Project: The Zephyr Apartment
Architecture: DesignHex
Principal Designer: Shimona Bhansali
Design Team: Parul Kalra
Location: Worli, Mumbai, India
Area: 4000 ft2
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Suryan/Dang, Wabi Sabi Studio
A Quiet Sanctuary Amidst Mumbai’s Bustle
The Zephyr Apartment, located in the heart of Mumbai’s busy Worli area, is an exquisite fusion of modern luxury and timeless Greek aesthetics. Designed by Shimona Bhansali of DesignHex, this serene space captures the essence of tranquillity, serving as a peaceful retreat amidst the chaos of urban life. The homeowners wanted a home that reflected quiet luxury, and the name Zephyr, meaning “winds from the west,” draws from Bhansali’s inspiration during her trip to Santorini, Greece.
Design Concept: Greek Aesthetics Meets Modern Luxury
The design draws heavily on elements from Greek culture, particularly the island of Santorini. The colour palette is influenced by the Mediterranean’s volcanic landscapes, featuring a blend of rustic oranges, vibrant reds, and iconic Grecian blues. Each room within The Zephyr combines rich textures, intricate patterns, and bold colours to embody the elegance of ancient Greek design, while still maintaining a modern, luxurious atmosphere.
Layout and Natural Light: Capitalizing on a Unique Structure
The Zephyr Apartment consists of two combined apartments, resulting in a mirrored layout that posed an interesting design challenge. The design team took full advantage of this layout by ensuring the space benefits from abundant natural light and cross-ventilation throughout the day. These features reinforce the sense of openness and airiness associated with the name Zephyr.
Material Palette: A Blend of Texture and Elegance
The material choices throughout the apartment emphasize understated luxury. Soft, sophisticated tones serve as a backdrop for eye-catching design elements, such as art, wallpapers, and decor pieces. However, the bespoke hand-knotted rugs, inspired by Greece’s vibrant colour identities, are true showstoppers. These rugs add personality and depth to the home, elevating the overall aesthetic.
Conclusion: A Grecian Escape in the Heart of Mumbai
More than just a residence, The Zephyr Apartment offers its inhabitants a journey through Greece’s rich cultural heritage and landscapes. DesignHex has created a harmonious space that merges the serenity of a Grecian retreat with the sophistication of contemporary design. In the midst of Mumbai’s bustling cityscape, The Zephyr serves as a reminder that even in urban chaos, serenity can be achieved through thoughtful, well-executed design.
