A Home With a Difference

The Shahbaz Residence is an imposing structure that reveals the unusual treasures once you step indoors. Antiques, paintings, statues and weaponry greet you at every step. The floral and dry arrangements of Kaukab Ahmed, tell you of the interest of the owner in beautiful and aesthetic things. The number of antiques can easily fill up a museum.

Kaukab and (late) Jafi Shahbaz’s home showcases their exquisite taste and history of travels around the world. Painting’s from eminent artists like Gulgee, Zain Albedin, Jamil Naqsh, Iqbal Durrani, antiques from Italy, Germany, England, France and Switzerland are evident all around the home.

The different areas tell a story, with a silver crusted banister (staircase) with brass inlay, the drawing room speaks of the Victorian era with pleated curtains and elaborate upholstery, exotic blooms and antique coffee table silver ware; the Wedgewood corner with paintings and state of the art pieces. The bird corner highlighted with pigeon paintings and turquoise blue as the predominant colour presenting birds of paradise and different species are something very close to Kaukab’s heart. The Blue Japanese corner shows their travels to the Far East, with each decoration piece capturing the cultures of bygone eras.

The house showcases beautiful flora and fauna. Traditional abstract floral arrangements inspired by the royal era and ikebana white driftwood and exotic materials and flowers are maintained diligently. The fountain made with classic and glass shower birds present a variety of styles, in onyx and porcelain inlay work and pottery.

The Art in the home curated by Pomme, daughter of the Shahbazs’ boasts of fine paintings like Gulgee, Jimmy Engineer, Jamil Naqsh, Zain al Albedin and sculpture pieces of Amin Gulgee and Ajmal Hussain.

Jafi’s special love for beautiful things is evident in his study with a timeless collection of books, records, a vintage teak bar with crystal goblets of different cultures. The armoury section with weapons, daggers, swords and spears is quite impressive. The residence is evidence of a home with a difference.