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Simple Yet Distinctive
October 31, 2023
Aishwarya R Khokle
Minimalism and intricate design are hallmarks of this kitchen designed by Prasad Badle Architects in Wadala, Mumbai
The fact that kitchen design has evolved to scale new heights can be seen in Janhavi and Bhushan Khandelwal’s accommodation in Wadala, Mumbai. The apartment for the young couple and their children has been designed by Prasad Badle Architects, a Mumbai-based architectural firm, which also specialises in interior designing, furniture and art and accessories.
“We handle each project on an individual basis, employing problem-solving techniques and in-depth analysis of the client’s brief which consequentially results in each project being both aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound. We are an extremely principled unit having a marvellous team spirit, adhering to the client’s goal, time frame and budget. Our focal emphasis has always been to complete projects ahead of the deadlines. On the client's behalf, we try to obtain the best possible services and products from various contractors, vendors and consultants. We encourage and welcome client’s active involvement in the designing process,” says Prasad Badle, Principal Architect, Prasad Badle Architects.
The earlier kitchen was an enclosed one and looked very compressed and squeezed up. Breaking the existing walls and creating an ‘open kitchen’ worked out very well. Photo Courtesy: Prasad Badle Architects
About lighting
This kitchen is a classic example of how the appropriate use of light can transform the look of a space. An assortment of lights – under-cabinet lights, and those on the ceilings and floors of the space – has been used. Talking about the lighting, Badle says, “Firstly, the preferred light in the kitchen is generally white. The lady of the house would work well under white light, as the objects are then clearly visible. Light fittings on the ceiling are the source of general lightning. Surface-mounted fittings are fixed on the ceiling as no false ceiling is there in the entire apartment to maintain the available room/apartment height.”
“Under cabinet lighting is added to provide task lighting on countertops that is complementary to the general lighting of the area. This also reduces the shadow cast by overhead cabinets on the countertops. Illumination on the backsplash enhances the appearance of the kitchen,” he adds.
Light fittings on the ceiling are the source of general lightning. Surface-mounted fittings are fixed on the ceiling as no false ceiling is there to maintain apartment height. Photo Courtesy: Prasad Badle Architects
Colour coordinates
This kitchen design reflects the innovative use of colour “It is a well-known fact that the white colour can expand a space. In this case, we had a small-sized kitchen. It helped us to make the room look visually larger. White created the impression of brightness and neatness. It also enhances cleanliness and hygiene, making the kitchen look spic and span,” says Badle.
A bold colour scheme for the adjoining dining area offset the subdued colour of the kitchen. “The apartment is owned by a very young couple and their two daughters – the age of two and five years. The colours obviously had to be brighter and cheerful. A playful colour scheme of primary colours is sure to transform any dining area into a fun-loving dining experience. The dining area in this apartment is very centrally located and is almost a focal point of the interior and considering that the family would spend most of their daily time and exchange here, it had been tossed up with brighter primary colours. Neutrals aren’t for everyone and fortunately, we had the clients who were sporting enough to accept the balance between neutral and bold,” explains Badle.
The novel use of colour was extended to other areas too. ” The client needed a dedicated space to conceal the bar-wares and accessories. The onyx countertop is used for the preparation of drinks; it adds a blood-red undercarriage for the stacking of liquor bottles. The onyx adds character not only to the room but also adds a lot of house value and a touch of elegance,” he adds.
Under cabinet lighting is added to provide task lighting on countertops that is complementary to the general lighting of the area. Photo Courtesy: Prasad Badle Architects