A tale of two worlds: This Hyderabad home by ma+rs is where traditional South Indian design takes on a contemporary spin

The air is thick with the aroma of filter coffee brewing in the kitchen, while the melodious strains of classical music drift from the living room. This 2,000 sq ft Hyderabad home by Anisha Menon, Sabyasachi Routray and Indulekha Paul of ma+rs is where South Indian design takes a modern spin in a high street locality. With intricate woodwork on door frames, chettinad pillars and brass inlays, this abode transports one to the bygone era.

High on the south…

As you cross the threshold, the first to lure one with its visual intrigue is the foyer cabinet. Doubling both as storage and a visual partition, it is adorned with delicate panels of cane weaving. A brick wall, a mid-century modern TV console and a cosy sitting area all work together to form this traditional yet new, detailed yet calming space.

The living space then transitions into the dining area and the family space, each notching the South Indian aesthetics.

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Anchoring the design are elements sourced from Karaikudi, including weathered wood and stone columns, infusing a sense of continuity throughout the home. “The entire process of finding a source, going through the selections, finalisation and refurbishment process was extremely enriching for us. Meeting craftsmen and demolishers who understood the value of these architectural elements was very inspiring for us,” says the team at ma+rs.

The dining area boasts a custom six-seater table, while the family space promises a peaceful time with its expansive bookshelf and comfortable sectional sofa.

This and That…

Brick, wood and brass are at the heart of this home. It visually demarcates as well as connects different spaces. The sheer curtains allow the morning rays to filter in. One can’t get enough of it. Sun in the day and the city lights at night. The home keeps reminding one of history as well as contemporary times.

With wooden furniture placed against all white walls, the bedrooms offer a clean slate—a clean, clutter-free space—for one to see dreams anew. The person leaves everything behind and falls for the peace the bedrooms in this abode have to offer.

Reclaimed teak wood and rattan are synonymous with the design of this home. The colour palette, a careful curation of neutrals and pops of olive green, serves as a canvas for self-expression.

But perhaps it’s the simplicity of daily life in a South Indian home that leaves the deepest imprint on the soul. Something this home in a high street locality in Hyderabad stands true to. It’s the joy of sharing meals with loved ones, the warmth of hospitality that knows no bounds and the sense of belonging that permeates every corner of the house.

Fact File:

Project Name: Reddy Home

Design Firm: ma+rs

Location: Kokapet, Hyderabad

Area: 2000 sq. ft.

Design Team and Designation: Anisha Menon (principal architect), Sabyasachi Routray (principal architect), Indulekha Paul (Senior Architect/Project Lead)

Photography by Arjun Krishna Photography