Apartment O2: A Breath of Elegance & Heritage by Kumpal Vaid

In the world of interior design, few names embody both elegance and authenticity, quite like Kumpal Vaid, founder of the design studio Purple Backyard. With roots deeply embedded in India’s design heritage, Kumpal’s journey is one of vision, grace, and an enduring dedication to craftsmanship that celebrates both traditional and contemporary aesthetics.

Born and raised in Mumbai, Kumpal's design journey began at the prestigious Rachana Sansad School of Interior Design and continued at Central Saint Martins in London, where she refined her skill in visual merchandising, staging, and styling. Inspired by her mother and grandmother, she grew up cherishing Indian artistry, from intricate threadwork to the beauty of raw stone and marble.

Her time spent at her family’s home in Chirawa provided a grounding in history, imbuing her designs with a personal and nostalgic connection to India's rich cultural past. "The stories my grandmother shared about how things were done, why they were done that way—these are the memories I draw upon with every project," she shares.

Her signature design philosophy of immersive simplicity, blending the past and present, has given rise to creations that are serene and timeless.

This ethos is vividly brought to life in her latest project, Apartment O2. This home, designed for a family of four, embodies her belief in "understated elegance and spaces that speak to the soul."

A Residence Infused with Life

From the outset, Apartment O2 was envisioned as a sanctuary where each family member could feel at ease while the space itself symbolized the vibrancy and unity of a family. The design was tailored specifically for the family’s dynamic lifestyle—a couple and their two young children, each with their own creative pursuits.

Whether it’s games of chess, Lego-building sessions, or family gatherings over board games, the space was designed to accommodate and nurture the family’s love for connection and joy. "We wanted the home to embody a sense of liveliness as essential as oxygen, a truly happy home," Kumpal reflects.

Upon entering, guests are welcomed by walls in soft, raw cotton hues, a deliberate choice to create a calming backdrop. These walls flow seamlessly into rooms that carry pops of colour and subtle accents, each element carefully selected to reflect the individual personalities of the family members. The den and TV room serve as a cosy respite where the family can unwind, surrounded by mementoes and memories that weave their stories into the walls.

Unfurling the Colors of a Family Home

For Apartment O2, Kumpal handpicked materials that embody both beauty and practicality, capturing the home’s rhythm and warmth. Soft, raw cotton hues wash over the walls, creating a calm canvas that’s as inviting as it is versatile. Punctuated by luxurious marble in the bathrooms and underfoot, this tactile blend evokes elegance with a welcoming touch. Veneered shutters and a warm dining unit add gentle layers of texture, glowing softly in the space—a subtle nod to timeless comfort.

In the children’s rooms, there’s a delightful dance of colours and textures, with custom lacquer finishes infusing a playful sophistication unique to each child. “Layering these textures brings a distinct personality to every corner,” Kumpal reflects, “making sure each family member finds a space that feels truly theirs.” Splashes of colour on hand-painted wardrobe panels invite a touch of whimsy, capturing the joyful energy of youth while seamlessly blending with the home’s cohesive design.

A Space that Breathes

Mindful of Mumbai’s coastal climate, Kumpal collaborated closely with the family to ensure a design that would endure. “The family wanted to reduce wall panelling to prevent mould from building up in the humid air,” she explains. By leaving walls open and unpanelled, the design allows for natural airflow, creating a breathable, resilient environment. This thoughtful approach supports sustainability while maintaining the serenity and decluttered calm Kumpal values.

Glass and acrylic accents bring a fresh, modern touch to Apartment O2, balancing lightness and depth. The dining table is a striking centrepiece, with a glass base on one side and a wooden base on the other—a perfect harmony of clarity and warmth. Above, a light fixture adorned with acrylic leaves dances overhead, adding a sprinkle of whimsy that complements the family’s creative spirit and love for playful design.

Capturing the Soul of a Joyful Home

Apartment O2 is more than a residence; it’s a tapestry of the family’s personality, as essential as air. Each room mirrors the family’s warmth, with spaces designed to welcome relaxation, laughter, and togetherness. From the tranquil primary bedroom to the lively play areas, Kumpal has crafted a sanctuary that celebrates living in the moment, inspiring lasting memories.

“Our goal was to create a space that allows each family member’s personality to shine,” Kumpal shares. “We wanted a home that flows with harmony and ease.” The result? Apartment O2—a space where elegance and playfulness meet, a place for the family to breathe, grow, and find joy in the simple beauty of everyday life.