In touch with the environment

ISSUE: 133

Shamna Stranc’s need to be connected with nature brought her back to India and a practice that focuses on sustainable architecture and design

What does it take to design timeless interiors?

SS: We, at Concept by Sowe, often believe that design is at its core a selfless profession, and hence to design timeless interiors, it is important for us to understand the poetics of space and tell a story of individuality that derives from the essence of the user. I personally do not follow design trends. I often shy away from social media and what’s out there, and would rather focus on exploration through understanding user needs and translating that into timeless design.

How do you balance the creative and commercial aspects of your business?

SS: This is where my partner comes into play; we have a good relationship in terms of our roles in the business. His focus is the commercial side of things and my primary focus is to be the creative director. For an artist, money always comes with problems and blocks creative thinking and hence I always make sure it doesn’t influence the design process.

What’s next?

SS: So many exciting new things coming in the next few months for sure. We are working on some amazing tropical modern holiday homes in Alibaug and doing something exiting and sustainable for Ugaoo’s next venture in Talegaon. We have also ventured into lighting design and are working on some concept prototypes for a whole new way of organic farming at home. There’s a fusion of different cocktails brewing in our studio and we look forward to sharing them with the world soon.

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