colours
Moody corners, deep, rich ceilings, and dark woods—Kamdar embraced a timeless noir aesthetic and made it her own. “We wanted the home to feel like our cave, our safe space—a place to unwind and have our friends over,” she says. Swathed in tones of dusty pink, the lounge features a plush white slipcover sofa from Gulmohar Lane, a charming rotatable swing from Kamdar’s furniture label Pieces of Desire, and an island study desk. Two contemporary paintings by Sri Lankan artist Krishan Kodithuwakku hang above the sofa. Kamdar’s experimental proclivities manifest in charming ways throughout, one of them being a custom-made pulley lamp that can transition from a functional work light to an ambient one for when the couple entertains.
An intimate dining area is carved into a cement-finished nook with two loose chairs, framed by a monochromatic tropical wallpaper by Kalakaari Haath. Beyond, a chic sage green bar cabinet is accompanied by a solid, rough-cut stone pedestal coffee table. Overlooking the dining space is the open-plan kitchen, where bright marsala-red and black cabinets are set against turquoise hand-glazed tiles in striking contrast. All throughout, Kamdar has achieved a seamless balance of colour, texture, and form, each element blending with effortless nuance.
Personal Sanctuaries
Kamdar’s intentional, creative eschewal of rules carries into the private areas of the home as well. In the guest bedroom, a curved marsala-red ceiling takes centre stage. “The colour tones of the entire house are warm, and each room is given its own individuality,” says Kamdar. She goes on to add, “We place special emphasis on getting every piece of furniture and decor custom-made—from the wardrobes to the tables to the carpet and even some of the lights.”
In the master bedroom, calming sand tones are used liberally. Taupe walls, buttery beige sheers, honey-and walnut-toned floors set the scene. Against these, tiny details like bespoke emerald-toned handles come to life. A symphony of colours and craftsmanship, Kamdar’s Mumbai home ultimately stands as her very own ‘piece of desire.’
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