Page 75 - MASALA VOL 8 ISSUE 3 DECEMBER 2016 – JANUARY 2017

A landscaped view of the living room is evident when first entering
the house. This area is bright and spacious, making the 280-square
metre apartment appear larger than it actually is. Manju’s favourite
colour red can be spotted sporadically throughout, complementing
an otherwise neutral-coloured room. Dark red pillows provide a
stunning contrast to a beige L-shaped sofa, while a vivid red-print
wallpaper behind it resonates an ethnic charm. A red, beige and
blue carpet was made to order specifically to match the wallpaper,
while a swanky red leather chair offers comfort and style. Shades
of scarlet are also spotted in the Indian-style seating area, opposite
the sofa. A small display case in the upper-right hand corner of this
seating arrangement replicates the same vivid red-print wallpaper
in the room. This sofa, like the one that could be found on a veranda,
was designed to have a floating-like effect. It works beautifully, as
mirrors surround the four wooden walls of the Indian seating area.
These mirrors also double as efficient storage cabinets, allowing
the family to store any fragile items. So it’s no surprise that the
Mehtas decided to purchase a large, white dining table with eight
red chairs. Attached to the table is a tall, black and gold vase that
stands prominently on a wooden shelf. This vase is surrounded by
back-lighted onyx panels that further add a hint of chic to the living
room. A white shelf adjacent to the dining table displays precious
family memorabilia — prized black and white photographs of the
extended Mehta family.
The family’s penchant for travel is seen in the bits and pieces
dotted around the living room. Reddish-maroon, round bean
bags bought in Oman serve as additional seating for guests.
Beautiful souvenirs, including a turquoise-coloured conch shell
and bowl purchased in Bhutan, are set atop a wooden side table.
An Ottoman-inspired colourful table purchased in Turkey stands
prominently in the hallway, while a large 40-by-30 inch 3D picture
of the Jain God Mahavir, bought in Singapore, hangs on the wall.
Devoted space to Jain and Hindu gods in the family room
The cosy family room

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