Forearch Studios orchestrate Indian Modernism is this Noida Dwelling
“A home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love." This popular belief by Nate Berkus resonates deeply in this Noida abode by Forearch Studios.
Spanning 1500 sqft, ‘Aatreya’ illustrates a tangible manifestation of the owners' dream home. “Doused in the vibrant colours and patterns of Indian traditions, but bereft of heavy ornamentation - this was the directive by our clients, a couple in their 30s with a toddler”, avers Mikasha Sinha Pasricha, who sculpted the project with designer Arpit Khatri.
And so, the home was conceived on the principles of Indian Modernism, where generous doses of traditional elements are integrated within a framework of contemporary design sensibilities. The name ‘Aatreya,’ meaning ‘vessel of glory', reflects the celebration of this very fusion.
Right from the outset, the home radiates a tranquil warmth. Wooden finish cloaks the foyer, which is punctuated with the serene presence of a resplendent Buddha statue.
The living room triggers nostalgia, characterised by ethnic embellishments. A pair of bright hued sofas is spliced with a tailor-made swing to create a congenial environment, perfect for hosting and relaxing. From the Athangudi tiles underfoot to the Rajasthani tiles adorning the coffee table, the fusion of regional artistry is evident in diverse details, their flamboyance balanced by the understated elegance of stucco-painted walls.
The space seamlessly transitions into the dining area, boasting carefully refurbished pieces. A contemporary artwork crowns the nearby console, underscoring the home’s commitment to blending the old with the new.
Arpit elaborates on the spatial organisation, “We opted for an open-plan layout in the communal areas, omitting partition walls to enhance spaciousness and free flow. Distinct spaces were delineated by openings framed in teakwood finish, a recurring theme that ties these spaces together.”
The concept is carried through in the entrance of the adjoining room, where the original small door doorway was swapped for a wooden cum glass door that spans its entire frontage. “This room's visual narrative is shaped by its dual function: a play area for the toddler and a workspace for the parents. As a result, whimsical arches add a touch of jest, while pastel shades of complementary blue and orange infuse the room with a lively yet serene ambiance”, Arpit reflects.
Contemplating the bedrooms, Mikasha explains, “Our focus was to foster an atmosphere of utmost peace and comfort. This was achieved through a subdued colour palette, and rustic touches of cane and wood.”
A tropical wallpaper outlined by an elegant shoulder arch steals the spotlight in the master bedroom. Adjacent to the window, a curated seating area invites moments of both productivity and repose.
In the guest suite, a botanical tapestry graces the back wall, accented by oblong wooden planks, with the same wood grain echoing in the bespoke nightstands. In keeping with the resurrection of dining furniture, the beds in both rooms were given a new lease on life with upholstery and finishes of optimum quality.
A consistent thread of soft contours across various surfaces unites the whole home, creating a cohesive design ethos. By interweaving culture, character and functionality within its walls, ‘Aatreya’ adeptly demonstrates timelessness through a new-age take on the aesthetics of our proud heritage.
Team:
Architect: Forearch Studios
Lead Architect: Arpit Khatri
Lead designer: Mikasha Sinha
Junior designer: Shubham Dixit
Photo credits: Vaibhav Bhatia
Text Credits: Mehar Deep Kaur
Material Used:
1. Plywood: Greenply
2. Veneer: Decowood
3. Hardware: Hettich and Haffele
4. Kitchen Accessories: Blum
5. Flooring Tiles: Osaanj
6. Decorative Lights: Aerglo
