A Bengaluru home by Multitude of Sins, where the whole is greater than sum of its parts

When the coarse texture of sandpaper meets the delicate shimmer of silk, it seems like an improbable pairing. Yet the two share an uncanny ability to give birth to something extraordinary. Something that surpasses the actual catalysts. The grit of one and the refinement of the other may appear to be worlds apart, but each has a profound narrative of skill, patience and artistry. It’s this very juxtaposition of contrasts that forms the foundation of this Bengaluru penthouse by Multitude of Sins where the boundaries of design are pushed, and the family’s deep connection to their heritage is woven into every corner.

This home belongs to a family of four, whose roots trace back to the Deccan. A family who has spent years mastering the art of intricate weaves, motifs, and patterns. Bringing this craftsmanship into their home was inevitable—each room is a canvas, a reflection of their journey through the world of textiles and design. But it’s not just about tradition. It’s about merging the old with the new, creating something ageless yet forward-thinking, a design that can only be described as Modern-Indian.

Finding its voice in the contrasts

At first glance, this penthouse might appear to be a fusion of conflicting ideas—coarse textures, regal silk, contemporary forms and traditional motifs. But upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that this collision of opposites is not chaotic, but rather, a celebration of difference. Transitioning from a larger independent residence to this more compact penthouse, the family wanted a space that would be both intimate and expansive, a home that would reflect their lifestyle while offering them a respite from the noise of the outside world.

Breathing life into materiality

The home is a study in the marriage of opposites. Where marble floors once lay neutral and plain, they’ve been replaced with bold maroon inlays that serve as a grounding element in the entryway. Distressed teal finishes introduce a playful energy that contrasts the calm of the neutral tones, giving the space a sense of movement and personality. As you step into the home, it feels as though every surface has a story to tell, every texture has been considered for its transformative potential.

A striking floral light installation catches the eye next to the carved oak pooja door, its delicate petals crafted from wood, brass and gauzy silk. As it glows softly, it pulls one forward into the living space. The living room itself is anchored by a spacious sectional sofa, pastel-toned armchairs, and a custom-designed carpet in soft blues and ivory.

In the dining area, a hand-painted mural by Artist Venkatesh depicts two cranes soaring amidst celestial blooms, evoking a Renaissance-inspired grandeur.

The dry kitchen is designed as an extension of the dining area. A striking marble waterfall breakfast counter, made from five different types of marble, defines the space, while a cleverly designed storage unit, finished with arched forms and Art Deco-inspired details sits there. The main kitchen, discreetly concealed behind veneered doors, remains hidden, allowing the design to retain its minimal aesthetic.

An unassuming corner on the ground level is turned into a study nook. Framed by an ornate entablature, this corner is a continuation of the home’s overarching design language. The custom desk, built with a mix of curved and linear forms, creates a space where creativity flows freely. The grey wallpaper behind the desk serves as a visual contrast to the more organic shapes.

Where design becomes sculpture

The television lounge serves as another opportunity for the design to play with texture and form. The room is defined by intersecting arches, wooden furniture, and woven rattan elements. The television wall, constructed from marble and wood, serves as both a storage piece and a striking visual element, holding cherished books and heirlooms.

But perhaps the most awe-inspiring element of the home is the stairwell. It feels almost alive, a dynamic space that connects the two levels with sculptural fluidity. The wooden treads flow into the television console, creating a continuous visual language. The balustrade, painted in a deep blue hue and adorned with soft light globes, leads the way up, while the walls are dressed in a combination of veined marble, patterned wallpaper, and wood wainscoting that brings the space to life.

The rich parquet floors lay the foundation of the master suite, while the regal maroon leather headboard of the bed is framed by distressed wood and silk zari panels. It’s here, in this nuanced fusion of modernity and tradition, that the home truly comes to life. The bed’s clean lines contrast beautifully with the elaborate wood beading and intricate detailing.

On the opposite side of the room, a sunny corner hosts a daybed, framed by a window with a custom slanted arch, echoing the room’s soft curves.

A bedroom for the young explorer

Children, with their boundless imagination, often push the limits of design—and in the daughter’s bedroom, this is taken to heart. Drawing inspiration from her love of wildlife, the room is a whimsical, adventurous space where the mundane is reimagined. The bed features an underwater scene, with a larger fish chasing a smaller one—nightstands crafted to resemble fish further enhance the playful design. A wardrobe adorned with hand-stained veneers depicts a bird resting in tree foliage, while a study table shaped like a crocodile’s back adds an element of surprise and fun.

This home is a space where opposites not only coexist, but thrive—where the contrasts of texture, material and form come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.

Also Read: From Amsterdam to India: Crafting a Home of Belonging

FACT FILE:
Name of the project: Sandpaper and Silk

Firm Name: Multitude of Sins (MOS)

Location: Bengaluru

Area: 5,000 sq ft

Principal Designer: Smita Thomas

Design Team: Sachin Bhat, Rahul Naidu, Aysha Amrin, Bharath Magaji

Photo courtesy: Ishita Sitwala