My Journey as a Designer: Roots, Growth, and Design Philosophy
Design is more than just aesthetics. It is a story. Here is a look at the history, education, and pivotal moments that shaped my approach to creating spaces today.
For those who don't know me, I'm Sarah Sham, Principal Designer at Essajees Atelier. I started this studio 10 years ago with the goal of doing the best design work in the world with the best team on the planet.
In my personal life, I'm a mom to two young girls and two furry babies. This is me with my daughter in my office, a space that represents the blend of my professional and personal worlds.
This is me with Steffi, our beloved indie dog and office mascot. My journey started in my family's 130-year-old business, and my love for design is deeply rooted in that history.
Standing in my home office. After studying Art History at Duke and Oxford, I realized my true passion was interior design. I named my studio Essajees Atelier as a nod to my family's legacy.
A photo with my incredible team. I started sharing my work on social media during COVID with a goal to be open about our process. I truly believe we all grow stronger by collaborating and sharing information.
I was once advised to buy a luxury handbag to signal success. At first, I thought my work should speak for itself. But I've learned that when you design luxury spaces, embodying that lifestyle helps clients trust that you truly understand their world.
I had the honor of giving Tim Cook a one-on-one walkthrough of the National Crafts Museum to explain the significance of Indian art and design. It was an incredible opportunity to share my passion with someone who holds the power to shape the world of design.
Here I am with Tim Cook inside a recreated courtyard home. We spoke about the philosophies of Charles Correa, the principles of Vaastu, and the various inspirations in Indian design. He was genuinely curious and engaged.
Explaining the intricate carvings of an ancient temple chariot to Tim Cook. My four generations of family history in art and antiques, combined with years of education and work, all culminated in this incredible moment.
A screenshot of Tim Cook's tweet after our tour. Seeing his appreciation for India's deep and beautiful culture of craft was so encouraging and made the day truly unforgettable.
About My Journey as a Designer
My design philosophy is built on 14 years of hands-on execution and four generations of family history in art and antiques. I believe in total transparency, which is why I share every step of our process, from the initial 3D renders to the real-world challenges on site. When you hire me, you aren't just getting an interior designer; you're getting someone who treats your space with the same rigor and passion I apply to every project, whether it is a private office or a complex commercial site.
I started Essajees Atelier with a simple goal: to do the best design work possible with a team that truly cares. My path here wasn't linear. I spent five years in the projects division of my family’s 130-year-old business, working on high-pressure renovations like the Taj Palace Hotel in Mumbai and the Ambani home, Antilia. That experience taught me the reality of construction—the importance of schedules, the need for accurate electrical grids, and how to solve problems like ugly HVAC ducts before they become permanent issues.
After that, I went back to school at Rachna Sansad, finishing at the top of my class, and finally launched my own studio. I believe that being a great designer means understanding how a client lives and works. That is why I am data-driven. I don't guess what you need; I map your employee demographics, work patterns, and brand culture to create a zoning strategy that actually functions.
I’m also vocal about the 'imposter syndrome' I still feel, even after speaking to 2000 people or giving a walkthrough of the National Crafts Museum to Tim Cook. This vulnerability helps me connect with my team and my clients. I share my journey openly because I believe that designers grow stronger by sharing information, not by gatekeeping it. Whether I am selecting Italian marble for a luxury cabin or designing a pantry, the focus is always on creating a space that feels calm, open, and undeniably yours.
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