If India had its own dollhouse, it would look somewhat like this

I wish that, growing up, someone had bought me an Indian-inspired dollhouse. Peppy yet traditional; cosy yet maximal. I would have loved to see a doll dressed in a saree, chilling on the bed and munching on freshly popped popcorn. The house would have a wooden almirah, printed curtains, and she would be floating around without her juttis, because how dare she cross the threshold with her footwear on? I am sure this Mumbai home dubbed Mōrahi by Shimona Bhansali of DesignHex addresses some of our fantasies, if not all.

“From the outset, it was clear that Mōrahi would celebrate maximalist design — a concept that aligns perfectly with DesignHex’s ethos. The goal was to create a space that showcased the homeowners’ eclectic collection and infused it with the essence of their travels” says Shimona.

A refreshingly straightforward brief was provided by the owners’ who venerate their art collection — they wanted it to be the centre. Enthusiastic globetrotters, the clients curated an eclectic assemblage of entrancing items amassed from their peripatetic pursuits. Each artefact is more than just an ornamentation; it is a poignant chronicle of their wanderlust, encapsulating memories interwoven through the fabric of time.

The interplay of antiquity and modernity creates a striking contrast—delicately carved wooden chests coexist with sleek, contemporary lighting fixtures, reflecting the owners’ varied tastes. However, the challenge inherent in maximalist design lies in finding a balance between visual richness and potential clutter. DesignHex’s careful curation strategy—a defining feature of the project—skillfully navigates this delicate balance with impressive finesse.

The material palette is pivotal to the home’s design narrative. DesignHex selected cooler hues interspersed with vivid tones, crafting a backdrop that permits intricate details and decor to flourish. This deliberate selection cultivates an illusion of expansiveness while ensuring visual cohesion.

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Our favourite has to be the oxymoronic bedrooms. The 2024 doll would surely want to read her comic in her curvaceous room, because “now we appreciate every curve.” She would definitely want her brother to have an industry-inspired room in the brightest blue and would certainly not mind a playful statement cabinet to store her belongings.

Intriguingly, the appellation ‘Mōrahi’ encapsulates the design philosophy, translating to ‘Maximum’ in Maori—an apt reflection of the maximalist approach. Moreover, the subtle resonance of ‘Rahi,’ which signifies ‘traveller’ in Urdu, elegantly echoes the owners’ insatiable wanderlust.

FACT FILE:

Name of Project: Mōrahi

Design Firm: DesignHex

Principal Designer: Shimona Bhansali

Location: Worli, Mumbai

Area: 2,000 sq. ft.

Photography Credits: Vishesh Kanani