This 900 sq. ft. two-bedroom duplex is located within a 65-year-old building in Vile Parle, Mumbai. Designed for a young couple, we aimed to preserve the original charm of the building while transforming it into a serene and contemporary space rooted in Zen interior design.
This Two-bedroom Duplex Captures The Essence of Zen Interior Design | Studio M and M
We achieved a sense of calm and warmth through a subtle and refined material selection. Light ash wood and veneer form the basis of the surfaces, complemented by travertine flooring with delicate polished brass inlays.
A key element of our design was maximizing natural light and openness. Floor-to-ceiling window glazing on two sides of the living area allows the home to feel airy and provides a smooth transition between the interior and exterior, allowing natural light to flood the room throughout the day. These symmetrical openings not only enhance the sense of openness but also frame the space beautifully, creating a harmonious architectural rhythm.
At the heart of the room is a custom-designed bookshelf and TV unit that spans the main wall. It serves both functional and aesthetic purposes offering generous book storage while acting as a visual focal point. The unit integrates detailed open shelving for curated displays, books, and personal objects, seamlessly paired with concealed cabinetry to keep the space feeling uncluttered.
The seating area is grounded in a palette of light-coloured upholstery, soft neutrals that evoke calm and sophistication. These lighter tones help bounce the natural light around the room, further amplifying the airy feel.
Adding a bold touch is a statement armchair that introduces contrast and character. Together, the elements balance form and function, creating a living space that feels curated yet comfortable and ideal for both everyday lounging and entertaining.
In the dining area, hand-textured, handmade wall tiles add an artisanal quality to the home’s everyday experiences. The niches and the lights bring the drama to the cozy space.
Throughout the residence, glass brick walls help to create a greater sense of spaciousness, allowing natural light to permeate while visually connecting different areas.
To enhance the brightness brought in by the sunlight through the kitchen window, we designed an open layout kitchen featuring vibrant mint wall tiles and a pale green onyx countertop, creating a gentle visual contrast. The pale green onyx island counter is the sculptural focal point in the kitchen, designed to read like a solid monolithic block floating above the floor surface.
The common bathroom is a warm but lit up space enveloped in earthy red hues and handmade terracotta tile to bring in the depth required with white crip flooring which blends seamlessly in the overall palette. A brave design decision lies in the white plumbing fixtures used.
The common bedroom was designed with dual functionality in mind, serving as both a quiet workroom and a fully equipped guest bedroom. By day, it functions as a serene and focused workspace for the client, seamlessly integrated into the flow of the home.
The key to this flexible design lies in a set of wallpaper clad sliding shutters that blend into the surrounding interiors when closed. These full-height panels can be drawn across to completely cut the room off from the main living area. They instantly transform the space into a private bedroom when needed.
The staircase is kept minimal in monochromatic tones, with a mix of glass and wooden railings that add both openness and warmth. At the mid-landing, a wooden louvered teak window brings in soft natural light and a warm contrast. It adds a nostalgic, crafted touch to the otherwise clean and modern space.
A compact mezzanine above the staircase transforms into a cozy library nook. It is finished in the same wood veneer to blend effortlessly with the home’s palette. A seamless stretched ceiling light above the staircase mimics a skylight. It adds a soft, diffused glow and evokes the feeling of being open to the sky.
The master bedroom is designed to be tranquil and understated. A large, custom artwork serves as a focal point in one of the rooms, adding a touch of quiet drama. Similarly, the master bathroom offers a peaceful and relaxing environment.
This project truly embodies our philosophy at Studio M and M. We aim to design spaces that are light, thoughtful, and emotionally resonant, regardless of their size. As a relatively new practice, we turn client needs into distinctive spatial experiences. We also create design statements that carry a timeless quality.
Fact File
Designed by: Studio M and M
Project Type: Apartment Interior Design
Project Name: The Baylight
Location: Juhu, Vile Parle, Mumbai
Year Built: 2025
Duration of the project: 8 Months
Project Size: 900 Sq.ft
Principal Designer: Monil Parekh
Photograph Courtesy: Ar. Anish Pathrikar
Products / Materials / Vendors: Wallcovering / Cladding – colourcoats, / Lighting – hills, vibea flamingo Doors and Partitions – greenply / Sanitaryware – jaquare artize / Windows – jindal domal / Furniture – House of finn jhul, munn homes / Flooring – qutone floors / Paint – birla opus, asian paints stucco Artefacts – h&m homes, zara homes, westelm / Wallpaper – Arte, khroma, kyoto / Hardware – shapes, aceline, designdept
Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio M and M
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