Hospitality design entails styling and clever use of accessories

Using the household antiques adds character to the space and blends well with modern elements of design. Imaginative use of old furniture also has the same effect says Purvi Shah, Interior Designer, Purvi Shah Interiors.

What is your idea of good design when it comes to hospitality interiors?
My idea of a good design for hospitality interiors is sustainability with eye catching elements that make the decor attractive. It is important that the designed space lends itself to changes as per market trends so as to make maximum impact with minimum effort. Durability of materials used in an important factor. Intelligent utilization of space without making the area look crowded reflects the designer’s talent. One cannot ignore or overlook the positives from nature which must be considered in the overall plan. Needless to add, one would like to meet all client requirements without compromising on quality and aesthetics.

When it comes to different elements of interior design, which impacts hospitality design the most?
I feel the colour combinations and patterns are most impactful as they dominate the overall look in hospitality design. The visual appeal is unmissable. The right colour combinations bring a new freshness and vigour to the space. Elegance is another additional benefit. The advantage of modern trends is besides the traditional pastels, a number of contrasting hues can be used to good effect. It is to the credit of more discerning clientele who are open to experimentation. Needless to add, darker colours are more suited to larger spaces whereas lighter shades ‘open up’ smaller areas

Is the elegance in a hospitality project directly proportional to the budget in question?
No it is not. Elegance is a quality that can be achieved by harmonizing the various elements of design, not simply by spending big bucks. For example, I have practically experienced how the right artefacts (not necessarily expensive) can lighten up and add to the elegance quotient. Colour as I have mentioned above is another important factor. A lot of styling and clever use of accessories can bring alive the dullest corner. Using the household antiques adds character to the space and blends well with modern elements of design. Imaginative use of old furniture also has the same effect. In short, a lot can be achieved despite budget constraints. It is just a matter of using one’s creativity and optimizing the resources available.

Kindly cite a landmark project/s handled by your firm and what were the challenges involved?
My most challenging project in recent times involved the refurbishment of a dilapidated three storey restaurant in a bustling commercial area of Mumbai. The place was in shambles and I had to begin from scratch. There were a lot of structural challenges to make optimal use of the basement area going upwards. I had to be very careful considering the structure was already very weak. The cut outs and openings for natural light were quite limited. Hence, the fenestrations were given the Trompe L’oei effect.

A different concept was intentionally chosen for each of the three floors. The basement was made in rose pink and mint walls with  contrasting mirrors picked up from a flea market. It is styled as Vintage. The first floor or main area is made with a riot of colours and doodles of Amchi Mumbai showing landmark spots of the city we call home. The interiors are very quirky and give the look of a cafe with utmost attention to detailing.

The third floor was added as a party hall which also served as a fine dining area. It has a rustic look with herringbone pattern handmade cement tiles by Bharat Flooring. A lot of doors from dilapidated old buildings were procured, restored and displayed on a whole wall of assorted doors and windows of a building. Some quirky elements in the form of paintings and graffiti connect the three storeys. Despite all the challenges and constraints, I thoroughly enjoyed working on this project as it pushed my creative limits.

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