In the bustling heart of Worli, Mumbai, nestled amidst the urban landscape is a 2,000 sqft Bombay apartment home that defies conventional design norms. Mōrahi, a 3BHK residence, is the brainchild of DesignHex under the visionary leadership of Principal Designer Shimona Bhansali. Completed in April 2022, this home showcases the transformative power of design, where every corner tells a story of adventure and every artefact whispers tales of distant lands.
Editor’s Note: “Departing from minimalism, this residence boldly embraces maximalist design principles. A lively collection of eclectic artefacts and sumptuous furnishings creates a modern interpretation of an Indian home. The design artfully balances visual richness with an airy sense of spaciousness, resulting in a warm and inviting atmosphere.” ~Simran Khare
This Bombay Home is a Celebration of Maximalist Interiors | Design Hex
The inception of Mōrahi began with a refreshingly simple brief from the clients: “We cherish our art and artefact collection and want it to shine in our space.” The design team resonated with this idealogy, translating it into the space.
The clients, avid travellers themselves, had quite a collection of captivating items from their journeys across the globe. It wasn’t just a display of artefacts but a narrative of their wanderlust, each piece a memory etched in time.
From the outset, it was clear that Mōrahi would celebrate maximalist design. This concept aligns perfectly with DesignHex’s design ethos.
The goal of this Bombay home was to create a space that showcased the clients’ eclectic collection and infused it with the essence of their travels.
It had to be a home that embraced the thrill of adventure while offering the comfort of a cherished haven, where global exploration coexisted with the warmth of familiarity.
As one steps into Mōrahi, they are greeted by a kaleidoscope of textures, colours, and patterns. The design theme merges maximalism with pops of colour, underpinned by a subtle contemporary flair.
It’s as if Marrakech’s vibrant markets and Fiji’s tranquil beaches have found a meeting point in this Mumbai apartment.
The interplay of old and new elements creates a captivating juxtaposition—intricately carved wooden chests stand alongside sleek, contemporary lighting fixtures, reflecting the clients’ cross-disciplinary tastes and adding depth to the space.
However, the challenge in maximalist design lies in striking a balance between visual richness and visual chaos. DesignHex’s curation strategy, a significant USP of the project, navigates this tightrope with finesse. Larger spaces are allowed to showcase many items without feeling cluttered.
At the same time, compact areas are thoughtfully curated to maintain a sense of spaciousness. This careful orchestration transforms Mōrahi into a captivating visual experience, free from the overwhelming sensory overload often associated with maximalist design.
The layout of Mōrahi is a study of thoughtful design. With its gracefully arched ceiling, the foyer sets the tone with visual grandeur and understated materials that foster an airy atmosphere.
In the passageways, where natural light is scarce, a row of faux windows with gentle, indirect lighting creates an illusion of openness. This strategic move brightens the space and enhances the overall flow and spaciousness.
A grey brick pattern in the living area and passageway offers a refreshing visual break amidst the vibrant palette, maintaining the maximalist aesthetic while providing comfort. The use of solid, bold hues throughout ensures that the placement of artefacts is visually impactful and cohesive.
The marble flooring, spanning the entirety of the house, introduces a linear contrast to the curvaceous layout, adding a touch of structure and unity.
The material palette plays a crucial role in Mōrahi’s design narrative. DesignHex opted for cooler hues alongside brighter tones, creating a backdrop that allows minute details and decor to shine. This deliberate choice creates an illusion of spaciousness and ensures visual cohesion.
A subdued palette subtly enhances the overall visual appeal in areas with absent vibrant colours. The restrained use of wooden finishes was intentional, preventing an overwhelming character addition and making sure the focus remains on the existing design elements.
Beyond the boundaries of the apartment, the balconies are also adorned with plenty of greenery, contributing to the maximalist atmosphere. Moreover, these outdoor spaces offer a serene contrast to the vibrant interiors. Thus, inviting residents to unwind amidst nature’s embrace.
Interestingly, the name ‘Mōrahi’ itself reflects the design philosophy. It also translates to ‘Maximum’ in Maori, perfectly encapsulating the maximalist design. The subtle appearance of ‘Rahi’, Urdu for ‘traveller’, delicately echoes the clients’ boundless wanderlust. Thus, easily melding with the space’s essence.
In conclusion, Mōrahi is more than just a home; it’s a living, breathing tapestry of global experiences. DesignHex’s innovative approach has also transformed the 2,000 square feet of space into a boundless expanse of stories, memories, and aspirations. It also points to the power of design to create spaces and craft experiences that resonate with the human spirit.
Fact File
Designed by: Design Hex
Project Type: Apartment Interior Design
Project Name: Mōrahi
Location: Worli, Mumbai
Year Built: 2022
Project Size: 2000 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Shimona Bhansali
Photography Credits: Vishesh Kanani
Firm’s Website Link: Design Hex
The Firm’s Instagram Link: Design Hex
Firm’s Facebook Link: Design Hex
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