Open Atelier Mumbai masterfully transforms a historic Bandra bungalow into TOAST Events' vibrant office space, preserving Mumbai’s rich architectural heritage while adapting it for contemporary use. Completed in just 25 days—5 for design and 20 for execution—the project reimagines the colonial-era Green Gift Bungalow through adaptive reuse, emphasizing minimal and non-intrusive interventions.
The 2000 sq ft, three-storeyed space features a free-flowing layout that fosters collaboration and fluid movement. A winding staircase leads visitors through a non-hierarchical studio environment, connecting workstations, a pantry, accounts department, conference rooms, and informal community spaces like the terrace.
The design approach highlights existing heritage elements while infusing the space with pastel pops of green, blue, orange, and red to accentuate fenestrations and architectural details. Whitewashed walls paired with vibrant original 100-year-old floor tiles create a lively, balanced atmosphere. Minimalist interventions ensure the historic fabric remains untouched, while playful, geometric patterns add modern character to transitional areas.
A suspended linear lighting system, running through exposed conduits, enhances spatial unity while preserving structural integrity. The lights not only illuminate but also visually connect different zones, creating dynamic plays of light and shadow throughout.
Efficiency and sustainability were central to the project’s success. Prefabricated and modular furniture from IKEA was prioritized, and extensive wall treatments like paneling were avoided to maintain rapid timelines. The project stands as a testament to purposeful, sustainable design, blending heritage preservation with modern functionality to create an inspiring, collaborative workspace.