A villa project with a hand-painted dome in Goa, India
Studia 54’s most luxurious project of the season on the Arabian Sea coast
Project concept
Undoubtedly, the visual centerpiece of this villa is the dome — an artistic statement with profound symbolic meaning that presented an exciting design challenge. Inspired by Goa’s blazing sun, we envisioned rays of veneer radiating from the center, reminiscent of sand dunes and the shimmering reflections on ocean waves.
The dome’s design drew inspiration not only from the villa’s architecture but also from the personal history of its owners. From the very first meetings, one detail stood out — while discussing the home, it was the client’s wife who spoke with the most enthusiasm, passionately describing her collection of Dutch paintings, which had grown into a full-fledged private gallery. She often mentioned how the interplay of light and the delicate texture of petals in her paintings fascinated her. This idea resonated with us just as it had once inspired the great artists she admired.
We translated this aesthetic into the dome’s design, capturing the precision of detail, the harmony of colors, and the nuanced interplay of light and shadow. Floral motifs woven into the decorative elements echo the elegance of classic paintings but with a contemporary interpretation.
The dome’s intricate artwork was hand-painted by skilled artists.
The project’s color palette is anchored in rich marsala tones, seamlessly integrated into the dome, décor, and textiles. This deep, refined hue acts as a unifying thread between architectural elements and furnishings, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated harmony.
The villa’s floors are clad in exquisite Sahara Noir marble, a deep, noble black with striking golden veins. The main lounge area features voluminous snow-white sofas, while the Virgola semi-circular sofa from our FiftyFourms brand mirrors the flowing curves of the domed ceiling with its soft, sculptural form.
A designer fireplace portal
The fireplace is another standout feature, designed exclusively for this project. Crafted from hundreds of glazed ceramic pieces assembled into a mosaic, it subtly nods to traditional Eastern tiles while maintaining a modern aesthetic. Abstract sculptures, sculptural wall sconces, and a dynamic interplay of light and shadow add character and depth to the space.
Opposite the fireplace, a striking shelving installation unfolds. Elegant yet bold, the shelving unit appears to dissolve against the dramatic marble backdrop, becoming part of a unified artistic composition. Semi-transparent glass shelves on delicate supports allow natural light to penetrate the structure, emphasizing the depth of the stone’s texture.
In the villa’s lounge area, Rotatus armchairs and a Woodwell table from FiftyFourms, crafted from fine wood veneer, create a warm and inviting ambiance. The walls are clad in rich espresso-toned veneer, enhancing the depth and warmth of the space.
A light glass partition, composed of numerous small blocks, adds an airy quality to the interior, while an avant-garde floor lamp becomes a sculptural element that enhances the lighting scheme.
This villa was designed for a discerning Indian businessman — a true connoisseur of art, natural materials, and sophisticated design solutions, where exclusivity and artistic expression were paramount. Every decision in this interior was meticulously crafted to highlight the space’s unique composition. A project of this caliber defines the season for Studia 54, standing as a testament to luxury and thoughtful design.
