A multigenerational home in a Mumbai high-rise

Careful layering, meticulous details and opulent touches that balance the classic with modern elements are hallmarks of this 3,000-square-foot Mumbai apartment. Part of a multigenerational triplex, the flat provided a generously sized canvas for Jayesh Shah to articulate the homeowners’ vision. This home was for the parents, while the floors above and below were for the couple’s two sons and their families, and were also designed by him. The requirement was twofold, the first being to create a space that seamlessly fit into the overall aesthetic. The second was to ensure it still retained its distinct visual identity framed around the requirements of its primary inhabitants. “The homeowners had a clear and refined vision, and the design organically aligned with their expectations,” he says. That took shape in the form of a design that “integrates classical finesse, modern sensibilities, personal heirlooms, and bespoke craftsmanship”. In this apartment, that included incorporating Asian Paints’ well-chosen wallpapers as finishing touches to layer on some quiet grandeur.

The Mumbai-based architect and interior designer talks about the final look and how they achieved it. 

Beautiful Homes (BH): Did the spatial configuration define the way you visualised it?

Jayesh Shah (JS): The scale of the space—combined with its location and openness—naturally lent itself to a classical-luxe interpretation, with ample room for layered detailing, generous circulation, and elegant spatial planning. The large living and dining space has ample seating and direct access to the deck, and the private spaces include a master bedroom with a walk-in closet, and a guest bedroom. The planning was meticulous and user-centric, prioritising comfort, flow and the specific routines of the parents [the couple].

BH: How did you ensure that the space retained its identity but sat seamlessly within the overall aesthetic of the triplex?

JS: The two sons’ apartments have a more contemporary aesthetic, while this has an unmistakable classical vibe. But given that this is part of the larger 10,000-square-foot home, we used some common elements throughout all three spaces. An internal staircase played a pivotal role in establishing this continuity across three levels. Its marble finish, wooden railing, the lights from Taherallys and wallpaper from Sabyasachi for Nilaya created a strong architectural anchor that visually ties the whole house together.

BH: Did the design emerge seamlessly from the clients’ expectations of their space? And how did it align with your approach as a practice?

JS: Our approach rests on meticulous planning, client-centric design, and the thoughtful layering of materials, textures and personal elements. This level of the home was for the parents within a much larger family residence, and their brief emphasised comfort, elegance and timelessness. They also desired a space that exuded layered luxury within a classical setting, while remaining fresh and relevant. The classical elements were expressed through rich materials, textiles and panelling, while modern accents were introduced through thoughtfully curated furniture and refined detailing. The goal was to create a sophisticated ambience that felt both warm and deeply personal.

BH: Was there a requirement to customise any elements, including furniture, to ensure that personal touch?

JS: Customisation in general played a significant role. For example, the louvred wall with a mural backdrop in the lounge is a bespoke feature. Then there is the custom-designed separator between the staircase and the living room that balances privacy and openness. And we worked with our trusted vendors to custom-craft most of the newly introduced furniture pieces. We did this to get the exact proportions, finishes, and detailing envisioned for the space. However, we also refurbished multiple older furniture pieces, artefacts, and artworks and seamlessly integrated them into the design.