Samruddhi, a stunning 1,900 sq ft flat in Chennai, effortlessly brings the essence of Kerala into the bustling city. This contemporary yet lush apartment is rooted in the rich traditions of the clients’ hometown while maintaining a modern, chic aesthetic. Designed by Ar. Subhashree and Interior Designer Sriranjani, Samruddhi is an indulgent home, visually appealing yet thoughtfully balanced to avoid any sense of excess.Â
The design concept was driven by the client’s request for free-flowing spaces with minimal changes to the builder’s original floor plan. This allowed the layout to remain open and unconfined, and the marble flooring was retained to add a sense of luxury. Rich woodwork, grey oxide finishes, laterite brick cladding, and an abundance of plants create an uplifting vibe that brings the spirit of Kerala into every room.
The entry foyer sets the tone with its understated elegance. The grey oxide walls flow seamlessly from this space into the casual rooms, creating a cohesive design. The entire foyer is enclosed in a solid wood ceiling, and a vibrant Kerala mural adds a splash of color, providing the right balance between minimalism and artistry. This simple yet powerful design ensures that the foyer feels welcoming and unique.
Moving into the living and dining areas, the semi-transparent partition—comprising carved wooden panels and fluted glass—offers privacy while allowing light to filter through, maintaining the openness of the space. The grey oxide wall extends to serve as a feature TV wall in the living area and continues into the informal lounge, visually connecting the spaces. A full-height veneer panel on the opposite side cleverly conceals two hidden doors, leading to the guest bedroom and kitchen. This subtle yet effective design maintains a sleek aesthetic.
One of the standout features is the flush-to-wall niches created to house the clients’ collectibles. This solution not only conserves floor space but also adds to the apartment’s minimalistic charm. The furniture, including a repurposed wooden swing, is kept light and minimal, contributing to the overall elegance. Metallic details elevate the style without overwhelming the senses, while the incorporation of plants evokes memories of Kerala’s lush backyards.
In the dining room, a stone-top dining table with a metallic base takes center stage, surrounded by carefully chosen details like a decorative mirror and potted plants in the hand wash corner. The adjacent balcony, adorned with wood-look ceilings and ample greenery, serves as a cozy, refreshing retreat.
The informal lounge, located just left of the dining area, doubles as a Pooja space. It exudes warmth and intimacy, thanks to the continuation of the solid wood ceiling and the grey oxide walls. The once wide-open area has been smartly redesigned into a closed office and a smaller, more intimate lounge, separated by a decorative divider. This allowed for a private passageway to the master bedroom, enhancing both privacy and functionality.
The girl’s bedroom, designed in grey hues with teal accents, strikes a balance between elegance and vibrancy. To maximize floor space, a platform bed, and a wardrobe are built against the walls, leaving ample room for movement. A dedicated study area near the window, accented by teal highlights, adds functionality to the room, while delicate furnishings with subtle pops of color complete the look.
The master bedroom stands as a true tropical retreat. Wood rafters on the ceiling, an earthy laterite brick wall, and a large headboard give the room an earthy yet luxurious feel. A cozy armchair by the window offers a serene spot to relax, and the warm tones of the upholstery enhance the ambiance. The indoor plants placed throughout the room provide a refreshing contrast to the room’s grand elements, making the space feel both grand and inviting.
Samruddhi beautifully marries modern design with traditional values. Each area of the home has a distinct character, specific to its purpose, yet the spaces are tied together by recurring materials like wood and grey oxide, and elements such as plants and earthy finishes. The result is a home that feels not only contemporary but also deeply connected to Kerala, offering a slice of God’s Own Country in the heart of Chennai.
Fact Sheet
Firm Name: Uncut Design Lab
Architect/Designer: Ar. Subhashree/ID. Sriranjani
Location: Chennai
Area: 1900 sq ft
Design Team: Uncut Design Lab
Photography Credits: Sreenag
