A second home to an Indian couple from Dubai, this 4BHK apartment in Ahmedabad has become a cherished retreat. Designed by Shweta K Jain from Space Karma, this home for a beautiful family of three reflects their personal history and cultural roots, surrounding them with familiarity and connection. Each corner tells a story, reminding them of where they come from while providing a sense of peace as they settle into their new life.
The concept of a second home can often feel daunting, requiring a space that resonates with personal narratives and treasured memories. Shweta believes that design should transcend fleeting trends and instead embody the unique lives of its inhabitants. Her clients, having spent much of their lives abroad, yearned for a home that echoed their heritage and traditions. Located at Parimal Char Rasta, an area alive with energy, the couple envisioned a home that would serve as a warm welcome—a reflection of their cultural identity.
“It’s every designer’s dream to do a project that has no limits attached, and this time we had it,” Shweta remarked with palpable enthusiasm but little did she know that the same dream could also pose an intense challenge. “We were overwhelmed with the amount of ideas we could think of. I guess, it’s always easier to work within boundaries– you know your space!”
In their brainstorming sessions, the designers revisited foundational design principles: lines, curves, and forms. “We literally started drawing lines and curves on the floors, and that’s when we knew we had cracked it,” Shweta recalls. This focus on rhythm permeated the home, from the floors and walls to furniture pieces, resulting in a harmonious blend of textures and colors. The muted palette—soft greiges, buffs, and nudes—evokes elegance, culminating in a space aptly named the House of Rhythm. Unique material combinations, such as terrazzo, white marble, and handwoven leather panels, further elevate the aesthetic, creating a dynamic visual experience.
Every area of the apartment was designed to cater to the couple’s lifestyle. The AV room was reimagined as a space for watching their favorite shows, featuring funky frames that double as vinyl records, adding a playful touch to their entertainment experience. The bar area, with its bold teal cabinet against a pristine white marble backdrop, creates an energetic vibe perfect for social gatherings. The fun and functional home gym bursts with color and creativity, transformed by a hand-painted ceiling and an abundance of natural light that energises workout sessions. Adjacent to the gym, a sauna offers a peaceful retreat for unwinding and reflection. The home office, designed for productivity and inspiration, is filled with personal touches and a view that invites creativity.
Shweta recalls the powerful energy of her clients throughout the design process. To symbolise their strength, she chose to feature Lord Shiva’s sacred bull, Nandi, in the living room. The intricate artwork, woven from threads, mirrors the rhythm established throughout the home. The project took a year from ideation to execution, with each corner meticulously curated to tell a story. A sculpture of Lord Ganesha, inspired by a cherished photograph, stands at the entrance, welcoming visitors with its intricate details and craftsmanship.
In a poignant nod to their family history, the couple requested a reproduction of an old family photograph, which Shweta transformed into a striking charcoal painting. This artwork, strategically placed, serves as a daily reminder of their roots, enhancing the home’s emotional depth. The master bedroom blends comfort and creativity, featuring an embroidered headboard and floral motifs that set a whimsical tone. The calming color palette, combined with rich fabrics, creates an atmosphere of sophistication and serenity.
From the moment one steps into the House of Rhythm, the design flows seamlessly, leading the eye from one thoughtfully crafted area to another. Each piece of art, whether a striking charcoal painting or a contemporary sculpture, adds layers of meaning and emotion to the space. This apartment is more than just a residence; it is a sanctuary that encapsulates the couple’s journey, their heritage, and their dreams. In the end, the design transcends mere architecture, creating an enriching environment that celebrates beauty, comfort, and the essence of home.
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FACT FILE:
Name of the Project: House of Rhythm
Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Project Area: 2,400 sq ft
Design Firm: Space Karma
Lead Designer: Shweta Jain
Photography credits: Nayan Soni
Styling credits: Saniya Tadha