Grey House

Set in an urban context, the interior design for grey house was inspired by the laid-back feel of the rural houses set in verdant landscapes of the surrounding regions. The idea was to create a timeless aesthetic, with elements reduced to their essentials for a sober and minimal appeal. A refined palette of natural materials in subdued tones was chosen for a serene ambience.

Embracing the concept of Wabi-sabi, the design reveres the imperfections of raw concrete ceilings, slate stone walls, blemished concrete floors and raw stained wood. Concrete was extensively used in different forms and finishes for the floors, walls and ceilings, bringing a monolithic appeal to the spaces. The cast-in-situ polished concrete floor was rendered in different textures and finishes for each floor, which involved experimenting with new techniques of laying and polishing the concrete floors. Locally sourced granite stone was used in combination with Indian slate stone in different finishes throughout the spaces.

Every piece of wood furniture and doors were just stained and rendered in a natural wax finish, adding to the rustic feel. Bespoke detailing was evolved for most of the furniture, in addition to concealed door handles, towel hangers and even soap trays which were specially customised for the interiors. The copper clad central console in the dining room was finished with salvaged wood slats for the drawer faces.

Lighting design for the house was thought out to mimic the warm natural sunlight. While the architecture allows for ample natural lighting for most of the spaces, a system of warm, indirect lighting was adopted for the intimate spaces, allowing for a seamless transition between day and night.

The wall artwork was done with scrap copper plates and Balinese coconut wood trays. Brass sections used in the entertainment room to conceal cables and services stand out as accent pieces against the rustic concrete surfaces.

Occasional white and black lacquered glass panels complement and elevate the experience of the raw surfaces of concrete and stone. The different tones of wood bring warmth and character to the sterile concrete spaces, while copper and brass elements add vibrance. The spaces are seamlessly connected by the clean lines and refined materials that continue throughout, exuding an overall minimalist aesthetic.