Motif Matters

By Marina Correa

Photographs: Nrupen Madhwani & Sebastian Zachariah; courtesy the architects

.

Whether subtly woven or sharply prominent, creative director, Prashant Chauhan of ZERO9 defines chic style as his design statement as IAnD visits two of his residential projects…

  

The first element that meets the eye is the play of texture and pattern in both projects. With the company into interiors, architecture, brand-identities and corporate communication, working with graphics has subconsciously translated into the architect’s penchant for motifs; integrating décor elements into his design, thereby minimizing add-ons and leaving room aplenty for the homes to grow.

.

Subtly etched motifs on the brown back-painted glass, veneered motif on a back-lit partition, etched and engraved contemporary motifs… inlays in Mother of Pearl, laser cut patterns and calligraphic interventions abound. In fact, the interiors are infused with a play of material, texture and pattern such that they exude an ambience and feel of luxurious living.

           

.

The first apartment is a spacious state-of-the-art fare with everything - from air-conditioning and lighting to music system and curtains to security cameras and even colour of lighting controlled by a click on the iPad.  Even the automated ceiling fans are a smart contraption that minimize their wings and turn into a light fitting when not in use.

Rich blues and purples are juxtaposed with staid dependable umber in a sheen that is classy and is adroitly complemented by touches of ornate to evoke the classic look.

.

Contrastingly, clean straight lines are reflected in the overall design of the second project, where simplicity rules. Flashes of soft colours dot the neutral spectrum of the home, lending it a charming homeliness. Pattern is introduced here too, but in a distinctive style.

 

.

.

Meticulous attention to detail and composition set the tonality of the designer’s repertoire as he works with evoking a positive response in the homeowner; even a casual visitor. Such diligence ensures a well-tied-in design response, bordering on high aesthetics irrespective of the client brief. The two residences in question here – the former plush and the latter pseudo-plush stand testimony to the articulate nature of ZERO9.