Sonali Shah Interior Designer
Very often, we find ourselves wondering about the new talent or lack of it that we get to see in the residential sector. Every designer , young or old , is basically watching the trends ; and therefore every ‘designed home’ looks like a product catalogue , rather than an animated and personalized space reflecting the needs and preferences of its’ users . This dearth of designers with an open, creative mind with original ideas is felt very strongly in the metros – as the level of awareness and exposure to international trends is more. Smaller towns are spared from the severe onslaught of global influences, but they get bogged down by generations of cultural nations of home décor!
That is why a young designer with the right mix of global influences and originality, comes as a breath of fresh air. Sonali Shah of Mumabai is one such designer who seems to have got her act right. After graduating from SNDT, Mumbai in 1997, Sonali did a short stint with a local design firm to get the necessary experience.
Sonali also has a very clear idea of her design philosophy and her attitude towards her work reflects her passion and commitment. “I strongly feel that any interior space I design for clients should help them towards a better lifestyle but at the same time reflects their personality too. So though I design mostly modern interiors, they are sometimes contemporary, eclectic or a fusion depending on the clients’ taste,” says Sonali.
Of course, talent alone does not work. In this age of cut-throat competition, you have to have a extra something that makes you win a race. “Ambitious, I always was. Ambition coupled with self discipline and hard work gave me the confidence to succeed. Finally I feel creativity, good taste. An eye for detail… these things cannot be taught or learnt, they are inherent. An innate drive to observe and absorb, along with a strong faith in God and in my own ability, has helped me shape my own destiny,” believes Sonali.
Of course, talent alone does not work. In this age of cut-throat competition, you have to have a extra something that makes you win a race. “Ambitious, I always was. Ambition coupled with self discipline and hard work gave me the confidence to succeed. Finally I feel creativity, good taste. An eye for detail… these things cannot be taught or learnt, they are inherent. An innate drive to observe and absorb, along with a strong faith in God and in my own ability, has helped me shape my own destiny,” believes Sonali.
A friendly, sociable person, Sonali finds herself enjoying the process of meeting new people, interacting with them and making their personal living spaces. It is this enjoyment and involvement with clients’ lives, style, and aspirations that shines through
all the projects designed by her.
all the projects designed by her.
Also being featured regularly in some of the leading interior magazines has helped, among the notable award received are
1) Architects and interiors awards 2010 aces of spaces residential category
2) IAD awards 2009
3) IIID MK awards 2008
1) Architects and interiors awards 2010 aces of spaces residential category
2) IAD awards 2009
3) IIID MK awards 2008
