Designing with Neutral Colours

By Marina Correa

Photography: Courtesy ARCHOS

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A 2,500 sq. ft. three-storey row house in Goregaon, Mumbai, designed by principal architect Jimit Mehta of ARCHOS in just seven months, follows a simple yet elegant design thematic…

Faced with the challenge of delivering the project in just seven months, the architect relied on the diligent functioning of his firm and quick decision-making from the client’s side to accomplish the project on time.

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Following a basic philosophy of ‘keeping things simple and clutter-free’ - be it in the overall earthy tones largely comprising ivory and brown, or as seen in the fuss-free furniture, or even in the uniform marble flooring throughout the home - the residence is imbued with a  contemporary and minimalistic style, while taking care of the needs of its homeowners.

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Splashes of colour in different areas such as blue glass tiles in the kids bathroom; metallic tiles in the powder room; fluorescent green in the kids’ bedroom and colourful cushions in the living room etc. enliven the interiors.

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Linear geometry being characteristic of all three levels, the architect seeks to break it by weaving strong yet understated design elements in the form of back-lit jaali in the living room; Tetris-game-themed ceiling in the kids’ bedroom and the dining table wrap-around-a-column feature in the dining room – anchoring the home with great flourish and aplomb.

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Great care is also taken to maintain a high level of aesthetics. For instance, an unsightly column in the living-dining area is deftly converted into a dramatic feature by cladding it in stone textured tiles; doubling up as a solid support for the dining table.

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Since the home is not directly in dialogue with nature, the creation of attention-grabbing features makes it an inwardly interesting one; while it endorses the architect's acumen and skillset.