Shivani Ajmera & Disha Bhavsar Co- Founders, Quirk Studio, Mumbai
Shivani Ajmera and Disha Bhavsar, the co-founders of Quirk Studio; a boutique interior design practice based in Mumbai, embarked on a journey from their roots in interior design to establishing a renowned design studio known for its innovative and minimalist approach. Their path was marked by a blend of spontaneity, intuition, and a deep-seated passion for design, which has led them to create distinctive spaces that resonate with their clients’ personalities and the narratives of the sites they transform. Inspired by designers like Zaha Hadid, Philippe Starck and Geoffrey Bawa, Shivani and Disha continue to push the boundaries of design, seeking collaborations that align with their experimental and innovative approach. This is their journey.
What led you guys to take up design as a profession? Tell us about the the architects & designers you worked with initially?
Both Disha and I studied interior design. I attended the Florence Design Academy in Italy, while Disha went to University of Southampton in the UK. After completing our education, we returned to India and worked with various architectural firms. I had the opportunity to work with Talati and Panthaky Architects and Red Architects, while Disha gained experience at Milind Pai Associates. During this time, we explored different facets of design. Our paths crossed at a publishing house, where we both worked in different departments – Disha in editorial and I was in styling. It was during this time, in 2013, that the idea of Quirk Studio was conceived.
What comprises good design? Who are your design role models you look up to for inspiration?
For us, good design is about two main things, impact and experience. When someone enters a space, it should transport them, leaving a strong visual impact. Equally important is the experience within the space – how it feels to interact with the elements, from sitting on a chair to using the shower. We draw inspiration from many designers, including: Zaha Hadid: Her remarkable talent, groundbreaking work, and her ability to break barriers as a female architect make her a huge inspiration. Philippe Starck: His work is striking and always incorporates an element of surprise and quirkiness. Geoffrey Bawa: His architecture is understated, raw, and grounded, offering a unique perspective.
What inspired you to start Quirk Studio? Were there challenges to overcome as women entrepreneurs?
We started Quirk Studio in Mumbai, our hometown, as a natural progression after working with other architects. We wanted to build a company based on our shared vision and design philosophy. Interestingly, we began as colleagues and our friendship blossomed later, which helped us maintain professional boundaries and aligned expectations. As first generation entrepreneurs, we faced challenges navigating contracts, setting up the backend, and making financial decisions. We learned from our mistakes, and over the years, we’ve built a strong foundation and a robust design process.
As a practice grows, architects often struggle to raise fees, how do you feel this issue can be tackled?
It’s true that raising fees can be a challenge in the design industry. Proving your worth and demanding a fair price comes with time, experience, and a strong body of work. We’ve learned to identify the value we bring to the table and set our prices accordingly. We don’t hesitate to decline projects if the budget doesn’t align with our worth. Transparency is the key to managing finances. We have clear contracts outlining the scope of work, deliverables, payment structure, and responsibilities. This eliminates ambiguity and ensures a smooth process for both us and the client.
How do you balance creativity and practicality in your designs?
Our design process always begins with functionality. We prioritize the client’s needs, understand their family structure, and consider their lifestyle. We then weave in our minimalist and contemporary design aesthetic, incorporating clean lines, subtle details, and a focus on ease of maintenance. A recent project that embodies our ethos is a villa in Pune, completed in January 2024. This project reflects our love for natural light, neutral color palettes, raw materials, and textural elements. It features a stunning Japandi aesthetic, blending raw, imperfect elements with luxury and grandeur.
What are the specific design elements or materials which you too incorporate in your projects?
We gravitate towards classic, timeless materials. We love incorporating wood veneers, natural stones like Kota and Jaisalmer, cement panels, and textures through wallpapers and fabrics. We believe in layering spaces with interesting textures to enhance the sensory experience. While we appreciate the innovation of new materials, we prefer those that stand the test of time. We adapt our material choices to the specific geography and context of each project. For instance, in a project in Bhubaneswar, known for termite issues, we opted for composite materials that resemble wood and offers better durability.
In contemporary architecture and design sustainability seems like a visiting faculty, what is your take?
Sustainability in urban India is a complex issue. While we incorporate energy-conserving lighting, sustainable appliances, and source locally wherever possible, achieving a significant impact requires a larger systemic change. Sustainable materials and practices are expensive, and a reform is needed to make sustainable options more accessible. We are encouraged by clients, particularly younger generations, who increasingly prioritize sustainability. Our project in Solapur, with a client who shares our vision, is being built as a fully sustainable development, utilizing solar energy and minimizing environmental impact.
How do you handle disagreements over design solutions with clients or teammates?
Design disagreements are inevitable, whether between Disha and me or with our team. We encourage an egalitarian work environment where everyone has a voice. We believe the best idea should win, regardless of who proposes it. Ultimately, the goal is to find the best solution for the project and the client.
Is there a defined formula to become an established designer?
There’s no set formula for success. It’s about finding your own rhythm, defining your authentic voice, and paving your own compelling path. It’s essential to block out external noise and focus on your vision. Learning from mistakes is an invaluable part of the journey.
To what extent do collaborations help young firms and architects grow?
Collaboration is crucial in today’s design landscape. We believe in collaboration over competition and are excited to be working on collaborations with furniture and rug designers. We believe that breaking down silos and working together will elevate the Indian design scene.When considering collaborations, it’s crucial to ensure a shared design aesthetic and sensibility to create a successful partnership.
Tell us about some of your notable clients and ongoing projects?
clients and ongoing projects We primarily work with private clients and homeowners, including a few celebrity homes including Anushka and Aditya Seal, Soha Ali Khan, Music Director- Pritam for Jam8, Saregama Pvt. Ltd, Comedian and Writer Rohan Joshi, Indian Film Producer Deepshikha Deshmukh and Actor Jackky Bhagnani. Each project holds significance for us, but our London project stands out. We designed a beautiful building with four apartments in Mayfair for a film family, showcasing our ambition and design capabilities.
Your Message For Surfaces Reporter® Magazine And Its Team?
We appreciate the work Surfaces Reporter magazine does in covering design beyond aesthetics, delving into the business and other critical aspects of the industry. We wish you continued success in your endeavors.
The Mayfair Townhouse
A luxurious blend of neo-classical and contemporary elegance
The London townhouse is nestled in the exclusive Mayfair area. It spans a generous 8,000 sq.ft. The design approach was heavily influenced by the exquisite surroundings, the sophistication of its location, and the specific aesthetic preferences of the illustrious multi-generational family who are prominent figures in the Indian film and entertainment industry. The aim was to seamlessly blend the grandeur and drama of neo-classical style with the simplicity and clean minimalism of contemporary design. The family’s clear and detailed brief emphasized the need for a luxurious, curated, and highly designed home that caters to their functional requirements and lifestyle. The meticulous planning of each floor and apartment was essential to accommodate both individual and holistic project requirements, ensuring a sense of spaciousness while incorporating various design elements and features.
A key strategy inherent to the design style was to maintain a sense of fluidity between all the floors, achieved through a seamless flow of design details, materials, and elements. The color palette predominantly consists of neutral bright tones of grey, beige, and ivory, complemented by pops of color and the warmth of wood.
To counter London’s often gloomy and dark weather, the design team focused on creating an open, bright, and spacious ambiance through the use of carefully selected materials and colors.
The exquisite art adorning the walls was personally sourced from the client’s collection in India, adding a touch of personal elegance to the space.
The living room, with its picturesque view overlooking the lush lanes of Mayfair and Hyde Park, stands out as the most sought after, vibrant space in the home. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the long distance nature of the project, the design team successfully delivered the vision, thanks to a capable site team and memorable experiences sourcing materials and meeting with renowned brands in London.
Every aspect of the project, from furniture and soft furnishings to art, was meticulously curated and customized, with sourcing spanning across London, Dubai, and Italy. The selection of brands, including Gessi, Tom Dixon, Flexform, Seletti, Jonathan Adler, Anthropologie, Conran Shop, Cole & Sons, and more, was carefully tailored to align with the project’s vision and the client’s preferences.
A Soft Minimal Haven Overlooking The Sea
Based in South Mumbai this residence fuses Nordic Simplicity and Japanese Warmth.
In one of South Mumbai’s high rise buildings stands a gorgeous sea-facing home, belonging to a newlywed young couple in their early thirties, accompanied by their adorable labrador ‘whiskey’. Their vision for their first home together was deeply personal, guided by warmth and authenticity. They desired a space that not only reflected their individual tastes but also served as a sanctuary for their family, friends, and beloved pet.
Describing the design style of this home, one would characterize it as ‘soft minimal’. It seamlessly merges clean lines reminiscent of Nordic simplicity and functionality with the warmth and textures drawn from the soulful Japanese aesthetic.
The breathtaking, unobstructed sea view from the apartment served as the primary inspiration for the design. Soft, curved lines, gentle tonal hues, and warm textures were employed to enhance the serene backdrop while ensuring the space resonated with the couple’s personal touches. Throughout the home, a gentle palette of ivory, beige, and oak tones is complemented by accents of black, charcoal, and pops of green and sea blue, integrating seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Artwork in the living room mirrors the colors and beauty of the outdoor scenery.
In harmony with their surroundings, the design language of the home reflects the warmth and openness of its environment. Like all their projects, the design is deeply influenced by the architecture and topography of the space.This home exudes a sense of warmth, tranquility, and soulfulness. Balanced and nuanced in its approach, it not only delights the eyes but also envelops its inhabitants in a comforting embrace.
