How a Gujarati Family Blended Modern and Indian Design in New Jersey
A Gujarati family from Baroda has transformed their 10,000 sq ft home in New Jersey into a blend of modern and Indian design. Interior designer Richa Bahl led the project, which began with a simple brief: a minimalist space in browns and beiges. Over time, the vision expanded to reflect the family's cultural roots.
The homeowners initially wanted a clean, understated look. Their early preference was for neutral tones and an open-plan layout. However, Bahl noticed a challenge—the design lacked privacy, with the living room flowing directly into the master bedroom and kitchen.
For a family with strong social ties, this openness clashed with their lifestyle. Traditional *desi* households often value defined spaces for hosting guests and family gatherings. Recognising this, Bahl reworked the layout to balance modern living with cultural comfort. The final design fused contemporary elements with Indian influences. While the original minimalist palette remained, subtle touches of Indian aesthetics were woven in. The result was a home that felt both sleek and warmly familiar to its residents.
The project now stands as a tailored space for the family's needs. The open-plan layout was adjusted to create more intimate areas, suiting their social habits. Bahl's approach ensured the home reflected both modern design and the family's heritage.
