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How Ritu Beri turned a 200-year-old Portuguese villa into a creative retreat

How Ritu Beri turned a 200-year-old Portuguese villa into a creative retreat

India Today11-07-2025
(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today Home June issue)We chose this 200-year-old Portuguese villa for Escape because it's more than just a building—it's a living piece of history. The villa's soul, with its old-world charm, arches and natural light, sets the perfect tone for storytelling through design. It allows us to offer an immersive experience that goes beyond retail—inviting visitors to step into a space where time slows down and creativity flourishes.advertisementArchitectural DelightThis villa embodies the confluence of Indian and Portuguese architecture—arched doorways, high ceilings, carved wood, hand-laid tiles—all preserved with great care. It holds layers of memory and craftsmanship that reflect Goa's cultural richness. Its heritage reminds us of a slower, more intentional way of living, which resonates deeply with our design philosophy.
Decoding The LayoutThe store is thoughtfully divided into curated zones—where each room has its own tale to share. One opens into a fashion and textiles showcase, another into a home and lifestyle corner. There's a central salon space that feels more like a lounge than a retail area, perfect for personal styling or slow browsing. We've retained the laterite walls, old beams and window details to keep the feel and soul of the villa intact.
Retail TherapyAt Escape, we're retailing a mix of handcrafted fashion, artisanal home decor and collectibles, all with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and cultural storytelling. Many pieces are inspired by traditional techniques; think hand-block printing, heritage weaves, repurposed antique textiles, and design motifs drawn from local art and architecture. This has been achieved by working closely with artisans to reinterpret these traditions in a contemporary form.The pricing is the result of thoughtful consideration. The price ranges from `1,500 for handcrafted accessories and lifestyle products and goes up to `75,000 for limited-edition fashion or statement home pieces. It's a wide spectrum, intentionally so both collectors and curious wanderers can find something special to take home.
RAW A DISTINCTION | The bold red-and-white exterior, Ritu Beri's favourite colour combination, sets the tone for the boutique, which features a palette of striking hues, edgy art and playful details
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