A chic pad in a highrise in Mumbai

This apartment on the 41st floor in Mumbai is a lesson on how to break the purported rules of décor, and break them right

As much as charcoal grey is our wardrobe staple, we have always been a little conservative about using it on our walls. But that is until we met Parul Sheth at her plush apartment in Mumbai, which she shares with her husband. She welcomed us into her tastefully appointed home - wearing black, no surprise there.

If there was one word that best describes the style, it would be restraint. It’s minimal yet warm, has collectibles yet uncluttered. It may be daunting for most to practice this kind of control but a clear vision on how she wanted the space was perhaps the most crucial part. We strongly feel that while a home evolves with time, it is important to know what you want before remodelling it.

Ask her how she summed up the courage to use grey on her walls in varying degrees, she brushes it off with a laugh saying, “It didn't take any courage at all. I’m all about black – it just felt very natural and organic to use it. It imparts a sense of infinity and to me, it’s as pure as white.” We cannot agree more, black, white and grey as formidable as they are, form a very simple yet striking palette making for a very versatile backdrop for all kinds of furniture and accessories.

Her work in the fashion business takes her across Europe. And it is this European-Scandinavian aesthetic that abounds in her home. Initially a three-bedroom apartment, Parul converted the third room into a bar, with painted black walls and ceiling. An original Art Deco chandelier in one corner adds that hint of glamour that the space seeks. Little wonder that this is her favourite part of the house.

While the walls are bare, you will find a whole lot of stories in little nooks, in the pieces she has collected over the years on her travels to Paris, Aarhus, Amsterdam, Bali, Bangkok and South Africa.

With a custom-defying colour scheme, personal collectibles, and no shortage of inspiration – the end result is an uber chic pad.