Mumbai apartment channels 'arrival at still water's edge' through design
Multi-generational home draws inspiration from Kerala's lily pads with organic forms throughout.
1Natural inspiration transported from Kerala to Mumbai
The Act of Quad studio designed this Mumbai apartment for a multi-generational family, drawing inspiration from lily pads floating in Kerala's backwaters. Named 'A Borrowed Memory', the space features continuous green flooring and curved lime-washed walls that mirror water's tranquility. The design eliminates sharp corners in favor of fluid transitions, catering to a couple and their elderly parents.
2Living space woven with organic forms
Custom furniture pieces throughout reflect nature's influence - from undulating dining chairs to a door-mounted green leaf sculpture. The studio's clay-crafted lily pad coffee table, cast in fiber and adorned with resin droplets, captures the backwaters' stillness. A hand-carved wooden pillar from Kerala contrasts with light green upholstered seating, blending tradition with contemporary design.
3Intergenerational solutions in compact living
A curved dining room wall expands the adjacent bathroom for wheelchair access. The younger couple's bedroom conceals a walk-in wardrobe behind sliding timber panels. Instead of a fixed TV, a hidden home theater system encourages social interaction typical of traditional Indian households. Every detail accommodates residents aged 22 to 80.
4Sanctuary space for elderly residents
The grandparents' bedroom emerges as the apartment's most peaceful retreat, featuring muted tones and handcrafted wooden furniture that complements curved walls. Rounded window panes, mirrors and headboards subtly echo lily pad motifs. The studio implemented space-saving storage solutions throughout the compact 1,200 sq ft layout.
5Redefining luxury in constrained spaces
The Act of Quad founders note, 'Shrinking urban homes present more compelling challenges than unlimited design.' They define contemporary luxury as creating emotionally resonant, personalized spaces. Since 2019, the Mumbai-based studio has transformed various city spaces, including converting a former library into their office.
6Thoughtful material selections
Lime wash walls were chosen for their natural aesthetic and breathability. The fiber-cast lily pad table balances durability with artistry. Carefully sourced Kerala timber showcases traditional craftsmanship. Gradations of green throughout mimic water's varying depths and reflections.
7Architectural nods to lily pads
Circular motifs appear in every corner - from door handles to light fixtures. The continuous green flooring symbolizes Kerala's interconnected waterways. Rather than literal reproduction, the studio scattered nature's essence throughout the home through subtle design choices.
8The value of personalized spaces
This project demonstrates how tailored design elevates urban living. Each element shaped around family routines celebrates functional beauty. The Act of Quad proves original design thrives within constraints. Their portfolio of multi-generational homes consistently reflects this human-centered philosophy.