Labeling itself a 'boutique'
real estate firm, UrbaneSpaces is boutique in every
sense that the word has been applied in the hospitality industry. 'Boutique'
having become the fashionable and desirable prefix for most hotels- conjuring
images of idyllic locations, gorgeous interiors and legendary reputations,
UrbaneSpaces provides solutions to these
global nomads
who wish to take it a
step further by incorporating, in their homes, the same sense of wonderment, a
philosophy of tolerance and appreciation of the vernacular and an understanding
of political and cultural dialectics that they have encountered during their
travels.UrbaneSpaces eschews mass-produced,
contemptible paeans to conspicuous consumption and soulless, speculative
investment vehicles in favour of architecturally distinguished, unique spaces.
We believe that while celebrating the works of renowned
architects is good, creating conditions favourable for new talent to emerge is
better. You will find, therefore, through the UrbaneSpaces portfolio, works by
lesser known architects. For clients who wish to renovate an older property, we
can similarly recommend new, emerging names on the local architectural scene.
The UrbaneSpaces customer is one who is fully cognizant of the
discordant note struck by thoroughly modern interiors within a conservation
shell yet thoroughly understands that belabouring a debate on conservation draws
us further from its aims. He has sometimes pondered the place and role of
colonial architecture in a post-colonial world yet has progressed beyond the
stage of 'post-colonial hangup' to appreciate its inherent qualities.
Many elements- Politics, Architecture, Fashion, Movies and
Design- inform our choices. What results is a portfolio ranging from sleek
pied-a-terres to minimalist lofts, quaint conservation homes to minimalist
bungalows, tropical bungalows inspired by the vernacular to a Moroccan riad
house.
The common thread unifying such diversity is the
UrbaneSpaces ethos- an appreciation of uniqueness, celebration of the vernacular
and an understanding of the political and cultural dialectics, while, through it
all, maintaining that sense of wonderment.
