Shingji Bhuvan, Mazgaon Owner: Mr Shingji Vicamsi Architect: Abdulhusein M. Thariani Buildings like Shingji Bhuvan often carry the burden of maintaining architectural integrity and their creator’s legacy. We find that its former glory is dimmed and worn down by disrepair, insensitivity and disenchantment. Image 1: Shingji Bhuvan, then and now. Tiered, wrap around balconies dominate the corner facade of this building. To complement this symmetrically, more tiers are found on the left side of the building in a V-formation. Source, for the archival image on the left: The Modern House in India by ACC.

Shingji Bhuvan, Mazgaon Owner: Mr Shingji Vicamsi Architect: Abdulhusein M. Thariani Buildings like Shingji Bhuvan often carry the burden of maintaining architectural integrity and their creator’s legacy. We find that its former glory is dimmed and worn down by disrepair, insensitivity and disenchantment. Image 2: A fine example of the clash between 20th century Deco and 21st century satellite dishes. While these centuries remain at loggerheads with each other, we’re left with questions about balancing human aspirations and preserving the heritage of the city. The central block of the building is flanked by waves etched in concrete. The rectangular turret at the top acts as a capital for the central block.

Shingji Bhuvan, Mazgaon Owner: Mr Shingji Vicamsi Architect: Abdulhusein M. Thariani Buildings like Shingji Bhuvan often carry the burden of maintaining architectural integrity and their creator’s legacy. We find that its former glory is dimmed and worn down by disrepair, insensitivity and disenchantment. Image 3: This wraparound balcony ushers in the sea with waves in its Deco metal grilles.

Shingji Bhuvan, Mazgaon Owner: Mr Shingji Vicamsi Architect: Abdulhusein M. Thariani Buildings like Shingji Bhuvan often carry the burden of maintaining architectural integrity and their creator’s legacy. We find that its former glory is dimmed and worn down by disrepair, insensitivity and disenchantment. Image 4: Shingji Bhuvan’s pilasters get some geometric Deco treatment.

Bespoke, and full of Indian and tropical imagery, concrete grilles on Deco buildings also break the monotony and add a dash of frolic to these otherwise block-like structures. Image 1: This window frame at Dreamland, Chembur is a work of art. Print it, frame it.

Bespoke, and full of Indian and tropical imagery, concrete grilles on Deco buildings also break the monotony and add a dash of frolic to these otherwise block-like structures. Image 2: Concrete grilles usually form a part of balconies, windows and compound walls. In a departure from the ordinary, Matunga’s Zaver Vihar has a concrete grille embedded in its staircase wall. Look further to your left and you will find a white door lined with more Deco detail.