Design Process and Artisan Collaborations
A deeper look at the materials, stories, and craft techniques that shape the spaces I design.
A work-in-progress shot of the Thikri glass panels, showing the individual components laid out on the design templates before being assembled.
The raw materials for Thikri work: a pile of hand-cut mirrored glass and the paper template that guides the artisan's hand.
The artisan's workbench, covered in sketches and pieces of Thikri glass. This is where the magic happens, translating a design concept into a tangible piece of art.
A full view of the finished Thikri panel, showcasing the beautiful repetitive floral motif before its installation in the Peninsula Residence.
A detailed angle of the Thikri panel, capturing how the curved glass pieces catch the light differently, creating a dynamic, shimmering effect.
A magazine spread showing the powder room and hallway of the Loto Bianco villa, highlighting the use of cane and natural materials.
A feature on the serene bedroom design of the Loto Bianco villa, noting the Spanish theme and use of local materials.
The dining room of the Loto Bianco villa featured in a design publication, with a quote about the villa revealing itself in layers and paying ode to local craftsmanship.
A magazine spread titled 'Feelin' That Glow', showcasing the warm and inviting living room of the Loto Bianco villa.
The opening spread of the Loto Bianco feature, capturing the beautiful arched veranda and its connection to the outdoors.
About Additional Work
Design is most interesting when it stops being about just shapes and starts being about a narrative. Whether I am commissioning Thikri glass panels from Udaipur or custom lacquered wood modules in Channapatna, my goal is to introduce pieces with a soul. These details bring an authenticity to a room that mass-produced materials simply cannot replicate, and they turn a space into a place that feels lived-in rather than showroom-perfect.
My design philosophy often centers on what I call the 'simple swap'—exchanging mass-produced elements for handmade alternatives sourced from local communities. It is significantly more effort to scout, collaborate, and coordinate with artisans, but the result is a home that possesses a personality that is entirely its own.
The Artisan Connection
For projects like the Peninsula Residence, this meant flying to Udaipur to work with Rajprakash Ji, a master of 400-year-old Thikri glasswork. We didn't just buy a panel; we engaged in a process of sketching, template-making, and assembly that connected the client's home to a centuries-old tradition. Similarly, for the interiors of Lucky Chan, I spent time in Channapatna learning the hand-turning wood lathe process from local craftsmen. The goal was not just to install a fixture, but to bring an understanding of how natural dyes and wood grain create tonalities that synthetic lacquers completely miss.
Practical Sustainability
Beyond just aesthetics, I look for ways to make luxury sustainable. In many of my projects, we utilize waste marble from site excavations to create headboards or mosaic detailing, reducing on-site waste while creating unique textures. This approach requires precise technical documentation and GFC (Good For Construction) drawings, as every piece of waste material is unique and must be hand-fitted by our contractors.
A Collaborative Canvas
I treat my projects as a collaborative exercise. I am looking for clients who view their home as a living entity that evolves over time. If you have an appreciation for history, want to integrate traditional crafts like terracotta or cane into a modern layout, and are open to the process of working with specialists, we will be a great fit.
Maia Design Studio
Hi, I'm Shruti. My studio, MAIA, is all about letting spaces talk. We aren't just here to decorate; we are here to weave stories into your home using local heritage crafts. If you want a space that feels thoughtful, grounded, and entirely yours, I would love to chat.
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