That Mama’s Crib: Mukta Shahdadpuri

It’s time for another sneaky peek into a Sassy Mama’s crib. Style extraordinaire Mukta Shahdadpuri not only has an eye for the coolest new age Indian fashion designers and vintage jewels from Amrapali – she’s also got a pretty chic home with no shortage of amazing art. We chatted to the Physique 57 addict and full time mama to Aria and Naia about her interior design tips below.

How did you decorate your own home? Was it very planned out or impulsive?

I would say it was pretty last minute as we were moving into our new place just three days before I gave birth to our first child. Interestingly enough, my husband and I have completely different taste so turned into quite an adventure. Luckily, we managed to pick up the basics and filled in the gaps over time.

How would you describe your interior design style?

I like a very clean and simplistic look and prefer to play around with textures and accessories. I love for a home to look elegant; yet cozy and inviting.

What are your best places to pick up home furniture in Dubai?

We are actually spoiled for choice in Dubai but I have always liked The One and Marina for their contemporary yet rustic look. West Elm also has some great accessories at very affordable prices. We recently picked up a gorgeous carved antique mirror from Pinky furniture – one of my favorite pieces yet!

Do you gravitate to a certain colour palette or design style?

Yes, I love earthy tones and just about anything white. Most of our home has gravitated towards a very neutral palette with varying shades of grey, beige and cream.

As a mum how do you balance functioning design and a pretty home?

Most of my furniture is quite functional and very low maintenance. We did keep the kids in mind while decorating so have used a lot of wood and easy fabrics. Luckily it hasn’t been too much of an effort to keep in order.

What did you splurge and save on when decorating your house?

We definitely splurged on our art as we have built up our collection over a few years now. We concentrated primarily on emerging artists out of India and Pakistan, but are yet to explore talent from other parts of the world. We didn’t spend much doing up the kids’ room initially as they were both on different schedules; however plan to re do it now as they will both be sharing a room.

Did you use any websites or interior design apps to brainstorm ideas?

Not initially, but we refer to Houzz every now and then for some design inspiration.

What’s your favourite room/area in your home and why?

Probably my TV area as that’s where we spend most of our time as a family. My TV room doubles up as the kids play area so we can all manage to sit around and do a bunch of different things; yet spend quality time together.

If you had unlimited space (and budget) and could turn one room in your house into whatever you wanted, what would it be? 

It would definitely be a state of the art kitchen (with room to entertain of course). I am a complete foodie and have always loved to cook and experiment with food. Having unlimited space and the facilities to do so would just be a dream come true!

Playroom or bedroom and playroom in one?

Ideally I would like to keep the playroom and bedroom separate as I like the kids to wind down in their bedroom with limited distractions. Bed time is a huge routine with the girls and we look forward to cuddling up for story time every night.

Do you have any tips for easy ways to update décor without breaking the bank?

Re-accessorising or simply moving your furniture around can dramatically change the look of your home. Re-upholstering too can give your old chairs and couches a complete face-lift with minimal effort.

Get the Look

1. 10″ Porcelain Thai Buddha Statue, Oriental Furniture, AED 217
2. Pearce Upholstered 3-piece L-shaped sectional with wedge in white twill, Pottery Barn, AED 8077
3. Gold Kashmira Hand-Crafted Pillow Cover, Little Majlis, AED 100
4. Luna Wall Mirror, Crate and Barrel, AED 470

1. Patersonrose Charlotte Quilt Cover, Indigo Living, AED 545
2. Plain-Coloured Chenille Rug, Zara Home, AED 649
3. The Cooper Copper Set of 3, The Bowery, AED 3990
4. Tikiya Print, Crate and Barrel, AED 1581