Leading architect, interior designer of ultra-luxury estates & lifestyle creations Aparna Kaushik of Aparna Kaushik Design Group says, “Women are risk takers but also pragmatists which is the perfect combination for leadership.”
How do you describe your journey in this male-dominated industry?
I pursued my internship with an established architecture firm in Delhi, and after the course, continued to work with them for some time, which gave me good hands-on experience. I was passionate about my work so did everything from visiting the sites to coordinating with vendors/contractors, and interacting with clients.
Later, when I started my own practice, my learning continued as my early clients were people with finer sensibilities, who had exposure to good design and details. The kind of briefs and inputs I got from them compelled me to be impeccable with my work.
Who has been your inspiration in the process of your entire career?
I have been inspired by some contemporary designers, whose work I greatly admire. Bali-based architect Alexis Dornier is one of them. He is a very material-oriented architect, who is also experimental. He uses wood to create astonishing fluid structures and curved forms, and is well-known for amalgamating the interiors and exteriors in an amazing manner. I strive to bring in a similar interaction between the interiors and exteriors creating a natural habitat. Among the legends, Zaha Hadid has made a tremendous impact on me, even though I do not relate to her fluid structures. It is her life journey that I’m most impressed with — her ferocious conviction in her dreams, and her unflinching attitude when faced with challenges.
Which has been your first project? Where? What was it? How has been your experience?
I started off by designing a farmhouse with a vibrant tropical and Balinese theme, researching and brushing up my knowledge about this beautiful style. It was a very enriching experience. It also refined my work and shaped my career.
What type of projects captures your interest or rather interested to do?
I’m glad to be working on different kinds of projects each time. In fact, every project becomes unique encompassing its own vision, sensibility, needs and budgets. From European classism to contemporary minimal projects, we do an array of genres.
Your most challenging projects; where and why? Tell us more about the same?
Of course, there are challenges, especially when there is a disconnect between the contractor and us, the architects. In such cases, the details are not achieved to the letter T. That is the reason we have moved on to becoming a design-and-build firm, so that we can be in perfect control of the entire execution from design concepts to building a structure. With this conviction and creative vigor, we undertake comprehensive design-to-build services, offering discerning clients a thorough and cohesive design experience.