Sharmila Lakshman
Associate Design, M Moser Associates
Sharmila Lakshman, expert in the field of architecture and design. Her experiences in the industry have been condensed in this blog, in an attempt to impart wisdom and learning to the entire fraternity.
Sharmila began with an emphasis on the functionality of design. Her deep insights revealed a lot about the way a designer’s mind works. She introduced aesthetics as a fundamental, yet functionality as the core of architecture. With immense experience in creating corporate environments, recreational areas, institutional architecture and more, her 16 years were a pivotal aspect of her journey in architecture.
Ar Gurkiran Sanga
Principal Architect | Former Head Design-Space Matrix Design Consultants Pvt Ltd, Bangalore
In this industry, professionals have experienced the industry in a big way. At times, their experiences aren’t traveling to others in the industry that can solve many problems that many people face. Best Creators was born with the intention to bring in the best creators, architects, builders, turnkey contractors, designers, and suppliers to share their experiences, philosophies, and challenges that have helped them grow in the industry.
The following extract is from the Best Creators interview with Gurkiran Sanga, an experienced architect with a world of wisdom to share. Her powerful insights were very valuable to the discourse of the expectations in the industry and how strong values are the guiding force in any person’s life. We were thrilled to record her responses as she offered advice that is beneficial for the entire fraternity. Clearly, we saw the leader that has spearheaded numerous projects with her strong values and philosophies.
Pratima Chawla
Senior Projects Director at Innovatione India Projects LLP
Pratima Chawla, a Former leading Interior Designer from Aeon, who has devoted more than 18 years of her designing and creative career to the pursuit of fine architecture. Her humble and kind spirit is a powerful force, a clear reflection of the many milestones that she has achieved as an Interior Designer and as a person.
As the Best Creators asked her about her experiences, she was enthusiastic about sharing clean-cut, precise, and insightful wisdom for the entire fraternity to benefit from. Having dedicated the last 6 and half years to Aeon, her firm, she also spoke about the many organizations that have helped shape her views about the industry. She attributes her successes to definitive mentorship and the fortune of having worked with great people in the industry. Her dynamic character is truly an inspiration for us, with her summing up the industry in simplified and easily understandable terms.
Poonamchand Suthar
Managing Director of Theme Designer Studio
Poonamchand Suthar is a managing director of architecture and interior firm “Theme Designer Studio” and has over 28 years of experience in the field of design and architecture, in a freewheeling interview with Best Creators, he shared highlights of his professional journey and his mantra for success. He also offered practical insights, incisive ideas and actionable pointers that serve as a toolkit while designing solutions for clients’ requirements.
He worked with them for 25 years and 15 years back he ventured into his dream which was a design Studio – called “Theme Design Studio”. Initially, it was a very small boutique Studio which offers only interior design services. Today he has a team of 25 people and a full setup and now he is the full-time director of his dream project “theme design studio”.
Sathya Madhavan
Associate Architect at DWP Interics
The following extract is from the Best Creators interview with Sathya Madhavan, an associate architect in architecture. As we explore the experiences and learnings of the industry, we take to the pioneering forces in the world of architecture and design. The expert reveals powerful ideas that fuel the progression of modern architecture to the forefront of innovative technologies and best practices.
Sathya is a leader in interior design, especially workplace interior design, and has over 16 years of experience, working in the industry as a designer.
Neeraj Kalra
Senior Associate – Arcop
A series of questions were posed to architect Neeraj Kalra in order to learn more about the people behind this wonderful industry. Her success story is truly fascinating and will undoubtedly inspire those working in the industry.
Neeraj has been in the industry for over 25 years. She graduated from GNDU Amritsar and spent her first few years working in Chandigarh, where she worked for a big firm with large projects. She later relocated to Gurgaon and began working with the ARCOP. She has spent 15 years with ARCOP and has had an amazing experience. She has worked on a variety of projects and has never been bored. She has worked with a wide range of people and projects, including hospitality, institutions, schools, colleges, retails, malls, and theaters & housings.
Divya Ethirajan
Principal & Founding Partner-BetweenSpaces
Despite the fact that India, a rapidly developing country, is one of the key places in the world where architecture could have the greatest impact, there has been little critical reflection on the country’s architectural landscape, and architecture has struggled to assert its value to the wider population.
In a freewheeling interview with best creators, Divya, an expert in the field of architecture, shared her entire journey, challenges, and tips to vendors and turn key contractors. Divya’s success story is truly fascinating and will undoubtedly inspire many aspiring architects.
She was born and brought up in Bangalore and achieved her architecture degree from RV College of Architecture. She interned with Arya Architect in Ahmedabad. She worked in hundredhands from 2007. There were some events in 2009 and it was a difficult time for the construction industry. She wanted to start her own business and see where it would take her.
RACHEL SERRAO
Head of Design, Space Matrix
Rachel Serrao emphasizes the importance of user-centric design, advocating for architects to prioritize the needs of the user group over their own personal preferences. She champions the use of proportionate design principles and a simplified approach to design, prioritizing attention to detail.
As a child, Rachel Serrao di’t consider architecture a popular career choice unlike today. It wasn’t until she met a family friend who designed beautiful homes in Kerala that she became enamored with the profession. Rachel attended one of the most prestigious universities in the field of architecture and design, CEPT University, where her journey began.
CHAITRA SHIVASWAMY
Principal Architect, Studio Bhoomi.
Chaitra Shivaswamy, a Principal Architect at Studio Bhoomi, graduated from Dayananda Sagar College of Architecture, Bangalore in 2002. She joined Jaisim Fountainhead for her Internship. After completing the internship, Chaitra continued at the same firm as a junior architect.
Eventually, she moved up to being a senior architect and later on became an associate with Prof.Ar.Jaisim.
She runs her small practice under the firm name, Studio Bhoomi, where she works on residential and interior projects. Apart from this, she works on hospitality and institutional projects. They have an environmentally friendly and eco-sensitive approach towards their projects.
Prachi Karthik Naig
Design leader and Architect, Education Design International
In the evolving world of design, Prachi Karthik Naig stands out with her unique approach to creating user-centred spaces that blend beauty with functionality. As an influential architect and design leader, she has transformed spaces into immersive, functional experiences that meet both aesthetic and practical needs. Her philosophy goes beyond traditional design, fusing innovative ideas with a nuanced understanding of human interaction and behaviour. Her leadership is reshaping how design can inspire, with a focus on measurable, impactful solutions.
A Journey of Growth and Learning: Path to Professional Excellence
A passion for art and creativity from an early age guided her to architecture, with encouragement from her family to channel this talent professionally. Graduating from the University of Nagpur in 2007, she embarked on a diverse path that included residential, corporate, retail, airport & institutional design. Her curiosity and eagerness to learn helped her understand different aspects of design, from technical construction details to practical project delivery.
Swapnil Kanse
Senior Architect at DSP Design Associates
Swapnil Kanse, a distinguished Senior Architect at DSP Design Associates, has carved a remarkable niche in the world of architecture with his innovative approach to design and unwavering commitment to excellence. With a career marked by an intricate blend of creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of client aspirations, Swapnil has consistently delivered transformative projects that balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
In this editorial, we delve deeper into his professional journey—exploring the milestones that have defined his career, the philosophies that drive his design ethos, and the impactful contributions he has made to redefining contemporary architecture. From navigating complex challenges to crafting visionary spaces, Swapnil’s story is a testament to his dedication to shaping environments that leave a lasting legacy.
Mihir Desai
Principal Architect & Founder
M D & A Architects
Interview Part – 1
As part of our continued effort to feature trailblazers who redefine the world of design, This time ‘The Best Creator’ featured Mihir Desai, the Principal Architect & Founder of M D & A Architects. With a career built on vision, precision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Mihir has established himself as a driving force in contemporary architecture. His practice is known for seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetic brilliance, creating spaces that resonate with purpose and timeless appeal.
In this special feature, he opens up about his journey, inspirations, and the design philosophy that has shaped his remarkable career.
Gouri Upasani
Founder at Quadometry Designs
Great design is born from vision, passion, and a relentless pursuit of purpose and Gouri Upasani, Founder of Quadometry Designs, exemplifies all three. With over 20 years of distinguished experience in the architectural industry, she has built a legacy rooted in creativity, leadership, and deep technical expertise.
Her journey reflects the evolution of a designer who understands that spaces are more than structures; they are stories waiting to be told. Through her thoughtful approach and refined design sensibilities, Gouri continues to redefine how architecture engages with emotion, function, and form.
In ‘The Best Creators’ special feature, we are delighted to spotlight one of the finest creators shaping contemporary design narratives, a leader whose journey continues to influence and inspire the next generation of architects and design thinkers.
Let’s step into the creative world of Gouri Upasani, and uncover the philosophy and passion that drive her design excellence at Quadometry Designs.
Saalanki Saraf
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.
Upneet Kaur
Co-Founder & Principal Architect at Unorthodox Designs
Design is most powerful when it reflects people, their ideas, emotions, and stories. For Upneet Kaur, this belief forms the foundation of her work at Unorthodox Designs, where every project is shaped by meaningful dialogue between space, purpose, and identity.
As the Co-Founder and Principal Architect of Unorthodox Designs, Upneet redefines spatial storytelling by merging aesthetic bravery with functional precision. Her approach transcends trends delving instead into the soul of each project, whether it’s a bold commercial setting, a serene hospitality space, or a personalized residence that mirrors its owner’s journey.
Beyond being a designer, Upneet is a curator of experiences. From discovering innovative materials to fostering meaningful client relationships, she ensures that every collaboration evolves into something enduring. Her pursuit is clear to position Unorthodox Designs as a leading creative powerhouse in India, where design not only beautifies but transforms.
In this The Best Creators’ special feature, we will explore the inspiring journey of a creator who continues to shape spaces that speak, connect, and endure crafted by purpose, defined by passion.
