THE SUBTLE CHARM OF SHIBUI

This home, designed by The Auburn Studio, embodies the Japanese aesthetic of 'shibui.'

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In Japanese aesthetics, ‘shibui’ refers to a subtle, unobtrusive beauty achieved through simplicity and restraint. It’s about finding beauty in the understated and the not-immediately obvious. This concept mirrors the design philosophy behind this home, where Shibui is more than just a name— it’s a reflection of the serene and sophisticated living space created by The Auburn Studio. Every element has been carefully curated to evoke a sense of calm and tranquility, inviting you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty in life’s simplicity.

ALL ABOUT LIGHT

“The client’s initial vision of a bright and airy home, combined with their appreciation for the raw finishes we used in the Balinese beach house, immediately brought Japandi to mind. The blend of light tones with textured finishes in Japandi design seemed like the perfect match for what they were looking for. And we weren’t wrong—they instantly embraced the theme, knowing it would create the serene, minimalist atmosphere they desired,” shares Sushmitha Ramesh, Principal Architect at The Auburn Studio, known for designing out-of-thebox spaces that reflect calm and peace.

Designing for an architect can be challenging, but The Auburn Studio rose to the occasion, presenting a peaceful sanctuary that the client had dreamt of. Work began on this 4,500 sq. ft. penthouse by stripping the entire space down to its bare shell. “One of our key decisions was to reorient the staircase. We felt that seeing the staircase immediately upon entering was not ideal for the flow of the space. By breaking down the original staircase and repositioning it, we created a more welcoming entryway,” Sushmitha explains.