Nilaya Anthology Is India’s Newest Interior Design Haven
Rue Kothari discovers a brand new haven of global décor in India, with an award-winning architect in charge of its aesthetic
Whether you’re an interior designer or a homeowner, finding the perfect décor to accessorise a space can be tricky, especially your expression is limited to what you can access on the ground. Nilaya Anthology, an impressive new retail concept based in the fast-growing city of Mumbai and just a two-hour plane ride away from Dubai, was conceived to meet that need – for a design destination for discerning consumers looking to buy everything from high-end kitchens to art and antiques under the same roof.
The 100,000-square-foot space, the work of award winning architect Rooshad Shroff, has been conceptualised as an immersive experience of global design by one of India’s most accomplished creatives, Pavitra Rajaram. Her expert curation brings together the finest craftsmanship, design talent and artworks to an audience that is well travelled and culturally aware, blending both east and west specifically with the boutique’s Middle Eastern client in mind.
Comprised of cleverly assembled vignettes, the brands, artisans and makers have been chosen for their attention to detail, exceptional skill and mastery of materials – mixing Italian brands like Cassina with Indian hyper-luxe labels like Sabyasachi, ceramics from the UK with handloom from Kashmir. This micro-editorialising of objects is part of Pavitras strategy to help stimulate the imagination and storytelling for buyers.
“Blending styles, cultures, contemporary and traditional delivers the most compelling narrative,” she says. “We have developed this unique presentation to ensure that each visit or experience of Nilaya Anthology feels fresh and new.”
For design enthusiasts seeking European influences closer to home alongside global artistic infusions, there are worldrenowned names such as Nilufar Gallery from Milan – owned and run by the legendary Nina Yashar, and the ‘father of India modern’ Vikram Goyal – establishing Nilaya’s credentials at the apex of innovation and thought leadership. Alongside the galleries, there are lifestyle concepts including a candle library and the spectacular Orangerie, a startlingly rare feature in Mumbai’s concrete landscape. This lush setting filled with purchasable plants from all over the world also houses a critically acclaimed restaurant and will play host to intimate pop-up dinners and events.
Asian Paints, the owners of the space and one of India’s top five listed companies are proud of their new endeavour, as a reflection of the country’s burgeoning wealth and taste. “The ultimate aim of Nilaya Anthology is to present visitors with the possibility of creating a customised experience of beauty,” says its CEO Amit Syngle. “Of taking home a story and making it their own.”
Images: Supplied. Portrait: Aditya Sinha
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia Interiors’ Spring 2025 issue.