This fashion store integrates elements evocative of India’s heritage

Kanan Modi Associates puts a contemporary spin on traditional elements to craft the interiors of Elahe, a high-end fashion store in Ballygunge, Kolkata…

The design firm develops a distinct spatial identity for this outlet, one that serves as a perfect setting to retail prêt and haute couture creations. The ground floor showcases the prêt line, the first floor is dedicated to bridal wear, and the second floor to exclusive designer pieces.

White walls and terrazzo flooring create a neutral backdrop in the display area, highlighting the stunning clothing lines. Brass pipes feature seamlessly as display railings, mirror frames, or form a part of the shelves. Brass inlay in the flooring defines display zones and discreetly indicates circulation paths. The lighter-toned base palette prevents these low-ceiling spaces from appearing too compact. Cut-outs in the slabs and a correspondingly alternating window system – determined after a meticulous study of the structural system – further augment the sense of volume while establishing visual connectivity across the three levels and rendering them as one unified entity internally. Wood-lined vaults define the ceiling here.

Traditional objects associated with Hyderabad (location of Elahe’s first two outlets) and Kolkata dot the spaces, celebrating Elahe’s stride from the former to the latter. Ornate chandeliers and pendant lights from Charminar impart an exquisite touch, whilst colonial furniture pieces from Kolkata’s antique stores imbue the spaces with quaint charm.

Traditional elements are interestingly visualised through a modern lens. Lampshades with traditional textiles are fashioned into ceiling lights and wicker-weave panels are used to cleverly mask the interior view from outside and simultaneously form a backdrop for the window display. Indian textiles framed as art enrich the walls. A vintage piece – a 100-year-old carpet – from the clients’ family collection is seamlessly integrated into the décor too.

India’s crafts, textiles, and culture find expression in the gracefully articulated interiors of Elahe, where the clothing lines take centre-stage with the décor serving as a perfect canvas for their display.

Fact File:
Name of the Project: Elahe
Clients: Smita and Rajiv Shroff
Design Firm: Kanan Modi Associates
Principal Designer/Architect: Ar. Kanan Modi
Carpet Area of project: 4,500 sq. ft. (ground + two)
Location: Ballygunge, Kolkata
Photography credits: Photographix India | Ira Gosalia