IDEAL LIVING
Founder of Exhibit D, Gautam Dhawan outlines his sunny abode in New Delhi as a portrayal of his perpetual love for travel, creativity and India’s immense cultural heritage
Beautiful homes from India and abroad
In the midst of Delhi’s rising temperature, Gautam Dhawan’s 2,000 sq ft home stands out as a flourishing treat to the eyes. Modern yet traditional, pleasant yet luxurious, it is an eclectic amalgamation of the old and the new. “It was not planned at all, it’s a sort of progression of my work through the years and the pieces that I have collected from my journeys across the world. I am over the very modern look so I wanted to play with old motifs and ethnic curves to break the contemporary feel,” shares Gautam. As you enter the house, the living room brings into your focus the artistically done walls. The main white wall has brass and copper origami inspired bird motifs pinned to it whereas the vibrant pink wall welcomes exuberance through mirror and metal embellishments. The pink carpet in living room is a 150-yearold Samarkand carpet and the coffee table and side tables are made in wood and etched metal. All the furniture in the home has been designed by Gautam. The use of accessories and fresh flowers across the house speaks for Gautam’s love for creativity. As you walk towards the dining area, get ready to be overwhelmed with the décor. “The dining room is a throw back to my love for Rajasthan. I have spent a lot of time there and many of my work has been put into shape in this beautiful state,” resonates Gautam. The huge mirror and dining table in the space seem like
It was not planned at all, it’s a sort of progression of my work through the years and the pieces that I have collected from my journeys across the world.
relics from the state as they are clad in Rajasthan’s traditional mirror work. The pop wallpaper in the room pays a tribute to the Indian heritage through ethnic colours and conventional motifs. The powder room is a more of an organic space boasting of a wooden counter, fresh flowers and a handcrafted marble basin. On one hand the entertaining areas of the house are enriched with baroque Indian influences while on the other, the relaxing zones like the lounge and the bedroom have been designed with a contemporary perspective. “The TV room is a mix of home office and a comforting den. The theme is essentially Madonna as I have been collecting her pop records since the 80s, so I have showcased as well as used them to hide my storage of books,” smiles Gautam. The wooden feel of the room keeps it cosy, warm and welcoming. The bedroom on the contrary has been painted in a very minimal color scheme with the little use of décor elements. Gautam has made sure to use extensive natural light with huge floor to ceiling windows in the living and dining area. The very sight of the balcony from the living room makes you wish to escape into it. An organic log makes up for a table being looked over by lots of hanging bird cages and baskets. Creating a natural green oasis is a ceiling of plants and bougainvillea grown in order to block off the harsh sun during summers. The home concludes to be a true embodiment of ‘home is where the heart is’.