1. What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
The design firms name is after my name (The principal Architect, Designer and Founder – Manushi Shah)
2. What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
The movie : Objectified. An in-depth look at designed objects and how it impacts our lives. Its focused on material, texture, scale, mass production of objects and how that evolves each day.
3. In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
Design to me is creating multifaceted experiential environments. Creating spaces that are minimal yet meaningful. Through an exploration of materiality, color, forms and an intuitive juxtaposition of contemporary and vintage, architectural and organic, graphic and instinctual, curating a wealth of experiences into every space.
4. What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practice?
Being able to express my creativity, keeping the end user in mind, is something that drives me to design. My biggest inspiration, is my family who always motivate me, and support me to achieve the best in my field.
5. Who is your favourite architect?
My favorite architect is Frank Llyod Wright. I believed in his philosophy of designing in harmony with humanity and the environment.
6. Do you have a signature style?
Modern and minimalistic, with some fun elements, creating an experience for the end user. Design is based on principles of utility and simplicity.
7. The one design philosophy you swear by?
Simplicity is what I always aim towards. When design is driven by a certain concept and idea, and fulfills the basic utilities, is what creates an amazing experience.
8. The one design quote you find timeless?
“An idea is salvation by imagination”
― Frank Lloyd Wright“
9. A hobby that sets you apart?
Baking is my biggest stressbuster. Baking healthy treats, innovating and creating new recipes is something that excites me. I love curating personlized gift hampers, with these healthy treats, keeping my self yet in this creative field. I have a start up called eat and repeat (@eatandrepeat.co), where i passionately follow my hobby.
10. A message to those few young practising Architects out there?
Hard work, dedication, determination and being confident is something that will make you stand out there. Everyday you end up learning. Keep grasping and growing.
11. Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
I follow Architecture and Design magazines in the world. Thats where i even end up learning from other eminent architects in the field. I end up getting inspired from them. Some magazines are Archidigest and Elle Decor