Though dubbed the “Man Cave,” designer Chrisann Rodrigues’ latest project—a 450-square-foot bachelor pad in Khar, Mumbai—is refreshingly devoid of stereotypically masculine accoutrements such as bulky leather chairs or a larger-than-life entertainment center. “He’s a minimalist by lifestyle and a sucker for detail,” says the founder of Eight Degree Design House of her client, “So we focused on a design rooted in minimalism and comfort.”
The Mumbai home was a “typical one bedroom” when it was handed over to Chrisann. The architect began by tearing down the wall dividing the living room and kitchen to open up the space. Next, clean lines, a neutral color palette, and sparse but carefully curated decor accents were chosen as the foundation of the design language. “We had to create a space that was clutter-free, easy going, and yet sophisticated. The client’s love for plants and natural materials was definitely the jumping off point for us,” she explains.
Swing open the front door and you walk into a living room that’s the picture of zen with a minimalist, crisp-lined sofa and flat screen TV perched on a slim floating shelf. The strong lines are offset by the curves of the coffee table, a pair of planters, and a textured jute rug. Chrisann replaced the wall that previously divided the living area and kitchen with a slender breakfast table that’s perfect for quick morning meals or as a cozy little bar for two come sundown.
“We’ve used only Canadian pine wood for all the furniture in the house and black metal accents in some places. Whether it’s the furniture or light fittings, every thoughtfully selected detail, texture and tone contributes to the modern aesthetic of this home,” the architect notes.
