Kissa Zehra, the dynamic founder and principal designer at The space tales, is a transformative force in the world of interior design. With a career steeped in passion and innovation, Kissa has carved out a distinct niche that marries aesthetic elegance with functional brilliance. Her design journey began in the comforting realm of her childhood home, where early experiences observing her mother’s deft touch with home décor sparked a lifelong fascination. This early influence laid the foundation for a career defined by a deep understanding of space, colour, and personal expression.
Under Kissa’s creative direction, The space tales has become synonymous with sophisticated design solutions that are as practical as they are beautiful. Her approach is characterised by a minimalist aesthetic infused with vibrant colour and personalised elements which brings a unique and intimate quality to each project. This meticulous attention to detail and client-centric approach ensures that every space crafted under her guidance not only meets but exceeds client expectations.
Kissa’s forward-thinking design ethos is also evident in her embrace of contemporary trends, such as multifunctional spaces and sustainable materials. Her work reflects a keen awareness of the evolving needs of modern living, incorporating eco-friendly practices and smart home technology to create environments that are both innovative and harmonious. As the design landscape continues to evolve, she remains at the forefront, shaping the future with her creative vision and commitment to excellence.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into Kissa Zehra’s creative process, design philosophy, and her thoughts on the future of interior design.
A Journey Rooted in Passion and Inspiration
Zehra’s passion for interior design took root in her childhood. “I was captivated by watching my mother transform our home,” she reflects. Immersed in the world of design from an early age, Kissa spent hours studying home décor magazines, eager to understand how spaces could be both functional and visually compelling. This early influence laid the groundwork for a career steeped in creativity and precision.
Her formative years under the mentorship of Shabnam Gupta at The Orange Lane were particularly transformative. “Collaborating with Shabnam Gupta was an invaluable experience; it taught me the art of seamlessly integrating functionality with aesthetics—a principle that continues to guide my work.”
Design Philosophy: Minimalism with a Personal Touch
Kissa’s design philosophy is anchored in the pursuit of spaces that are both functional and visually captivating.
“I embrace a minimalist approach, but I believe in enlivening each space with vibrant touches—whether through upholstery or artwork,” she shares.
A hallmark of her work is the inclusion of hand-painted artwork, which imparts a distinctive and personal touch to her projects. Her process is meticulous and deeply client-focused, starting with a thorough understanding of the client’s preferences. From there, she moves through space planning, concept development, material selection, and detailed drawings. “This comprehensive approach ensures a seamless journey from concept to completion, perfectly aligning the design with the client’s vision and needs,” she explains.
Navigating Trends and Future Outlook
As 2024 unfolds, Kissa Zehra is seamlessly integrating key trends into her projects. “This year, our focus is on multifunctional spaces and sustainable materials,” she notes, emphasizing the importance of versatile areas that can adapt to various needs. She also highlights the growing significance of biophilic design, incorporating plants and natural elements to enhance well-being and foster tranquility within interiors. Looking ahead, Kissa envisions sustainability taking center stage, with eco-friendly materials and smart home technology becoming essential components of modern urban design solutions.
Project Highlights and Overcoming Challenges
Among her recent projects, Kissa is particularly proud of a project in Delhi that featured a striking vaulted arch ceiling. “The vaulted ceiling was a standout feature that everyone loved. Her commitment to sustainability is evident in her use of recycled materials, refurbishing existing furniture, and incorporating water-saving fixtures. “Maximising natural light and integrating green elements are key aspects of my approach to eco-friendly design.”
Adding a Personal Touch and Providing Advice
Personalising each project is a hallmark of Kissa’s work. “I aim to infuse a sense of nostalgia and timeless charm into every space. This could be through a picture wall, various forms of art, or hand-painted elements,” she shares. For aspiring designers, Kissa offers valuable advice:
“Be patient, work consistently, and embrace feedback positively. Learn from each project and strive not to repeat the same mistakes. Maintaining an active social media presence with informative content is also crucial.”
Balancing Functionality with Creativity
Zehra skilfully balances functionality with creativity, tailoring her designs to meet the unique needs and lifestyles of her clients. “The aim is to achieve a harmonious blend of form and function, ensuring that each space is as practical as it is beautiful,” she explains. Her recent projects showcase this philosophy, featuring whimsical touches like POP cornices, multifunctional spaces, and micro-concrete finishes, all of which add a playful yet innovative dimension to her work.
Signature Style and Future Endeavours
Kissa’s work is distinguished by its focus on personalising each project. “Colours play a significant role in my designs, whether through upholstery, artwork, or wall treatments,” she says. Looking forward, she is excited about several upcoming projects, promising fresh and innovative designs that will be unveiled by the end of the year.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up, Kissa Zehra shares some heartfelt advice for her fellow designers. She emphasises the importance of staying passionate and dedicated to the craft.
“Pursue your work with enthusiasm and aim to create spaces that truly resonate with your clients. Embrace challenges as opportunities to improve and learn, and always strive to keep your creativity and dedication alive,”
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