Patch Design Studio‘s latest project in South Bombay saw the reinvention of an old family home in Walkeshwar. Located on the top floor of an antiquated residential building, the two-floor apartment was originally part of a ‘barsati’ (porch-like structure built specifically for the monsoon) on the terrace. Featuring spectacular views of Marine Drive, the house was transformed with Wabi-sabi as a core principle—blending the interior and exterior places seamlessly and embracing the beauty in the imperfections of an aged structure. Scroll down to read the Studio’s note on the White House.

The house consists of two levels, with most of the living spaces on the first floor, other than the daughter’s bedroom. One approaches the house through a very narrow staircase, that leads into the living-dining space that is thrown open to the large open terrace, from where one has uninterrupted views of the sea. The facade was kept open and seamless, using large openings, to frame the view of the Queen’s Necklace. These openings help create a larger homogenous space with the outdoor seating area when opened. The existing roof structure over part of the terrace was kept largely unchanged except for the cladding that was done with zinc sheets. Most of the family’s entertaining takes place outdoors, on the terrace. A pergola with seating, dining area, bar counter, and a  green wall that ended up as a stepwell water feature, were all added to the terrace, while still ensuring clear views of Marine Drive from the living and dining areas.