Perched on the 53rd floor of Crescent Bay in Parel, this 1600-square-foot apartment has been masterfully transformed by Ridhi Agarwal and Parikshat Hemrajani of Hipcouch. Located high above the bustling streets of Mumbai, Vintage Vista stands as a unique blend of modern luxury and vintage charm. This project reimagines a standard 3 BHK apartment into a bespoke one-bedroom plus study with an expansive living area. The resulting space captures the essence of nostalgia while embracing the vibrant energy of contemporary design, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the sea to the east and the cityscape to the south.

Editor’s Note: “Perched above Mumbai’s vibrant streets, Vintage Vista enchants with a symphony of modern luxury and vintage allure. This transcending adobe transforms a standard apartment into a poetic sanctuary. With echoes of South Indian artistry and a contemporary grace, it offers a serene canvas of sea and cityscape, weaving history and modernity into a harmonious, breathtaking tapestry.” ~Shagun Shah

This Home On The 53rd Floor of Crescent Bay in Parel Blends Luxury and Vintage | Hipcouch

Warmth and Character

The inception of Vintage Vista was driven by homeowner Bijou George’s desire to transform his newly purchased apartment into a home that exudes warmth, character, and a sense of place. George, a financial writer and former hedge fund professional found the original finish of the apartment uninspiring.

He sought a space that would reflect his passion for vintage aesthetics while maximizing the apartment’s intrinsic advantages, such as its prime location and stunning views. The design inspiration for Vintage Vista was deeply rooted in the artisanal heritage of South India, particularly the Chettinad architecture known for its intricate detailing and use of traditional materials. Each design element was carefully chosen to pay homage to the past. Meanwhile ensuring a harmonious flow of textures and colours throughout the home. 

The transformation of  Vintage Vista involved a thoughtful resolution of each space to meet the client’s needs both functionally and aesthetically. The master bedroom was designed to offer a serene view of the sea from the four-poster bed. It is with minimal clutter to emphasise the natural beauty outside.

Classic Design Language

The adjacent study features a desk kept to avoid screen glare while offering a sea view and a massive bookshelf that serves as a backdrop for virtual meetings. This room shows us the client’s intellectual pursuits, providing a space that encourages creativity and productivity.

The living area, designed for adaptability, features sliding glass doors that can open up the space or create a secluded reading room. This versatility allows the living area to transform based on the client’s needs, whether for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet afternoon with a book. A chaise longue strategically placed in the living room provides an ideal spot for reading and enjoying the sea view, with ample lighting and proximity to a table for convenience. 

The kitchen, finished in dark wood, opens up to the living room through a large breakfast counter, allowing for unobstructed views of the skyline and sea. This space also functions as a bar counter, making it versatile for social gatherings. The dining area, designed as a poker table, blends into the larger living room. Thus offering visual access to both the television and the sea view. This design choice underscores the importance of creating a cohesive and interconnected space. Here, each area flows naturally into the next.

Integration of Art and Antiquity

One of the standout features of Vintage Vista is its integration of art and antiquity. Thus reflecting the client’s passion for art and history. The careful placement of canvases and archaeological pieces throughout the home creates a dialogue between the past and present. Thereby adding depth and character to the space. 

We position canvases to enhance the visual experience of each room. Meanwhile, carved niches inspired by Rajasthani mud houses elegantly display artifacts. This thoughtful integration not only enriches the aesthetic appeal of the home but also serves as a testament to the client’s refined taste. It reflects their intellectual curiosity. 

Design Challenges

The execution of Vintage Vista was not without challenges. The project, which took 12 months to complete, faced significant delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, its impact is on the workforce and logistics.

Vintage Vista is a true reflection of Bijou George’s personality and style. The home embodies a sense of the past with its vintage-inspired details, from the tiles to the analogue switches. It serves as an intellectually stimulating environment, with art and books thoughtfully placed to engage and inspire.

Refined Craftsmanship

Despite these setbacks, the commitment to maintaining the highest standards of design and craftsmanship ensured the successful realisation of the client’s vision. The delays provided an opportunity for us to revisit and refine design elements. Thus ensuring that we executed every detail to perfection. 

We designed the spaces for creative reflection, with the panoramic views providing a backdrop for contemplation and relaxation. This residence is more than just a home; it is a curated experience that invites exploration and reflection. Enjoy the harmonious interplay of the past and present in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. 

Fact File

Designed by: Hipcouch

Project Type: Residential Interior Design

Project Name: Vintage Vista

Location : Crescent Bay, Parel, Mumbai

Project Size: 1600 Sq.ft

Principal Architects: Ridhi Agarwal & Parikshat Hemrajani

Photograph Courtesy: Kuber Shah

Products / Materials / Vendors: Finishes – Veneer, duco and teak wood / Wallcovering / Cladding – Custom design wallpaper / Construction Materials – Marine plywood, veneer, laminate

Lighting – Philips for architectural lights, decorative lights – custom-made / Doors and Partitions – custom- made Furniture – Custom made – Hipcouch / Flooring – Bharat flooring / Kitchen – Makwana / Paint – Asian paints / Artefacts – Client’s personal collection / Hardware – Blum

Firm’s Website Link: Hipcouch

The Firm’s Instagram Link: Hipcouch

Firm’s Facebook Link: Hipcouch

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