Monochrome can be more interesting than colour—and no, I’m not talking about Indian films

I’m talking about homes. The kind that don’t need to shout to be heard, that don’t rely on loud colours like most today. Here, monochrome isn’t a lack of colour—but a fullness of texture, light and the quiet spaces between. It’s not about what’s there, it’s about what’s not. No grand entrance, no dramatic arches. Just a modest garden, a carport for two, and a façade that feels like it’s been quietly waiting for you. The House of Grace in Raipur—yeah, the name sounds like it’s trying too hard, but when you step inside, it kind of fits. Designed by Piyush and Sonal Agarwal, co-founders and principal architects of SPDC, it makes one realise that void is not always bad.

Inside, it feels like the house lets out a breath. The living room stretches out, not because it’s big, but because it’s not trying to be anything else. Double-height ceilings give it air without feeling empty. The windows let in light like they’ve been doing it for years, without fuss. The garden isn’t just outside—it’s part of the room, like the house forgot to put up a wall.

“We envisioned a Vastu-compliant home that would prioritise natural light and ventilation without compromising on functionality. A unique requirement was a dedicated covered car park for their collection of luxury cars. Beyond that, they entrusted SPDC with the creative freedom to design the space, knowing the team would balance their functional needs with aesthetic brilliance,” says Piyush.

The abode unfurls over three levels with spaces flowing into one another. Gentle curves, not just in furniture but etched into the false ceilings, staircases and even the subtle contours of wall panels, define the theme. “This unique approach contributes to the overall flow and warmth of the space,” notes Sonal.

Hints of warm gold, calming green, and soft grey emerge in every corner, beautifully contrasting with the pearl white and marble floors. An accent marble wall in the living room is framed by perforated columns, adding both character and airflow. A sleek monochrome console with matte metal pedestals introduces an artistic touch. No clutter, no overwhelming art pieces, just space that knows what it’s for.

The mandir’s there, but it’s not tucked into some random corner like an afterthought. It’s part of the design, like it belongs, without the need for extra bells and whistles. You don’t even have to look twice to feel it—just the right mix of quiet and presence.

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The first floor is the family’s private haven. To the left of the staircase, the daughter’s bedroom and a massage plus jacuzzi room offer a quiet retreat, tucked away from the rest of the house. On the right, the master suite feels spacious and serene, with an attached washroom, a dresser, and a cozy seating area that opens up to a full-length balcony and an accessible terrace overlooking the front.

The second floor is more utilitarian, featuring a guest bedroom, a storage room, servant’s quarters, a laundry area, and a service terrace. Though the service terrace feels slightly detached, it’s linked to the ground floor by a spiral staircase. Adjacent to the master suite, a large private terrace provides a peaceful escape with sweeping views, perfect for moments of solitude.

FACT FILE:

Project Name: House of Grace

Firm Name: Studio SPDC

Design Team: Ar. Sonal Agrawal-Founder, Lead Architect, Ar. Piyush Agrawal-Founder; Dolfy Anant-Interior Designer, Parul Chhabria-Interior Designer, Gaurav Samrit-Junior Architect, Structural engineer-Anshul Bajaj and Associates

Location: Raipur

Area: Plot- 4,000 sq ft; Built-up- 6,200 sq ft

Photography Credits: Noaidwin Studios