Flaunt: A Stylish Blend of Modern and Traditional Design

Creating a Unique Salon and Spa Experience

The challenge of this project was to create a "styling lounge" and a traditional Indian village-themed spa under the same roof. Pallavi Budigari had to reinvent the concept of coexistence and find a way to make these two contrasting spaces complement each other. The result is an expression of elements that beautifully merge modern thinking with the charm of native village aesthetics.

The right wing of the floor houses the spa, surrounded by brick-finished interiors. The most interesting part of the design is the space in between, where the blend of these two attitudes occurs. As visitors progress towards the inside, they are greeted by the styling lounge, which seamlessly blends with the native village brick while maintaining a modern aesthetic.

To achieve the desired aged look, new brick walls were built using a specific pattern of class I, II, and III bricks. The contrast between the grove concrete panels and the white painted walls, along with the timber copings, adds a touch of modernity to the space. The ceiling features a canvas drape reverse vaulted design, allowing soft yet bright light to fill the area.

Functionally, Flaunt is a 2500 square foot interior wellness space, housing a hair styling lounge and spa. The space is divided into two wings after the entry reception. The right section is dedicated to the spa areas, while the left and central spaces are reserved for the styling lounge, hair spa, and an adjoining office.

This unique design incorporates contemporary interiors, brick walls, innovative drop ceiling lights, concrete panels, round mirrors, funky posters, wall art, and a curved table. The combination of these elements creates an atmosphere that is both innovative and inviting.

Flaunt is located in Bangalore, Karnataka, India, and the project was realized between January 2015 and June 2015. Traditional methods of brick construction were used, including exposed brick walls with finger pointing and a traditional brick arch construction. Ply elements were also incorporated to create a contrast with the white contemporary elements.

Building new brick walls to look aged was a challenge, as was creating a traditional arch in a new setting. Electrical work had to be carefully inserted into the joints during construction, and the work force had to be trained on these new details. The drape canvas ceiling was a new innovation, requiring precise weight distribution across bays to ensure its stability.

Flaunt is a testament to the seamless blend of traditional and modern design. The use of brick and white walls, concrete panels, art, quotes, and posters creates a space that resonates with visitors. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the nooks and corners that entice visitors to the tactile memory of the materials used. The result is a space that feels both familiar and fresh, where the native and the modern coexist harmoniously.

Images:

Image #1: Photographer Vandana Dhruva Kumar, Flaunt, 2015.

Image #2: Photographer Vandana Dhruva Kumar, Flaunt, 2015.

Image #3: Photographer Vandana Dhruva Kumar, Flaunt, 2015.

Image #4: Photographer Vandana Dhruva Kumar, Flaunt, 2015.

Image #5: Photographer Vandana Dhruva Kumar, Flaunt, 2015.

Intellectual Property Notice: This design is protected by copyrights held by ME DESIGN STUDIO.

Awards and Accolades: Flaunt was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2016 in the category of Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Flaunt's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contribute to a better world.