MODERN MUSE

This contemporary home in Kolkata by A Square Designs is built around a beloved art collection

- TASNEEM PATANWALA

When this Kolkata-based joint family approached Ajay Arya to design their three-storey villament in Ballygunge Park Road, they asked for a house infused with art elements while having a modern flair. For Ajay Arya, the founder and principal designer of A Square Designs, this meant that he had to create an interplay between contemporary utility and classical aesthetics to bring together a space that reflects the personality of the family.

A double-height living area featuring a mix of classical and contemporary pieces welcomes you into the home. "The piece-de-resistance of this space is the imposing hand-embroidered painting by artist Vinita Karim on one side, while the other part of the living room showcases a beautiful artwork by Thota Vaikuntam," says Ajay. "There's also an indoor-outdoor continuum that keeps nature a close neighbour, with windows bringing in the verdant greens," he adds, explaining the infusion of large windows in this area.