By PEAKLIFE
In the ever-evolving world of design, women are emerging as powerful forces, reshaping the industry with their imaginative insights and artistic methods. From the forefront of interior design firms to the shelves of retail brands, women are leaving an undeniable imprint, propelling a transformative shift towards a future defined by sustainability and functionality. Their influence is not just significant but pivotal, heralding a new era where design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also purposeful and sustainable.
Redefining Design Norms
Saba Kapoor, co-founder, Nivasa, shared her thoughts on this with us: “Simply being a woman, indeed, being a human being, is inherently empowering. We possess an innate capacity for greatness that often astounds us as we continuously push our own boundaries and evolve. It’s remarkable how we constantly surprise ourselves, going beyond expectations and striving towards excellence in ways we hadn’t imagined. Each day, through our small victories, we embody the essence of superheroes, fueled by our ability and determination to overcome challenges and make a meaningful impact.”
Women-led interior design firms stand out as masters in the industry, redefining the traditional notions of design with their fresh and innovative approaches.
Ritu Gupta, Co-Founder and Interior Designer of Pramod Group, said, “Female interior designers are standing at the forefront, representing adaptable and flexible interiors that cater to the dynamic lives of their inhabitants. Their visionary approach ensures spaces evolve harmoniously, effortlessly meeting the ever-changing needs of those who dwell within.”
During the last few decades in the design industry, women have disrupted norms and conventions, daring to defy gender stereotypes entrenched in the fabric of interior design. With bold creativity, they’ve shattered the confines of traditional gendered aesthetics, crafting environments that transcend labels and embrace individuality. “Today, female designers conceive spaces that become a canvas of diversity, where tastes, styles, and personalities converge in a symphony of inclusivity and empowerment,” she further adds.
Promoting Purposeful and Sustainable Design
These firms understand the importance of creating spaces that are not just aesthetic but also match up with clients’ evolving needs. By incorporating elements of biophilic design, ergonomic furniture, sustainable materials, and dopamine decor, these firms promote well-being, environmental consciousness, and accessibility.
“Within every stroke and shade, women craft a tapestry of tomorrow, where the essence of interiors is far bigger than aesthetics, blossoming into dynamic reflections of fortitude, perseverance, and innovation. Harnessing the transformative power of design, women reimagine spaces as vibrant chronicles of empowerment, affirming that every corner is more than a mirror but a resounding testament to the indomitable impact they wield in sculpting the destiny ahead,” said Monica Chadha, founder and interior designer of Design Deconstruct.
Blending Style with Social Responsibility
For women entrepreneurs, design houses are an expression of the issues that they’re passionate about. No wonder there are several female designers making waves in the retail sector by launching products that blend style with social responsibility. Eco-friendly home decor and fair-trade artisanal goods are the next big thing as consumers become increasingly conscious of the environmental and social impact of their purchases.
Dhara Shroff, Promoter and Head of Retail at Opulin, shared, “Women designers are leaving an indelible mark on design by embracing a holistic approach that addresses diverse societal needs. From urban planning to interior spaces, their designs prioritise norms, inclusivity, breaking away from traditional norms, and fostering environments that cater to the varied experiences of individuals. Known to be problem solvers, they’re leading the way in women-led design initiatives. These designers are using their creativity to address global challenges, incorporating sustainable materials, and implementing eco-conscious practices. Their dedication to design not only reflects environmental responsibility but also serves as an inspiration for a more conscientious and resilient future.”
Women designers aren’t just building their own brand but also championing various causes through these. Be it equal opportunity employment, women-empowerment initiatives or helping wine find its footing in the world, women in design are champions of social change, using their platforms to amplify underrepresented voices.
Women-owned brands are leading the way by offering beautiful products that also contribute to a greater cause. While doing so, they’re actively empowering consumers to make informed choices and go for products made with sustainable practices and ethical sourcing.
Entrepreneurial Spirit in Design
Speaking with the founder and interior designer of Beyond Designs, Neha Gupta, we learned, “Design has been an intrinsic part of women’s lives through the ages in the form of embroidery, rangoli, sewing, crocheting, weaving, and many more. Alongside their household chores, women have managed to make time for these enriching activities and have come up trumps. Their inherent creativity and curiosity have led them to explore new techniques and adapt to innovations. This same quality, coupled with their entrepreneurial prowess, has made them build businesses based on their design knowledge. They are also good community leaders, and by making wise use of domestic talent to generate employment, they have made great strides in the business of design.
With the help of social media, it has become easy to reach an audience and build a clientele, so women are growing as entrepreneurs in the diverse design world. From creating home décor objects to artworks, from textiles to sarees, interiors to architecture, women are at the forefront of defining the future with their passion, grit and an open mind to challenges.”
Modular Solutions for Evolving Home Spaces
Who can understand evolving home spaces better than a woman? No wonder women-owned brands are creating modular furniture solutions that adjust to the changing lifestyles and space constraints of contemporary living. With urban spaces shrinking, the demand for flexible and adaptable furniture has never been higher. Women entrepreneurs are rising to this challenge, designing furniture that easily transforms to meet the diverse needs of their users. Whether it’s multifunctional pieces that serve varying purposes or modular systems that can be easily reconfigured, these furniture solutions are revolutionising the way we think about interior design and space optimisation.
In the architecture space, women architects are revolutionising urban landscapes with groundbreaking designs that promote sustainability, functionality, and community integration. Their innovative approach not only reshapes skylines but also fosters environmentally conscious and socially vibrant spaces, marking a significant shift in architectural paradigms towards a more inclusive and sustainable future.
“Women architects are actively breaking down gender stereotypes in the architectural space, signalling a departure from the industry’s historical male-dominated narrative. The rise of women in leadership roles serves as a mechanism for change, inspiring a new generation of architects and challenging preconceived notions. Through their work, they redefine the boundaries of traditional design, creating spaces that captivate the eye. This commitment to design that reflects the richness of human diversity contributes significantly to the evolution of architecture,” said Priyanka Khanna, founder and architect of 42MM Architecture.
Today, women in the design industry are also upholding a shift towards more diverse representation. By breaking away from traditional gender norms and stereotypes, they are creating spaces that reflect a diverse range of tastes, styles, and personalities. Gone are the days of cookie-cutter designs dictated by outdated gender roles; today’s interiors are a celebration of individuality and self-expression.
