孟买某遗产建筑改造为疗愈中心丨印度丨architecture&beyond

A heritage building in Mumbai revived with a healing centre

Natural light, home-like comfort and a zen vibe are the mainstays of this space, designed by architecture&beyond

The all-white interior is punctuated with golden sunlight throughout the day

There's something curiously symbiotic between heritage and healing. When Sonia Gehlot, founder and principal architect of architecture&beyond set eyes on an old heritage structure in Mumbai, she knew it would become a close-to-heart project. "The client, a yoga and meditation guru, had done well in choosing the building. With beautiful arches, rafters and high ceilings, the space was ideal for her healing centre. The arched windows welcomed abundant sunlight and the space exuded calmness. We decided to strip the structure to its bare minimum and restore every single element. Our workers took extreme care while working on the rafters, as many parts needed special attention. They took days to restore it and it was a painstakingly slow process," says Gehlot.

The space features a meditation and yoga studio

Careful Planning

"My practice has always revolved around the human experience. How would one feel in a space? What vibe would the audience pick up on?" shares Gehlot. These questions pointed her creative compass to an immersive design. "Keeping sustainability at the forefront, we chose to refurbish, upcycle and reuse furniture."

Plenty of greenery dot the spaces

Tall windows ensure the interiors are always well-lit

Homely Vibes

The brief called for the creation of a zen meditation and yoga studio, with cabin spaces on the side. The reception area features fluted wood and white walls, while understated elegance is the hallmark of the vanity spaces. Colonial-style furniture enlivens the old-world charm of the heritage property. The main counselling realm channels a relaxed, homely atmosphere. An informal seating arrangement echoes the place's unfussy vibe. A petite pantry corner is created on the side. "The pantry was designed to be a cosy spot for coffee and conversation. You'll often find counsellors engaged in deep conversations with clients. The whole casual and informal ambience reminisces a feeling of being at home," shares Gehlot.

Nature-inspired decor elements dot the spaces

Soft hues induce a zen vibe

White Wonderland

The all-white interiors are punctuated with golden sunlight throughout the day. "This realm is a haven of peace. It was deliberately kept bare and minimal with open rafters, high ceilings, verdant vistas, plant-filled balconies, colonial-style arches and diffused light taking centre stage," says Gehlot.

The space features minimalism at its best

"Keeping sustainability at the forefront, we chose to refurbish, upcycle and reuse furniture," says Gehlot