This 3000 sq. ft. duplex residence was designed to captivate the hearts of art enthusiasts. Located on Earle's Street in Kolkata, India, this charming dwelling draws inspiration from the esteemed Earl's Court neighbourhood in London. Thoughtfully remodelled, it’s now the perfect home for a three-generation family.

Completed in June 2023 under the guidance of Spaces & Design’s Principal Architect/Designer Pooja Bihani and her talented team including Anjana Chatterjee and Samrat Roy, this residence combines various design elements to create a vibrant and artistic living space. The client's preference for open spaces and luxurious settings led to the creation of a home that maximises floor space while maintaining an inviting and airy ambiance. The aim was to design common areas that are spacious and well-connected, ensuring seamless circulation throughout the house.

The design philosophy of Earle's Court can be described as "modern yet timeless," as it combines contemporary elements with a touch of old-world charm. This approach results in a living space that exudes both modernity and enduring appeal. To fulfill the client's vision, a muted colour palette with bright tones was adopted. This involved incorporating white and light- coloured materials, such as hand-carved ashwood panels, terracotta colour infusions, and stucco wall paint effects. These choices create depth and richness in the space, while wicker totems in the dining area and decorative lights throughout the residence contribute to an eclectic modernism, adding sculptural elements and artistic nuances to the design.

The prominent feature of the house is the extensive use of hand-carved ashwood panels. These panels, found in all common areas, serve as a unique backdrop for various settings while giving the space a more expansive appearance. The intricate carvings on the wood add depth and texture to the design, making them a defining feature of the house. In some areas, the flooring showcases intricate inlay designs, adding an artistic touch that enhances the overall appeal. 

The doors of the rooms are seamlessly concealed within their respective areas, creating a sense of expansiveness and maintaining a smooth flow throughout the residence. The washrooms feature remarkable marble artistry, with the parents' bathroom using panda marble to create captivating patterns on the walls and floor, playing with light and texture.

As you move through the passage and dining areas, you'll notice three standing totems, a creative collaboration with The Wicker Story. These totems are housed within metal cabinets, adding a bespoke and artistic touch to the overall design. The entire residence flows seamlessly, with each room contributing to a light, interesting, and art-inspired atmosphere. It is a perfect fusion of different styles and elements, resulting in a unique and eclectic modern living space.

One of the significant challenges in this project was the low ceiling height and complex structure of the existing 20-30 years old building. To overcome these limitations, the designer conducted meticulous structural studies and planned the space effectively. The result is a seamless and well-connected residence that maximises the available space and ensures a bright and airy atmosphere.

Earle's Court combines distinctive design elements, curated materials, a selected color scheme, and custom-made features to fashion a dynamic living environment. Despite structural challenges, the designer transforms this dwelling into a tribute to the transformative influence of design, capturing residents' distinct lifestyle and individuality.