Kishwer Merchant-Two Close for comfort

Reena's stars

To the manor born

It has been a year since actress Kishwer Merchant of Kavyanjali and Kasamh Se and actor Hiiten Paintal of Ek Ladki Anjani Si started seeing each other. The couple, who are soon to be engaged, have spent the better part of the last few months redecorating Hiiten's family house, which is soon to be their own. From shopping for knick-knacks to the interiors, they've got it all covered. So they invite us for an inspection…

1. Two Close for comfort
The living room of this three-bedroom flat has had its intricate dining table and designer sofas flown in from Dubai. The art that adorns the walls are telling of Kishwer's interest in the subject. The Paintals, who've been living in this house for the past 15 years, have happily welcomed the actress into their home and lives.


2. The Extended Family
The torrential rains last July had destroyed this section of the living room completely, and the area has been re-done by Kishwer herself. She chose a brick wall facade and an Indian-style sitting arrangement because "it makes an interesting combination." This is where the couple love to lounge – along with their army of canines: Nandu, Candy, Pappu and Lucky.


3. Watermark of Affection
This huge terrace, connected to the living room, is where the family has its social gatherings. And Kishwer has blended well into the family, so much so that she rushes back to the Paintal house as soon as her shoot ends. She has even cultivated a passion for plants, like her father-in-law-to-be.


4. Remote Control
"We're both complete couch potatoes," Hiiten announces. That explains the specially-designed TV room. The two divans and a cabinet full of food make this a suitable place to chill. They go on record to admit that Hiiten is the organised, cleanliness freak among the two, while Kishwer is laidback and messy.


5. Bedroom Sngers
Their bedroom is going to be their private sanctuary, and the two have made sure it's just right. The dark wooden furniture offsets the white walls well. Hiiten has various pictures of Kishwer placed on the corner table. He says that they are his lucky charms. "That explains my love for her," he winks. The other love of his life is his guitar that he simply cannot do without.