Su's Terrace

Mumbai, 2025
Residential

When Summiyya Patni, co-founder of House of MISU, envisioned transforming her unused terrace into a vibrant yet tranquil escape, she turned to architect Nishil Shah, the creative force behind Studio Hasta. The collaboration resulted in a stunning glasshouse oasis that blends contemporary elegance with rustic charm, designed for both unwinding and entertaining amidst breathtaking ocean views and Mumbai’s urban skyline.

The terrace is a seamless extension of the home, thoughtfully curated to create distinct yet interconnected zones. A greenhouse-inspired lounge sits as the centerpiece, where wooden rafters with a faux-wood aluminum finish provide warmth and durability, ensuring it can endure Mumbai's unpredictable coastal weather. Sunlight streams gently through the white-framed windows, illuminating plush outdoor furniture, soft cushions, and a central coffee table, inviting long, relaxing afternoons surrounded by flourishing greenery - making it an oceanview oasis.

On the opposite end, a luxurious fluted white marble bar, framed by elegant round columns, offers a chic spot to sip cocktails while taking in golden sunsets over the western horizon. Elevated slightly to prevent waterlogging during monsoon, this design element is as practical as it is stylish. Adjacent to the bar, a custom ash-and-pine dining table with egg chairs creates an inviting space for meals shared with friends and family, echoing the neutral tones and natural textures found throughout the terrace.

The terrace’s flooring and finishes were meticulously chosen for functionality and beauty. A harmonious palette of earthy tones ties the spaces together, with black-and-white checkered tiles adorning the greenhouse lounge and grey stone-finish tiles defining the dining and bar areas. These ceramic tiles are not only visually striking but also resilient against Mumbai’s humidity, water, and dust.

Greenery adds vibrancy and life to this urban retreat, with hardy perennials, bougainvillea, and palms chosen for their ability to withstand sea breezes while requiring minimal upkeep. Inside the greenhouse, lush shrubs flourish, creating a calming connection to nature. By day, the greenery is bathed in sunlight, and by night, the terrace transforms into a glowing lantern, thanks to thoughtfully placed lighting. Subtle uplights along the pillars, concealed lighting in the bar, and the soft glow of candles and lanterns enhance the ambiance, making the terrace a magical escape at any hour.

The design philosophy was rooted in creating a space that reflects a lifestyle of ease and refinement, aligning seamlessly with the interiors of the home while celebrating the grandeur of its surroundings. As Summiyya reflects on the transformation: “What began as a blank canvas has become my own little haven—a cozy escape complete with a chic bar, a dining area, and a dreamy glasshouse overlooking the ocean. It’s perfect for unwinding or hosting friends, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with how beautifully it turned out.”

This oceanview glasshouse oasis is more than just a terrace; it’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design and collaboration. Studio Hasta has crafted a sanctuary where life’s finer moments can be savored, whether lounging in the greenhouse, dining under the stars, or simply soaking in the serenity of the sea and sky.