1. What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
We started our organisation with the intention of it being a collective hub of creative minds. The contribution made by each member is what makes us who we are, and we’re so proud of the diverse range of talent and creativity that our members bring to the table. We wanted a more generic name that reflected the collective nature of our organisation. Hence, the name Designers Group.
2. What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
There’s something about sci- fi and fiction movies that just inspires me. Be it ,the magical world of Harry Potter, the quirky world of Alice in Wonderland, or any other out-of-the-box creative movie, they all have a way of sparking the imagination.They make me believe in the impossible and stretch my mind’s boundaries, helping me to keep my creative flow going.
3. In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
I have always been a patron of simplicity. I enjoy finding harmony between the beauty of simplicity and the intricacies of my process. As a designer, it’s preferable to keep things simple. Unduly detailed designs can be arduous to produce and often have a shorter shelf life. I enjoy working with simple forms and then crafting the elements to create a design that is both sophisticated and timeless.
4. What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practice?
I take inspiration from everything around me. The local landscape, culture, history, and art, always find their way into my work. This is evident in the incorporation of the temple colours of Haridwar in The Pilibhit House. These elements can be used as a narrative device to connect the design with the client’s identity and create a memorable experience for the user.
5. Who is your favourite architect?
Frank Llyod Wright is one Architect I’ve always looked up to. His design philosophy was so ahead of its time and still holds up to this day. He believed in creating structures that were in harmony with their natural surroundings, and his use of organic materials and bold geometric forms was groundbreaking. He was indeed a master of his craft, and his legacy continues to inspire architects and designers globally.
6. Do you have a signature style?
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to architecture. It all depends on the project at hand, the inspiration behind it, and how you want to take it forward. Each project demands different techniques and skill sets. Hence, a signature style comes to be defined by the way one approaches each new project.
7. The one design philosophy you swear by?
In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s more important than ever to be able to improvise and adapt on the go. Constantly learning new things and having a strong narrative foundation to fall back on is important when it comes to design. Inheriting local nuances and adapting to new technologies keep our work grounded.
8. The one design quote you find timeless?
“To be simple is the most difficult.” This is a quote that has always stuck with me. It’s easy to be complex, to have many layers and facets. But to be simple? That’s much harder.
9. A hobby that sets you apart?
I’ve always been passionate about photography. It’s a medium that allows me to capture the world around me in a unique way, and I’m always looking for new ways to explore its potential.
10. A message to those few young practising Architects out there?
Nothing worth having comes easy. Yes, nothing is impossible but you have to put in the effort and hardwork to get there.
11. Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
There’s no one particular way to find inspiration. You can find it in the online and offline platforms of other designers, hoteliers, and other creative professionals. But you can also find it in everyday objects and experiences. The key is to keep your eyes and mind open to the countless possibilities.