House of Grace Kelly, a 4,000 sq ft private residence in Mumbai designed by Purple Backyard under the direction of Kumpal Vaid, was conceived as a calm, multigenerational retreat where stillness, grace and everyday living coexisted in balance.
© Ishita Sitwala
Drawing inspiration from the timeless elegance of Grace Kelly, the project translated ideas of restraint, poise and tactile richness into a contemporary Indian home designed to accommodate three generations under one roof. Rather than relying on overt minimalism, the interiors expressed a sense of quietude through soft curves, layered textures and a controlled tonal palette.
The design philosophy centred on the idea that calm was not an absence of life, but a condition in which daily rituals could unfold with clarity and intention. Light-filled spaces, carefully framed corners for rest and reflection, and an overall sense of airiness defined the home's atmosphere. Within this environment, silence and softness were treated as active design tools, shaping spaces that supported both togetherness and personal retreat.
Despite its serene character, the house balanced tradition and modernity. In the parents' bedroom, classical references were reinterpreted through a contemporary lens. Wardrobe shutters featured traditional prints, set against a neoclassical marble-panelled bed back. Twin accent chairs in a bold black-and-white print introduced contrast, anchored by a modern chrome-finished centre table. This interplay of old and new echoed throughout the residence, allowing each generation to find familiarity while embracing a shared, contemporary aesthetic.
Material choices reinforced the home's understated elegance. Subtle surface variations, soft finishes and thoughtful detailing added depth without visual noise. Natural light played a central role, enhancing the home's calm character and lending it an almost sacred quality rooted in warmth rather than austerity.
© Ishita Sitwala
Designed as a long-term family home, House of Grace Kelly demonstrated how interior architecture could nurture emotional well-being while remaining highly functional. The project stood as an example of how mindful design could create resilient domestic environments—spaces that evolved with their occupants while maintaining a sense of continuity and grace.
Through this project, Purple Backyard reinforced its approach to residential design as an exercise in emotional as well as spatial sensitivity. House of Grace Kelly ultimately emerged as a home where calm reigned, traditions were honoured, and generations were able to thrive together within a cohesive, quietly expressive setting.
More information:
Purple Backyard
www.purplebackyard.com
