Interior design is a functional art because it adds an extra dimension to the built environment. The interior design of a building affects how people interact with the space and can have a significant impact on their experience. Interior designing is not just designing a space aesthetically, but they are also considering how the space will function for its intended purpose. Aishwarya Govind is an example of an architect and interior designer who shapes her approach to creating connections between the user and the space.

The Principal Architect at House of Ruya, Aishwarya Govind is an accomplished interior designer with a focus on Premium/Luxury Residential and commercial design. With years of professional experience in the industry, Aishwarya is passionate about bringing people and brands together to create meaningful experiences and environments. She understands that every space has a unique identity and works tirelessly to create designs that reflect this. Aishwarya’s commitment to her craft and attention to detail has earned her a reputation as a talented and dedicated architect. Below is an excerpt of Aishwarya Govind’s exclusive interaction with Women Entrepreneur magazine.

What are some important features of your expertise as an interior designer?

As an interior designer, the most important facets of my work are centered around understanding my client's vision and accommodating their needs. I prioritize planning for future growth and selecting appropriate materials for a specific use/function, while always ensuring that I spatially plan the space and find the right team to bring the design to reality. Being innovative and cost-effective is also crucial to creating designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. By focusing on these aspects, I can provide my clients with spaces that meet their unique requirements, are adaptable to their evolving needs, and that exceed their expectations.

Introduce us to the House of Ruya. Tell us about the underlying idea behind the venture and some of its key areas of specialization.

House of Ruya is a young design firm that was established in 2020. In the past few years, we have worked on a diverse range of projects, including residential and commercial interiors in various cities across India. We are now venturing into resort and hospitality interiors as well. As a boutique design firm, we believe in offering unique and special spaces that cater to our client's needs and make a positive impact on their lives. Furthermore, we conduct extensive research to understand our clients' lifestyles and brand identities to ensure that our designs are in harmony with their everyday lives.

Our primary focus is on creating spaces that are comfortable, functional, and sensible, and feel like an extension of the client's lives. At House of Ruya, we strongly believe in the phrase, we shape our building and in turn, the building shapes us. We spend 80 percent of our time indoors, and the spaces we inhabit impact our lives, which is why we are committed to creating spaces that are in confluence with our clients' everyday lives. At House of Ruya, we recognize the importance of preserving traditional art forms and supporting local artisans and craftsmen.

"My expertise lies in making someone's dream a reality, which involves understanding the space, & the client, & being futuristic to accommodate growth"

By working with these craftsmen, we can bring their skills and art into the modern world, providing them with a source of income while contributing to the culture of our country. Currently, we are collaborating with local craftsmen from Channapatna to develop a unique light that showcases their art. We are committed to expanding these efforts and finding ways to introduce their skill and art into our daily lives, enriching our surroundings with their unique perspectives and traditions.

What role did your Alma Mater Anna University play in shaping you as a leader?

Anna University stands out among other universities in India for its architecture department which has been in existence since the 1950s. And this university has produced many successful architects in the country who are making waves both locally and internationally. The university's approach to teaching architecture is unconventional as it emphasizes practical experience and exposure to external design competitions and events, rather than relying solely on textbooks and traditional classrooms.

As an alumna of the university, I gained a wealth of knowledge and creative skills that have been invaluable in my career as an architect. In addition to that, working with global brands in the United States has given me a wider perspective and understanding of the importance of reflecting on a client's identity and needs in a space. Starting my own business wasn't easy, but the experiences I gained at Anna University and working with large brands made the journey smoother and more successful.

Tell us about the top three milestones you have achieved throughout your professional journey. As a young and evolving firm, we have been testing and learning what works best for us. Over the past two years, our projects have been featured in prestigious design magazines such as Architectural Digest, and Elle Décor India, these recognitions have encouraged us to handle larger projects with much bigger budgets. Recently, House of Ruya was identified as one of the top 50 women-run businesses in India, a great achievement for us as a young firm. It is humbling to be listed with some of the best interior designers in the country. These milestones have been an encouragement for us to continue doing what we do best.

Aishwarya Govind, Principal Architect, House Of Ruya

An alumnus of Anna University, wherein Aishwarya completed her Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and further acquired her MS in Interior Design from Pratt Institute. In her professional journey so far, Aishwarya has been part of various domestic and international interior design companies such as Michael Kors, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, and WEWORK.