Tucked away in a quiet corner of Bengaluru lies a sanctuary of serenity and style. This private residence, designed by prolific architects Arun Shekar Gowda and Mohammed Afnan of Humming Tree, is a masterclass in bespoke design. Every inch of the space is a canvas, carefully curated to reflect the passions and personalities of its owners, Pooja and Rajiv. As Arun eloquently puts it, “Every aspect of being inside the space felt perfectly in tune.” The genesis of this unique collaboration between the architects and the homeowners began through the digital realm, where Instagram served as a serendipitous bridge. Pooja stumbled upon Humming Tree’s profile, initially drawn to the outfits showcased rather than the designs. “Pooja saw our post and liked our outfits more than the designs and that’s how we were found,” Arun recounts with amusement.
Right away there was an intuitive connection, as the architects sought to translate the owners’ eclectic tastes and stories into built form. “Their personalities revolve around a distinctive inner element. Pooja and Rajiv’s aesthetics subtly influence everything,” observes Afnan. Through extensive conversations, the architects uncovered how travel, art and nostalgia shape the client’s worldview, weaving this into the design. This chance encounter evolved into a journey of aesthetic alignment, resulting in a home that seamlessly blends the personal preferences of the clients with the artistic vision of the architects. The design narrative of this abode is woven with threads of bold colors, unique artworks, and a penchant for intimacy that subtly conceals the personalities of its inhabitants.
For Pooja and Rajiv, each item is not merely a piece of furnishing or art; it is a vessel carrying treasured stories and encapsulated experiences. The design philosophy, succinctly captured in five words—complex, mysterious, different, elegant, and fresh—speaks to the nuanced taste of art-loving individuals with an appreciation for unconventional colours. “Modern yet grounded in their origins, the deep-toned wooden flooring strikes a balance between warmth and a touch of grandeur, perfectly complementing the colour scheme,” describes Arun. Accent walls in rich jewel tones like sapphire and emerald from Asian Paints add drama, their hand-textured lime plaster finish nodding to traditional aesthetics. Artful lighting was a particular focus, ensuring each space has a soothing luminescence by day and a cosy glow after dark.
The designers drew inspiration from the owners’ Assamese roots, incorporating brass Jaapi art, a decorative cone-shaped hat and symbol of the region. This imbues the home with cultural resonance. “Come what may – the custom headboard we designed with hand beaten brass by local skilled craftsmen is our all-time favourite along with the Jaapi all over from Assam,” shares Afnan. “Our design philosophy draws profound inspiration from the rich tapestry of our clients’ diverse cultural experiences and the narratives of their childhood, including the vibrant stories of various communities residing in Assam. Symbolic of Assam, the Jaapi is traditionally worn in the Bihu dance, utilised for protection against the elements, presented as a mark of respect in ceremonies, and thoughtfully incorporated as a decorative element throughout the house, particularly adorning walls as a symbol of positivity,” he further elaborates.
As designers, Arun and Afnan draw creative nourishment from a keen appreciation for the most nuanced details. Whether exploring the graceful contours of a garment, the emotive visage of a Theyam dance mask, the intricate patterns reminiscent of a potter’s wheel, or the flowing elegance of Islamic calligraphy, their inspiration stems from a myriad of sources. These subtle details serve as the foundational elements of their designs, contributing to the distinctive and eclectic character of each project they undertake. In the words of the architects, “We wanted every space of the home to be a conversation starter.”
The sense of beautiful proportion and texture in every corner of the house extends beyond aesthetics; it creates an environment that beckons tranquility. The drawing room, a favourite area for Pooja and Rajiv, opens up to a captivating landscape, allowing an infusion of natural light that brings a sense of space and calm to the entire home. The carefully chosen contrasting colour scheme, taking on a magical bluish-gray tone, contributes to the overall harmony and stillness that permeates the dwelling. Dramatic common areas give way to intimate corners for retreat. The contrast between vibrant hues and neutral tones creates visual interest. Carefully curated furnishings and art tell stories of travel and culture. Pooja and Rajiv are equally delighted. “Each time we open the front door, we sense the tranquility,” they remark. For these passion-driven clients, Humming Tree has crafted a retreat that feels just right. Here, bespoke design harmonises with personal heritage—a place where the past and present coalesce in a symphony of design brilliance. This home is a monument to Arun and Afnan’s talent for transforming a sense of self into livable geometry.
FACT FILE
Project: Apartment, Bengaluru
Architects: Humming Tree
Photographs: Hansoga Photography
ARUN SHEKAR GOWDA & MOHAMMED AFNAN
Founders, Humming Tree
Situated in Calicut, Kerala, Humming Tree stands as a dynamic creative studio dedicated to art, architecture, and design. Fueled by a team of passionate designers, Humming Tree is committed to ceaseless exploration of architectural essence, evaluating projects through the lens of impactful and rational dialogue encompassing context, geometry, and visual expression. The hallmark of their work lies in its versatility, adept at solving intricate design challenges.