Katha Tarana: A Celebration of Art, Architecture, and Ancestral Narratives

Location: Gurugram
Size: 9,000 sq. ft.
Designed by: Untitled Design

Katha Tarana is a beautifully woven story of tradition and contemporary design. The name itself—“Katha” (stories) and “Tarana” (a final abode)—captures the essence of this four-bedroom residence, where every corner whispers family history, artistry, and modernity in perfect balance.

This 9,000 sq. ft. residence is designed around the family’s love for art, culture, and experimentation. Instead of rigid formal spaces, the living and dining areas are separated by fabric-sandwiched screens, which can be pulled back to create a seamless L-shaped space—perfect for intimate gatherings or expansive entertaining.

At the entrance, visitors are welcomed by Girjesh Kumar Singh’s installation, “Often I find myself near the doors that allow me to leave”—a poetic nod to the ever-evolving nature of home and life. A grand wooden door with flowing brass inlays leads you inside, where carefully curated artworks, textures, and natural materials set the tone.

Art Meets Functionality

Art plays a starring role in this home. The 40-ft lounge wall features a stunning wooden marquetry mural of horses in regal attire from Mysore, set against a backdrop of Indian sandstone and solid wood panels. Adding an industrial-chic contrast, Czechoslovakian pendant lights from Lightbox create a warm, ambient glow.

In the puja room, a contemporary Pahari miniature wall art collaboration with Padmashree awardee Jay Prakash adds a touch of sacred artistry. Meanwhile, the lounge showcases bold Kalighat paintings from West Bengal, celebrating women through vibrant storytelling.

One of the most striking elements is the traditional Indian stepwell-inspired feature, reminiscent of Chand Baori. Not just an aesthetic choice, it also aligns with Vastu principles, where flowing water symbolizes prosperity and positive energy.

A Thoughtful Blend of Craft and Comfort

Each room is designed to reflect the personalities of its inhabitants. The parents’ bedroom is a blend of antique Kochi columns, textured brass doors, and an earthy yet luxurious ambiance. The guest bedroom, in contrast, is soft and inviting, featuring cane and wood elements, an eye-catching cane-and-mirror installation by Priankya Narula, and Gond paintings that add a splash of color.

For the kids, Ankon Mitra’s Hexagram installation in Kirigami Parchment Leather brings playful textures to life, proving that art isn’t just something you hang on the walls—it’s an immersive experience.

A Masterpiece in Every Detail

From a Furgonomics coffee table crafted with Jaisalmer stone, ceramic fragments, and distressed burnt wood to intricate Tarkaashi and Veneer Marquetry sideboards, the home seamlessly blends Indian heritage with a fresh, modern perspective.

Katha Tarana is more than just a house—it’s a living, breathing story of art, culture, and design. With its thoughtful lighting, handcrafted furniture, and layered textures, it redefines the modern Indian home while keeping the warmth of tradition alive.

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About Author

Picture of Nikitha Sunil

Nikitha Sunil

Nikitha Sunil, a bachelor's degree holder in architecture from ASADI, discovered her love for writing while journaling for online design magazines. She contributes to multiple design publications and is also involved in her family-managed local interior design studio. Driven by her passion for aesthetics and sustainability, Nikitha strives to create spaces that positively influence lives. With expertise in online media and strategic communications, she aims to tell impactful stories about spaces to a broader audience.

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