Suites to Spaces, How I Link A Person's Persona To Design

As a seasoned hotelier fueled by a fervent passion for design, I embarked on a revamping journey into the world of interior design. My visualisation skills and aptitude lie in an aesthetically detailed approach to interior and functional design. These are further amplified by my ongoing exposure as an owner, operator and developer of hospitality and commercial real estate assets. I began my career as a hotelier, learning the subtleties of the hospitality industry with finesse but it took me several experiences to get to where I am today. 

My Journey In Design

My keen eye for detail and an innate understanding of spatial dynamics set me apart. With a family deeply involved in the real estate industry, the dinner table conversations revolved around business strategies, opportunities, and challenges, providing me with invaluable insights into entrepreneurship from an early age. It was during this stint that the seeds of my passion for design were sown. The symphony of design elements in hotels intrigued me, prompting a deep dive into the world of architecture and decor.

For a mature understanding of the industry, I worked at Kamdhenu Realities, her family's firm, where I played a role in cultivating an inspiring sales and marketing culture. Over five years, I spearheaded the marketing of large-scale residential and commercial projects, leaving an indelible mark on her success. Amidst this transition, I encountered scepticism from those who questioned the leap from hospitality to design. Undeterred, I navigated through this scepticism, drawing inspiration from her belief that both disciplines are inherently intertwined. 

Determined by initial challenges, I envisioned and founded 'Danza Del Design' in 2016, a place for innovative design solutions. The studio’s name means “the dance of design” which embodies her approach to creating multi-faceted, couture interiors. With a focus on creating bespoke spaces that resonate with the client's vision, my studio established a repertoire of projects that ranged from opulent residences to chic hospitality spaces. All our design solutions are rooted with a focus on crafting spaces with SOUL- Story, Optimisation, Uniqueness, and Longevity that shape our philosophy. 

My design journey draws inspiration from myriad sources. My philosophy finds resonance with “Less is more”, where simplicity becomes a canvas for intricate narratives. Moreover, nature also serves as a wellspring of inspiration for me, where I integrate nature into the built environment, creating spaces that are luxurious and refreshing. Further unfolding with a better experience through my journey, my designs translated into spaces that stand as timeless testimonials to the confluence of nature and architecture.

We embrace a ‘Glocal’ ethos by mingling local context with global design, fostering a union of cultural delicacies and contemporary aesthetics. This encapsulates a belief that the essence of a space lies in its rooted connection to the locale, creating designs that resonate universally while celebrating the unique spirit of each community.

Grappling with challenges, the financial aspects also posed a restraint. From initial investment in office space, design software, and a talented team to managing ongoing operational costs, a meticulous financial plan was essential. I also faced the constraints of building a competent team that shared my vision and commitment to excellence. 

While my creativity fueled my passion, overcoming these design challenges presented a continuous learning curve. The design landscape was always evolving with emerging trends and for me, staying abreast of contemporary design dynamics was paramount. Each project brought forth unique demands, whether it be adapting to different architectural styles or incorporating client preferences. Sustainability, a cornerstone of modern design, found a niche in my practice. My commitment to eco-friendly practices and materials is articulated through projects that fuse luxury with environmental consciousness. I believe design is not static, it is a dynamic dialogue between the past, present, and future. 

As I look back on my journey, I am reminded that the only thing that always remains constant is the drive to be innovative and make spaces that deeply connect with people.

Authored by Ridhima Singh, Founder of Danza Del Design.