1. We would like to know about your journey of architecture? From where and when did it all begin? Can you describe your design philosophy and how it influences your work in the field of interior architecture?
Answer: I knew I had an eye for a design back then and wanted to start/do something in this field of art. Adapting design was not difficult for me but creating self own design with a taste of self creativeness was challenging and I accepted and challenged myself to create and be in that era of design world. My aim is to design spaces that exhibits balance and harmony, helping clients be grounded in the ever-changing environment. The process of architecture is a search for creating the sort of spirit. A notion that is abundantly clear.
2. How did Sanjay Kapoor approach you and what were his requirements ?
Answer: Sanjay kapoor approach us after seeing Mr. Ashok Induja’s house. he asked Ambika Induja for the number of the Designer who designed this space and that is how he approach us. The requirement was something grand at the same time super luxurious and simplicity should be maintain throughout the house . only the living room is about 2500sq ft. It is that grand.
You have also designed Sohail Khan’s residence what all was in Sohail’s mind ? What are the views of celebs when it comes to interiors ?
Answer: Sohail khan wanted a understated quite sanctuary. He wanted to feel at peace when he comes back from hectic schedule of his work. Sohail brief me that he wanted full of natural light and colour. He wanted a space to be designed which could speak his personal expression. also when you are working with a celebrity since they are so busy they mostly rely on us to create some magical to space and once we understood each other then their was no looking back as design is concerned.
Maddock films office is just beautifully designed as a film production How difficult it was to design the same ?
Answer: It was challenging since this office has to be design in short period of time . It was total 8 floors that we executed from them. At one point there were 600 people on site working for them.
Your ability to create a sense of ‘home’ for your clients is Could you elaborate on how you go about understanding their vision and translating it into design concepts?
Answer: When it comes to creating a sense of ‘home’ for our clients, I strive to understand their vision and translate it into design concepts that resonate with their desires. i aim to create a sense of ‘home’ that reflects our clients’ unique style, personality, and aspirations. My goal is to exceed their expectations and deliver a space that they can truly call their own.
What challenges do you face in managing a team of designers and ensuring that their creative energies align with your vision for a project?
Answer: When it comes to integrating minimalistic principles into our designs while reflecting our clients’ personalities, i follow a thoughtful and collaborative approach. By combining minimalistic principles with a deep understanding of our clients’ personalities, create spaces that are both visually striking and deeply personal.
You mentioned your admiration for John Pawson and How do you integrate minimalistic principles into your designs while still ensuring they reflect your clients’ personalities?
Answer: Yes, when it comes to creating I think a sense of clarity and simplicity is essential to reflect their personality with space . minimalism as I believe is a simplification that gets beyond the idea of essence quality, where there is a sense of clarity and richness of simplicity instead of emptiness which reflects in my design.
Creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces often involves tough decisions about what to keep and what to discard. Can you share some insights into your process of making these decisions?
Answer: Making decisions about what to keep and what to discard can indeed be challenging. i strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics while creating spaces that are both visually appealing and tailored to our clients’ needs.
Elm Designs covers a wide range of design services, from interiors to architecture and even furniture design. How do you maintain a cohesive design approach across such diverse projects?
Answer: By meditating, being with nature and connecting by myself.
Could you share some of the key principles you follow when it comes to ‘design and build’ to ensure quality and timely project delivery?
Answer: Nature is the best teacher I would say, and I try to inculcate that in my design. My team I consider to be my strong pillars which make the completion of project and delivery it on time.
Your upcoming project involves designing Saif Ali Khan’s Can you give us a sneak peek into your approach and vision for this project?
Answer: My idea of reconnecting with nature inspires me to incorporate 5 elements that enhance sensorial polyphony, which makes me connects and rediscover into the relationship between people and nature through multi sensory experience in the interior space of design, such as we has used wood which brings warmth and aesthetics ,earthy feels by adding some planters while use of metal through accessories brings the space a harmonious connection to the nature.
EARTH-When one thinks of the earth element in architecture and interior design, the first images that come to mind are green gardens – indoors or outdoors – large terraces full of plants, or a natural and almost untouched landscape.
FIRE- fire is one of the main elements that build the phenomenological experience of this cabin in the cold forest. It is a petrified recreation of an abandoned structure, preserving the original textures of the former cabin in the same place. This refuge features a unique place next to the fireplace spotlighted by a carefully placed skylight.
WATER-Much has been said about the climate control properties of water which creates a microclimate through the process of evaporative cooling, however, water plays an important role not only in physical well-being but also in mental well-being, mainly due to the effect of sound, which brings a sense of calm and comfort.
EARTH-Experiencing the fresh texture of slightly damp earth while walking barefoot through a garden is a privilege these days. When one thinks of the earth element in architecture and interior design, the first images that come to mind are green gardens – indoors or outdoors – large terraces full of plants, or a natural and almost untouched landscape. But while gardens, patios, and terraces are a good example of this element in interior spaces, as in the House Among Trees in Ecuador or the Villa-Lobos House in Brazil, we should also consider the use of earth as a material.
AIR -Taking a deep breath in a cool breeze at the end of a hot day, and feeling the air slowly entering your lungs, is a unique sensation. When it comes to buildings, this last element is the most vital among all the others, mainly because of its role in keeping internal spaces healthy, by controlling temperature, humidity, and filtering potential contaminants and diseases. However, from a sensory point of view, a good airflow can also evoke the idea of lightness and a sense of suspension, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside, also serving as a symbol of renewal.
As a successful designer, what advice would you give to aspiring architects and interior designers who aim to make a mark in the industry, especially when it comes to creating spaces that resonate with clients on a personal level?
Answer: Invest in education like technical skills such as AUTO CAD are mandatory and also for more exposure get involved in working hand in hand with architects and contractors for the proper site knowledge . also try building networks like minded-individual who share passion for interior. creating spaces that resonate with clients on a personal level requires a deep understanding of their needs, preferences, and aspirations. Effective communication, empathy, and attention to detail are essential qualities for achieving this goal.
