It is often said that `Your home is akin to a temple'. It is not merely a roof above one's head, but the very place that creates the blueprint of one's life. For eons, Indians have been relying on the ancient science of VastuShastra to maintain the sanctity of living spaces. The traditional Indian guide to architecture teaches us to create living spaces that promote a life replete with wealth, health, success and abundance.

In today's modern world, it is hard to come by architects and designers who possess the relevant know-how to create Vastu compliant living spaces. Studio Antarit, a Gurgaon based young and dynamic architecture and interior design firm has filled this void with élan. The brain child of Kirti Pandey, Studio Antarit is not only grounded in the ancient roots of our civilization but also marries it with modern sciences to create contemporary spaces that are Vastu compliant.

Armed with a Bachelor's Degree in Architecture from Jamia University, Delhi and vast industry experience, Kirti has led Studio Antarit to successfully deliver 100s of projects across the country and the globe in various cities, industry, and disciplines. The talented architect is dedicated to providing state of the art technology and design along with revered service to her clients and she does it all with immense gratitude in her heart.

In an in-depth conversation with the Women Entrepreneur team, Kirti narrates to us her entrepreneurial journey and introduces us to the various areas of specialization that make Studio Antarit truly one of a kind.

Take us through your educational journey. What brought you into the interior design and architecture industry?

Ironically, during my school days I never excelled in art classes. I also never intended to study architecture. However, I was inspired by my father and his life of constant learning, which he dedicated earnestly towards the Indian science of Architecture. Therefore, I chose this field. 

I acquired my bachelor's degree in architecture from Jamia University, Delhi. Although after graduation I had developed interest for space designing and planning but very soon I developed a keen interest in interior designing. 

“Designing with sustainability and state of art features engraved in detailing of a project be it services or products, we cater all of it”

After graduation I got the opportunity to work with Late Sh. Ravindra Bhans' and Late Sh. Ashok Dhawan, some of the most inspiring architects of our nation. I started working alongside on some minor projects of my own as well. I hustled five days in ADA studio and weekends in my studio.

Introduce us to your brainchild, studio Antarit and the various areas of specialization that the firm is known for? What are some design philosophies that you leverage in order to create beautiful designs?

Space planning with sustainability and state of the art features engraved in detailing of a project be it services, or products, we cater all of it. Our forte lies in combining practical knowledge in Vedic science ce a.k.a Vastu shastra and contemporary design and architecture. Also, most of our clients seek 100 percent Vastu and architecture, both. We possess the capability to deliver it all under one roof, without troubling or compromising their faith. I believe this is one of our biggest strengths. 

We approach the project with more technicality, keeping the future and present in contrast. We never do repetition in concepts or pattern of design in projects as we believe every space is unique. While architecture and interior are two different wings but doing both feels like you have done fair nourishment to your baby.

We create spaces in hierarchy and keep adding some surprise elements of green, water, sculpture, light feature etc, which holds the eye. We prefer clutter free spaces with natural light and ventilation. In today's time when everything changes over night, be it technology or trending art, we try to design a practical building which will stay relevant for a long duration.

Tell us about your approach to work and leadership. Also, how do keep yourself well aligned with industry trends and evolutions? 

I make it a point to interact with every team member daily, be it project coordinators or craftsmen. This wayeveryone is on the same page and the vision becomes a reality with much desired cohesion and punctuality. I make my team envision the same ideas that I do and we as a team can add on to every detail possible on the project.

I believe every single interaction with people in and out of the industry is a learning experience. One gets to absorb so much from people at all levels of the hierarchy. Following the industry leaders, inventors, manufacturers and other design enthusiasts is an inspiration and another source of learning for me. I also always scribble keeping nature as nodal point in my projects. Nature is always the biggest source of inspiration for my imagination.

How has your journey been as an entrepreneur? What would your advice be to your women who aspire to follow in your footsteps?

I think being entrepreneur in this filed is a major struggle. Here you are the investor, director and the executioner.

The patriarchal mindset of the society also acts as a huge barrier for young women entrepreneurs like myself and many others. The society still hasn't gotten over the crude mindset and still judges our work based on our gender. Condescending statements like "A girl can't handle the field" only urges me to prove them wrong. You often get compared with contractors or some sub designers which indeed is off-putting. But being consistent in our work and irrespective of stereotypes hurdles we keep rising. We have managed to prove that hard-work, aptitude and creativity can't be judged on irrational grounds.

My advice to other women aspiring to be entrepreneurs would be to `Keep your head high' and never bow to anyone. Dream as big as you can and never let anyone tell you that you can't achieve them.

Kirti Pandey, Founder & Design Head Studio Antarit

Armed with aBachelor's Degree in Architecture from Jamia University, Delhi and vast industry experience, Kirti is dedicated to providing state of the art technology and design along with revered service to her clients.