Home > ‘Haute’ Stuff: Luxury Boutiques in Mumbai Reflecting Opulence and Bespoke Interior Decor

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‘Haute’ Stuff: Luxury Boutiques in Mumbai Reflecting Opulence and Bespoke Interior Decor

Luxury boutiques in Mumbai unveil a unique identity with their maximalist decor, proving that interior & fashion design are two sides of the same coin

Shirline Dias Andrades

August 23, 2024

Whether in interior or fashion design, we are taking minimalist aesthetics off the pedestal for now. It’s 2024, and our design/decor palette calls for a dollop of whimsy and creativity. And where does one find the quintessential Indian psyche of “going above and beyond”? At the big fat Indian wedding. Since wedding inspiration comes largely from the media, we can’t help but delve into the country’s film city: Mumbai. A primary focus on maximalist design and decor in Mumbai stems from its inclination towards Indian cinema, predominantly inspiring the luxury wedding industry. Thus encouraging a substantial surge in bespoke bridal boutiques with unique interiors. Indian luxury designers are establishing their boutiques in Mumbai and ensuring they reflect the city’s fashion personality and brand ethos, curating an immersive architectural and design experience. After all, modern interior design is just an extension of contemporary fashion, and vice versa.

Owing to their posh-plush atmosphere, visitors can spend hours inside these luxury boutiques, potentially throwing perfunctory shopping out the window. For this reason, majestic landscapes catering to entourages are customary in these luxury boutiques. Along with inspiring decor, dedicated anterooms, privy trial chambers, and laidback seating are all recurrent in these luxury stores. A large tranche of this clientele includes brides or bridal parties shopping for their trousseau. While they pick haute stuff off these shelves, the idea is to accord them a sense of luxury, professional acquaintance, and belonging. This is a special experience that one can only experience in the city of dreams: living regally, elevating one’s lifestyle through bespoke fashion in the heart of Mumbai: a cultural cosmopolis.

As we sit down with these bespoke couturiers and discuss the decor details of their stores, read how these luxury boutiques in Mumbai transcend the couture experience to a whole new level.

Manish Malhotra Boutique, designed by Gauri Khan

Store Address: Level 1, Jio World Plaza, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai 400055
Store Opening: July 2024
Store Layout: 2500 sq ft approx.
Interiors & Creative Direction: Gauri Khan Designs / Gauri Khan
Photography Credits: Shirline Dias Andrades

In focus: The newest Manish Malhotra store at the Jio World Plaza, as seen from the exteriors. Image Credit: Shirline Dias Andrades

On the other side of the Arabian Sea is an ever-expanding Mumbai. Here lies the Bandra Kurla Complex: a cosmopolitan ground defined by glass and concrete skyscrapers, high-end shopping malls, financial centres, and bespoke gastronomical experiences. We arrive at Jio World Plaza, a sprawling space that hosts international luxury brands. And here lies the newest Manish Malhotra store; one can practically hear the passementerie and paillettes flicker as one walks into it. The boutique’s architectural iconograph revives Indian craftsmanship and tradition while beautifully fetching modern elegance. A sartorial plumassier of Indian cinema, this eponymous brand depicts Manish Malhotra’s inherent footing in glamour and grandeur, evoking a sense of unabashed luxury.

Interior designer and long-time friend Gauri Khan takes pride in designing the boutique. She lets the design narrative speak for itself, making the boutique not just a fashion destination but a reflection of the brand’s journey.

In focus is the concierge desk by the mannequins. The store’s interiors flaunt bright white walls and beige ivory marble flooring. Image Credit: Shirline Dias Andrades

A few reminiscing picture frames hang on the moulded walls. An intricate chandelier looks down on the trifold mirror. Image Credit: Shirline Dias Andrades

The label’s emblematic Monogram is installed above the seating lounge. A set of vintage chairs sits on the dark rug. Image Credit: Shirline Dias Andrades

A glorious candelabra is fitted in the moulded centrepiece in the centre of the store’s ceiling. The ‘MM’ Monogram details are incorporated into the wainscotting. Image Credit: Shirline Dias Andrades

Under the glow of the majestic chandeliers and luminaires, the boutique’s clean lines, refined textures, and curated elements are unveiled. It hosts exclusive seating arrangements with selected furnishings, exclusive rugs, upholstery, and dedicated apparel sections. To add an Indo-Euporean touch, walls are etched with intricate mouldings and wainscotting, even recurring the label’s signature ‘MM’ Monogram.

The store floods in ample light, and cosy anterooms invite clientele to browse through. Image Credit: Shirline Dias Andrades

A broader view captures the magnificence of the new store. Image Credit: Shirline Dias Andrades

In an exclusive conversation with India Design ID, Manish Malhotra states, “Décor and fashion are intertwined in a way that truly enhances the essence of both fields. At Manish Malhotra, we recognise that the aesthetic sensibilities that define couture can be seamlessly translated into the realm of interior design.” He further adds, “Design is a celebration of individuality and creativity. Keep pushing boundaries and stay true to your vision; the world of design is a canvas waiting for your brilliance.”

Sabyasachi Flagship, designed by Sabyasachi Mukherjee

Store Address: ICP Fort Heritage, Veer Nariman Road, Off Horniman Circle, Mumbai 400001
Store Opening: 18th April 2023
Store Layout: 25,862 sq ft approx.
Interiors & Creative Direction: Sabyasachi Mukherjee
Photography Credits: Björn Wallander

Painted vases and tall lamp shelves accompany the Sabyasachi creations on purchase. An upholstered couch welcomes visitors. Amidst the floral wallpaper, two window-like domes are carved. Image Credit: Björn Wallander

Sabyasachi’s flagship is the living personification of its emblematic Pathera Monogram. Through the design dynamics of this maison’s flagship, a testament to what it represents stands unabridged—heritage, grace, and culture, honouring slow, authentic luxury. Designed by Sabyasachi Mukherjee himself, the royal heritage seamlessly engages in a dialectic conversation of cultural craftsmanship and design. The interiors bathe in the decadence of innate Indianness, resting relentlessly on grandeur and savoir-faire.

Luxury Boutiques in Mumbai — Several antiques come to life under the majestic chandelier. The shelves in the back reveal a timeless collection of keepsakes and mementoes, along with the signature Sabyasachi items for purchase. Image Credit: Björn Wallander

A culmination of antiquities waltzes its way to what was previously a neo-classical building—completed by Chambers & Fritchley in 1913. The couturier borrows the grandeur and decaying nonchalance from his hometown, Calcutta, while sousing in the belongingness of the good Old Bombay. Sprawled across 25,862 sq ft, the flagship shelters 100 chandeliers, 275 carpets, 3000 books, and 150 artworks, making the boutique an antiquarian of sorts.

To elevate the Sabyasachi ordeal, the decor is layered with ancestral Tanjore paintings, Pichhwais in the Deccan, Nathdwara and Kota style, vintage photography, Mughal miniatures, rare bronzes, 19th-century Company paintings and rare lithographs. Quaintly amalgamating Indian heritage, the Sabyasachi store illustrates the depictions of the Italianate revival, bringing many ancient keepsakes of different backgrounds and cultures to life.

The passageway in the Sabyasachi store glimpses at the intricate selection of vintage lamps. Image Credit: Björn Wallander

The Sabyasachi designs are displayed in glass cases on the walls. A row of intricate chandeliers casts golden illumination, and exclusive carpets continue to line the pathway. Image Credit: Björn Wallander

The voluminous lounge boasts opulence. Behind the arch-shaped openings, trial chambers are nestled away. Collections of candelabras hang down from the wooden ceilings. Image Credit: Björn Wallander

Cabinets sourced from souks, modernist interpretations of the Persian Qajars, 18th-century Venetian handcrafted chairs, rare French Art Nouveau cabinets, and brass sculptures made in Calcutta all contribute to the flagship’s treasure trove. The store also witnesses a selection of Tang dynasty pottery, rare Canton vases, Sabysachi’s signature silk velvet-lined busts, vitrines, and lampshades. The wallpaper and upholstery are part of the Sabyasachi for Nilaya collection by Asian Paints (also exhibited at India Design ID 2024), illustrating the design house’s heritage emblems and inspirations.

Numerous vases, ancient paintings, and treasure trunks find themselves a dedicated corner at the flagship. Image Credit: Björn Wallander

The pursuit of treasure thus continues. Image Credit: Björn Wallander

One is very likely to mistake the flagship for a historical museum. Which is the beauty of Sabyasachi Mukherjee; only he can over-magnify grandiosity and get away with it.

Anita Dongre Flagship, designed by Shonan Purie Trehan

Store Address: Sassoon Building, 141-143, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
Store Opening: February 2023
Store Layout: 8500 sq. ft. spanning over four storeys
Interiors & Creative Direction: Shonan Purie Trehan, with significant contributions from heritage architect Kirtida Unwalla
Photography Credits: S.Thiru

In focus: The front facade of the Anita Dongre flagship in the iconic Sassoon building. Image Credit: S.Thiru

Anita Dongre’s flagship in Kalaghoda recites an ode to the classic Old Bombay appeal and traditional Indian craft. Thereby paying homage to the 200-year-old Sassoon building and its architectural apotheosis. Borrowing inspiration from the Kala Ghoda locale, the flagship mirrors colonial architectural design with hints of Victorian Gothic elements — wooden staircases and flooring, intricate carvings, and ceiling panels. Rustic lanes of the Sassoon Building’s scenic geography make way for this immersive escapade hidden behind the flagship’s doors.

As dusk falls, the flagship reveals the good-old ‘Bombay’ charm. Image Credit: S.Thiru

The store’s decor and architecture are linearised with Anita Dongre’s philosophy and include a series of installations unique to the label. A marriage of Indian crafts and colonial architecture continues inside, evoking a magnanimous emotion of the old meeting the new. Architect Shonan Purie Trehan lets the storytelling happen through material expression for the store’s interiors. She keeps the brand’s narrative intact, allowing every detail to illustrate its own course. Given the building’s architectural importance, heritage architect Kirtida Unwalla plays a vital role in preserving the landmark’s heritage identity while infusing contemporary elegance.

The doors open to a pathway of white-black tiles in the centre. A cosy anteroom on one side showcases upholstered sofas and vintage furnishings. Image Credit: S.Thiru

The stairway carved in dark wood is contrasted with the handpainted green walls. Image Credit: S.Thiru

Another angle of the stairway beautifully captures the natural motifs imprinted on the walls. Image Credit: S.Thiru

Downstairs, the colour palette is particularly dark green, giving the impression of a biophilic setting. Various flora and fauna are imprinted on these, contrasting with the printed tiles and wooden furnishings. The white-black tiles were salvaged from the original during restoration, with new ones crafted to match them. A wooden railing boundaries the stairway, with colourful imprints of nature painted on the walls. Stark timber beams find their footing in a dimly lit setting, contouring the beautiful designs on display. Signature hand-painted Pichhwai walls, created by Rajasthani artisans, welcome vibrancy, while biophilic embellishments perform the illusion of a natural oasis. Through nooks and crannies, natural sunlight seeps in, highlighting the multicoloured stained-glass windows to their full potential.

Contrary to the lower storey, this space features a lighter colour theme. Menswear selections are colour-coordinated and arranged to add to the decor effect. Image Credit: S.Thiru

In tandem with the decor, a seating lounge rests atop a rug. Near each window, potted banana palms reserve their spot. Image Credit: S.Thiru

In focus: the womenswear selection is also colour-coded for a dramatic effect. Image Credit: S.Thiru

On the upper storeys of the flagship, one witnesses the blend of cultural and contemporary aesthetics. Track lights run alongside the luminaire candelabras, creating abundant light for the vetements. It hosts spacious accommodations for the shoppers and their retinue, with dedicated sections demarcating the menswear and women’s selections.

Papa Don’t Preach store, designed by Shimona Bhansali

Store Address: Papa Don’t Preach, Ground floor, Seksaria Chambers, 139, Nagindas Master Rd, Kala Ghoda, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
Store Opening: 14th February 2022
Store Layout: 900sq ft spanned over two floors
Interiors & Creative Direction: Shimona Bhansali, Founder of Design Hex
Photography Credits: Ashish Sahi

The exterior view of the Papa Don’t Preach store unfurls a burst of pink. Rounded windows add to its eccentricity. Image Credit: Ashish Sahi

If Barbie were in India shopping for a wedding lehenga, she would love it here. For the Papa Don’t Preach boutique, the idea was to invite their clientele to relive an embodiment of whimsical fantasy and an outwardly living. In congruence with its ethos, the label’s flagship was pillared on bold, avant-garde, and maximalist architecture. Founder of Design Hex, Shimona Bhansali, designed the Papa Don’t Preach flagship store, benched by the lanes of Kala Ghoda, Mumbai. Nestled at the intersection of Rampart Row, Dalal Street, Dubash Road and Barucha Lane, the bustling gullies outside this store are eclectically peppered with Victorian buildings, a synagogue, art galleries, and Irani cafes. It’s no wonder that the Kala Ghoda “art district” has inspired a store as unique as this.

Inspiration for the design came from author R.R Tolkien’s Middle Earth after sensing an amiss of immersive and unconventional decor. The conceptual ideation for the flagship was premised chiefly on these ‘Middle Earth’ elements—an ecumene frequented in Tolkien’s imagined mythological past. Interiors featuring hobbit-inspired homes were rendered in blush-toned facades, keeping the magical look and feel alive. To take the fantastical escapade a tad further, the decor was festooned with 3D accents, circular doorframes, a jewellery-clad infinity tree, a starry-night ceiling and more. Interestingly, mannequin-like installations signifying extraterrestrial creatures were also dolled up in signature Papa Don’t Preach couture.

Yet another quirky corner in the Papa Don’t Preach store is in focus here. Image Credit: Ashish Sahi

Visiting the Papa Don’t Preach store resembles stepping into a storybook, catapulting shoppers into an immersive experience of maximalist eccentricity and traditionalism.

Nestled in quietude away from the city’s jostle, these luxury boutiques in Mumbai allow bridal parties to shop for their wedding accoutrements in serenity. Only brides know the genuine fun hidden behind shopping shenanigans, and when boutiques look aesthetically vibrant, the entire escapade becomes much more immersive. Thankfully, these luxury couturiers make the most of it. As our author candidly converses with these esteemed designers, we learn that along with sartorial refinement, they master the knack for design, too. Their flagships and luxury boutiques in Mumbai bring out some of the finest design stories, exhibiting a summation of eclectic, heritage, and contemporary architectural practices.

From colonial neighbourhoods to the latest modern developments, luxury design and fashion thrive in every corner of the city, making Mumbai an inspiring hub for designers. Mumbaikars can witness a pitstop for design, architecture, beauty, and grandeur in just a hop. As the inaugural edition of ID Mumbai 2024 remains a mere month away, we invite you to witness some of the city’s glorious product designs, interiors, and architectural occurrences. Book your tickets here on BookMyShow.