In the exclusive enclave of Mayfair, where London’s storied past meets its cosmopolitan present, a townhouse has been transformed into a sanctuary that bridges continents and cultures. This 8,000-square-foot residence, reimagined for a prominent Indian film and entertainment family, is a harmonious fusion of neo-classical grandeur and contemporary minimalism.
The project, spanning four distinct yet cohesive apartments, presented a unique challenge to the designers. Their brief was crystal clear from the get-go: create a townhouse in London that not only meets the functional requirements of a multi-generational family but also exudes luxury, curation, and high design. The result is a space that feels both international in its approach and deeply rooted in the clients’ cultural heritage.
Editor’s Note: “In Mayfair’s elegant embrace, a townhouse blossoms into a bridge between continents and cultures. This 8,000-square-foot marvel harmonizes neo-classical splendor with modern minimalism, reflecting both London’s grandeur and an Indian film family’s heritage. Its seamless blend of opulent detail and cultural warmth crafts a sanctuary of timeless luxury and sophistication.” ~Simran Khare
This Townhouse in London Reflects The Rich Heritage of an Indian Film Family | Quirk Studio
As one steps into the entrance foyer of the first apartment, it sets the tone immediately. A statement Rococo-style mirror, paired with an elegant chandelier, creates an atmosphere of drama and luxury. This grand welcome is balanced by the designers’ thoughtful approach to circulation, ensuring the space remains uncluttered and fluid.
Moving through to the living and dining areas, one comes across the clever use of antique mirror panelling. This design choice adds depth and dimension to the room and amplifies the natural light – a crucial consideration given London’s often gloomy weather. The layout here is intimate yet versatile, with two distinct seating arrangements complemented by a well-positioned dining table.
The powder room here is elevated to a work of art. A statement basin counter with brass fittings from Gessi’s Goccia collection takes centre stage, while the exotic moss-green marble and Seletti’s quirky Tetris Mirror add elements of surprise and delight. Perhaps the most coveted space in the home is the living room, which offers breathtaking views over the lush lanes of Mayfair and Hyde Park. It’s easy to imagine the family gathering here, the room bathed in natural light, as they take in the iconic London landscape beyond their windows.
Throughout the home, the designers have employed a strategy of fluidity, creating a natural flow between floors and apartments. This continuity is achieved through consistent design elements: engineered wood floors, grey-panelled doors, and carefully considered moulding and cornice details. The colour palette, dominated by neutral tones of grey, beige, and ivory, is punctuated by pops of colour and the warmth of wood, creating a backdrop that is at once sophisticated and welcoming.
The material palette is a study in luxurious restraint. Engineered wooden floors provide a warm foundation, while lacquer PU finishes add a contemporary sheen. Marble, mixed metals, and tinted mirrors introduce texture and visual interest. Rich, plush upholstery and textured wallpapers complete the sensory experience, inviting touch as well as admiration.
Art plays a crucial role in personalizing the space. Carefully curated pieces from the client’s personal collection in India adorn the walls, serving as a constant reminder of home and heritage. These artworks not only add visual interest but also infuse the London townhouse with the vibrant energy of Indian culture.
The kitchens, while prioritizing functionality, do not skimp on style. Bright and white, they feature easy-to-maintain materials like marble tiles and Caesar stone countertops. In one apartment, a beautiful skylight detail in the ceiling ensures the space is flooded with natural light.
The bedrooms continue the theme of drama and warmth established in the public spaces. Custom upholstered beds and textured wallpapers create inviting backdrops, while clever planning ensures ample storage without compromising on aesthetics.
The en-suite bathrooms are studies in monochromatic luxury, with white marble complemented by bronze or brass fittings. The sourcing process for this project spanned London, Dubai, and Italy, with the designers working with an impressive roster of luxury brands.
Gessi, Tom Dixon, Flexform, Seletti, Jonathan Adler, Anthropologie, Conran Shop, and Cole & Sons are just a few of the names that have contributed to the home’s curated aesthetic.
Designing and executing this project during the COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges, particularly given its long-distance nature. A capable on-site team brought the designers’ vision to life with flair.
In the end, what emerges is more than just a home away from home. It’s a space that honours its London setting while celebrating its owners’ Indian heritage.
It’s a testament to the power of design to bridge cultures, creating a haven that is at once grounded in tradition and thoroughly contemporary.
In the heart of Mayfair, this townhouse stands as a cinematic masterpiece – a fitting abode for a family that has dedicated their lives to the magic of film.
Fact File
Designed by: Quirk Studio
Project Type: Residential Interior Design
Project Name: Dunraven House
Location: London, United Kingdom
Year Built: July 2023
Project Size: 8000 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Disha Bhavsar & Shivani Ajmera
Photography Credits: Juliet Murphy
Firm’s Website Link: Quirk Studio
The Firm’s Instagram Link: Quirk Studio
Firm’s Facebook Link: Quirk Studio
For Similar Projects >>A Mumbai Apartment that Aims to Create a Visually Stunning and Inviting Space
Where Contemporary Elegance Meets Colour-Pop Charm Nestled in the heart of the city, this elegantly designed 3BHK residence by informe designs is a celebration of balance where contemporary sophistication is effortlessly layered with playful colour-pop elements. The result is a home that is not only visually stunning but also deeply personal and welcoming. Informé Designs […]
Designed for a family of four, this 3BHK apartment strikes a balance between openness and functionality. “The client presented a straightforward brief, rich with intent—design an open furniture layout in the common areas to allow flexibility, and create bedrooms that maximise storage while maintaining clarity and ease of flow.” The design approach, therefore, was to […]
In an age when life stretches easily across borders, a second home isn’t just a luxury — it’s a lifestyle. For a young Dubai-based couple, originally from Surat, their fluid design vacation apartment was never meant to be a quiet hideaway. Instead, the designers imagined it as a stage for living well — a place […]
Located in Baner, Pune in an up-and-coming neighborhood is the 3-bedroom residence housing the Kulkarni family. The vibrant home is an intimate space and has been designed as such with sparse furnishing and bright, lively touches. While the living and dining areas remain light-filled and anchored by a beautiful breakfast bar perfect for hosting, the […]
It is a 2000 Sq. Ft. 4bhk residential flat’s interior project at Surat. it’s one of our most special project because form very beginning, our client Mr. Jayesh Bhai Naik and his wife Mrs. Sonal Naik gave us full freedom to design and execute. They allowed us to showcase our creativity. It was naked flat […]
What makes House of Heart stand out isn’t a new gadget or flashy material, it’s the intention. Most homes today want to look perfect; this ultra modern home wants to feel perfect in the way comfort and memory make you feel perfect. This Ultra Modern Home Stands Out For Its Clean Lines And Thoughtful Planning […]
In the monsoon of 2023, our client came to us with a newly purchased 3 bedroom apartment of the recently launched Prestige Hillside Gateway Apartments in Kakkanad, Kerala. Similar to most apartments, this one too had limitations in space in terms of a flexible layout. On our first visit, the main requirement that our client […]
The 36th Horizon offers a sweeping view of Mumbai’s ever-evolving skyline from its position as a mindful high-rise retreat perched on the 36th floor. Framing the chaos of the city in soft silence, this home covered in pastel colors strikes a delicate balance where urban energy stays outside, and a warm, grounded calmness thrives within. […]
In the modern house interior design of this residence, every detail tells a story of creativity and individuality. The contemporary wooden door, features exquisite black glass that adds a touch of drama and allure to the entryway, and a central metal rod accent in the safety door between those arches embraces the perfect blend of […]
When it comes to enhancing the kitchen window over the sink, various design ideas are possible to decorate Indian homes. From rooted in tradition to Western-style modular kitchens offer both functionality and attractive aesthetics. Apart from the sleek profile and raised breakfast counter, the kitchen window over sink is another spot to add appeal and […]