Inside the Tandem House—How The Melange Studio conceived traditional family living through contemporary design

In the heart of New Delhi’s Ashok Vihar, Tandem House by The Melange Studio redefines modern joint family living with a seamless blend of classical aesthetics and contemporary functionality. The project began with an intriguing brief—create separate-yet-connected living spaces for two brothers and their families while preserving the essence of traditional joint family living. The result is a thoughtfully designed 22,000-square-foot residence that features two identical duplex floors, each offering complete independence while maintaining familial bonds through shared spaces.

A Tale of Two Families, One Home

Tandem House is a unique interpretation of the traditional joint family home. Each family occupies its own duplex, with identical layouts that ensure equity while fostering individuality. The shared spaces—a basement housing a home theatre and golf room, and a terrace featuring a barbecue and green zones—serve as the heart of the home, bringing the family together.

The home’s facade, surrounded by lush peepal trees, is a modern take on a classical-style bungalow. It reflects the family’s history while embracing a contemporary design language.

Blending Legacy with Modernism

Drawing inspiration from the family’s 20-year-old ancestral home, Tandem House reimagines classical elements for a modern setting. Vitruvian principles of proportion guide the design, creating spaces that are visually balanced and emotionally resonant.

Each duplex features a dramatic double-height living room connected by an internal staircase, creating a visual bridge between generations. The older family members occupy the lower floors, while the younger generation resides above, establishing a natural hierarchy without compromising on luxury or comfort.

Shared Spaces That Foster Connection

The genius of Tandem House lies in its communal areas. The basement houses entertainment zones including a home theatre and golf room, while the roof terrace features an outdoor barbecue area and green spaces. These shared amenities ensure that while families maintain their privacy, they have plenty of opportunities for togetherness. The design encourages natural interaction while respecting the need for personal space, creating a perfect balance for modern joint family living.

Personalisation Meets Cohesion

Each private space within Tandem House tells its own story while maintaining a cohesive design language. Master bedrooms feature refurbished furniture from the family’s previous home, creating a bridge between past and present. Children’s lounges reflect individual personalities while staying true to the overall aesthetic. Luxurious bathrooms with Italian marble and well-planned kitchens add functional elegance to the mix. This thoughtful approach to personalization ensures that each family member feels at home while contributing to the unified design vision.

Where Tradition Meets Innovation

The architects, Dhruv DV & Pranvi Jain, faced a unique challenge: honouring the family’s previous home’s traditional aesthetic while creating something decidedly modern. They responded with a facade that echoes classical bungalow design, complemented by contemporary interiors. The design seamlessly incorporates double-height spaces that maximize natural light throughout the home.

A sophisticated neutral palette defines the formal areas, while bold forest-green tones enliven family spaces. The attention to detail extends to custom-crafted elements, including handmade rugs from Bhadohi artisans. Sustainable features like solar panels and eco-friendly materials demonstrate a commitment to modern environmental consciousness without sacrificing luxury.

From its timeless facade to its personalised interiors, Tandem House is a legacy in the making—a residence designed to evolve with its inhabitants while honouring their roots.

FACT FILE

Project name – Tandem House

Area – 22,000 sq.ft.

Team – Dhruv DV, Pranvi Jain, Parminder Singh Nagi

Design Studio – The Melange Studio

Project Type – Residential Architecture & Interior Design

Photography – Avesh Gaur

Decor – Sarita Handa, Sarita Handa Now