“Mahal” means palace in many Indian languages, which is emulated in the interiors of this house in New York City. Inspired by Chettinad mansions in Tamil Nadu, India, the interiors incorporate traditional motifs, sarees and block prints, tile patterns, art pieces, jali screens, and wood engraving in a maximalist approach in the shared spaces on the first floor where guests will be entertained, and in a more subtle way in the private spaces which are only for the family's use. Traditional elements like rice sieves, rangoli patterns, and brass plates are used as wall decorations, while sarees are used for drapery and ceiling upholstery. Traditional furniture and light fixtures are juxtaposed against modern ones to create a dynamic interior, bringing South India into New York City, and allowing the residents of the home to showcase their culture to their guests.
Bio With an MFA degree in Interior Design, a Master of Architecture degree, and experience in healthcare architecture, the driving force behind my designs is the experience of the user within the space. While I enjoy exploring different aesthetic styles for each project, my approach is rooted in research on the program, user, site, history and cultural qualities of the intended project. Design shapes commmunities, and I believe tasteful design choices should be for people of all backgrounds and socio economic statuses. Design equity is what I aim to achieve as a professional Interior Designer.
Other prizes - New York School of Interior Design Chairman's Award for Academic Excellence 2023 - Ceramics of Italy Tile Competition 2023 Student Winner - IDA 2023 Gold - IDA 2023 Bronze (Cultural Interior Design- Exhibition Center, Cultural Interior Design- Museum) - IDA 2023 Honorable Mention - IDA 2022 Silver (Interior Design - Museum, Exhibits, Pavilions and exhibitions) - LIV Hospitality Design Awards 2022 Honorable Mention - New York School of Interior Design Institutional Scholarship
