A London Dream
Shekhar Suman's Mumbai residence is not just a house; it's an experience, a vivid portal to London transportive in its Victorian elegance. Designed collaboratively
with his wife Alka, the four-storey penthouse is a testament to their shared vision, artfully blending the grandeur of English architecture with deeply personal accents. Pastel hues dominate the palette, creating a serene backdrop for antique furnishings, rare curiosities, and mementos gathered from global travels. The space is a visual symphony, orchestrated with dramatic chandeliers, sculpted pillars, and a captivating balcony offering sweeping views of the sea and surrounding hills. Filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan’s initial reaction upon entering perfectly encapsulates the home’s extraordinary ambiance, remarking that it feels like stepping into London itself, a sentiment that underscores the home's unique ability to evoke distant landscapes and a distinct, sophisticated aesthetic.
Home is Family
Despite the opulent and visually stunning nature of the penthouse, Shekhar Suman firmly grounds the definition of a home in something far more profound: the warmth and presence of family. He emphasizes that regardless of the size or magnificence of a dwelling, its true essence is not derived from its material grandeur but from the human connections it shelters. Suman articulates this perspective by contrasting a beautiful or spacious house with the intangible value of familial bonds, suggesting that without the latter, even the most impressive structure falls short of being a true home. This philosophy highlights a core belief that shared experiences and love are the foundational elements that transform a mere building into a sanctuary, resonating with the idea that emotional richness supersedes architectural splendor.
Living Room Grandeur
The living room serves as the heart of Shekhar Suman’s residence, meticulously designed to be both visually striking and inviting. Plush seating arrangements provide comfort, while an ornate fireplace-style console adds a touch of classic elegance. The décor is layered thoughtfully, with a combination of chandeliers, table lamps, and wall lights casting a warm, ambient glow that enhances the room's cozy atmosphere. Numerous decorative objects, including bust sculptures, artistic vases, and framed artwork, are strategically placed, lending the space a curated, gallery-like quality. Large glass doors seamlessly connect the interior elegance with the serene outdoor environment of the balcony, creating a harmonious transition. A particularly distinctive feature is the intricately designed chess table, which showcases Shekhar Suman's appreciation for vintage craftsmanship, with its unique sculptural pieces and carved table legs elevating it to the status of a treasured collectable rather than just a gaming accessory.
Bedroom Serenity
In stark contrast to the visual richness of the living area, the master bedroom is designed to evoke a sense of calm and tranquility, reminiscent of a high-end hotel suite. A central bed, adorned in neutral tones, is set against a sophisticated panelled wooden backdrop. Flanking the bed are identical bedside tables, each topped with classic lamps that emit a soft, golden light, contributing to the room's peaceful ambiance. The strategic placement of large framed mirrors on either side of the bed visually expands the perceived space, creating an illusion of greater depth. Personal photo frames are interspersed throughout, adding an intimate and familial touch to the serene setting. The color palette is intentionally muted, featuring soothing shades of ivory, beige, and pale wood, which collectively foster an uncluttered and deeply restful environment, ideal for rejuvenation.
Balcony Oasis
Offering a refreshing departure from the meticulously designed interiors, the balcony provides a more relaxed and natural setting. It is transformed into a compact urban garden, brimming with a variety of potted plants of different sizes. This green enclave offers a breathing space, a connection to nature amidst the bustling city. The juxtaposition of the lush greenery against the architectural elegance of the penthouse creates a delightful contrast, providing a tranquil spot for relaxation and contemplation. This outdoor extension of the home complements the indoor aesthetic by introducing a touch of organic beauty and a more informal atmosphere, allowing for a gentle escape and a moment of peace.
Aesthetic Influences
Shekhar Suman attributes many of his aesthetic choices to his wife, Alka, acknowledging her significant influence on shaping his home's distinctive character. He recalls a long-held aspiration, stemming from their travels to England, to create a home that mirrored the charm and elegance of British architecture. Suman recognizes that living with Alka, who possesses a keen eye for design and a refined taste, has been an educational experience, broadening his own understanding and appreciation of interior aesthetics. This collaborative approach to design highlights how shared sensibilities and personal aspirations can coalesce to create a living space that is both beautiful and deeply meaningful, reflecting a partnership in both life and design.
Objects Tell Tales
Every element within Shekhar Suman's home is imbued with significance and tells a story, serving as more than mere decoration. The antique chessboard in the living room, for instance, is a cherished item, a memory of a special acquisition in New York, even if its cost was substantial. These carefully chosen pieces transform the interior into a repository of personal history, aspirations, and identity. They represent moments of joy, significant decisions, and the narrative of a life lived. Beyond their functional or aesthetic value, these objects act as touchstones, connecting the present occupants to their past experiences and lending the home a unique depth and character that is deeply personal and resonant.
Design's Psychological Impact
The deliberate choices in colour themes, lighting, and decorative styles within a home profoundly influence a person's mood and mental well-being. According to psychotherapist Sonal Khangarot, the brain constantly interprets its environment for safety and stimulation. Research in Environmental Psychology confirms that colours evoke distinct emotional responses: cool tones like blues and greens tend to have a calming effect, while intense warm colours can heighten alertness or even induce anxiety, aligning with Arousal Theory. Lighting plays a crucial role, particularly natural light, which helps regulate the Circadian Rhythm, boosting serotonin levels and improving emotional regulation. Conversely, inadequate lighting can contribute to low moods, similar to Seasonal Affective Disorder. The overall décor style, whether ornate or minimalist, also impacts mental processing, with highly detailed interiors potentially increasing cognitive load, leading to fatigue or irritability, a concept explained by Cognitive Load Theory.
Balancing Ornate Interiors
Highly detailed and ornate interiors can indeed feel overwhelming due to the sheer volume of visual information the brain must process simultaneously. As Sonal Khangarot explains, referencing Cognitive Load Theory, excessive patterns, textures, and decorative elements demand greater mental effort. This can manifest as fatigue, irritability, or a pervasive sense of restlessness, particularly for individuals already experiencing stress. However, such interiors can still be perceived as warm and aesthetically pleasing if a careful balance is achieved. Khangarot suggests that creating contrast by pairing intricate design elements with simpler, neutral areas allows the mind necessary space to rest. Limiting the number of focal points prevents visual competition, and softer lighting can enhance the soothing quality of the environment. Furthermore, selecting décor that holds personal meaning strengthens the sense of comfort and belonging, aligning with the concept of Place Identity. A well-balanced space thus offers both visual richness and psychological ease.
