A Grecian Retreat: Shimona Bhansali imbues a subtle touch of opulence to this Mumbai home

The designer calls this home ‘Zephyr’ which translates to ‘a soft gentle breeze’ in Greek. True to its name, this Mumbai apartment is a resurgence of quiet luxury. The design journey began with a simple brief by the homeowners, they desired a space that embodied a sense of restrained luxury. They envisioned a home bathed in modern whites with subtle undertones of elegance. Shimona Bhansali of DesignHex embraced the brief to create a home that stands as a beacon of tranquillity amidst the urban chaos.

Travel never ceases to inspire. It was on one such trip to the enchanting island of Santorini in Greece that Shimona found her muse for this residence. The name ‘Zephyr’ aptly captures the essence of this inspiration. The team embarked on a journey to craft a narrative that resonates with the spirit of Greece. The colour palette draws from the volcanic landscapes of the Mediterranean – warm hues of rustic oranges and vibrant lava red juxtaposed with the iconic Grecian blues. The contemporary colour palette, design motifs and patterns draw inspiration from the Mediterranean.

Talking about the design, Shimona says that the layout presented an intriguing challenge. “Two apartments were combined to create this expansive space, which resulted in a mirrored layout. We capitalised on the layout, ensuring abundant natural light and cross-ventilation throughout the day. The material palette is a harmonious blend of textures and tones. The understated yet sophisticated colours serve as a befitting canvas for attention-grabbing elements like art, wallpapers and décor. However, the bespoke rugs are the true conversation starters in this home. Hand-knotted and inspired by Greece’s vibrant colour identities, these rugs breathe life into the interiors.

This is more than just a home; it is a journey through Greece’s enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage. DesignHex has crafted a space where every element tells a story, from the colour palette to the bespoke rugs. Amid Mumbai’s urban fabric, The Zephyr stands as a tranquil retreat and a Grecian holiday at home, proving that with thoughtful design, one can find serenity even in the heart of a bustling city.

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FACTFILE

Typology: Residential
Name of Project: The Zephyr; Location: Worli, Mumbai
Name of Design Firm: DesignHex
Principal Designer: Shimona Bhansali
Design Team: Parul Kalra; Stylist: Samir Wadekar
Area: 4,000 Sq ft
Date of Completion: January 2024
Photography courtesy: Suryan/Dang; Wabi Sabi Studio