This Mumbai home by Minnie Bhatt Design is an apostrophe amidst the city’s relentless pace

Apostrophe, a signal to pause, take possession or form contractions. This ignorable symbol holds an idea even deeper. It hints to a brief pause and a moment of introspection. Just as an apostrophe disrupts the rhythm of a sentence to add meaning, this home by Minnie Bhatt Design forms a disruption much needed in this Maximum City to form a little quaint sanctuary.

The spatial reconfiguration reimagined the house, shifting from a large kitchen and four bedrooms to a spacious living room with both formal and informal seating areas, a separate dining area, three generous bedrooms, and dedicated spaces for staff and storage. The focus was on maximizing space while maintaining a flexible layout, ensuring each area had a distinct purpose.

The doors to the Vaghani Residence open to a space where marble-clad walls immediately set the tone, offering a glimpse into what lies within. There is no rush here—each element carefully placed, letting one’s gaze drift from one detail to the next, unfolding slowly like the first notes of a beautiful melody.

As one steps further into the living room, the design reveals itself like an artful composition. High ceilings adorned with neo-classical columns ground the space in history, while the modern furniture, sleek lines and minimalistic approach ensure that this is very much a living space for today. The large windows and glass door with a metal arch invite light to flood in, connecting the space to the outside world. Here, the past meets the present—each piece working in harmony, one not overshadowing the other.

The dining room is where the concept of fusion comes to life most vividly. A striking black-and-white marble dining table sits at the heart of the space—its intricate inlay work demanding attention. Above, a colonial-style chandelier casts a soft glow, while the minimalist Rothko-inspired console introduces a touch of modern art.

The powder room takes the viewer by surprise. A bold geometric black-and-white mosaic tile floor meets the rich texture of malachite in the vanity base, the unexpected pairing speaking volumes of daring design choices. Rose gold fittings punctuate the space with warmth, while the brass-framed mirror and Parisian-style chandelier add a layer of luxury that’s as bold as it is refined. It’s a room where contradictions come together to form a perfect whole—delicate, daring and deeply elegant.

The primary bedroom wraps one with serene tones. The curved ceiling, bathed in soft, ambient light from integrated magnetic lighting, casts an ethereal glow over the space.

The kid’s room boasts a wall that doubles as a Lego masterpiece, where creativity is both encouraged and celebrated. The simple yet impactful design elements—from the custom Lego wardrobe handles to the playful bathroom mirrors.

The five-year-old’s room, with its football-themed décor, brings an element of fun into the home, seamlessly integrated with the larger design story. Each piece, while playful, is thoughtfully chosen to add to the room’s overall aesthetic—proof that the same care is given to the most whimsical of spaces.

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The design philosophy behind the space speaks to an unhurried understanding of space, where classic elements are honored but modern sensibilities are given room to breathe. It’s a home that embraces its heritage while maintaining a steady gaze on the future. Materials like Italian marble, rose gold, and custom woodwork are not just visually appealing—they tell a story of quality, durability, and an understanding of timeless luxury.

The home owner’s vision was clear: create a modern home that still speaks to the values of family, comfort, and tradition. The design draws on elements of neo-classical architecture, pairing them with modern art and minimalist furniture to create a space that feels at once grand and intimate. The layout allows for openness without sacrificing function, and each room serves as both a retreat and a reflection of the family’s life.

The materials chosen for the abode speak to the integrity of the design. Italian marble, known for its timeless beauty, forms the foundation of the home’s aesthetic, while wood and PU finishes add a layer of modern sleekness. Each piece, whether in the form of hand-crafted furniture or carefully curated artwork, is a testament to the craftsmanship that makes the residence stand out.

What makes this home truly remarkable is its ability to balance tradition and modernity in a way that doesn’t feel forced. It’s a home where every detail works in tandem to create a space that feels contemporary. It’s a residence that doesn’t just house a family, it envelops them, crafting a space where every corner holds meaning.

FACT FILE:

Name of the project: Vaghani Residency

Firm Name: Minnie Bhatt Design

Area: 2,400 sq ft

Location of the project: Mumbai

Photo courtesy: Prashant Bhat