Art Deco architecture. Antique furniture. Art History books. My aesthetics have been shaped by all of these. Growing up in a heritage building in South Mumbai, I have always been drawn to designs that endure and spaces that meld the classic with the contemporary.
What is the foundation for your design?
I have an organic approach to every project. It all starts with-what does the client want? What is the emotion that it needs to evoke? We have an emotional connect with our immediate surroundings and I like to capture that in my designs. My designs are eclectic and minimalist without being too stark. I like creating spaces that are warm and inviting. Spaces that not only look good but are comfortable and make you want to linger.
You’re the name behind some of the most talked about restaurants...
It started with Silver Beach Cafe and Nom Nom, and since then it has been a seamless progression from designing residential sites to designing restaurants and other commercial projects. Designing public spaces makes my work visible to a lot more people. It also gives me scope for experimentation and I’ve enjoyed each and every project.
How do you avoid repeating yourself?
That’s a question I get asked a lot! I stick to the client's brief and approach each project with a fresh perspective. What is the location? What is the cuisine? What segment are we targeting? .Each restaurant stands out for its distinctive ambience and I’m humbled by the appreciation shown by my clients and their patrons.
What do you enjoy most about your profession?
It’s been 23 years since my first site and I love how each day at work is different. I love the challenges, the surprises, the process of ideation and seeing it all come together in a tangible form. Each assignment is an opportunity for me to learn and unlearn and there is no monotony.
