In architecture, the axiom "form follows function" resonates profoundly. The aesthetic and ambience of a residence are intricately shaped by its design, wherein various design elements wield substantial influence over facets ranging from the spatial circulation within the dwelling to the quantum of natural illumination permeating each room. An adept design leader is instrumental in facilitating the training and advancement of fellow designers in diverse dimensions of their vocation. Kyrah Design Studio, a burgeoning design firm, endeavours to craft designs of profound significance. Prioritising light, space, and material, the studio is committed to delivering a sensory encounter that enhances value, constructing both enduring spaces and timeless objects. Kyrah Design Studio's Founder, Ar. Kanishka Mishra, serves as the visionary catalyst, infusing innovation and ingenuity into every design with a touch akin to Midas. She stands as the organization's beacon of optimism, fostering creativity relentlessly and propelling her personnel towards their pinnacle.

During an exclusive interview, she provided insights into the organization's operations, and the intricacies of the industry, and shared her visionary plans for future innovations within her company.

Highlight your design prowess and shed light on your past industry work exposure.

I commenced my professional expedition in 2014 with RED Architect. Subsequently, I collaborated with architect Ramesh Edwankar, dedicating nearly two years to our joint endeavours. In 2016, I relocated to Bangalore and embarked on a three-year tenure with Studio GSA, an architectural and interior design studio. Following this, I transitioned to the prestigious Prestige Group, contributing for a year and a half. Amidst the initial wave of COVID-19 in early 2020, I decided to embark on an entrepreneurial journey, resigning in January and officially launching my own venture just before the pandemic unfolded in March. Although it presented challenges, it was a valuable learning experience and a pivotal chapter in my professional trajectory.

What inspired the creation of Kyrah Design Studio, and what was the fundamental concept driving this entrepreneurial venture?

Our forte lies in crafting personalized designs, aiming to imbue each homeowner with a distinct aesthetic that mirrors their personality. In a landscape where uniformity prevails, we aspire to revive the tradition of individuality that seems to have waned. Our ethos revolves around engaging in extensive discussions with clients to resurrect the unique character of each home.

Our goal is to ensure that every homeowner experiences a reflecting design that resonates with them, fostering a sense of ownership and individuality. This approach stands in contrast to the prevalent trend of generic designs, aligning with our vision to reintroduce a personal touch to every residence. I've always aspired to start my venture due to my passion for hands-on involvement and the desire to provide personalised service. Having a supportive partner is crucial for making informed decisions, and I initiated the journey in 2020 amid the COVID pandemic, officially registering the company a year later. The key motivation is the joy of designing, ensuring clients actively participate in the process and our commitment to staying until the project's completion. This level of engagement is possible only when it's your venture, a distinction I've experienced compared to working for others.

What, in your view, are the primary hurdles faced as an entrepreneur in the Indian design sector? How do you navigate and surmount these challenges?

Among the myriad challenges faced, two notably impactful ones are acquiring the requisite skill set and addressing price disparities within the industry. In terms of skill development, our approach involves continuous experimentation with various materials, seeking solutions tailored to each project. While there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, we strive to find bespoke resolutions for every undertaking. Addressing price variations necessitates a meticulous evaluation of suppliers by commissioning smaller projects to gauge quality disparities. Our commitment lies in ensuring the delivery of quality products, irrespective of price differentials. Despite these challenges, the landscape is dynamic, and we remain open to adapting to emerging issues in the future.

How will virtual and augmented reality impact the future of interior design, and does Kyrah Design Studio use them in projects?

Currently, we don't employ VR, but during the lockdown, it proved invaluable for remote client engagement. Instead, we utilize various mediums to showcase realistic house perceptions, allowing clients to visualize the outcome. While VR isn't in our current toolkit, we anticipate exploring it in the future for an immersive client experience. We encourage clients to visit our Experience Center for a firsthand feel of materials and the envisioned space.

How do you foresee the evolution of interior design trends, and which ones do you think will have the most significant impact?

There's undeniable excitement in the industry, and a noticeable shift is apparent. People desire to infuse traditional elements into their homes, evoking memories and nostalgia. Many projects we've undertaken embrace traditional interiors but with a modern twist, reflecting a blend of old and new. This trend towards evolving traditional interiors holds promise for the future.

Ar. Kanishka Mishra, Co-Founder, Kyrah Design Studio

Ar. Kanishka Mishra, at the forefront of Kyrah Design Firm's leadership, presides over an eminent team that excels in delivering top-notch interior design solutions. With her insightful guidance, the company consistently achieves remarkable milestones, navigating a trajectory of success daily. Kanishka Mishra, leveraging her extensive expertise honed over several years in the industry, continues to propel Kyrah Design Firm to unprecedented heights, setting new standards of excellence in the dynamic field of interior design.