6th May 2020 | IN PROJECT OF THE WEEK | BY SBID ShareTweetPinterestLinkedIn Project of the Week: SBID Awards Finalists 2019 This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a palatial villa which is designed to embody class, style and opulence. AND Design embraced the client’s vision of this house being synonymous with their aristocracy, therefore a Rococo style was chosen to reflect the majestic design scheme. Classical European architecture is known to induce euphoric pleasure thanks to the dexterity of detail bestowed in every inch of the space. The client’s brief also included strict adherence to the contextual Vastu principles (a traditional Hindu system of architecture), aligning symmetry within the architectural layout. With the entire setting spread over a lush landscape, this villa steps back in time to recreate an 18th century nostalgic monarchical setting. SBID Awards: Residential Design Over £1M finalist sponsored by THG Paris Practice: AND Design Project: Private Villa Location: Karnataka, India What was the client’s brief? Vastu-shastra is a traditional Indian system of architecture which literally translates to “science of architecture.” This building style was at the core of the client’s brief along with a strong bias towards the classics for both architecture and interiors. Our answer? A journey through time and continents to create a living space that defines élan, grace and authority. What inspired the interior design of the project? Ancient Indian culture lays great emphasis on “Karma” or one’s deeds. The homeowners had achieved much through their actions. Respect, trust, fame and stature. The lush 25,000 sq ft lush landscaped land was a reflection of their achievements and deserved a monument that celebrated it. We created a palatial villa that stepped back in time to the 18th century. Evoking the nostalgia of French regal residences, we chose the Rococo Style to reflect the homeowner’s status. A first glimpse of this luxurious home, immerses the visitor in the French era. Travel through the glorious driveway adorned with a bed of spider lilies and classic urns. Further ahead, discover perfectly bobbed topiaries, Victorian statues and a bird bath featuring a cherub with a trumpet. Settle in for a tête-à-tête by the fountain or spend an evening gazing at the assorted petunias cupped in stone urns. Celebrate Indian agrarian living in the open cow barn that creates an intimate dialogue with the contrasting Rococan setting. The residence is a classic 18th century monarchical setting. Gilt-framed paintings, arabesque stained glass windows, opulent chandeliers, walls upholstered in silk, parquet floored library and pastel schemed furniture reflect the glory of French aristocracy. The double height formal living room draws your attention to the huge stained glass dome. The entry of light (inspired by the Oculus of the Pantheon) through the floral motifs and the chandelier further accentuates the morning light. An ornate scroll of wrought-iron patina and gilt work sweeps across the majestic staircase inviting anyone who enters to explore further. You will see trademark French finesse through golden-capped pilasters, rocaille patterns, frescoes, lace curtains, carved chairs at the foot of the bed and marble-topped tables with curved legs. Delightful additions include Indian jaalis, art and porcelain artefacts. Fine detailing and a carefully thought-out combination of the furniture and the interior design exudes a combination of rococo regency and opulence. Even on a hot day, one can step onto the Annex block to relax, containing a magnificent swimming pool, a massage room and a personal salon. The pool has its own contrast – with its warm breccia aurora cladded walls and the cool Byzantine Mosaic schemed floor bed brightened by the skylight. The adjacent theatre offers a grand operatic feel as one sits comfortably in the leather seats with the overhead wooden coffered ceiling. Lights out, let the drama begin! What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project? The challenges were many but exciting. Like consciously complying to the ancient principals of Vastu-shastra in every room while primarily crafting the 18th century Rococan Architectural and Interior Style. You can see it in the auspicious Northern Main Entrance with the odd numbered steps – responsible for bringing-in “positive energy” while providing a pleasant view of the ornate stone fountain. The Portico rests on 8 major Doric columns, continuing to the entrance vestibule and opening to a central open space – the Brahmasthana. Responsible for embodying relaxation and positive energy – at the same time provides for beauty and direct entry for the skylight entry. Other locations followed the North-East Pooja Room, South West – Master Bedroom and Safe and Kitchen in the South-East, abiding by stringent Vaastu principles. What was your team’s highlight of the project? Collaboration of ancient Indian architectural principals and European architectural styles has never been achieved before. Now add to this, all the comforts and luxuries of a 21st century home and you know this is an opportunity like never before. Why did you enter the SBID Awards? The SBID Awards values diversity in design disciplines and celebrates global design, creativity and innovation. Being a part of such a prestigious award simply connects us with an international community of industry professionals. AND Design Co. has always strived for creative excellence and we are thrilled at being nominated as finalists in two categories. Attention to detail defines the success of both our projects and we embrace being global while celebrating our Indianess and bring along the same ethic to the awards. Questions answered by Rupesh Baid, owner & founder, AND Design Co. We hope you feel inspired by this week’s Residential design! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring a striking sculptural transformation for dated office tower in Toronto, click here to see more. SBID Awards 2019 | Residential Design Over £1M finalist sponsored by THG Paris