This Bengaluru home designed by DPLJ Design Studio melds colonial influences into a contemporary narrative

Amidst the tree-lined streets of Kumara Park West, a historic neighbourhood in the heart of Bangalore, ‘Sangama’ rises as a multi-generational residence that pays homage to the passage of time. “The design narrative of this home draws its inspiration from the colonial heritage of the city, and the clients’ penchant for geometric forms, which lend an expression of modernism”, explains Lavish Jain, the principal architect of DPLJ Design Studio.

Purnima Jain, his creative partner, adds, “Hence, its christening as ‘Sangama’- meaning confluence – symbolises the congenial blend of historical charm with contemporary flair.”

To align with Vastu principles, the original south-facing entrance was re-oriented to the east, resulting in the creation of a dedicated foyer. Here, the home’s ethos unfolds vividly—an entrance anchored by a Ganesha relief mural, sculpted from Gwalior Mint Sandstone, against a fluted canvas reminiscent of classical columns.

Lavish shares,”The 2500 sqft home has been shaped with a dual-layered approach : classical design manifests in the form of clean lined walls for the backdrop, and modernity takes the foreground through soft contours in the furniture, all of which is customised by us.”

Rich wooden accents weave a vernacular theme throughout the living and dining areas, spanning from the back wall of the living room to the false ceiling slabs ingeniously concealing the beams within.Their warmth is complemented by the cool tones of grey in the furniture, crafting a deftly balanced atmosphere. Cultural artefacts enrich the dining space, while a semi-open partition wall doubles as a display unit and divider for the family lounge.

In contrast to the rustic ambiance of the public spaces, the family lounge exudes a different vibe, characterised by soothing hues and sleek forms. Lavish confides, “This space of the house is my personal favourite,” as he reflects on its tranquil aesthetic. Abstract artworks made by local artists —another beloved choice of the residents—pepper the space, imbuing it with vogue. A hidden gem, the puja unit, awaits discovery inside a wooden cabinet.

The bed chambers are arranged along a central corridor, culminating in a striking Buddha painting as the terminating vista. Classical wainscoting graces the walls, flowing seamlessly into both the master suite and the grandparents’ bedroom. Here, too, abstract arts find their place, infusing modern elegance and contributing to a cohesive visual narrative across the dwelling.

Purnima reveals, “Two factors shaped each bedroom’s color palette – their distinct preferences and the generous windows framing verdant views. We chose hues that would harmonize well with the natural light streaming in.” Earthy finishes sprinkled across the master bedroom create a cozy refuge, enhanced by the calmness of light hues. “The marble underfoot of the bed was specifically bartered for a wooden flooring in adherence to the couple’s liking”, notes Lavish. A placid palette of white envelops the grandparents room, where a vibrant blue chesterfield bed punctuates the serene ambiance. Finally, the daughters’ bedroom features an interplay of textured paint and fluted panelling on the back wall, forming a tactile and dynamic backdrop. But what arrests the eye is the dusty pink bed, its soft shade imparting gentle sophistication.

In every detail, ‘Sangama’ illustrates the spirit of its occupants while ensuring their comfort – a personalised haven where Bangalore’s colonial history finds a modern expression.

The author is an Assistant Professor at School of Design and Innovation, RV University, Bengaluru.

FACT FILE

Designed by: DPLJ Design Studio

Project Type: Residential Interior Design

Project Name: Sangama

Location: Bangalore, Karnataka

Year Built:2024

Plot Area: 2700 sqft

Project Size (in sq. ft.): 2400 sqft

Principal Architect(s): Ar. Lavish R Jain (Principal Architect) , ID. Purnima Jain (Principal Designer) 

Team Design Credits (for Particular Project): Vasu ( 3d Artists)

Photograph Courtesy: Nayan Soni