Classical, yet modern

I have been in the field of design for over 21 years. And (to work within a field) for that long a period of time, you need to have some compelling reasons. The reason for me is the great feeling that I experience when I give a beautiful home to my clients and their families. That’s what I live for and love to do to bring happiness to their lives by providing them with a home that they can love and appreciate.

And it’s not an easy job to do, mind you. You need to really listen to them and understand their needs as each home is supposed to be as different as each person is. But that is a job that I love to do and the satisfaction that you get at the end of it is worth it.

While I am not inspired by a single designer, my designs are influenced by the Spanish and French designs. I feel that as opposed to contemporary Italian designs that are quite glossy, French or Spanish designs are more subtle. They still make a lot of use of arches but are plain and not gothic as in case of Roman designs. They give you a warm and cosy feeling and make you feel at home.

And while these designs inspire me, I cannot stop just there. Yes, we have to learn from the wisdom of our predecessors but then we have to take it forward in our own way. My inspiration is just a reflection in my work but my designs are much more than that. That inspiration is just a starting point, from where my journey as a designer begins.

For example, while people still appreciate the classical styles academically, they no longer want an extremely classical style in their homes. They want something fresh that is not available all over the place on each and every home décor website. And that’s what I try to do. I take something classical and try to create something totally different out of it with different polishes, finishes and so on. So while it has a classical essence, at the same time it is up to date with the modern times.

Rohit is the founder
of Nivasa
As told to Vishav