1. What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
Design 21 stands for Design for the 21st century. As a firm, we always strive to stay ahead of time and deliver designs that speak to the people. Also, secretly, we, the three founders, have an imminent connection with the number 21.
2. What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
I am always appreciative of creativity in any form. I have found many design books interesting and insightful. However, one of my favourites is The Design of Everyday Things, written by Don Norman. It discusses the ethereal relationship between psychology and design. This book is the ultimate guide to human-centred design, which we love to practise in our firm. I found the book interesting as it elaborates on the simple ways in which design affects our day-to-day lives.
3. In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
I like to create spaces that are warm, people-centric, and have a lot of panache, which is a reflection of my personality.
4. What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practice?
My inspirations are endless. And as a creative being, I believe one should be inspired by anything and everything to create something incredible. From a small bee to a well-planned city, the world around us is full of inspiration. However, most often I go back to music. I feel that design should be a sweet symphony, a beautifully synchronised music piece.
5. Who is your favourite architect?
My favourite architect is Late Zaha Hadid. She is a prodigious inspiration, and I would love to design iconic structures like her. Her spirit of adventure to embrace the new and her belief in the potential of inventions in design inspires me in my architectural practice.
6. Do you have a signature style?
I don’t, in fact, we don’t. And I am glad about it. According to us, design is for people and it should resonate with individual tastes, and not a signature style of a firm. I feel that it is always good to reflect the client’s personality in a design, without going for typical trends that revolve around the design world. Design 21 is known for its versatility in design and for delivering them according to the client’s aspirations.
7. The one design philosophy you swear by?
Creativity is our design philosophy. Be it the art in design or the engineering aspect, a creative attitude has the potential to transform a simple detail or design into something exquisite. I always identify architects as creative individuals, with a love for exploration and a distinguished understanding of people and places. Zaha Hadid can be easily pointed out as a creative architect who surpassed the boundary and put her spin on architecture & design, and what it means to be an architect.
8. The one design quote you find timeless?
“God is in the details” – This is the one quote that I truly find timeless.
9. A hobby that sets you apart?
Well, I do not set out on something specific as my hobby every time and again. I always like doing things that make me happy, even if it is the most obvious of them. I am a big foodie and love to cook, trying out new cuisines.
10. A message to those few young practising Architects out there?
As a young architect, one always seeks to accomplish successful projects. However, I would like them to enjoy the process, more than the product. I believe that it is the secret to your professional success. So, always work with love and passion, and you will enjoy the process of design.
11. Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
I enjoy swiping through Vinita Chaitanya’s Instagram handle for her design sensibility, and also for her charm. I do follow Fashion Designer Amit Aggarwal, and the quirky works of Acne studio.