Equinox, Hyderabad | Studio Nilasha

Cultural Equinox in the clouds: How minimalism and modernity define an aesthetic poise for a family’s unique Hyderabad retreat

In the heart of Hyderabad, where a vibrant metropolis effortlessly blends old-world charm with modernity, stands ‘Equinox’, a unique residence that redefines contemporary living. Designed by Nilasha, Principal Architect of her eponymous studio, this high-rise apartment was crafted for a young couple—Shivaangi from Hyderabad and her husband Danny from the Netherlands. The home beautifully blends their diverse cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, it combines the practicality of urban Indian living with Dutch-inspired aesthetics. The result is a harmonious fusion of clean lines, a neutral palette, and functional design, creating a space that is not only practical for everyday living but also forward-thinking in its approach to contemporary design.

A Design Narrative

Equinox spreads across 6,500 square feet of pure design elegance and embodies a harmonious mix of global aesthetics and minimalism. This project masterfully integrates New York loft-style living with Dutch warmth, all while offering panoramic views of the dynamic Hyderabad skyline. It is a space where tradition meets innovation, and luxury merges beautifully with comfort—ultimately crafting a refuge that not only reflects the couple’s unique journey but also redefines the very essence of contemporary urban living.

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Minimalism and Functionality

The clients’ vision for the house was clear from the outset—they wanted a space that reflected Danny’s European upbringing and Shivangi’s modern Indian sensibilities. Their request for brown tones, inspired by the walnut wood interiors of Amsterdam, gave Architect and Interior designer Nilasha a strong creative direction. The result is an expansive, open-plan home where the only solid walls are those enclosing the bedrooms.

Nilasha reworked the builder-grade civil layout, removing multiple internal walls. This created a fluid space where each area transitions seamlessly. The design furthermore embodies the couple’s vision of minimalism. Meanwhile, the openness allowed for a muted palette. Varying shades of brown add depth and warmth, making the interiors feel inviting yet uncluttered.

One of the standout features of Equinox is its large, open kitchen with a prominent island—a must-have for the couple, who love to entertain and spend time with their twin daughters. The island serves as both a functional space and a social hub where the family shares meals and hosts gatherings. The kitchen by SCASA is sleek and minimal, with all appliances neatly integrated into the back wall, allowing the island to remain the focal point of the room. The bar area, which is equally important to the couple, was designed with functionality and style in mind.

A Playful Retreat: The Children’s Wing

The children’s wing, a delightful contrast to the rest of the house, exudes a light and playful energy. While the rest of Equinox is grounded in deep, warm browns, this area is designed in brighter tones with oak wood and soft blush accents. Shivaangi was clear that she didn’t want overly feminine décor while designing for her young twin daughters. The rooms, therefore, follow a neutral palette that emphasizes timeless elegance over childlike themes, making the spaces adaptable as the children grow.

The playroom serves as the centrepiece of this wing. It features a ball pit, two reading nooks, and hidden storage. Cleverly concealed within the walls, these elements maintain a sleek aesthetic. The colours and furniture enhance the space’s adaptability. Custom-designed cots convert into standard beds with ease. The design team envisioned a future-proof space that evolves as the children grow.

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Every element in Equinox embodies thoughtful design, from the spacious kitchen island to the sleek and functional bar area. The central living space best showcases this balance. A reupholstered sofa from Shivangi’s previous home now anchors the room. Nilasha extended it into a U-shaped sectional, optimizing both comfort and seating. The open-plan layout enhances its functionality. Custom-crafted coffee tables, dining tables, and accent pieces complete the space. Local artisans designed each piece to reflect the couple’s unique style while maintaining a seamless flow.

A Refined Material Palette

The material palette used throughout Equinox is as refined as the design itself. American walnut dominates the home, its rich tones grounding the minimal aesthetic. Complementary materials including matte finish marble and textured fabrics were chosen to soften the darker wood, bringing a tactile warmth to the interiors. Fluted textures and subtle geometric patterns were introduced to add dimension without overwhelming the simplicity of the space.

Equinox embodies balance—blending cultural identities, aesthetics, and practicality. It merges contemporary design with warm, lived-in comfort. This home honors the essence of a modern family space. Thoughtful design and attention to detail create an environment that feels both beautiful as well as personal. Set high above Hyderabad, Equinox reflects its occupants’ journeys. At the same time, it stands as a testament to the city’s evolving architectural landscape.

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Studio Nilasha

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Disclaimer: The information herein is based upon information obtained in good faith from sources believed to be reliable. All such information and opinions can be subject to change. Furthermore, the image featured in this article is for representation purposes only. It does not in any way represent the project. However, If you wish to remove or edit the article, please email editor@biltrax.com.