Co-Founder and Principal Architect at Unorthodox Designs
“A design becomes a legacy when vision meets execution.”
In our continued journey to spotlight trailblazers who shape the future of design with courage, creativity, and conviction, this edition of The Best Creator’s Editorial brings you the story of Saalanki ‘Saraf’, Co-Founder and Principal Architect at Unorthodox Designs.
Known for crafting spaces that balance daring creativity with everyday functionality, Saalanki is redefining what it means to be “unorthodox.” Her work is not about trends that fade but about timeless designs that enhance lives and inspire confidence.
In this editorial, Saalanki opens up about her journey, her philosophies, and the lessons she continues to learn and share with the design community. From resilience in the early days to leading large-scale projects with unwavering clarity, her story is one of vision, grit, and a deep belief that architecture is never just about spaces—it is about people.
Every profession carries within it stories of passion, resilience, and transformation. Architecture, in particular, is a canvas where creativity meets discipline, where ideas transform into structures, and where dreams solidify into spaces that shape human lives. For Saalanki ‘Saraf ’ architecture was never just a career path — it was a calling.
Her story is not about shortcuts or overnight victories. It is about a journey that began with simple conversations among friends in college, grew into a vision, and eventually evolved into a practice that today stands for originality, courage, and a refusal to conform to traditional molds. Through determination, balance, and empathy, Saalanki and her team carved a place for themselves in an industry that often tests patience, resilience, and creativity to the core.
What makes her story so inspiring is not just her professional achievements but the philosophy with which she lives and designs — one that values balance, empathy, and timelessness above all else.
The seeds of Unorthodox Designs were sown long before the firm was officially established. As a student of architecture, Saalanki found herself immersed not just in design lessons but also in friendships that would go on to define her life’s journey. What started as late-night brainstorming sessions and light-hearted jokes about “one day starting our own firm” gradually turned into a serious and shared dream.
After graduation, destiny aligned in their favor when she and her closest friends (future co-founders) landed in the same office. The professional world became both a playground and a training ground. Long hours at work sharpened their skills, while private discussions reignited their vision of building something different, something bold.
The name “Unorthodox” was born even before the firm took shape. It reflected who they were – daring, willing to experiment, and unwilling to blindly follow conventional paths. It was not just a name; it was a manifesto of sorts. Two years later, their youthful ambition took the form of an official practice. The casual banter of college days had transformed into a reality that demanded discipline, courage, and persistence.
Looking back, Saalanki often smiles at how a playful idea matured into her life’s purpose. The transition from dream to reality was not smooth — but it was authentic, built on shared passion and trust.
Saalanki stated about her philosophy that reflects both simplicity and depth: “Architecture is about balance.”
For her, every design is a careful dance between opposites – creativity and practicality, beauty and utility, imagination and execution. It is easy to get lost in aesthetics, but she believes that a design is only successful if it makes sense in the daily life of the people who use it.
Trends are fleeting in her eyes. A timeless design is one that resonates not just today but ten years later. Achieving that longevity requires more than style; it requires a deep understanding of human behavior, lifestyle, and aspirations.
Her approach is not about imposing ideas but about listening. Listening to clients, to spaces, and even to silence. In her words, “Design is not about creating noise; it’s about creating harmony. And harmony is found when beauty and function complement each other.”
This philosophy has become the soul of Unorthodox Designs, guiding their work across residential, commercial, and institutional projects.
Saalanki insists, architecture does not start with drawings; it starts with dialogue. Many clients come with big dreams but little knowledge of the process. Miscommunication at this stage can lead to confusion, delays, and unnecessary stress.
At Unorthodox Designs, communication is treated as sacred. Every project begins with conversations that set clear expectations about timelines, processes, budgets, and possibilities. Transparency builds trust, and trust becomes the foundation for creativity to flow freely.
The firm’s workflow reflects this belief. Structured systems, open discussions, and accountability at every level ensure that the team, clients, and vendors stay aligned. The three partners at the helm divide responsibilities based on their strengths while also stepping in to support each other whenever needed.
As Saalanki puts it beautifully: “Efficiency isn’t about rushing; it’s about designing systems where creativity doesn’t get stuck and execution doesn’t falter.”
Starting young often brings excitement but also skepticism. In her early days, Saalanki often found herself battling a silent question in clients’ minds: “Can someone this young handle such responsibility?”
Trust was not handed to her; it had to be earned. And she earned it through consistency, dedication, and results. By guiding her team closely, supporting younger colleagues, and ensuring clients saw tangible outcomes, she gradually shifted perceptions.
She believes resilience is not about never failing; it is about refusing to be shaken by doubt. For her, three values became non-negotiable: confidence, consistency, and passion. She says, these are the true foundations of trust.
Her advice to young architects stems from this experience: “Your drawings may get you in the door, but your ability to empathize, listen, and stand firm in challenges is what earns you respect.”
Every architect knows the gap between paper and reality. A design that looks perfect in drawings often faces unexpected hurdles on site.
Saalanki recalls her work on large-scale projects such as malls and corporate spaces, where approvals, layered authorities, and strict deadlines created a maze of challenges. Contracts and site restrictions tested not just technical knowledge but also patience and adaptability.
The solution? Parallel planning and on-ground problem solving. Quick decision-making and strong vendor relationships often became the bridge between vision and execution.
She firmly believes architects cannot remain detached from their sites. Being present, hands-on, and flexible is essential. She concluded that on site, we must be both artists and problem solvers. Practicality often becomes the unsung hero of a great design.
Every space carries a story waiting to be told – sometimes it’s a tale of family and belonging, other times it’s a brand’s journey of vision and identity. Saalanki ‘Saraf’ design is the art of giving these stories a voice through walls, layouts, and details that go beyond surface beauty.
She believes, in homes the essence lies in creating spaces that feel personal and warm, where every corner resonates with the lifestyle of its inhabitants. It’s not just about aesthetic appeal but about crafting an environment that reflects who they are, their personality, comfort, way of living.
On the other hand, commercial and hospitality projects demand a different kind of storytelling. Here, design must carry the weight of a brand’s message, ensuring the space itself speaks on behalf of the business. From the boldness of layouts to the subtlety of details, Saalanki’s approach ensures that the identity of the brand is not just seen but felt throughout the environment.
But no matter how beautiful or expressive a design may be, she emphasizes that functionality is its foundation. Efficient planning, smart use of space, and seamless alignment with daily routines or business operations are non-negotiable. Without this backbone, even the most photogenic design cannot succeed.
What ties it all together is trust. Clients turn to Saalanki not just for her creativity but for her ability to translate vision into reality with precision. The balance between imagination and execution defines her work and strengthens the confidence her clients place in her.
According to Saalanki, staying updated on design trends is less about chasing the next big thing and more about immersing herself in experiences that spark fresh perspectives. Inspiration flows from multiple avenues, viz. digital platforms and social media provide quick glimpses into global movements, while exhibitions and design fairs during the vibrant “design season” open doors to new ideas and conversations.
She concluded, travelling also shapes her creative lens, allowing her to see how different cultures approach space and identity. Even in the simplest moments, like observing how people use their everyday environments, she finds lessons in functionality and beauty.
Yet being trend-aware doesn’t mean following the crowd. At Unorthodox Designs, the goal is to lead with originality, drawing from influences but ultimately striving to create trends that others will one day look toward for inspiration.
Every journey of a design firm is dotted with milestones, but some moments truly define the course of its future. For Unorthodox Designs, one such turning point arrived unexpectedly during the turbulence of the COVID era.
Saalanki shared that what started as a pitch for a large-scale project quickly evolved into something much bigger than the team had imagined. With only three core members at that time, they put their heart and soul into preparing for the presentation. It wasn’t just about slides and boards but creating an immersive experience that spoke of their passion and commitment. They gathered materials, transported them to the site, and laid everything out meticulously, ensuring the client could not just see the design but feel the vision behind it.
The effort paid off beyond expectations. Not only did they secure the project they were pitching for, but on the very same day, they were entrusted with another assignment, one nearly three times the size of the original. It was a moment of exhilaration laced with challenge, as the young firm had to deliver on a scale it had never attempted before.
With no large workforce to fall back on, the trio had to build the foundation of their team while simultaneously executing the design. It was a trial by fire, demanding grit, agility, and an unshakable belief in their ability to deliver. Yet, against all odds, they pulled it off.
Looking back, that chapter stands as a testament to their resilience and resourcefulness. It was more than just winning projects. It was proof that their vision and determination could withstand even the toughest times. And from that day forward, there was no turning back.
According to Saalanki, the architecture industry is at a turning point and the shift and change must begin at the very roots: Education. While design thinking remains the heartbeat of architectural schools, students often step into the real world unprepared for the challenges that await them. From client handling and project management to cost estimation, finances, and BOQs, these practical foundations are just as critical as design itself. After all, even the most brilliant concept can stumble at the execution stage without them.
But the evolution doesn’t stop there. The industry also needs to align with the demands of today’s digital era. Modern tools like BIM, AI, and VR are not just buzzwords as they are reshaping productivity, efficiency, and client communication. Embracing these technologies can transform how architects work, bridging the gap between creativity and delivery.
In essence, the industry must balance grounded learning with futuristic tools, creating professionals who are not just visionaries, but also problem-solvers equipped for real-world complexities. Change is already in motion; the challenge now is to accelerate it with intent and purpose.
Saalanki shares her wisdom for newcomers stepping into the world of architecture and design. Her first advice is to keep Patience. She added, Architecture is a craft that takes time to master. Invest in learning, absorb every detail, and don’t rush the process.
She also highlights the power of observation. By noticing how spaces function and how people interact with their environment, young designers can internalize core principles that eventually become second nature.
Lastly, she stresses the importance of understanding the fundamentals. Trends are tempting, but true design success comes from mastering the basics – space, light, proportions, and functionality. Focus here first, and the rest will naturally follow.
Saalanki’s advice is a reminder that the journey in design is as much about thoughtful learning as it is about creativity.
Saalanki highlights that building material vendors are pivotal to the success of any project. She believes that focusing on consistent quality and ensuring timely deliveries can make a significant difference in how smoothly a project progresses. Reliable vendors not only reduce operational challenges but also help designers maintain the flow of work efficiently.
Equally important, she notes, is maintaining transparency in pricing. Clear and honest cost structures foster trust, not only with designers but also with clients—creating stronger professional relationships and paving the way for smoother project execution.
To turnkey contractors, Saalanki’s reminder is simple yet powerful: communication matters most.
Saalanki emphasizes the value of collaboration and practical problem-solving when working with contractors. She notes that contractors who go beyond merely identifying issues offering thoughtful solutions instead truly enhance the project experience. Consistent attention to detail, accountability, and meeting deadlines not only streamline workflows but also create a smoother, more satisfying outcome for both the team and the client. Ultimately, it’s this combination of expertise, responsibility, and proactive communication that makes a significant difference in every project.
True leadership goes beyond giving instructions, it’s about creating an environment where every team member feels valued, motivated, and confident to contribute their ideas. Effective leaders prioritize listening and collaboration, ensuring that responsibilities are aligned with individual strengths while providing support whenever needed.
Leadership is also about empowerment. By treating team members as partners rather than subordinates, leaders foster ownership, creativity, and accountability. When people feel heard and appreciated, they are more likely to take initiative, think innovatively, and go the extra mile.
Ultimately, the most successful leaders are those who cultivate a culture of trust, encouragement, and shared purpose. They understand that guiding a team is not just about directing work. It’s about nurturing talent and enabling everyone to achieve their full potential.
Saalanki Saraf’s journey is still unfolding, but it already carries the hallmarks of a legacy. From youthful dreams in college corridors to managing large-scale projects with confidence, she embodies resilience, balance, and originality.
Her story reminds us that architecture is not just about drawing buildings; it is about designing trust, empathy, and timeless experiences.
Through Unorthodox Designs, she has shown that being “unorthodox” is not about being different for the sake of it. It is about daring to imagine, daring to persist, and daring to create impact that lasts.
Her journey is proof that when passion meets resilience, and when design meets empathy, the result is not just structures but stories — stories that inspire generations to come.