The Great Bath of Mohenjodaro from the Indus Valley Civilisation is a manifestation of how people even in ancient times propagated the idea of a leisurely luxurious bath. Today, it’s the hamams of Istanbul that have set the benchmark with their opulent interiors that offer unhurried escapades. Though the thought of such languorous baths maybe enticing, it’s a quick shower that most can afford either due to lack of time or because of interiors that are lacklustre. While finding time is hard, one can still give a grand makeover to their solitary bathing area.
Delhi-based Keha Casa, the luxury bath, decor and tiles store is the place to go for such makeovers. The brand opened its new flagship boutique in Bengaluru with its exclusive collection of tiles, tubs, bath accessories and concept bathrooms last week.
Looking glass
A monolithic glass staircase designed by Carlo Santambrogio (of the SANTAMBROGIOMILANO design company) mounted right in the middle of the three-floor store evokes memories of images of the homes of Hollywood celebrities. “The crystal clear staircase sets a tone of openness and ethereality,” say Kekin Shah and Hameed Khan, the founders. Keha (a combination of Kekin and Hameed’s names), say the founders, “is the amalgamation of our philosophies to celebrate the world of design and showcase the finest bath and surface brands.” It’s taken two years for the duo to prop up this 8000sqft flagship boutique store.
The ground floor exhibits a collection of surface tiles by SICIS – The Mosaic Art Factory. The collection is inspired by infinite chromatic variations and geometrical patterns. “The Tropical wall and retro style bathtub are created with artistic mosaic tesserae which are placed by hand. Milldue, another maker rooted in Italy, showcases their handmade craftsmanship and design innovation through bathroom consoles,” explains Hameed. The glass staircase leads up to the first floor that exhibits the signature collections by Antonio-lupi, the half-century-old Tuscan company known for its design and manufacturing of bathroom furniture. Though minimalist in design, it’s the contemporary features of the hallmark bathtubs, sinks, sanitary ware, showers, taps and accessories that capture the vivid imagination of the buyer. For those who like the classics, there are the Victorian bath setups which revive old-world luxury.
The third floor showcases exclusive tiles by Devon & Devon, an Italian bathroom design brand. Italy-based Lithos Design’s Nuance is a collection of engaging textures and three-dimensional surfaces made from sandstone. In addition to this, tiles by master craftsman and artist Giovanni Barbieri, are also on display. These are just a few picks from the boutique that spells opulence at every nook and corner.
Tiles starting at Rs 2000 per sqft upwards. At Kensington Road, Ulsoor. Details: 48510066