Designed by ARA Designs
Captured by Talib Chitalwala
Styled by Samir Wadekar
ARA Designs Studio has recently expanded its creative boundaries with a new 5,000 sq. ft. extension that embodies serenity, simplicity, and intentional design. Designed with the clear goal of fostering a more open, collaborative environment, the studio reflects the evolution of the team’s ethos. Twinkle Shah and Krishma Shah worked hand-in-hand to create a space that feels rooted in both tradition and innovation, combining natural materials with a minimalist palette that invites calm, clarity, and creativity.
The Heart of the Design: Birch Ply and Parametric Craftsmanship
At the entrance of the studio, a parametric birch ply installation stands as a bespoke sculptural centerpiece that seamlessly integrates multiple functions. Not just a visual statement, this striking structure serves as the reception area, seating, and extended work tables. Crafted from half-inch birch ply, it was assembled on-site, offering an organic fluidity that sets the tone for the entire space. This installation beautifully embodies the core concept of the office: functional beauty inspired by natural materials and modern craftsmanship.
Wabi-Sabi Sensibility: Celebrating Imperfection and Tactile Details
Drawing from a wabi-sabi sensibility, the design celebrates imperfection and authenticity. The use of terrazzo flooring, made from real cement, adds earthy texture underfoot, grounding the space in natural, raw beauty. Walls and ceilings feature a soft, tactile paint finish that blurs the boundary between surfaces, creating a sense of flow and visual continuity. These elements work together to form a peaceful, reflective space—perfect for design thinking and focused work.
Open, Transparent, and Thoughtfully Zoned Layout
The new extension of the studio embraces an open-plan layout that promotes cross-team visibility and collaborative energy. Every corner of the studio is thoughtfully zoned without barriers, creating a sense of openness while still providing areas for privacy. Senior architects’ tables are placed near expansive windows, ensuring both natural light and quietude. A central collaborative zone encourages the free flow of ideas, while meeting rooms and private cabins ensure that strategic discussions and client meetings can occur in quieter, more focused spaces.
Functional Beauty in Every Detail
Every element within ARA Designs Studio is bespoke, designed with purpose and crafted to last. The work desks, designed by Amey, are made from limestone, highlighting the tactile connection the team has with the materials. These pieces reflect the essence of thoughtful craftsmanship that permeates the entire studio. Even the air conditioning units were custom-designed to blend seamlessly with the minimalist aesthetic, ensuring that the design remains clean, functional, and timeless.
Sustainability Through Simplicity
Sustainability is an essential part of the design philosophy at ARA Designs Studio. Large windows flood the space with daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting during work hours. The studio’s minimalistic design approach ensures that there is no decorative clutter, with plants as the only adornment, contributing to both aesthetic beauty and improved air quality. This thoughtful integration of sustainable practices and natural elements enhances both the well-being of the team and the overall environmental impact.
A Space Defined by Wholeness, Precision, and Poetic Beauty
At ARA Designs Studio, it’s not a single object but the spirit of the space that makes it truly remarkable. The transparency of the layout, the softness of the materials, and the generous light create an environment that promotes creativity, focus, and community. The parametric birch ply installation serves as a visual embodiment of the space’s values—precision, purpose, and the poetic beauty of natural materials. In every corner, ARA Designs Studio has created a space that nurtures both form and function, offering a sanctuary where design thinking flourishes.
