My Design Philosophy: Creating Spaces with Soul
Design is not about aesthetics alone; it is about the stories we leave behind. Here is a look at the philosophy that guides my work, as shared through my conversations and features in the press.
I am beyond thrilled to be featured in the prestigious AD100 list by Architectural Digest India. This is a huge honor, and it’s dedicated to my amazing team and visionary clients who make it all possible.
On the cover of Design Essentia magazine for our Dhaka residence. It was a pleasure to share the story of this special project, a journey of creating a contemporary home steeped in culture and heritage.
It was a pleasure to share my unconventional journey into design, from advertising to creating soulful spaces. My philosophy is simple: design with courage, honesty, and heart, and create spaces that are not just designed, but deeply felt.
In this podcast, I talk about my journey, my army-kid roots, and how my early observations of a life lived with attention to detail shaped my design sensibilities. It all started with those growing up days.
Some quick, real tips for first-time homeowners. My advice is always to get honest guidance, don't go overboard with lighting, invest in a good bathroom, and most importantly, make the house about you.
A little introduction to my design style. If you want a run-of-the-mill house, I'm not for you. But if you want a home with character, that's eclectic, fun, and interesting, then we should talk.
A spotlight feature with Cottons and Satins, a collaborator I love working with. We discussed our recent project in Dhaka, and how we used versatile fabrics and bespoke furniture to tell a unique story.
About this collection
When you look at these features, you see more than just finished rooms—you see an unconventional journey. I never went to design school. Everything I know comes from listening to the buildings I restore, watching how light hits a wall, and trusting that deep, gut feeling of what makes a house feel like a home. It is not about adhering to trends, but about finding the soul of a space, whether it is a heritage bungalow in Mumbai or a new apartment.
Architecture as a Story
I believe a home should echo your life. My approach to architectural design is rooted in the belief that spaces are not just structures to be filled with furniture, but containers for your memories. Whether I am working on a full-scale transformation or a delicate heritage restoration, my goal remains the same: to create a sanctuary where you can truly exhale.
The Heritage Connection
There is a quiet power in old buildings. Over the years, I have found myself drawn to structures that hold history—places with original mitti (earth) walls, heavy wooden beams, and stories embedded in the foundations. My work often involves bringing these spaces back to life, blending modern comforts like sound-proof fenestration and VRV HVAC systems with traditional techniques like lime plaster and exposed brick. It is a delicate balance of honouring the past while making it work for today.
How We Collaborate
My process is entirely collaborative. You are not just a client; you are a co-creator. We move through the journey together, from the initial mood boards and technical coordination with engineers to sourcing bespoke decor from antique dealers and art galleries. I bring in global influences, but the heart of every project is your personality. We do not use formulas. We do not chase the latest magazine trends. We simply listen to the space, follow the light, and let the design evolve naturally into something that is yours alone.
Richa Bahl
I started this journey in my own home, following my gut and a love for old, lived-in spaces. I do not work with templates or rigid formulas; I work with you, your memories, and the unique architecture of your home to create something that feels profoundly, unmistakably yours.
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