Full-Scale International Residence Transformations
Designing a home is a conversation. Whether it is an oak-lined hillside residence in California or a 10,000 sq. ft. home in Dhaka, my process is grounded in your story. We blend cultural roots with modern needs to craft a space that is truly yours.
A grand living room in our Dhaka project, where we balanced a soaring ceiling and massive window with cozy, curated seating. The space is filled with custom furniture, a statement chandelier, and an exposed brick wall, creating a look that is both contemporary and rich with heritage.
The entrance to this Saratoga, California home is bathed in natural light, highlighting the vaulted wooden ceiling and the elegant archways. We kept the foyer open and welcoming, with a simple bench and a striking 'Devi' sculpture to introduce the blend of Indian artistry and modern Californian living that defines the home.
A glimpse into the master bedroom of the Dhaka residence, designed as a cultured and cozy retreat. The four-poster bed, sourced from India, is paired with a mix of textiles and art that reflect the clients' global journey. The stone flooring adds a rustic, earthy feel to this elegant space.
An open-plan living space in the Saratoga home, where the living room flows into the dining area. The design uses a consistent palette of warm woods and neutral tones, punctuated by colorful textiles and a striped coffee table. The exposed beam ceiling ties the entire area together, creating a cohesive and inviting environment.
The outdoor dining area of the Dhaka residence, set against the home's modern concrete and glass facade. This space was designed for leisurely meals and entertaining, connecting the interior living areas with the garden and pool.
A cozy family room in the Saratoga home, complete with a fireplace and comfortable, deep-seated sofas. We used a mix of patterns and textures, from the striped armchair to the patterned ottoman, to create a layered and lived-in feel. The rocking chair adds a touch of traditional comfort.
The study in the Dhaka home, a space designed for focus and inspiration, looks out onto the garden through floor-to-ceiling glass walls. The dark wood flooring and leather office chair create a classic, sophisticated feel, while the view provides a constant connection to nature.
About this collection
Every international project starts with the same question: how do you want this space to feel? I work closely with you to navigate the logistics of global material sourcing, from Fort Kochi tiles to imported hardware, while ensuring the architecture breathes. It is a hands-on journey where we translate your memories and travels into tangible finishes, creating a home that functions seamlessly for your daily life.
When I take on a large-scale project, distance is never an obstacle. Whether we are transforming a traditional 4,000 sq. ft. home in Saratoga or building a vast residence in Dhaka, my role is to act as the bridge between your vision and the finished reality. Many clients come to me feeling that their homes do not quite reflect who they are. They have lived in different cities and collected pieces from around the world, but their current space lacks a cohesive thread. In my full-scale transformation work, I focus on that thread. We start by listening to the house. In the Saratoga project, for instance, we preserved the original 1993 architecture by Kirk Hillman, introducing a black-painted staircase and vibrant Indian art to bring warmth to the traditional structure. The logistics are intense. For an international project, I coordinate with local teams, manage global shipping for specific textures or materials, and ensure that every element—from the lighting to the floor tiles—is placed with purpose. You are not just a client in this process; you are a co-creator. We meet to discuss how the light moves through your living room, where the family gathers, and how we can best display the items you have collected over the years. My approach to these projects is practical. I handle the structural changes, from layout planning to expanding closets, while maintaining a clear eye on the emotional weight of a room. Whether we are dealing with lime plaster, wooden beams, or modern glass facades, the goal remains the same: to create a sanctuary. By the time we are done, the house stops being a construction site and starts feeling like an extension of your own history.
Richa Bahl
I don’t follow formulas. I follow my gut, listening to the walls of a house before deciding what it needs to become. Designing a home is a conversation—an intimate journey where we turn your memories into a physical, breathing space.
Let's find your inspiration
You can search for specific styles or service types below.
More from Architectural Design & Renovation by Richa Bahl