Living Canvases Inside Art-Inspired Homes Around the World

Between beauty and utility-Homes where art isn't just displayed, it's lived

- — By Yashita Damani —

What happens when architecture becomes canvas, and home transforms into a living, breathing masterpiece? Across the globe, a new wave of homeowners, designers, and architects are transforming living spaces into immersive art experiences- not simply decorated with art, but in fact inspired by, shaped in and built around design punctuation.

These homes do not merely display paintings on walls; they channel the brushstrokes of their masters, drawing from historical art movements, and integrating the essence of enigmatic sculptures, installations, and curated craftsmanship into their very bones.

From a villa in the South of France inspired by Matisse's vibrant palette to a minimalist Tokyo home echoing the discipline of Japanese calligraphy, each property is a dialogue between function and aesthetic philosophy. From Kerala to the Côte d'Azur, these art-forward homes reflect a shared desire: to dissolve the boundary between object and environment, between artwork and architecture. In their frames, art is not an accessory; it is the essence.

The Deco Haus by Chestnut Storeys

Tucked away in Chennai’s coveted Boat Club enclave, The Deco Haus is a striking 7,000 sq. ft. standalone bungalow that gracefully bridges artistic expression with the intimacy of family living. Conceived and designed by Farah Agarwal, founder of Chestnut Storeys, the home is a seamless fusion of vintage character and contemporary finesse.

Once a 50-year-old structure, the bungalow first drew Farah in with its generous proportions, terracotta ceilings, and lush, sprawling lawn. While its original architectural skeleton was preserved, the residence has since undergone a thoughtful transformation: layered with antique finds, design punctuation, statement elements, and a nuanced, intentional colour palette.