(LIFE STYLE)

Although Ashutosh and kinnari shah decided to call their new home in Ahmedabad ‘AMAN’ almost towards the completion of the project, the surrounding area already justified this name. The design is natural, modern and well planned yet the simple, no-fuss forms leave nothing to be desired when it comes to comfort. The consistency in design is experienced throughout the bungalow.

From an architectural point of view, the bungalows scheme is distinctive since it contrasts with the modern construction around the city by bringing out Ahmedabad’s traditional architectural .A clear square structure and sedate wall finishes complement the quiet neighbourhood and the green garden in frond of the house. It’s a clear and unfussy design with a purist and versatile atmosphere. Indeed, this field of conflict between reduced design contours with no frills and the simultaneous tangible opulent excess becomes the outstanding characteristic of whole interior.

Since the couple were very clear about they wanted in their home (minimal ambiance with a timeless appeal; close to nature with plenty of light and air in all the rooms; should inspire a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere) the next logical step was to identify the firm which would be able to deliver this need. Having understood that the couple had a strong proclivity towards reading, nature and art, Faith Interior Design Cell (a sister concern of Hiren Patel architects) were able to put forth a concept that interested the shahs.

“All along a play of planes and geometrical shapes seems to take precedence as it repeatedly blends into the design, even in the subtle creative elements. Overall the tropical-Bali concept with stark minimalism has been followed as per the client’s requirements,’’ architect Hiren patel explains. The walls are wholesome in white or ivory with touches of earthy colours which impart a timeless beauty to the entire home.

“Designing can never be done in one shot-it’s a process where we start with basics and slowly progress towards making the spaces com alive.” Characteristically, a Buddha idol at the entrance sets the tone for a peaceful and pure atmosphere within. The most distinguishing feature is here everything is reduced to the bare essentials with no frills, taking inspiration form functional necessity. Three oil-painted canvases placed together as a group, offer a view beyond the horizon. Clear lines pure straight-lined design allows an overview of garden in the dining area. Luxurious seating with a large Bisazza-studded centre table creates the appropriate ambiance, while off-white silk curtains with embroidery add to the simple and elegant look. Tow graphic paintings of lotus in water bodies accentuate the serene surrounding.

Since the family has deep-rooted religious convictions, the puja room had to be designed with utmost care. Floating wood drawer in the puja room with a spotless marble top makes an individual design statement, while a smell idol with no other embellishments conform to the tranquil atmosphere. Natural light from an open-to-sky aperture coming in all through the day is a welcome architectural element. Night lighting is smartly concealed below the drawers.


A remarkable piece of architecture in the bungalow to beat the summer heat is the chowk. A spacious and bright multi-purpose area, it receives light through the three completely glass sides and a spectacular glass cube that towers up form the ground to the top floor. The swing here makes it ideal for casual lounging any time of the day.

At first glance, a compact cuboid governs the dining room’s appearance and endows it with an almost monumental elegance with its bold, straightforward and clear shape which follows the décor theme. Green and yellow of the painting on the wall seems to continue from the lush garden a few feet away. A door opens to the veranda and the garden beyond “reminding you of French street-side’’ smiles Ashutosh.

The kitchen in a combination of black with brushed steel finish laminate has a timeless and consistent visual appeal. A clever planning by the design team has resulted in a perfect and practical Indian kitchen. “Understated and minimalist, the sophistication of the kitchen is in the use of material,” says Hiren.

The master bedroom and son’s room have all been designed with an understated, simple styling that accentuates the overall atmosphere. One has to mention a painting by kinneri that adorns the door leading to the parents’ bedroom. The study and lounge have also been well appropriated as per Ashutosh’s requirements. However, what is important is the perfect utilization of the basement as an activity zone. The area that would have otherwise become a dumping ground for boxes and leftover stuff, has been transformed to play table tennis and fill the idle hours constructively!

The credit for this creative journey lies with the design teat’s hard work and their willingness to explore alternative definition of space and lifestyle that embodies contemporary values with simplistic interiors, minimalist displays and free spaces to add upon,” says Hiren with modesty. But for the Shahs it is an oasis in the midst of a hectic schedule that “invites us to escape the rat race, relax and-literally-wash our cares away,” says the house-proud Ashutosh. Truly a place where the luxury of peace and contemplation of family rituals concentrate entirely on the spirit, body and soul!

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