Revolutionizing Spaces: An Exclusive Interview with Ninad Pardeshi on ELM Designs' Innovative Approach to Architecture and Design

Key trends in luxury architecture include integrating art and nature to create timeless, astonishing spaces.

Here is the exclusive Interview with Principal Architect & CEO of ELM Designs regarding how Ninad Pardeshi's ELM Designs is shaping modern architecture from concept to creation. We focus on his achievements, clients he served, key designs methodologies, his outlook towards art and vision of his company.

Below are the Q&As-

1. Mr. Pardeshi, you've built an impressive reputation as one of India's top architects. Could you share what inspired you to pursue architecture and what sets your design philosophy apart?

My design philosophy revolves around maximalism. Unlike the prevailing trend of minimalism, I envision spaces that exude grandeur and opulence. Inspired by Mumbai’s growth and India’s evolving luxury landscape, I believe luxury elevates the state of mind. My approach combines art and architecture, transforming homes into masterpieces that make inhabitants feel royal and larger than life.

2. Your work has catered to many high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs), including celebrities. How has this unique clientele shaped your approach to architecture?

HNIs and UHNIs often come with vivid imaginations and aspirations, not bound by financial constraints. Their global exposure and inspirations-from European and Australian designs-drive my creative process. Collaborating with such clients fuels innovation, helping ELM Designs craft bespoke spaces that balance imagination with clarity, resulting in truly unique homes.

3. What are some key design elements or trends that you believe are currently transforming the architecture landscape in India, especially in luxury residences?

Key trends in luxury architecture include integrating art and nature to create timeless, astonishing spaces. My designs focus on intricate finishes, blending modern styles with artistic elements to evoke a sense of novelty. Each project features distinct combinations of materials, color palettes, and themes, ensuring no two homes are alike. Personalized designs reflect the personality and preferences of each client.

4. When working with celebrity clients or public figures, how do you balance their personal preferences with your artistic vision while maintaining a sense of privacy and exclusivity?

I maintain exclusivity by customizing every detail, from color schemes to furnishings, to suit the client’s story and persona. Privacy is safeguarded through NDAs, limited team access, and minimal social media exposure. My team focuses on word-of-mouth referrals rather than publicizing projects, honoring the trust and discretion expected by high-profile clients.

5. As someone with such high-profile clients, how do you ensure that every project remains distinct, and what role does personalization play in your work?

Personalization is paramount at ELM Designs. Each project reflects the client’s persona-be it royal heritage or a journey of modern success. Materials, themes, and layouts are tailored to tell their unique stories, blending modern and traditional elements. Distinctive combinations and constant refinement ensure no two projects look alike.

6. You've been known to merge modern designs with traditional elements. Can you tell us about a project where this fusion really stood out to you?

I recall designing homes for celebrities like Sanjay Kapoor and Shefali Khan, where traditional royal aesthetics merged seamlessly with contemporary designs. For instance, Shefali Khan’s home featured royal blue hues and intricate traditional motifs balanced with modern layouts. Such designs evoke nostalgia while meeting contemporary demands, creating spaces that resonate deeply with the clients.

7. You have plans to open an exclusive art gallery showcasing products in the high-end range. What inspired this idea, and what type of products will be featured in the gallery?

The gallery concept stems from my belief in the transformative power of art. Focused on blending imperfection with beauty, the gallery will feature sculptures, paintings, and bespoke installations made from wood, clay, and metals. These art pieces aim to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and complement luxury interiors, making them timeless investments.

8. This gallery sounds like a unique venture. How do you envision it elevating the connection between architecture, art, and design, and what role will it play in shaping the aesthetic tastes of luxury consumers?

The gallery will integrate art with architecture, offering products that resonate with human imperfections and spirituality. By curating art that challenges perceptions and inspires reflection, it will elevate the aesthetic standards of luxury consumers. I aim to position Indian art globally, transforming it into a status symbol and redefining luxury.

9. In your experience, how does art intersect with architectural design in the luxury space? Are there any particular pieces or artists whose work you particularly admire or feature in your projects?

I collaborate with Indian art schools and emerging artists to infuse spaces with cultural depth. I admire works from JJ Pillai and other visionary artists, focusing on pieces that tell compelling stories. My mission is to highlight India’s artistic heritage and position it as a global hub for luxury art.

10. As someone who has worked with HNIs and UHNIs, what are some of the challenges you face in ensuring that the designs align with their exacting standards and lifestyle expectations?

Aligning designs with elite clients’ expectations requires balancing creativity with logic and exclusivity. They demand perfection and privacy, often asking intricate questions about materials and aesthetics. My approach involves thorough communication, patience, and attention to detail, ensuring the final product exceeds expectations.

11. How do you see the role of technology in architecture evolving, and what innovations are you currently exploring to enhance your designs?

While leveraging tools like CAD and AI for precision and efficiency, I prioritize human craftsmanship. I envision luxury as the result of effort and time, not mass production. Technology complements, rather than replaces, artistry, ensuring each creation retains its uniqueness and emotional impact.

12. Looking forward, where do you see ELM Design heading in the next five years? What goals or projects are you particularly excited about?

ELM Designs aims to expand globally, with flagship stores in Dubai, Milan, and Paris. My focus on art galleries and exclusive collections, such as the Moksha Sutra-a series of rare and high-value art pieces-positions ELM as a premium global brand. My vision is to redefine luxury, blending art and architecture to create timeless masterpieces that transcend borders.

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