“Hei Sei” is a modern minimal house that aims to create tranquil and serene spaces through minimalist aesthetics and muted colors, fostering a sense of calmness and harmony. The design concept focuses on a tranquil and harmonious home interior inspired by the Japanese aesthetic principle of “Hei Sei.” With a neutral palette and strategic pops of color, we created a space that fosters calmness, relaxation, and a sense of well-being— embracing minimalism, simplicity, functionality, and visual clarity.
We prioritized clean lines and decluttered spaces to create an uncluttered and calming atmosphere. Strategic placement of accent colors added depth and visual interest to the spaces. Carefully selected hues that complement the neutral palette have been sparingly used in decor elements such as artwork and accessories. The balance and symmetry in furniture and decor arrangements foster a sense of order and harmony. We ensured visual equilibrium by considering proportion and visual weight.
Editor’s Note: “Inspired by the Japanese Principle ‘Hei Sei,’ this home merges modern minimalism with a cool aesthetic. Through neutral palettes and functional yet tranquil spaces, the design addresses modernness while satisfying personalized needs. Selective murals, art decor elements, and customized furnishings offer a home that is both captivating and inspirational.” ~ Anusha Sridhar
This Modern Minimal House Fosters a Sense of Calmness and Harmony | Dematrix Architects
The focal point of the residence undoubtedly resides in the living room. Moreover, it impeccably reflects the essence of the Hei Sei concept theme in the interior design. Vibrant color pops harmoniously coexist within a framework of minimalistic modern muted tones. Thus, creating a captivating visual harmony.
In approaching the design, we embraced minimalistic furniture, predominantly in neutral tones, to instill a serene ambience throughout the spaces. Additionally, we strategically introduced vibrant pops of colour, specifically blue and red, reserved for focal points on each floor. Complementing these accents, customized murals and art decor adorn selected areas, enhancing the uniqueness of the design. Overall, we aimed to evoke curiosity among visitors, infusing the minimalist concept with distinctive features that elevate the interior beyond conventional norms.
To amplify the influx of natural light, we maximized window openings, ranging from small apertures to expansive curtain windows, while leveraging custom-designed rugs as additional artistic elements. Utilizing consistent color tones across both rugs created a cohesive visual impact. Additionally, the rug from (Indian rugs) and the mushroom with red and neutral tones play a major role in this space, adding vibrant accents to the pleasant neutral theme along with the scale of the double height.
Ascending the staircase, a central element in the spatial narrative, one finds a masterful balance between prominence and restraint. Despite its prominence, the staircase exudes an understated elegance, characterized by subtle nuances such as tinted glass rails. Moreover, it accentuates its presence while harmonizing with the surrounding aesthetic.
To meet the client’s request for a dedicated seating area for the ladies, we arranged a cozy round seater near the staircase, seamlessly integrating it with the adjacent spaces.
Alongside the seater, we added a meticulously custom-crafted droplet mural, designed to distinguish the space. Moreover, finished in a deep blue hue, the mural provides a striking contrast, making the area stand out.
Further exploration reveals a gracefully curved, fluted, detailed-legged dining table adjacent to the open kitchen with a breakfast counter. However, the design includes a concealed prayer room, accessible through a flush doorway.
Fluted panel details with groove accents adorn the entire wall, seamlessly concealing the prayer room with a flush door. Additionally, the neutral color palette consistently enhances the cohesive design throughout this open space. The entire table features a Corian top.
Upon entry, a striking, bold red console table draws attention against a backdrop of neutral, muted-tone fluted paneling.
The open kitchen, adjacent to the dining area, features a perfectly neutral tone that exudes elegance. Bar counter chairs provide a stylish seating option, while a fluted marble wash area adds intricate detailing.
The white Corian countertops in the kitchen create a sleek and durable surface. To further accentuate the beauty and detail of the space, we used Spanish Milagro limited edition subway collection tiles on the walls, creating a stunning finish to the entire space.
The work area kitchen features a distinct beige tone, chosen for its practical appeal in a rough working space. We designed the store and laundry areas to feel open and unconfined, dividing the space into three functional zones. Additionally, the store and laundry occupy one side, while the work area takes up the other, with a cozy 4-seater mini dining area elegantly positioned in the center. Thus, creating a harmonious and efficient layout.
The guest bedroom was designed with a minimalist approach. Moreover, it features neutral tones to create a serene atmosphere.
The side tables, console, and sliding wardrobe all incorporate fluted detailing, echoing the home’s overarching design theme.
This cohesive use of fluted elements enhances the room’s aesthetic, adding subtle yet elegant texture throughout the space.
The master bedroom was meticulously designed to meet the client’s desire for a tranquil and dreamy retreat. However, we conceived a moonlit ambiance for the space by incorporating natural light from the adjacent courtyard.
Utilizing a grey color palette, we transformed the master bedroom into a serene, moonlit haven while maintaining the cohesive theme details throughout. This design harmonizes the ethereal lighting with the refined aesthetic of the overall home.
Ascending to the upper lounge area, a bespoke chair takes center stage, boasting a captivating blend of blue hues meticulously crafted to match the overall design ethos. This custom-designed piece serves as a focal point within the space, inviting relaxation and contemplation.
In the Hei Sei home, red and blue are pivotal colors, each defining distinct areas. The upper living area features a blue rug, while the lower living area showcases a red rug, creating a vibrant contrast. Moreover, the sofas are designed in a neutral theme to enhance the serene ambiance of the spaces. Additionally, the upper living area also includes a minimalistic TV unit, reflecting a blend of styles that harmonizes with the overall theme of the home.
The bedroom for the younger daughter was designed with her specific color preferences in mind. We selected a palette featuring her favorite hues, creating a personalized and vibrant space.
To add interest and charm, we defined the cot and side tables with unique shapes, enhancing the room’s playful and distinctive character.
The elder daughter’s bedroom, the largest in the home, was thoughtfully designed to include a sitting area featuring an elegantly molded mirror and a stylish console table. Thus, seamlessly integrating the theme throughout the space.
The bed is positioned near the balcony, with sliding doors that invite ample daylight into the room. The color palette comprises pastel beige tones paired with contrasting white furniture, achieving a simple yet sophisticated aesthetic. Furthermore, every element is meticulously chosen to balance minimalism with refined detailing, creating a space that is both serene and sophisticated.
Fact File
Designed by: Dematrix Architects
Project Type: Residential Interior Design
Project Name: HEI-SEI
Location: Kannur, Kerala, India
Year Built: 2024
Duration of the project: 1 Year
Built-up Area: 5300 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Ar. Fairooz aman & Ar. Vineeth k
Photograph Courtesy: Turtle Arts
MEP & HVAC Consultants: V S Cooling Solutions
Contractors: Soft furnishing (Elegant interiors)
Products / Materials / Vendors: Finishes – Pu/Duco finishes/ icapidilite / Wallcovering / Cladding –Wpc with ICA Pu paint finish / Lighting – Aura electric studio / Doors and Partitions – Aristo / Sanitaryware – Grohe, Vitra, Hansgrohe / Windows & Slide doors – Cam windows (kasargod) / Furniture – Coffee table & side tables/ Dtale modern (kochi ) / Flooring – Silken shell (Qutone), Italian marble (Homerocks ) / Kitchen – Woodmax(vendors) / Paint – Asianpaints & Jotunindia / Artefacts –Dhana / Wallpaper –Marshalls / Hardware – Hafele, Hettich,Premium locks (kannur) / Curtains and wall coverings – Adhoc Homestyle
Firm’s Instagram Link: Dematrix Architects
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