This project offered them a rare canvas: design freedom. The family rooted in the metal industry entrusted them with shaping a blank space, inspired by client's son—a representative of a new generation inclined toward modern and avant-garde aesthetics. This enables them to go beyond convention, blending functionality with bold, impactful materials. Also due to clients social nature/status, they wanted a space that could serve as a perfect hosting & redefine living.

The house had this layout with long walls in certain areas and tiny windows that let in hardly any natural light which made the room dark & lifeless and it called for a change. This became the seed of inspiration for a design solution that would redefine these spaces, focusing on light, and texture. Their solution was glass blocks; cloudy patterned—it's a material that was most typically associated with 1980’s architecture. Glass blocks are like the perfect alchemy of form and function. its translucent geometry lets light pour in gently, transforming dark/dull corridors into bright, and the way they're stacked creates this amazing visual rhythm. By bringing this material back they played a part in its modern revival, proving how timeless it is.

“As glass blocks are experiencing another renaissance”

Another notable point was the 23-foot-long length of the ceiling. After a few initial discussions, the idea of having an arched ceiling throughout fascinated them. Along with this element, they have used materials like green Indian marble, bold-wooden veneer combo & as mentioned glass blocks. On the other hand, they wanted to tone down the space since they were using bold textures and finishes. This led them to define the ceiling only by its form, keeping it muted while placing all the bold textures and colours on the floor.

Mumbai,Maharashtra,India

Architects : Realm Studiio
Area : 2130 sq. ft.
Year : 2024
Website : https://www.instagram.com/realmstudiio/

Living room of Arah by Realm Studiio


Living room of Arah by Realm Studiio

As you step inside the house you get to see the large full-size windows of living area, they imagined having good shape sofa against it with sheer curtains. A custom-made 16-foot sofa, draped in classic caramel bouclé fabric became the heart of living area. along with a bespoke armchair, a bench with veneer & green marble finish, they avoided usual and boring seating arrangements by incorporating varied seating styles and shades, creating a distinctive yet cohesive look. 

The setup is anchored by a green glass and marble coffee table, crafted on-site to add an interesting feature. The entire ensemble rests on a bespoke rug, tying the space together seamlessly. At first, the client was uncertain, about the furnishings that might overwhelm the space. But they trusted their vision, and when it all clicked, client's smiles said it all—trusting them paid off. The space came together perfectly, inviting them to kick back and truly unwind.


Living room of Arah by Realm Studiio

The extended portion of the living room is planned for dining, an attempt to establish a dialogue between the two, with the intention of making dining a more inclusive and engaging experience. curated it with a green Indian marble & veneer on site. Also a non-negotiable of the client was to have a “Jain mantra” in the living room & they embraced that fully. They chose to maintain a more understated presence instead stand out dramatically—finishing the letters in the same tone as the wall, adding just enough depth for clarity. The result? An elegant, understated piece that speaks volumes without shouting. 


Living room of Arah by Realm Studiio


Living room of Arah by Realm Studiio

Seating area is facing completely to outside wall of kitchen Since there was no TV requirement in the living room, the only wall they would be looking at is that, where they planned the breakfast cum multifunctional counter, so they made sure to design it visually pleasing. The counter is complemented by a striking backdrop of glass block wall which they design for kitchen room. The countertop finished with bold textured veneer and wooden veneer with a green marble base, which also incorporates storage.

To enhance the wall little bit more, they added a custom wall art piece. The client was initially skeptical, worried it might overwhelm the space. But once it was installed, he looked at it and said, "It actually looks good." I couldn’t resist responding, “Say it again,” they both laughed and the artwork found its permanent home. Last but certainly not least, a large China doll tree was placed beside the sofa, bringing the space to life and allowing it to truly breathe.

Throughout the apartment, smaller shifts of walls and partitions were planned to increase the efficiency of the given space.


Living & Dining of Arah by Realm Studiio



Kitchen of Arah by Realm Studiio

The idea of glass block wall came from the kitchen being too dark. Since one wall faced the living room window, they used that to their advantage. By adding glass blocks to the dado of serving counter also, they created an interesting look while allowing soft light to fill the kitchen throughout the day.


Kitchen of Arah by Realm Studiio


Internal Passage of Arah by Realm Studiio

As you walk from the bedroom to the living room through the passage it feels like stepping into a gallery—a space where art and identity converge. The bold red metal wall art, custom-designed to reflect the client’s roots in the metal industry, stands as a vibrant centerpiece. arched ceiling draws your gaze upward, creating a soft ripple effect in pristine white that adds depth and rhythm to the passage.


Multipurpose room of Arah by Realm Studiio


Multipurpose room of Arah by Realm Studiio

One of the rooms they designed functions as both a work and multipurpose space. They created a clean, clutter-free workstation for two, placed in front of a large window to bring in natural light. A planter next to the desk adds a refreshing touch. 

The room also features wall-mounted shelves with some details for books/artwork, along with a designated space for a TV. The wall is finished with bold wooden veneer panels, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The custom-made sofa bed, unique chair, and large glass coffee table are all designed specifically for the space, complemented by a rug from "Obeetee Carpets." A glass block walls in the corner, shared with the living room, seamlessly connects the spaces, maintaining a unified and cohesive design.


Multipurpose room of Arah by Realm Studiio


Master Bedroom of Arah by Realm Studiio

This room is pretty spacious, with these big, end-to-end windows that let in so much light. The idea was to keep it simple, not overcrowded, so they went with ripple panelling and added clear mirror accents for a clean look. There’s this custom-made suspended light they planned for—it really became the showstopper here.

They added a lounge chair and an upholstered bed setting & an ottoman all custom-designed, and finished off with a sleek console in veneer that also has storage. To keep the main space, open for relaxing, they tucked the wardrobe neatly along the entry corridor. It’s all about making the most of the space while keeping it elegant.


Master Bedroom of Arah by Realm Studiio


Master Bedroom of Arah by Realm Studiio


Son's Bedroom of Arah by Realm Studiio

This design embodies the essence of quiet luxury, blending earthy tones, rich textures, and minimalist forms. Centered on tranquility, the space showcases warm neutrals and a harmonious mix of materials, creating an atmosphere of understated elegance. A three-dimensional  wooden cut out accent wall adds subtle texture, while the upholstered bed and layered linens enhance the earthy aesthetic.

A low terracotta lounger by the window creates a cozy reading nook, complemented by dual-layered drapery that filters natural light beautifully. Nearby, a custom console cabinet with fabric panels and leather pulls combines function with elegance, topped by a bold abstract artwork that adds modern flair. With its refined finishes, soft lighting, and cohesive details, this bedroom perfectly balances timeless style and calming sophistication.


Son's Bedroom of Arah by Realm Studiio

overall client’s curiosity and excitement really drove their vision. They eagerly embraced their proposal, intrigued by the potential of these materials to transform their home into a flare of modernity. As the design unfolded, the glass blocks not only solved the problem of inadequate daylight but also became a defining feature- a symbol of the family’s shift toward a more open mindset in the modern design world. This shift inspired the project’s name, "Arah" derived from the Jain scriptures’ word "Arihanta," symbolizing enlightenment and a place of peace.

This house is more than an exercise in design; it is a story of reinvention, where overlooked materials are revived and spaces are reimagined to reflect a new generation's vision. It shows the power of collaboration and the lasting impact of thoughtful design.

Their philosophy is always centered around responding to the space and its context. They don’t get hung up on individual pieces; they see the site as a whole. There’s No one-size-fits-all style here—every space should get its own unique treatment is what they believe. They kick things off with a big idea and then fine-tune the details to keep everything cohesive and seamless.

The only challenge was incorporating whole HVAC system & integrated lighting with having those arch ceiling concepts in living room without disturbing their purity & form. Which they have achieved with sampling of arches on site as to how they can seamlessly blend in all.


Son's Bedroom of Arah by Realm Studiio




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