The Whimsical House | Vcreate Designs | Pune
A home away from home –or what is often called a ‘holiday’ home-has all the comforts of a running household but should be a far more relaxing space, offering more scope for rejuvenation, entertainment, and creativity. It’s a celebration that gives expression to the whimsical side of the homeowner –something we may not always achieve in the more practical, hustle-bustle ‘first’ homes. Knick knacks from vacations the world over find their way here. Art, we connect with, hobbies we enjoy & dreams that came true reside here.
Which is why our design inspiration was –all things whimsy. An eclectic collection of design and décor this home may seem like at first glance but that’s only because every element shares a quiet inside joke. A flight of imagination wedded to freedom of expression-this house is whimsical, magpie-like putting together of a corner in the world that’s your very own.
Inspired by no single style, which is to say, inspired by EVERYTHING, the idea was to have a very whimsical and a playful vibe throughout the house that would be an expression unique to the homeowners.
We put together different moods for different spaces, thus providing our clients with a variety of spatial experiences in this house. The thought was to provide a quirky, ‘entertainment’ factor for the Jalans when they come away to their second home.
We closely worked on design details using different textures, colors, prints and patterns to mix match them and create this abode. From raw textures to luxury finishes, this house is not only a visual treat but also a great example of perceiving spaces through different textures. Our design philosophy embraces chasing colors, mismatched furniture and random inclusions while being extremely low maintenance, budget friendly and functional.
As a designer the aim was to unlearn design theories and simply enjoy the design process, experiment with color and material palettes and bring different design elements together that create amusement and curiosity. Designing and styling have been merged, as the tiniest element has some part in achieving the larger concept.
The entrance foyer is lighthearted, bright, and functional at the same time. Flooded with natural light, we’ve kept the space non-chaotic. A solid wood cabinet with a satin finish is used as an entrance console cum shoe cabinet with a textured bench on the side. The cane table lamp compliments the asymmetrical wall mirror. It’s a rather telling harbinger of the rest of this residence.
The Family Room
The living room has been designed with a modern setting. Yet, a twist of mid-century style is used to enhance it. A navy-blue sofa is paired with a vintage tan leather one that’s styled with geometric black and white cushions. The nested centre tables with fluted base and marble top forms the focal point in the living room. Keeping the bigger furniture pieces plain, we went for a black and white rug to tie in with the cushions and balance out the overall look of this room. A muted artwork adorns the wall to add a touch of creativity. Some indoor greens add warmth and exchange pleasantries with this contemporary décor of this central area. Whether a tranquil nook for some down time or a cool space for entertaining guests, this space can do both.
The idea was to create an interesting passage and not keep it dead. Instead of seeing this long passage as a negative space, we saw a great opportunity here to lay a foundation for a conversation through spatial décor. It’s one of the most fun and interesting designs we created for this house. We simply painted the passage wall in an olive-green shade with a variety of floral arts combined and framed in a neat grid. It instantly spruces up the space and is a fun design element in this project.
Families Who Dine Together…!
The dining area has a look and feel that’s unrestrained, fresh and detailed. The design process included layering of patterns, fabrics and colors to a more extreme level and still creates harmony and balance. The floral element gets repeated in a variety of forms. The accent whitewashed cane chairs are paired with a set of mustard yellow ones and a set of intricate floral-patterned chairs off set them marvellously. The pendant cane lights add warmth here while also creating drama and an element of height. The walls carry interesting modern art that brings together all the colors this space boats. Here’s hoping that this space creates several memories enjoyed in the company of great meals and conversation, amidst the tinkling of cutlery and laughter.
The Bedchambers
We knew we wanted to create tranquil, restful spaces, in contrast to the drama of the more social parts of this house. We stuck to this thought but decided to add some fun, experimental elements to infuse an energy that rejuvenates just as it relaxes.
Bedroom 1 – We maintained a joyous approach while designing this room. We uplifted the color scheme, mixing styles and adding quirk with prints and bold geometric pattern on the rug in contrast to the terracotta bed. Cozy, bright cushions and pillows add a pop of color and funk. It’s indeed refreshing to break the rules and create a space that’s an expression of joy.
Bedroom 2 – For the master bedroom we wanted to keep a very minimal, modern, and yet regal approach. The four-poster bed in matte black finish is the highlight of this master suite. We created a reading nook with a customized accent chair and an ottoman that goes well with the overall subtlety of this room. A deep, turquoise day bed is introduced on the other side to complete the look of this room. This space is all about muted luxury, perfect for the gorgeous Jalans. It’s a little luxe, a little edgy and a whole lot of classy.
Bedroom 3 –Tropical meets Boho! This glam eclectic bedroom with a statement tropical print wall is paired with rattan and cane furniture, tasseled boho bedding and an earthy color palette. From banana leaves to fan palm leaves to areca palm leaves, the black & white printed wallpaper covers them all creating the focal point of this room.
The piece de resistance is an in-house customized egg chair that holds court by the window. The reading nook of your dreams, simply put. A rainy day, a favorite book, a hot cup of coffee-and you won’t want to move from here. All while enjoying the lush green views outside.
The Balcony
With the 45 acre of golf course as the view from this spacious balcony, we decided to invite a bit of the greenery inside. So, we added a vertical green wall as the backdrop. A high table with customized cane chairs in black n white creates the contrast against the green wall. We added high back to the chairs to make sure our clients can enjoy the expansive views of endless green. The flooring is slate colored, outdoorsy tiles-also with a geometric pattern. We customized floor lanterns in natural cane finish to create some mood lighting and add some drama for evening get togethers.
While we had great fun in designing this second home, we’re more than thrilled with how it has shaped up in an organic manner to become this elegant, homey yet magical place. An escapist’s haven, it will feel like stepping into a different world, unique because it’s put together with a rapturous passion.
FACT FILE
Project Name : The Whimsical House
Design Firm : Vcreate Designs
Principal Architect & Designer : Ar. Vibha Saraf
Interior Styling Credits : Ar. Vibha Saraf
Project Type : Residential [ Holiday Home]
Project Area : 1550 Sq. Ft Carpet
Project Location : Pune, Maharashtra
Clients : Chirag and Disha Jalan
Project Timeline : June 2021 to Sept 2021
Photography Credits : Kanaka & Viraj Photography
