Subtle Synergies

HS Desiigns gives a weekend home in Lonavala, Maharashtra, a classic yet modern makeover, with warm and elegant interiors enhanced by the use of well-placed design elements that include gorgeous artefacts, paintings, mirrors and even artful flooring.

- Alifiya Mehamdabadwala

A phenomenon especially well-established in Europe, the concept of a weekend home or second home has gained popularity in India as well. There has been an increasing trend of affluent and upper middle class Indians investing in property at hill stations and quaint towns, as an escape to rejuvenate, relax and spend time with family and friends. While some believe in splurging to create a luxurious weekend home, others favour a simpler approach that is warm, earthy and rustic. The bungalow we are about to discuss falls somewhere in between these two design philosophies.

Located in the hill station Lonavala — a favourite weekend destination for Mumbaikars as it is a hop skip and jump away from the Maximum City — this bungalow is neither ostentatious nor simplistic in its look. Created by interior designer Hitesh Shahanand, the founder of Mumbai-based HS Desiigns, it has a modern Indian vibe. Hitesh and the client share a five-year-long relationship during which they have worked on many projects, including his residence and office. The client, who Hitesh describes as being extremely open-minded and easy-going, offered him complete freedom to nurture and bring his ideas to fruition. “He never interferes with any aspect of the design,” he asserts. Hitesh believes that while working with such a client is liberating, it brings added responsibility to meet the expected benchmark.