For this duplex apartment in South Mumbai’s prime Nepean Sea neighbourhood, the design embraces a neo-classic, colonial-inspired style. The grand double-height entrance atrium is a prelude to the richly detailed and nuanced narrative. This foyer houses a sculptural staircase with intricate railings and a striking lighting installation that cascades down from the ceiling into the stairwell. In the home, a bold-grained, luxurious white marble sets the textural stage for the immersive, crafted interiors.

Comfortable chaises with scrolled arms, delicate claw-footed tables, panelled walls, bevelled mirrors, classy timbered elements and waffle ceilings create an environment that is influenced by an old-world style, but is in no way dated. Programmatically, the the entrance lounge flows into a family room and bar, and then into the formal living with a dining room.

The upper floor accommodates the bedrooms. To give the master bedroom its own personality, visually distinct from the rest of the house, the flooring shifts from white marble to Nero Marquina. Its ensuite bathroom is spacious and classically detailed, and adheres to the overall stylistic direction. A guest room and a versatile room that functions as a study, gym and, at times, a guest room completes the well-rounded programme.