A Stunning Kolkata Apartment Where Classical Charm Meets Modern Luxury
Conceptualised by Ajay Arya of A Square Designs, this multi-generational triplex features arresting art pieces, luxurious materials, and contemporary design elements, creating a space that feels both timeless and trendy.
17Oct'24
10:46 ambyPallavi Mehra
The overarching design aesthetic of this Kolkata apartment’s interiors is a seamless fusion of classical elegance and modern sophistication. Kolkata-based interior designer Ajay Arya of A Square Designs was approached to conceptualise a sprawling 10,000-square-foot triplex in the prestigious neighbourhood of Calcutta Park on Ballygunge Park Road in Kolkata. The home’s structure was carefully preserved, with strategic enhancements made to accommodate the unique layout of the triplex. A Square Designs introduced double-height spaces and large windows to flood the interiors with natural light, crafting a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The home also stays true to the trend of integrating art within interior spaces, making it a key design element rather than just a decorative addition.
“The concept for the home began with a vision of creating a harmonious blend of contemporary elegance and classic charm, perfectly suited for a joint family. Our discussions with the Jalan family revolved around designing a space that not only exudes luxury but also provides a warm and functional environment for three generations under one roof. The family’s appreciation for art, culture, and finely crafted elements guided us in curating a home that reflects their rich heritage and modern aspirations,” mentions Ajay Arya, Founder and Interior Designer of A Square Designs
Luxurious Yet Inviting
Interior designer Ajay Arya’s design philosophy centres on creating spaces that resonate with the client’s lifestyle while being aesthetically timeless. With its blend of classical and modern elements, this Kolkata home’s living area truly showcases his signature style—merging art, culture, and design to create a luxurious yet welcoming environment. While the apartment maintains a cohesive theme of classic meets contemporary, Arya experimented with decor ideas to give each floor and room a distinct character. From the nature-inspired wallpapers in the guest room to the playful trundle bed in the kid’s room, there’s a delightful variety that keeps the design narrative fresh and engaging.
Upon entering this Kolkata triplex, one is immediately greeted by a double-height living area, a captivating space that balances classical and modern elements, highlighted by a grand hand-embroidered painting by artist Vinita Kareem. This space of the apartment sets the tone and gives visitors a glimpse of the overall design aesthetic. This area flows into the dining room, where a hand-carved wooden dining table takes centre stage beneath a stunning Klove Studio lighting installation. The dining room also features a vibrant powder room with cheerful chequered flooring. On the same level, the parents’ bedroom is a serene retreat with a fluted black marble feature wall, while the guest bedroom features a nature-inspired setting with bespoke wallpaper.
Visually Arresting and Functional
Upon ascending to the next floor, you will discover the younger son’s primary suite—a luxurious haven complete with a sitting area and a sumptuous bathroom. Lastly, the top floor is designed for relaxation, featuring a cosy family lounge with a home theatre, an English pub-style bar, and a terrace with a bar area—ideal for unwinding after a long day. This level also houses the grandsons’ bedroom, a playful blue-themed room for twin boys, and a sophisticated secondary guest bedroom. “Designing the family lounge was an absolute joy—it’s a space where aesthetics truly meet functionality. The integration of global art and bespoke furniture turned it into a microcosm of the family’s tastes. The most challenging aspect was ensuring each floor maintained its unique vibe while still contributing to the home’s overall harmony,” adds interior designer Ajay Arya.
This Kolkata home’s material palette is a curated mix of rich, luxurious elements, including Italian marble, fluted black marble, bespoke wooden inlays, and intricate glass screens by Alsorg. The furniture pieces are a blend of Italian imports and custom pieces from Ochre at Home, complemented by sumptuous fabrics and artisanal finishes. Furthermore, the colour scheme is a harmonious blend of neutral tones with strategic pops of colour. Soft beiges and browns dominate the spaces, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere, while bold accents such as a red wall in the bar area and the blue-themed boys’ room add vibrancy and personality. Ajay Arya balanced these bold hues with natural textures and thoughtful lighting to maintain cohesion throughout the home.
Moreover, each room in the Kolkata apartment boasts expansive windows offering panoramic views of the city’s skyline. In addition, the designer incorporated a plethora of indoor plants that add vibrancy to the home. “The indoor-outdoor continuum allows for natural ventilation, creating a healthy living environment. We also used responsibly sourced materials and energy-efficient fixtures to minimise the home’s environmental impact,” concludes interior designer Ajay Arya.