Tandem House
Tandem House is a testament to the idea that timeless design can honor tradition while meeting the demands of contemporary living
Located in the residential enclave of Ashok Vihar, New Delhi, Tandem House is a project that beautifully balances tradition and modernism, designed for a joint family consisting of two brothers and their independent families. Spanning over 22,000 square feet, this residence serves as a contemporary ode to the joint family system, providing not only functional independence through separate duplex floors but also fostering communal living with shared spaces such as a gym, home theatre, and terrace garden. It symbolizes the family’s desire to remain connected while embracing modern ways of living—a home that is as much about legacy as it is about individual and collective expression.
Residential Architecture & Interior Design
Area : 22000 sq. ft.
Year : 2023
Location : New Delhi
Photography : Avesh Gaur
From the outset, we prioritized vertical planning, conceptualizing a design with four floors. Two duplex units were stacked atop one another, while the basement and terrace served as shared communal spaces—fostering interaction and connection. The architectural language of the house was crafted to be both timeless and contemporary. While the structure embodies modern sensibilities, its unified bungalow-like façade ensures a cohesive and grand presence from the outside. At The Melange Studio, we define the core values that shape each project. For Tandem House, these were Empathy, Expression, and Celebration.
How do we design empathetically for 15 family members under one roof?
How do we create a meaningful impact rather than just an iconic structure?
How do we celebrate collective expression while respecting individual desires?
The answers lay in meticulous spatial planning. The central staircase and lift core became the heart of the home, with public spaces oriented towards the front and private bedrooms towards the rear. Within each duplex, the lower levels hosted primary gathering areas, while the upper levels were reserved for the youngest generation, ensuring a balance between shared and private experiences. Beyond functionality, our focus was on fostering effortless communication between the two levels—enhancing connectivity while maintaining individual sanctuaries.
Designing with Empathy
A core principle of Tandem House was empathy—ensuring that each of the 15 family members felt a deep sense of belonging in their home. For every space we designed, we first understood the emotions it needed to evoke. This emotional foundation guided our selection of materials, colors, and spatial experiences.
The Basement: A Space of Energy & Intrigue
As the primary congregational zone, the basement was envisioned as a dynamic and engaging space. To achieve this, we curated a rich, moody palette with deep tones accented by pops of tangerine. Italian marble flooring introduced a sense of luxury and drama, elevating the overall ambiance.
This expansive basement was thoughtfully divided into three key areas:
- A virtual golf zone for the men of the family.
- A grand living lounge at the opposite end.
- A centrally positioned bar, seamlessly connecting both spaces.
With a soaring 15-foot ceiling, we introduced modern arches in the lounge to amplify the volume and create a striking architectural identity. This arch motif extended onto the flooring in a patterned design, reinforcing visual continuity and adding a sense of rhythm to the space.
To enhance natural light and add a timeless character, we integrated a light well adjacent to the lounge, accessed through stained glass doors—a classical element that brought depth and vibrancy to the modern setting.
The result? A basement that is not just functional but an immersive experience—where design, materiality, and spatial flow come together to celebrate gathering and connection.
Formal Living Room
Designed to evoke serenity and admiration, the formal living room offers a harmonious blend of subtle elegance and timeless beauty. A muted monotone material palette enhances the space, with warm wood accents complementing the all-white marble flooring. The delicate textures of Dalmata marble add depth, creating an atmosphere that is both refined and universally admired.The grandeur of the formal living room is further enriched by the client’s curated Indian art collection, infusing the space with character and personal storytelling. This artistic essence seamlessly extends into the dining area, ensuring a cohesive experience.
Family Living Room
Adjoining the formal living, the family living room serves as an intimate retreat for daily interactions. Designed to reflect the collective personality of its inhabitants, the space encourages warmth, comfort, and authenticity. A bold green palette, complemented by wooden accents, establishes a rich, inviting ambiance, while dramatic wildlife-inspired patterns add layers of visual intrigue.
Master Bedroom
Designed for a modern yet culturally rooted couple who value craftsmanship, the master bedroom is a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary sophistication. Inspired by cultural nostalgia, the space evokes a deep sense of connection and heritage.
A material palette rich in character yet elegantly understated sets the tone. At its heart, a beautifully carved poster bed serves as the focal point, while subtle English paneling adds depth and texture. Personalization is key—each bedroom is crafted as a sanctuary reflecting the occupant’s essence. In this master suite, the family’s cherished bed from their old home was thoughtfully refurbished, preserving continuity and honoring its emotional significance.
Son's Bedroom
Each bedroom is a reflection of its occupant’s unique personality and emotional essence. For the eldest son, whose optimism and hopeful outlook stood out, we crafted a space that reinforces these qualities. A palette of sage green—symbolizing renewed growth—paired with muted pink adds a touch of playfulness and contrast. The result is a warm, uplifting, and deeply personal retreat.
For the youngest son, eclectic mystery was the chosen emotion—creating a space that feels bold, innovative, and full of discovery. A deep color palette forms the foundation, punctuated by pops of yellow for energy and contrast. As one moves from the bedroom to the bathroom, the space gradually unveils its layers, revealing its true character and depth.
Eldest Daughter's Bedroom
Designed to evoke a sense of calm and collected elegance, the eldest daughter’s bedroom is a sanctuary of serenity. A palette of soft beige tones, complemented by warm wooden accents, creates a tranquil and balanced atmosphere. Classical paneling seamlessly integrates with the overall design, adding a touch of timeless sophistication.
The overall journey of empathy, expression and celebration made the tandem house a testament to the idea that timeless design can honour tradition while meeting the demands of contemporary living.