Tree stumps, antiques, leather sofas: Social Street boss wants a woody feel to his den

Pratap Bose, founder, Social Street, says antique furniture with a ‘warm, woody feel’ can create an ideal comfort zone.

Old world charm
“I love old antique furniture that has a warm, woody feel to it: Tree stumps act as stools, a revolving antique book case from Chor Bazaar, and polished leather sofas to soak in after a long tiring day. One thing I would never have is a bonsai plant or cacti.”


Collector’s gaze
“My den is juxtaposed with all the art I can possibly put up on the walls, alongside the many artefacts that I have collected on my travels.”

If I had to put up a sign on the door of my den, it would say…
“‘A picture is a poem without words’. Currently, the walls are adorned with paintings of the great masters of the Bengal School together with a few contemporary artists that I admire and collect.”



Guest list
“I would invite our best friends with whom my wife and I have endearing relationships. If I were able to turn back the clock, then I would perhaps be happiest if I could call [19th century painter] Nandalal Bose over for a long conversation over Bengali food.”

One adjective to describe my den
“Snug.”

My personal den is…
“I think the word ‘den’ is restrictive. I would like to describe my sanctum as my comfort zone — an area where I feel comforted and at peace with my friends and myself. It’s a large-ish space where I can gaze at my tropical fish tank or step out to the balcony and look after my flowering plants.”