Before he even realises it, an uncensored talk with Virat Kohli’s architect causes the atmosphere to abruptly shift when he declares, “I’m never really on holiday… There’s no strategy for unwinding… It’s sufficient to simply do nothing at all.” It is a heartfelt reminder that after a tiring season, Virat, like many of his fans, is itching to return home to comforts and wants to get away from Mumbai to spend time in nature and recharge. And in Alibag, he discovered what he considers his home away from home.
Alibag is a beachside area that is popularly known as “The Hamptons of India.” It is named so because it is quieter, cleaner, more verdant, and offers glamorously expansive properties, which has made it a popular destination for celebrities. Bollywood biggies have addresses here. Apart from Virat, the situation is not as simple as it seems. “To be honest, it’s the close proximity to Mumbai. Here, we are in a whole new world—a house removed from the bustle of the metropolis. We like to get away from the chaos when there’s so much going on all the time, and Alibag makes that possible,” he says.
Though he didn’t just pick any old property in the seaside town to call home, this mindful advocate of wellness and slow living carefully selected the creator, Aditya Kilachand, who is focused on a holistic luxury lifestyle.
Virat was searching for a place that embodied his own style, a feeling of community, and belonging, and Avās in Alibag provided just that. The four-bedroom Californian Konkan-style home, designed by internationally recognized architects at SAOTA under the direction of Phillippe Fouché, spans 10,000 square feet and exalts raw luxury. The home’s high ceilings—which feature natural hardwood that unifies the first floor—and intricate open layout capture the carefree spirit of California and the beautiful minimalism of the Konkan coast.
The use of natural materials, such as immaculate stones, rare Italian marbles, raw travertines, and Turkish limestones, is another striking feature. Moreover, the home’s use of biophilic concepts is very remarkable. Encased in an abundance of natural light that pours through its large windows and glass walls, this vacation home embodies luxury and sustainability—qualities that perfectly matched Virat’s vision of it.
“The most intriguing element is the living room’s double-height cut-out ceiling, which lets in a lot of natural light,” he explains. The energy is better when there is more light. With a fully customised kitchen by a German company and a rare Balinese sukabumi stone-clad temperature-controlled pool and jacuzzi, the design inspiration is evident in even the most unlikely places.
Virat finds solace in going outside and in nature, but what really brings him joy is that he gets a personalised dashboard with everything he needs for his stay there. The home automation aspect is his favorite. That makes sense!
The 35-year-old has a remarkable career that showcases an impressive resume. In addition to being the highest-paid cricket player in the world, he also runs the popular restaurant chain One 8 Commune, owns the high-street fashion brand Wrogn, has endorsement deals with over 19 brands, and was recently ranked as the most searched sportsperson in India on Google in 2023. Naturally, Virat now prioritises maintaining a healthy work-life balance and his inherent wellness. “My first priority is my family. Even though I’m preoccupied with cricket, I long to return home. The desire to return home grows when a family grows and one has children. I believe that one should balance their career and personal lives, not the other way around.”
A true professional who never stops moving, Virat Kohli credits his impressive winning run to the comfort of a couch, feeling at ease and slowing down as his concept of a vacation. He discovered a harmonious blend of communal and individual areas at Avās Living, complete with opulent facilities. This connection felt natural to him.
