The field of interior design has seen a surge of interest in India in recent years. This is due in part to the recent boom in the economy that has enabled both individuals and businesses to invest in the aesthetics of their homes and workplaces, but also due to the influence of social media and global influences on the Indian mainstream. Whether in the residential, commercial, hospitality, government, or corporate sectors, the importance of interior design in boosting well-being, increasing functionality, optimizing space, and leaving visitors stunned, be they residents, guests, or employees, is being increasingly recognized and valued.
In this article, we take a look at some of the change makers leading the Indian interior design sector, from those working with high-end, luxury clients on stunning palatial interiors, to those championing the work of Indian craftspeople through the use of artisanal interior pieces. As you read, you’ll learn about each company’s area of expertise and get to enjoy their most impressive interior design projects.
Contents:
- The KariGhars
- Morphogenesis
- Carafina
- Studio Lotus
- vir.mueller architects
- Savio & Rupa Interior Concepts
- Vinita Chaitanya
- Talati and Partners
- Unity Interiors
- DesignQube
- Orange Lane by Shabnam Gupta
- Roshaad Shroff Studio
- K2India
Ready to learn more about what India’s interior design scene has to offer? Then, let’s go.
The KariGhars
The KariGhars, founded in 2009 by Abhishek Chadha, is a group of expert interior designers from Bangalore who have joined forces to create what is becoming known as India’s leading interior design company. While the focus of the company is on interior design “turnkey” projects for villas and apartments, they also renovate entertainment units, create modular kitchens, and build bespoke furniture to fit specific projects.
The company has a minimalist approach, keeping details and accessories to a minimum, and working with cohesive color palettes that enhance a space. A standout element of The KariGhars’ service, is the website’s “Experience Center”, an online visual assortment of designs, materials, furniture, and furnishings that users can browse and use to get a real sense of how their home might look and function when designed by the company.
Area of specialization
While their approach is minimalist, the group’s design philosophy centers on the fluidity of contemporary design combined with mid-century, modern styles.
Notable projects from The KariGhars
Prestige Lakeside Habitat
The Gran Carmen Address Maker
Nikko Homes
Morphogenesis
Morphogenesis was founded in 1996 by Sonali and Mani Rastogi who dreamed of sharing their vision of sustainable architecture for modern, Indian homeowners and business owners. While sustainability is at the core of all their work, the team at Morphogenesis seeks to provide its clients with comfortable, safe, unique, and liveable spaces, with natural elements and processes often providing the inspiration behind their most memorable pieces.
While the company's architectural offering boasts skyscrapers, luxury apartment blocks, and glamorous shopping compounds, its work in interiors is just as impressive; the company creates boutique interior experiences that are rooted in material elegance and luxury and range from workspaces to art galleries, concert halls, and hotels. The multiple-award-winning architectural and interior design company has offices in the Indian cities of Pune, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi, and operates in countries including Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Afghanistan, and UAE.
Area of specialization
Morphogenesis specializes in architectural and interior design projects that are both sustainable and incorporate natural themes.
Notable projects from Morphogenesis
Architect’s House
Jindal Pipes’ Corporate Office
Carafina
Carafina is a leading interior design firm based in Bangalore. This team of interior design professionals seeks to provide high-quality and beautiful interiors for their residential clients, tailoring their solutions to meet the individual tastes of each homeowner. Home is a central theme to the work of the team at Carafina and much consideration is placed on the idea of the home being an intimate space within which clients spend time with loved ones, watch their children grow up, and care for their parents.
Known in particular for their expert craftsmanship and attention to detail, the team offers high-end, exclusive, and luxury home interiors across Bangalore, sourcing the finest materials to finish their projects. The company offers a range of services as part of each interior design project, from the initial visualization and design to execution, onsite supervision, and after-sales support.
Area of specialization
Carafina specializes in high-end, luxury residential interiors.
Notable projects from Carafina
Luxury Residential Interior Design Project–Living Room
Contemporary Residential Interior Design Project–Bedroom
Studio Lotus
Studio Lotus is an award-winning interior design firm that approaches design solutions with a value-driven process, in turn empowering both stakeholders and the environment, while examining sustainability from cultural, social, and environmental perspectives. The company was founded in 2002 by designers Ambrish Arora, Ankur Choksi, and Sidhartha Talwar, and has become known for its groundbreaking approach to architecture and spatial design.
With conscious design, the use of local resources, attention to detail, and an inclusive process central to the work of the team, the company creates designs that meet the challenges of contemporary living and working while drawing inspiration and learnings from local cultural influences.
Area of specialization
Studio Lotus specializes in sustainable interior design solutions.
Notable projects from Studio Lotus
The Quadrant House
The Stacked House
vir.mueller architects
vir.mueller architects was founded in 2003 by Christine Mueller and Panka Vir Gupta, with each bringing to the table their extensive experiences of working for renowned architectural firms in the US, Europe, and India. The company works within three key areas of architecture and design: research, education, and practice, with the firm working closely with prestigious universities, and publishing its own books on key elements of architecture and interior design.
The company’s own architectural and design work seeks to evoke the spirit of modern culture, elements of ecology, and the best of technology, with great value placed on the skilled work of craftspeople and building coherent relationships between the natural and manmade world.
Area of specialization
vir.mueller specializes in giving back to the interior design community through education, teaching, and research in the field.
Notable projects from vir.mueller
Ziraleet
Alok HQ
Savio & Rupa Interior Concepts
Based in Bangalore, Savio & Rupa are interior design consultants bringing unique and contemporary interior looks to high-end residential settings. Whether apartments, beachside cottages, or villas, the team at Savio & Rupa brings their innovative style, tailor-made furniture, and international experience to clients at the luxury end of the interiors market.
The company’s interior design offerings are wide-ranging and include the creation of bespoke furniture pieces, a 360° approach to space planning, and independent lighting design. Customers also enjoy a detailed breakdown of the design process and costs enabling them to know where key investments are being made and that they are within budget for a project.
Area of specialization
Savio & Rupa specialize in creating bespoke interiors and luxury homes for India’s elite.
Notable projects from Savio & Rupa
Legacy Ariston
Designer’s Den
Vinita Chaitanya
Vinita Chaitanya is the ultimate high-end interior design company, run by renowned interior designer Vinita Chaitanya. The designer’s own luxury homes and lavish lifestyle are the perfect advertisement for the opulent and stylish interior designs the company has become famous for. Working predominantly in the style of “contemporary classic”, the team describes its interior design work as “livable art”, a combination of client preferences and the firm’s own artistic vision, led by Vinita, which come together to create beautiful, bespoke, and ornate spaces that exceed the expectations of clients while wowing visitors and guests.
Area of specialization
The company’s USP is its combination of contemporary Western pieces with Indian artifacts.
Notable projects from Vinita Chaitanya
The Four Seasons
Electric Penthouse
Talati and Partners
Talati and Partners is an award-winning luxury design and consultancy firm made up of a team of more than 200 professionals with expertise in architecture, interior design, and construction administration. The group’s philosophy is “distinction is in the details”, with the company’s goal being to create unique, high-end designs that stand the test of time.
The company works in a variety of sectors including residential, institutional, hospitality, and retail. Talati & Partners has built up an impressive collection of awards over the years including Architectural Digest’s Most Influential Interior Designers / Architects in India in 2019 and 2020.
Area of specialization
The company designs interiors in many different sectors, bringing their eye for detail to each project.
Notable projects from Talati and Partners
Modern Fusion Home
Luxury Residence
Unity Interiors
Founded in 2018 by Ekta Makadia, Unity Interiors works with clients to create their dream homes. Rather than focusing on large-scale projects, the company’s mission is to focus on the individual’s social, environmental, and economic needs and designing interiors that fully reflect their preferences and personalities.
Despite being a relatively young interior design firm, in 2021 the company was named one of the Top Creative and Design Companies Globally by Clutch, the rating and reviews platform.
Area of specialization
Unity Interiors focuses on small-scale residential projects.
Notable projects from Unity Interiors
Residential Interior
Commercial Interior (museum)
DesignQube
Chennai-based architectural and interior design firm, DesignQube, offers a range of services for individuals, small businesses, public spaces, and corporate clients, from architecture and interior design to turnkey contracting and project management. The company can boast some well-known contracts including with Nestle, Logitech, and Murugappa, and provides its clients with in-house expertise and quick turnarounds to ensure all projects meet the specific requirements of the commission.
The team at DesignQube is process-driven, and clients vouch for their creativity, attention to detail, and transparency in how the company handles design and architectural requests. Clients can also enjoy 360° visualizations of design ideas before approval, clarity on government processes, cost consultancy, and daily updates on their project’s progress.
Area of specialization
DesignQube works with small and large clients to deliver a full range of architectural and interior design services, providing clients with hands-on support and expertise throughout each project.
Notable projects from DesignQube
Villa interior at Egmore, Chennai
The Courtyard at Alwarpet, Chennai
Orange Lane by Shabnam Gupta
Shabnam Gupta, founder and lead at design firm Orange Lane, is one of the most recognised and awarded interior designers in India. Working closely with her clients in the residential, commercial, hospitality, and retail sectors, she has become known in the industry for her bursts of color and textile combinations within contemporary design settings.
Orange Lane was founded by Shabnam in 2003 and has since grown into a large team of talented design professionals. Shabnam has carved out a cohesive, cathartic, and people-led philosophy for her team, as they seek to create chic and artistic interior designs for every kind of design preference, whether for a residential farmhouse interior or a boutique hotel.
Area of specialization
Shabnam Gupta’s Orange Lane is known for combining classic and contemporary styles, mixing vibrant fabrics with striking colour palettes.
Notable projects from Orange Lane
Satyani Jewels
Vistara
Roshaad Shroff Studio
Rooshad Shroff Studio is a Mumbai-based boutique interior design, furniture, and architecture firm, focusing on the high-end luxury market and championing artisanal skill. The company has won national and international acclaim, with its interiors featured in numerous publications including Good Homes and Elle Décor, and clients ranging from Christian Louboutin to Good Earth.
The company sets itself apart with its investment and research in traditional Indian craftwork and skills, collaborations with local artisans, and tailored solutions. The company works closely with skilled craftsmen and women from across the country for its marble carving, woodwork, and embroidery, channeling their work into contemporary designs to meet the specific preferences of their clients.
Area of specialization
The company specializes in utilizing the skills of local artisans and tradespeople, bringing handcrafted artifacts to their interiors.
Notable projects from Roshaad Shroff Studio
Roshaad Shroff Gallery
Phoenix Sora
K2India
Founded in 2010 by Sunita Kohli, K2India is a New Delhi-based interior design and architectural firm that aims to bring a range of design disciplines under one roof. The company’s ethos is founded in the belief that where a person lives and works impacts and influences their life. Design and architecture are therefore central to enhancing life quality, which the company seeks to do for its clients through the creation of innovative designs and cost-effective interior and architectural solutions.
The team of professional designers and architects at K2India have worked internationally, completing projects at private residences, corporate offices, hotels, fitness studios, boats, and even aircrafts. In addition, the company has taken on projects in the public sphere such as the restoration of public properties and heritage buildings.
Area of specialization
K2India has become known for its work on the restoration of numerous British period buildings such as the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the Prime Minister’s Office and Official Residence, Hyderabad House, the bungalows of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum, and the British Council Building and Library.
Notable projects from K2India
Gurgaon Apartment
Fitness First Platinum Gym
Conclusion
We hope our rundown of the top interior design companies in India provides some inspiration and direction for those of you looking to work with the top brass in this field. These game-changing interior designers and their teams demonstrate what can be achieved in this exciting and creative industry with the right combination of interior design skills, expertise, team support, and a professional network.
To learn more about launching your career in interior design, check out Interior Design Courses at AND Academy, taught by industry professionals in live, interactive classes. You can also take a look at projects created by our learners to get a better understanding. AND learner Aakriti Sharma’s Commercial Interior Design Project could be a great starting point to familiarise yourself with the quality education imparted at AND Academy.
Frequently asked questions
Q.1. What is the highest salary for an Interior Designer in India?
According to AAFT online, individuals with a bachelor's degree in interior design with 4-5 years of experience can earn INR 8-13.8 LPA. A postgrad in a similar role earns INR 14-20 LPA. Independent designers earn INR 50k-1 lakhs per month, and those employed with the top design firms can earn INR 22-24 LPA. Experienced designers in leading companies can earn up to INR 44 LPA.
According to 6figr, the highest reported salary offered to an interior designer is INR 50 LPA. The top 10% of employees earn more than INR 24.3 LPA. The top 1% earn more than a whopping INR 43.6 LPA.
Q.2. Which city is the best for an Interior Designer job in India?
The best city for an Interior Designer job in India can vary based on factors such as job opportunities, industry demand, cost of living, and personal preferences. However, cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, are known for their thriving interior design industries and offer numerous opportunities for professionals in this field. Ultimately, the best city for an individual will depend on their specific career goals, network, and lifestyle preferences.
Q.3. Which is the most famous Interior design company in India?
Morphogenesis, situated in Delhi, is among India's renowned interior design firms. Founded by Manit Rastogi and Sonali Rastogi, the company embraces a distinctive creative approach combined with sustainable principles. Manit Rastogi holds the distinction of being the first Indian architect to receive the World Architecture Festival Award. With offices in Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates, the firm operates on a global scale.
Q.4. What is the future of Interior Design in India?
The future of Interior Design in India appears promising, driven by factors such as urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and a growing focus on aesthetics and functionality in living and working spaces. With a rising demand for personalized and innovative designs, Interior Design is expected to continue evolving as a profession. Additionally, advancements in technology and sustainable design practices are likely to shape the field, offering new opportunities for creativity and efficiency. Overall, as India's economy grows and lifestyles change, the demand for skilled Interior Designers is expected to increase, making it a dynamic and rewarding career choice in the years ahead.
Next Steps
In case you need further assistance, here are some resources you can consider:
- Watch this session by Snehanshu Mukherjee, Founding Partner at T.E.A.M and Mansi Almadi, an Interior Designer at Studio Lotus
- Talk to a course advisor to discuss how you can transform your career with one of our courses.
- Check out our Interior Design courses - all courses are taught through live, interactive classes by industry experts.
- Take advantage of the scholarship and funding options that come with our courses to overcome any financial hurdle on the path of your career transformation.
Note: All information and/or data from external sources is believed to be accurate as of the date of publication.
