MOOD FOR MINIMALISM

Nupur Shah and Saahil Parikh embrace many definitions of simplicity through their work, marking their decade-long run with minimalism that’s only gotten bolder

- TINA THAKRAR

In the last decade, a lot has changed for Nupur Shah and Saahil Parikh of Mumbai-based We Design Studio. In 2011, they had just moved back to Mumbai after studying and working in London and were poised to introduce their new firm to the country. From learning about the intricacies of budgeting and topography in their very first project in Alibag that year to now pulling off houses are large as 20,000sqft with ease, the duo has found growth, learning and an inherent sense of enjoyment, every step of the way.

This year, We Design Studio completes 10 years, with a robust portfolio of projects – apartments, private homes and villas in cities and towns across the country. Evidently, their forte has been residences, both large and small, all of which have been infused with their signature austerity, restraint and orderliness in design. For them, richness lies not inexpensive materials and bold colours, but in soothing experiences and clear expressions. This affinity for simplicity comes naturally, but what truly defines their work is an impartiality to the different projections and interpretations of that simplicity.

“Essentially, we are not a form-driven practice; we encourage the bottom-up approach. We don’t start our projects with a vision of the end product, instead, we’re more invested in the means to the end. Form and function are in step, they aren’t necessarily one before the other. What’s most important for us is for the project to be a response to the inhabitants, their sensibilities and lifestyles, and even how they think and feel. Each process is a collaboration – between us and the client, as well as our vendors, consultants and contractors. It’s a puzzle that fits together only when everyone plays their role well,” explains Saahil.