Location: Bangalore
Size of the plot: 540 square feet
Number of bedrooms: 01
Date of completion: June 2023
Design firm: Design Boulevard
Principal architects/designers of the firm: Muzamil Hasham, Pooja Ram
Photographer: Jubin Johnson, Hansoga Photography

Compact in real estate but high in efficient design is how one would describe this 540-square-foot apartment in Bangalore. Complying with the homeowner’s requirements, Muzamil Hasham and Pooja Ram, at Design Boulevard, set out to create a fluid space, open to interpretation and full of elegance and modernity. They envisioned a space with “the idea of using the Art Deco theme in a modern aspect, while every element in the apartment comes alive with the perfect synchronicity of colours, light and functionality”. 

Given the apartment’s size, it was crucial to ensure seamless visual flow among the various spaces. The duo leverages versatile partitioning to demarcate the primary functions of the space while maintaining fluidity in the small space. They strove to maintain a cohesive aesthetic throughout, connecting areas with art, furnishings, wall textures, and an Art Deco design language. 

The home borrows heavily from elements of the 1920s design movement albeit in an understated fashion. The curvilinear furniture, the sweeping curves of the design embossed on an accent wall in the bedroom, the fluted accents, and the statement geometric lighting all pay homage to the Art Deco theme – while the neutral monotone that permeates the space and the subtle textures provide a fine balance by bringing in a modern sensibility. Hasham explains, “Beige-toned, lime-plastered walls, along with the earth-toned language of the interiors create a sense of understated luxury”. The aim of using lime plaster for the walls was two-fold – the traditional, eco-friendly material in addition to being aesthetic, effectively draws out moisture from the walls contributing to their longevity.

An all-white kitchen is positioned to the left of the entrance – the white acrylic finish was chosen keeping in mind a seamless design that blends into the background. A sleek breakfast counter that doubles as a dining for two serves as a partition between the kitchen and the living area. Separating the living and bedroom areas is a free-standing TV unit ensuring privacy and the right amount of openness. A tan bed with a fluted panel set against an Art Deco wall is visible from every corner of the apartment all the while adding to the visual comfort and aesthetic. 

The original study was converted into a wardrobe space with mirrored shutters to enhance the size of the space, while a study table was integrated into a corner next to the window which enjoys ample natural light. The common utilities are integrated within the walk-in storage area that is adjacent to the toilet space.

Ram explains, “The colours of the furniture, storage units and wall art blend into the functionality of the space. In contrast, the deep green furniture adds a layer of depth while sitting in the background, not taking away too much of one’s attention, allowing all the elements to create a balanced visual harmony and a sense of comfort.”