Drama in the Ceiling

By Marina Correa

Photography: Courtesy the architects

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A 7,000 sq.ft bungalow in Hyderabad boasts of intriguing ceilings that make stylish statements... 

Approached solely for designing the interiors, principal designers Riyaz and Simeen Quraishi of Moriq Interiors and Design Consultants’ initial inhibitions were transformed into an eager challenge, when they set eyes on the circular staircase on site!

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Although the staircase had to be relocated to exactly the opposite direction due to Vaastu reasons, the design solution was advantaged by the double-height ceiling and veered towards creating a timeless appeal that would play on the fifth element of the home, rather than the easily visible walls.

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Consequently, we have an avant-garde crystal chandelier highlighting the dining section augmented by the classic curvature of the circular staircase, while a funnel-shaped drop-ceiling in the family lounge grabs attention.

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The children’s room features a sloped roof that is reminiscent of a fairytale cottage and is duly complemented by warm cedar wood tones on the wardrobes with splashes of colour coming through the furniture and accessories, imparting a fabled look and feel.

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Contemporary marries classical in the formal lounge, where a herringbone pattern is etched into the walnut wooden wall panel and continues onto the TV panel, albeit in a larger imprint. Scallop-edged beams hang above new-age furniture.

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Even the terrace is partially covered with wooden slats; and thick columns exude a badminton court-like feel. “The basic idea was to break the plain lines of the ceilings and add character to spaces,” explains Simeen.

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In a milieu that is dominated by earthy tones, the ambience is lush and speaks of luxury through small pockets; viz. a striking diamond pattern seen on various doors; choice artifacts and the like.

But it’s the warmth of wood and white, juxtaposed slopes and circles that unify the varied ceilings within this stimulating space called home.