In the heart of Pune, where the city’s rhythm beats strong and vibrant, lies a home of serenity and cultural fusion. This 4-bedroom masterpiece is a testament to the power of design that embraces the rich tapestry of human experience. Crafted with love and expertise by Alkove-Design, this 2800 sq ft home is more than just a physical structure; it’s a living embodiment of the identities and aspirations of its inhabitants – a couple whose journey spans continents and cultures.
The genesis of this space lies in a simple brief from the family. They sought a contemporary space that would serve as a retreat during their visits to India, while also reflecting their diverse cultural heritage. Having grown up in India and later settling in Australia, they yearned for a home that would blend elements from both worlds. It was a challenge that Alkove-Design eagerly embraced, setting the stage for a creative journey unlike any other.
Despite the physical distance separating the design team and the clients, modern technology served as a bridge, facilitating seamless communication and collaboration. Through WhatsApp messages and video calls, ideas flowed freely, and decisions were made with ease. The home itself is a sprawling oasis within The Ark Voyage in Pune. From the moment you step through the door, you’re greeted by a burst of colour in the entrance lobby. The walls painted a vibrant scarlet, exude warmth and energy, setting the tone for the rest of the house.
Moving into the living room, you’re enveloped in a sense of calmness, with indigo accent walls adding a touch of serenity to the space. As sunlight streams in through the windows, casting a golden glow, you can’t help but feel at peace. The dining area, with its aboriginal art and rustic stone tables, pays homage to the family’s Australian roots while celebrating the vibrancy of Indian culture. It’s a beautiful juxtaposition, highlighting the couple’s diverse heritage.
The kitchen is specially designed to cater to Mrs. Pachare’s gourmet experiments. Clad in elegant Calcutta Lux stone, it exudes sophistication and style, a fitting backdrop for her culinary creativity. But it’s the entertainment lounge that steals the show, with its vibrant colour palette and exquisite Rajasthani craftsmanship.
A re-creation of an S.H. Raza masterpiece adorns the walls, adding a splash of emotion to the space, a reminder of the couple’s Indian roots. As you explore further, you’ll come across the study room, a space designed for both work and leisure. Soft oak furniture and lime green accents create a lively environment, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The focal point of the room is a vivid Raza painting, re-imagined by the talented team at Alkove-Design, showcasing their commitment to excellence.
But perhaps the most serene spaces in the house are the bedrooms. The master bedroom with its pastel turquoise walls and chic furniture is a place to relax and recharge, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The son’s room, with its refreshing mauve tones, doubles as a guest bedroom, offering a cosy retreat for visitors. This contemporary haven stands not only as a physical structure but serves as a guardian of identities, weaving together the threads of culture, memories, and aspirations to create a truly unique space. From the vibrant scarlet of the entrance lobby to the serene pastels of the bedrooms, every detail has been curated to reflect the rich tapestry of the family’s journey. As the sun sets over Pune, casting a warm glow over this beautiful home, it reminds us that no matter where life takes us, there is always a place to call home.
Fact File:
Project name: Guardian of Identities
Design firm: Alkove-Design
Area (in sqft): 2800 sq ft
Location: Pune
Principal Designers: Ar Komal Mittal and Ar Ninada Kashyap
Design team: Komal Mittal, Ninada Kashyap and Sanika Kulkarni
Photography: Hemant Patil