Aalay, New Delhi

Aalay, New Delhi

Through a minimalistic approach, this residence caters to the diverse needs of its multi-generational occupants.

In an increasingly urbanising world where each square foot of land is precious, design must optimise spaces to be robust and flexible. Contemporary architecture, especially the residential typology, is focused on achieving this goal and simultaneously furthering the close-knit bonds and familial intimacy that were crafted in sprawling ancestral homes. Located in the bustling locality of Moti Nagar, New Delhi, this 2677 sq. ft. residence is manifested as a tranquil oasis that caters to the individual and collective aspirations of its multi-generational residents.

Designed for the family of Priyansh Jora, a leading actor in the Bollywood film industry, the apartment is planned around an open living and dining area. The private quarters for the family members unfold around this social heart of the home. Cosy bedrooms with dressing areas are planned with minimal structural alterations to the existing layout. The bedrooms serve as resting areas for four generations – a master bedroom for Priyansh's parents, a bedroom for Priyansh's brother, Prateek and his wife, a shared bedroom for the oldest and the youngest occupant, Priyansh's grandmother and Prateek's son. Each area accommodates balconies, rendering the home a jewel box for natural daylight, air, and unbridled views of the surrounding greens.

Conveniently located near the entrance is a multifunctional zone which functions as a resting area for Priyansh and a study cum informal gathering space for the home's inhabitants. Furnished with an inviting blue couch and a bar unit enclosed in wooden cabinets, this space creates an elegant environment to host intimate gatherings and conversations. The interiors are designed to evoke a sense of comfort and contentment through a contrasting colour palette of warm, earthy tones and deep, dark hues. The living area, with its pale blue walls, McClaren beige marble flooring, and refined neutral furniture, is a receptacle of calm and quiet. A daybed nestled into a snug corner of the plush couch offers the grandmother a dedicated spot to enjoy television. With its soft profiles, the bespoke coffee table and the retractable TV unit add a touch of sophistication to the living area.

Flowing seamlessly from the living room, the dining area is replete with earthy tones and textures. The space is also infused with an element of dynamism – the longitudinal wooden surface boasting a deep oak veneer finish is supported by a sinuous, sculptural base finished in antique brass. Chairs upholstered in a subtle red balance the patterned dark brown flooring. Adding another element of play to the dining area, the McClaren beige and brown Mandana flooring employs an undulating pattern to strike up a visual dialogue with the family.

The vocabulary of the bedrooms is tailored to its occupants; the master bedroom for the parents is a sophisticated rendition of light greys and browns, whereas the brother's room is a blend of the traditional and the modern, with rattan elements incorporated in the furniture and wardrobes. Deep green, a colour associated with serenity and creativity, serves a dual purpose in the third bedroom — it projects a soothing ambience for the grandmother and encourages innovative thinking for the child. The kitchen, furnished with ample storage space, consolidates state-of-the-art facilities within sleek cabinets. It is composed in cool blue tones and forms an aesthetic backdrop for the mother's culinary content.

Devoid of grand chandeliers, the ceiling features focused task lighting and embraces the reigning theme of minimalism. Details such as curved cornices interrupt the pristine white surface, adding a layer of depth to it. The neutral plane draws attention to the human scale of perception, enhancing the experience of the home through textures and hues incorporated in the furniture and flooring. Plants dot various corners of the apartment, bringing in an element of the outdoors.

Aalay is an abode that adapts to its residents' changing needs and crafts multiple experiences within a compact space. Embracing a minimal and contemporary design language, it exemplifies a connection with nature and, more importantly, among its residents.