To an architect, old, existing sites are like manuscripts which hold multiple stories of time and space. In the process of working on the renovation for a residence, the architect adds, negates and writes-over several parts of the site’s story – to retell it afresh and anew. Similarly, when posed with the challenge of transforming a 10000 sq. ft. residence in Ahmedabad, Studio Nine chose to rewrite the building’s story, imbuing it with light, life and attention to detail.
The existing two-storeyed bungalow in a gated community originally came with rigid spaces and structural constraints, which needed to be incorporated in the design update. The external facade was to remain unchanged. Therefore, through precise surgical interventions in terms of adding and subtracting walls and widening openings, the full spatial potential was tapped into.
Considering the evolving lifestyle of the clients – a multigenerational family of five, the updated spatial planning was done to allow clearly defined private and common areas, with an upgrade of amenities. The ground floor plan underwent maximum alterations, in terms of opening out spaces wherever possible, integrating utility and service areas, and creating alcoves for ample storage. The garden and outdoor landscaped area was thoughtfully integrated into the interior spatial experience through seamless openings, bay windows and uncluttered fenestrations. To keep up with the family’s requirements, the five bedroom home is also equipped with three lounge areas, ample common areas in the basement and terrace floor and a central lift. The overall structural skeleton of the home was retained, while new life was infused through a handpicked assemblage of materials, textures and curated corners.
As if creating a work of art on a blank canvas, after the structural and civil interventions, the interiors took shape within a bare shell. As a response to the clients’ vision of soothing spaces with understated luxury and modern comforts, the material palette for common/family areas was kept neutral and earthy.
The entrance lounge and foyer, however, were designed with a burst of colour to induce drama and awe, especially for the family’s guests. A pair of classic salmon pink doors greet one inwards, into a cozy waiting nook clad in browns with an artwork in warm shades.
The formal living room unfolds as a harmonious blend of nude, brown, and grey hues against a backdrop of exquisite greige marble flooring. A wooden ceiling, illuminated by magnetic profile LEDs, casts a warm and inviting ambiance. A versatile wooden coffee table gracefully pivots to accommodate the varied needs of the multi-seater living space, while cleverly designed modular storage units seamlessly merge with the living area, showcasing captivating curios and artworks. A sense of continuity and fluidity pervades the interconnected living, study, and dining areas, cleverly united by slim sliding panels, fostering transparency and seamlessness.
The kitchen, a modern sanctuary of functionality, exudes sophistication in shades of grey, beige, and classic neutrals, boasting quartz stone-finished platforms and backsplashes, accented by coloured glass acrylic shutters.
On the first floor with three bedrooms, the plan underwent modifications to add proper walk-in-closet areas and storage while also modifying bedrooms as per the inhabitants’ preference.
The daughter's sanctuary reflects her penchant for serene, cool colors and clean lines, with a steel blue-grey feature wall anchoring the space, complemented by warm wood tones and PU finishes. A pristine white study area caters to her academic pursuits.
Conversely, the son's bedroom is a bold exploration of darkness, with a striking black bed back panel adorned with abstract forms, paying homage to the allure of shadows. The adjoining bathroom continues the theme with exquisite black stone paneling and dark-tinted modular wardrobes, enveloping the space in an air of luxurious indulgence.
At its core, this home is a testament to refined elegance and thoughtful design, where each element intertwines to create an oasis of modern luxury and timeless sophistication. Altogether, the DS House is a well-composed narrative, rewriting the old and reimagining the new.
• Project name: DS House
• Architecture firm: Studionine Architects
• Principal Architect: Ar.Tapan Shah
• Project location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
• Area: 10000 sqft
• Photography: Maulik Patel / Inclined Studio
• Design team: Dixita, Hemish, Brijesh, Deepanshi, Tanmay
• Design year: 2021
• Completion year: 2023
• Supervision: Studionine Architects
• Status: Built
• Typology: House renovation
• Text : Niharika Joshi