Villa 167 | 1405 Design Studio | Chennai
Nestled along the coast of the Bay of Bengal with panoramic views of the sparkling blue ocean, Villa 167 is a home in Chennai for a young, exuberant family. The couple, both prominent actors in South Indian cinema wanted a home they could retreat to: a self sufficient cocoon like space which would cater to all their lifestyle needs of hosting traditional functions, formal & official get togethers, comfortable day to day living as well as informal movie screenings. We took it upon ourselves to create a home that is stylistically eclectic being modern in it’s functioning, rich and dynamic in its visual and traditionally rooted in its essence.
Taking cues from the clients’ theatre backgrounds, we began treating each space as a backdrop or a setting. The idea being, that every space stands on its own visually, while belonging to a larger frame. This home is a series of these interwoven settings, each with its own story and visual glory.
A strong visual graphic that modulates across the levels helped us to weave together an elegant yet eclectic collage of spaces. These transition from rich and plush to playful, quirky and rustic.
The ground floor is a composition of bespoke spatial elements that are developed using intricate details in metal, solid teak wood and marble. Taking inspiration from the clients’ deep-rooted sense of tradition, the visual has been guided through bold inlays in the floors and walls complimented with customised screening devices, tailor-made interior fenestrations and wall panels.
As one moves though the space, the intricate elements transition into plush, geometrically accented dining and formal lounge bar. The spaces are warm and cozy complete with pieces from Alankaram, locally customised leather furniture, furnishings from Jaipur Rugs, Good Earth with rich matt velvet fabrics and bold statement lights.
The upper floors are the family’s sanctums. It’s their space to put their feet up, let their hair down and unwind. Developed as a neutral shell, the objects in space take on bold prints and textures creating a chic yet warm, sanctuary like space. Large expansive glass doors let one enjoy the uninterrupted views of the sea and the sky, creating an ever-changing backdrop to these absolutely joyful spaces.
The uppermost level plays host to a multitude of activities; from breezy sunset evenings, late night movie screenings to outdoor gatherings with family and friends. A very rustic entertainment room is an ode to their inspirations, aspirations and the journey ahead in their profession.
For us as designers, the designing of this home gave us the perfect opportunity to weave together an assortment of visuals and spatial styles. Each expressed with distinct material palettes, details and objects that come together to create an mélange of spaces. This journey also led us to work with many local craftsmen, street artists and young upcoming manufacturing units, a glimpse into the enumerable possibilities of “Make in India”.
This home exemplifies the coming together of many influences, stories and design sensibilities that reflect the homeowners’ personalities and lifestyle. The spaces are fluid and dynamic allowing the home to transform for any traditional function, casual get togethers, a formal gathering even an editorial photo shoot without any disruption to daily living. It is a self-sustaining, almost cocoon-like space, where each space shines in its own stylistic glory, while coming together to create a charming, eclectic rhapsody.
FACT FILE
Project Name : Villa 167
Design Firm : 1405 Design Studio
Project Location : Chennai
Project Type : Residential Villa
Project Area : 10,000 Sq. Ft.
Photography Credits : Sreenag Pictures
