In the heart of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, a remarkable residential project named Pennyroyal Tea brings together artistry, cultural heritage and contemporary sensibilities. Conceived by Bengaluru-based design studio Multitude of Sins, this two-level family home is a stunning celebration of Indian craftsmanship and collaborative creativity. The interiors of the house have been meticulously crafted with the help of over 200 artisans from across the country, whose regional techniques and traditional practices infuse every corner of the home with richness and personality. SURFACES REPORTER (SR) showcases how designs can honour heritage and also assert boldness of the present day through Pennyroyal Tea.
Above, a spectacular 400kg chandelier made entirely of wooden beads, crafted by artisans from Kerala, Rajasthan and Maharashtra, illuminates the entry space like an oversized piece of jewelry, encapsulating the layered and intricate nature of the home.
Artisanship Meets Architecture
Founder Smita Thomas envisioned the house as more than just a living space. For her, it was a canvas of narratives shaped by the diverse backgrounds of the artisans involved. Approximately 80 per cent of the furniture, lighting elements and artworks were custom-made specifically for this project. By intentionally steering away from mass-produced items, the studio embraced a bespoke approach that highlighted the nuanced skill sets of local craftsmen.
Pennyroyal Tea welcomes visitors through majestic timber double doors intricately carved with floral motifs by artisans from Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka. These doors are framed by a soaring, curved porch that creates a regal first impression. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a dramatic double-height foyer where a striking mural in hues of lilac and mauve dominates the wall. Although digitally printed, the artwork is designed to emulate flowing fabric, lending softness and elegance to the space.
Approximately 80 per cent of the furniture, lighting elements and artworks were custom-made specifically for this project.
Hand Made with Love
Functionality and aesthetics blend seamlessly throughout the interiors. A custom-designed, sandy-toned shoe cabinet, capable of storing over 100 pairs of shoes, stands out for its whimsical leather loop details that mimic shoelaces. Above, a spectacular 400kg chandelier made entirely of wooden beads, crafted by artisans from Kerala, Rajasthan and Maharashtra, illuminates the entry space like an oversized piece of jewelry, encapsulating the layered and intricate nature of the home.
Further into the main living area, a marble-lined glass screen reveals a plush seating space defined by two sculptural marble tables inlaid with motifs of moons, butterflies and leaves. Complementary elements like distressed wooden chairs, a sofa with floral applique and geometric floor lamps complete the room. Each piece of furniture reflects the regional identities of the makers, with contributions from Gujarat, West Bengal, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Kerala.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a dramatic double-height foyer where a striking mural in hues of lilac and mauve dominates the wall.
This richly layered aesthetic carries into the kitchen and dining areas. In the kitchen, fluted glass cabinetry and curved corners create a refined yet approachable look, while the dining space features a dual-toned wooden table paired with leather-upholstered chairs in earthy sage and rust hues. Delicate, hand-folded fabric butterflies affixed to the walls add an unexpected touch of charm.
Additional spaces such as a skylit yoga area, an artist’s studio and a well-stocked library maintain the home’s design coherence. Jade-green tiles line the staircase that leads to the upper, private areas of the residence, where bedrooms and bathrooms continue the theme of luxurious detail and craftsmanship. These spaces incorporate both distinctive custom items and elements made from more accessible materials, offering a thoughtful balance of extravagance and practicality.
Throughout the home, an array of materials, including marble, tile, brass, stainless steel and stone, contribute to a sensory design experience that encourages tactile engagement.
Children's rooms inject a sense of playfulness into the home’s overall narrative. One such room features animated animal-themed decor, including a cartoonish snail headboard and a snake sculpture slithering along the wall. Sculptural accents throughout the house were sourced from artists based in Delhi, Telangana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Kerala.
To offset the visual richness of the furniture and ornamentation, the design team opted for soft pastel tones and neutral wall finishes. This restrained palette allows the textures and colours of the custom elements to shine without overwhelming the senses. Throughout the home, an array of materials, including marble, tile, brass, stainless steel and stone, contribute to a sensory design experience that encourages tactile engagement.
Image credit: Ishita Sitwala