Project 401

Project 401 began as a sprawling terrace paired with an adjoining studio space in Indiranagar, Bangalore — framed by mature treetops and expansive sky. The brief was to transform these into a cohesive yet dual-purpose environment: an outdoor terrace for social gatherings, and an internal space functioning as both a lounge and a working studio. The challenge lay in connecting two distinct programs into a seamless experience while allowing each to retain its own character.

The brief was defined through problems and hopes. The primary concern was the terrace's lack of privacy, despite its views, along with its weak connection to the internal space. The studio was envisioned as a self-contained retreat — a place for work, calls, and downtime — leveraging the best light and views in the home. The client also hoped to use the terrace as a social extension of his lifestyle — from intimate gatherings to curated dining and small performances — making privacy, comfort, and flexibility central to the design.

The design began by eliminating barriers, minimising walls to preserve openness and light. The terrace was conceived as a "terrace jungle", with landscaping leading the design. Tall planting creates a natural privacy screen while allowing the sky to remain fully visible — defining the space through greenery rather than built edges. Functionally, the space is designed for maximum adaptability. A kitchenette and powder room support hosting, while light, movable furniture and a parapet designed as seating allow the space to shift between lounging, dining, and events. The internal lounge follows a similar logic — offering multiple seating types and integrating a shower and storage to function as a self-sufficient personal retreat.

The material direction draws from the client's references to Balinese design, interpreted through a restrained, landscape-first palette. On the terrace, materials are kept neutral and textural to allow the greenery and sky to remain dominant. A base of concrete flooring and Kadappa stone is layered with cane, warm brass, ceramics, and selective black metal accents — subtly silhouetting the view. Cooler metals are introduced in contrast to the warmth of brass. Inside, the palette shifts toward comfort and familiarity, built through plush fabrics — including velvets, bouclé, bamboo fibre, and wool in carpets — paired with warm teak elements across furniture and doors. Bathrooms introduce a more crafted expression, using handmade beige tiles with pronounced grout lines to create geometric texture, balanced by softer, fluid counters and clean, formal basins.

Terrace lighting is designed as silhouettes and navigation — used sparingly to guide movement while allowing the night sky to remain dominant. Concealed sources create a soft ambient experience that preserves the outdoor quality. Inside, lighting combines ambient glow and focused spotlighting. Directed beams highlight artworks and key areas, creating moments of emphasis within a relaxed setting. Styling layers modern and antique elements, with sculptural pedestals doubling as art. Overlapping custom carpets anchor the space, while varied materials across seating introduce depth and richness. On the terrace, landscaping leads the styling, supported by accents in brass, cane, marble, and metal — used intentionally to enhance the plants and the sky.