Penthouse Delight

By Marina Correa

Photography: Courtesy the architect

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A sprawling 6000 sq. ft. of inhabitable area and an expansive 3,000 sq ft terrace gets a ‘bungalow-like’ makeover at the hands of principal architect Sandeep J Shah of SSA Design Studio.

Materially rich, roomy, well-appointed and easy-on-maintenance are keywords that define this penthouse in suburban Mumbai for a compact business family.

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Accentuating the positives viz., high ceilings and vast terrace and rising to the challenge of transforming an old load-bearing chawl layout into a bungalow, Sandeep began the exercise by equipping each bedroom with an ensuite restroom, besides enhancing the master bedrooms with walk-in wardrobes. Maximizing on the view and the open terrace space, the guest quarters and a well-appointed bar are positioned on the upper floor, while the family bedrooms and living areas are relegated to the level below. 

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The architect plays with juxtapositions veering from the traditional to the avant-garde as he camouflages the many ‘I’ beams into the ceiling design, interestingly playing traditional elements against a modern vocabulary. For instance, creating a spotlight, wooden rafters are juxtaposed against glass on the ceiling along with an arresting chandelier in the entrance lobby and dining area. A skeletal glass staircase raises a toast to the two duplex levels and sliding folding partitions act as space dividers and enhancers. In a similar vein, a softly landscaped terrace flooring acts as a bold contrast against the old world charm of a Mangalore-tiled sloping roof; exuding a distinct character.

 

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A sumptuous materiality defines spaces. Ubiquitous use of marble variations; elaborate floor patterns; intricate jaali and fenestrations on partitions and dividers; fancy terrace tiles inlaid with artificial grass – bring about wholesomeness to the design and décor of this abode.

 

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And peering at the technicalities behind this tastefully attired abode, we see skylight and sloping roof augmenting the structural and environmental vocabulary as do the light-weight walls crafted out of Siporex and marble dividers instead of brick. LED and plenty of natural light are complemented by solar power for the green experience, all-in-all packing in a punch that gives the home an all-time appeal.