1. What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
Ujjwal and I are very different as people and as designers. When we first started working together we were wary of it because we weren’t sure how our two styles and personalities would come together in a space. But the end product was quite satisfying for both of us because we both saw we brought the best out in each other’s styles and gave a good balance. The name Bipolar came about because it signifies a constant balance of opposing poles or polarities which is what we feel is constantly happening in our practice.
2. What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
I want to say something fancy like a documentary or a very intellectual textbook but for me it’s a book called ‘Dream First, Details Later’ by Ellie Marie Bennet. The author is a chef and she started a business making aprons. It sounds pretty simple but she basically talks about how as creative people, we tend to get sidetracked from our main goal because we tend to be perfectionists.
But there is no point to perfection if no one is left waiting to appreciate it. It talks about first working on the bare minimum before getting too ahead of yourself, which I think was a very important lesson for someone like me, who is a classic over-thinker. She also talks about the importance of people and building relationships. As designers, I think we would be happiest sketching away in our notebooks, but it’s very important to step away and engage with the people around you whether it’s through in-person, meetings, or social media etc. Great book, recommend it to every architect looking to start their own firm.
3. In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
Most people tell me that I have a very serious looking face but once I open up to them I’m actually quite approachable and funny. So I like to think that translates into my work as well. I try to keep an elegant vibe throughout the space I design, but I do try to include unexpected accents here and there. Whether it’s a piece of art or a statement furniture piece or an unexpected color.
4. What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practice?
I think I’m constantly ingesting a lot of content in my daily routine. I like to work with either some movie or song in the background and I browse Instagram a lot. I think that is my main source of inspiration. I like to see what is inspiring people around the world. I love watching real estate shows set in different cities around the world because I find the way different cultures design spaces so fascinating.
5. Who is your favourite architect?
My favourite architect keeps changing. Currently its a three way tie between Sanjay & Nina Puri , ZZ Architects, and Dipen Gada associates. With Sanjay / Nina Puri , I love the way they bring together art, furniture and the bones of a space to create something truly unique. With ZZ architects, I think just the sheer opulence in their forms and materiality is something I really admire. With Dipen Gada, I feel like his spaces have an innate sense of calm which to me is very difficult to achieve. It’s a very understated elegance.
6. Do you have a signature style?
I try to stay away from signature styles. I try to do new things everywhere and I don’t force myself to be too modern or classic etc. But I think for me, what is really important is color. I need to use color in some fun way. For me the visual impact of a space comes through the use of color and it is the single most important thing to decide when trying to control the feeling a space evokes in you
7. The one design philosophy you swear by?
I don’t know if it’s a philosophy but I try to keep an open mind. When I had just started out, I used to be very rigid about my initial ideas and get very offended when a client used to suggest a change. Over time I have decided to be more flexible. If a client comes to me and asks for a change, I’m happy to accommodate, no matter where we are in the design process. The clients are your collaborators and you have to trust them as much as they are trusting you with their space.
8. The one design quote you find timeless?
‘It’s through mistakes that you actually can grow, you have to get bad in order to get good’ – Paula Scher . Basically don’t be afraid of making mistakes and having people get angry at you. All these experiences will lead you to something better, provided you keep a positive attitude.
9. A hobby that sets you apart?
Hobby that sets me apart : I love watching shows about scams, I can rewatch them again and again. The human psychology behind people who commit fraud is something that is fascinating to me and people who fall for the most obvious scams is again truly interesting to watch. If you are a fan of ‘Fyre : The Festival That Never Happened’, ‘Inventing Anna’, ‘Skandal : Wirecard’ and ‘McMillions’ you may know what I’m talking about.
10. A message to those few young practising Architects out there?
If you’re planning on starting your own firm, I personally believe that experience is the best teacher. I value real world experience far more than a degree in the kind of work we do. Also, find work-life balance. I see a lot of people who take pride in staying up all night working and sacrifice time with their loved ones because they are ‘hustling’. I personally have never believed in this. I’m doing this job (and it is just a job) because I enjoy it and it lets me lead the kind of life I want to lead. My personal life is important to me, and I don’t see the point in pushing myself to the point where I’m not able to relax or spend time with my loved ones. I’m fine with not being the most famous architect out there. That’s not my end goal…
11. Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
Again this keeps changing. I’m a huge fan of Studio McGee because I find the way the founders communicate their design process very refreshing and something I feel more designers should incorporate. We’re too fond of using complicated and technical words when simple ones do the trick. I also follow Krupa Zubin of ZZ Architects. To me, her positive attitude and the discipline with which she leads her life and practice is amazing. Plus, she has an amazing shoe collection.