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November 30, 2006
Where books talk
One is always in the company of beautiful works of art, paintings, lithographs and sketches in this abode. Stacks of books look more like a friend guiding one around
The intellectual movement that characterised the `50s and `60s –– ideas, philosophies, poetic illustrations of visions and profound thoughts – has found a true successor in Yasmeen and Sohail Lari. Their home proved to be very educative for this scribe. The stark cement and red brick structure is like a university in terms of learning and application.
The house has been built horizontally leaving the entire rear section as a stepped slope for flower beds and a sprawling garden. Odd, antique pieces of sculpture collected from around the world mark the edges of the steps.
Stained Burma teak flooring greets one at the entrance with a staircase leading up to the den which sort of hovers over the main sitting room. The staircase is a wooden one without any ornate barrier, giving it a simple elegance. On the other end of the hall there is a deck like terrace jutting out through the sliders, overlooking the garden beneath.
The main hall is sparsely furnished with one square low table surrounded with floor cushions, a couple of antique chests and a rather regal looking dining table. What catches and holds ones attention is the delightful collection and display of books on either side. They stand proud on teak shelves, ceiling to floor. Beautiful wall to wall oil on canvas by Shakir Ali occupies the place of pride on top.
A series, by another stalwart, accompany one all the way up the stairs to the den, where a telescope makes one forget everything as one gazes into the horizon.
The dining area underneath the den, sits in a comfortable niche created by splitting the levels and stacked books serve as dividers. A narrow pillar elegantly enjoys two black and white frames.
The study is another treasure trove. The old comfortable sofa set, with few antique silver frames showcasing children and grandchildren, is surrounded by a heap of papers and a computer. The owners love to write in this room. The clear glass panels look out on the same stepped garden.
The entire house is connected with short flights of stairs. Up and down one is always in the company of beautiful works of art, paintings, lithographs and sketches. Stacks of books look more like a friendly guide leading one around the house. Some old, some weathered and some glossy covers wink at you tempting you to open them.
The large glass windows all around maximise utilisation of natural light and short corridors connecting the various sections make one think of delightful labyrinths and give a pleasant surprise at every turn.
This house is a living example of an abode tastefully done, where art lives, traditions thrive and books talk.
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