As the celebrations of International Women’s Day continue beyond March 8, the spotlight shines on the multifaceted contributions of women in architecture and interior design, a tribute that transcends a single day. Women bring a unique perspective to the design process, one that is informed by their experiences, insights and values. As a result, they are creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also responsive to human needs. Whether it’s designing sustainable communities, creating inclusive public spaces, or crafting homes that nurture the soul, women are leaving an indelible mark on the industry. In this exclusive feature, Tejaswini Paranjape engages in insightful conversations with women luminaries in architecture and interior design, uncovering their visionary approaches, innovative projects and perspectives. The responses of these women offer a glimpse into their experiences, struggles and triumphs, highlighting the perseverance and determination that defined their journeys to success. Their advice inspires and empowers the next generation of women architects and designers.
Inspiration
For Saachi Rana, Principal Designer, Design Studio, her journey into architecture and interior design was inspired by her upbringing. A childhood surrounded by creative influences can spark a lifelong passion. Vishakha Sareen, Principal Architect, Studio Aartarc, also drew from her innate passion for design, which was nurtured from a young age. This innate talent, when combined with dedication, can lead to remarkable accomplishments. Sonali Ashar, Founder and Principal Designer, Sonali Ashar Designs, is yet another example of someone who successfully channeled her passion into a fulfilling career. She says, “Educate yourself in the Arts. Visit museums, galleries. There’s inspiration everywhere.”
Notable Projects
Rana’s design of Falguni Shane Peacock’s flagship store in Delhi showcases her perseverance and dedication. The challenge of creating a visually striking space without using existing artwork due to trademark restrictions led her to paint an original piece exclusively for the store. Sareen’s design of a residential apartment, where functionality, aesthetics, and cross-ventilation were key, highlights her ability to balance modern aesthetics with practical living. Sonali Ashar is currently working on the interiors of an 80,000 sqft space, spanning multiple floors of a building. Ayushi Ashar, Director, Ashar Group has also been instrumental in shaping notable projects in the real estate sector.
Industry Trends and Future Readiness
As the architecture and interior design industry continues to evolve, these women are making themselves future-ready by staying abreast of emerging trends. Rana believes that design is becoming increasingly experience-driven and emotionally intelligent, with sustainability, biophilic design, and heirloom pieces in interiors defining the future. Sareen forecasts that sustainability, smart homes, and adaptive reuse will dominate the industry. Sonali Ashar emphasizes the importance of environmentally conscious choices and digital advancements such as AI-driven design tools.
Ayushi Ashar, with her expertise in real estate, notes that women are increasingly driving innovation in the industry, leading teams that shape landmark projects with meticulous attention to safety, functionality, and urban well-being. In fact, the latest statistics reveal a 48% surge in job opportunities for women in India, driven by growth in technology and emerging roles. As women continue to redefine the industry, their contributions are not just changing statistics, but defining the very essence of liveability in modern housing.
Heartfelt Advice for budding women architects
As they reflect on their journeys, these women offer heartfelt advice for young women embarking on a career in architecture and interior design. Rana stresses the importance of owning one’s craft and educating oneself relentlessly. Sareen advises young women to trust their creativity, embrace challenges, and stay resilient. Their collective message is one of empowerment, urging young women to believe in their vision and command the room with their expertise. Rana says, “If you believe in your vision and command the room with your expertise, you’ll create spaces that leave a legacy.”
Conclusion
As we celebrate the achievements of women not just on the women’s day but after that, we’re reminded that their contributions are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in architecture and design in India. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and creativity. By embracing diversity and promoting equal opportunities, we can unlock the full potential of the design industry and create spaces that truly reflect the needs and aspirations of our communities.
