In a city as vibrant and dynamic as Mumbai, where every corner has a story to tell, VRCS Interiors stands out with a narrative of its own—a tale of breaking boundaries and redefining spaces. Founded in 2021 by the talented duo Ratish V Raj and Vidhi R Nair, VRCS Interiors is not just a design studio; it’s a creative playground where the rules of design are both respected and boldly challenged. Rooted in a philosophy that no space is too small for innovation, their work is characterised by a harmonious blend of contemporary aesthetics, functionality, and a dash of whimsy.
In this candid conversation with Home Publication, Ratish and Vidhi invite us into their world, where design is more than just a profession—it’s a passionate expression of art and purpose. From their early inspirations and creative influences to their unique approach to design and sustainability, the duo shares insights into what drives them and how they craft each project to reflect the individuality of their clients. With a keen eye for colour, a love for unexpected forms, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, VRCS Interiors is paving the way for a new era in interior design—one where creativity knows no limits and every space tells a story.
Background and Inspiration
Every creative journey begins with a spark—a moment that ignites a lifelong passion. For Ratish V Raj, the allure of colours and forms was the catalyst that drew him into the world of interior design. “Blending contrasting colours and bringing uniformity to showcase a statement splash,” he recalls, “and the curiosity to practically build the ideas outside my head,” set the foundation for his creative exploration. For Vidhi R Nair, the other half of this visionary team, the story is different yet just as compelling. She reflects, “I was not very creative as a kid, but eventually, understanding colours and staying updated with home decor trends brought me happiness.” Over time, this interest grew into a full-blown passion, one that hasn’t waned since she first entered the field.
When it comes to their inspirations, both founders hold admiration for industry icons who have shaped their creative outlook. Ratish finds himself influenced by Sumessh Menon, whose innovative use of materials and unique combinations captivate him, while Vidhi is drawn to the warmth and creativity of Sarah Sham and Ayesha Puri Kanoria, appreciating how they breathe life into spaces. These influences, combined with their unique experiences and perspectives, have shaped VRCS Interiors into a studio that isn’t afraid to experiment while remaining grounded in a deep understanding of design principles.
Design Philosophy and Process
At VRCS Interiors, design is a dialogue—a collaboration between the designer and the client, where the client’s needs and desires are the starting point of every project. “We believe that at the end of the project, they should feel at home,” the duo explains. Practicality and functionality are non-negotiable, but achieving a statement feel that leaves an impact is equally crucial. Their process begins with active listening, where understanding the client’s vision takes precedence. From there, they move through meticulous phases of material selection, conceptual sketches, and mood boards to 3D visualizations that bring the design to life.
Their projects are handed over with a sense of completion—a full-fledged setup that reflects the dream envisioned from day one. “We love to hand over the site as we imagined it at Day 1,” they share. This holistic approach not only ensures design consistency but also guarantees a space that is as livable as it is visually stunning.
Current Trends and Future Outlook
In a world where design trends are ever-evolving, VRCS Interiors remains ahead of the curve by selectively incorporating elements that speak to their aesthetic sensibilities. “We love to follow the Pantone Color of the Year trend on at least one of our projects every year,” they note, highlighting how they blend timeless Art Deco influences with a modern twist to create spaces that are both stylish and enduring. The duo is also enthusiastic about the rising trend of collectible figurines as sophisticated additions to home decor, seeing them as a way to make bold yet classy statements.
Looking ahead, Ratish and Vidhi foresee technology and sustainability playing pivotal roles in the evolution of interior design. They believe that AI will be an invaluable tool for streamlining workflows and enhancing creativity. Equally important is the shift towards eco-friendly practices, where the demand for sustainable materials and technologies is expected to grow exponentially. “Sustainability will peak as the world needs environmentally conscious materials and technologies to sustain in the long run,” they affirm.
Project Highlights
One project that particularly stands out in their portfolio is “An Arched Affair,” a recently completed project in Mumbai. This space presented a unique set of challenges, especially in designing a monochrome washroom in a geometric style. The intricate work involved aligning small cut pieces with larger tile sections to achieve a cohesive and sophisticated look. It was a task that required not only a keen eye for detail but also a lot of patience and precision. “With a lot of determination and skill control, we could achieve the same with finesse and perfection,” they reveal, showcasing their commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
When it comes to sustainability, VRCS Interiors integrates natural materials like veneers and marbles into their designs. They also experiment with natural elements such as bamboo, dried grass, and cane in wallpapers, adding texture and warmth to their projects. Their sustainable approach is not just a trend but a conscious effort to create spaces that are both beautiful and environmentally friendly.
Personal Touches and Advice
Personalisation is at the heart of VRCS Interiors’ approach. Ratish, a talented artist, often leaves a signature piece of art on each site—a small yet meaningful “h-art” that adds a personal touch. “With each client comes a different personality and perspective, which we like to pull off in their space,” Vidhi adds. This thoughtful consideration for individuality ensures that each project is unique and truly reflective of its occupants.
For aspiring interior designers, Ratish offers valuable advice:
“Trust the process. To sustain in an ever-progressive industry like ours, you need to have the patience to keep learning each and every day.” Staying updated with new trends, materials, and technological advances is crucial for growth and success in the field.
Fun and Whimsy in Design
Balancing functionality with creativity is a challenge that Ratish and Vidhi tackle with extensive research and development. “Creativity never takes a backseat!” they exclaim. They embrace playful elements in their designs, such as the monochromatic angular flooring pattern and the bold vermillion red storage unit in “The Arched Affair.” These whimsical touches, combined with their love for customised monochromatic wallpapers and arched forms, define their signature style and set them apart from other designers.
Final Thoughts
Currently, VRCS Interiors is working on several exciting projects, including a duplex and a triplet in Mumbai that feature expansive balconies, terraces, and a stunning staircase. As they continue to push the boundaries of design, Ratish and Vidhi remain grateful for the opportunity to inspire and be inspired. “We hope to help out the new generation of designers in the field,” they conclude. “Keep the creative juices flowing and make the world a beautiful place one step at a time!”
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