Agam Design Studio– an initiative to consciously amalgamate form and function, science and art, intellect and emotion! This unique venture functions as a boutique label that proffers theme based furniture and lighting for residential and hospitality spaces. The mastermind behind this pensive initiative is an architect and a furniture design graduate from NID, Ahmedabad- Nandha Ravichandran. Taking shape since 2020, it vented out with poise and zeal to beautifully bridge a gap between design and space. 

Nandha strongly believes in meticulousness at work. His creations are about distorting the mundane and creating extraordinary artifacts that reflect the self. These exceptional creations lead to a space design that evokes emotions and makes one feel inspired. Each motif takes you along a fantastical journey, punctuated with realistic elements and is both contemporary and functional in its interpretation and execution.

We at The Architect’s Diary take deep pride in bringing forward such great minds that have truly revolutionised design ideologies and are sure to leave a trail for generations to follow. Here is an exclusive interview of the founder of Agam Design Studio, Ar. Nandha Ravichandran with Ar. Megha Hirani from The Architect’s Diary. Read along to dive deep into those profound ideas. 

[M.H.]  Agam is a very interesting venture and within a short time span it has truly established itself in the design world. What was the core idea behind the curation of Agam Design Studio and what maxim keeps it going?

[N.R.] Agam Design Studio’s core idea is rooted in the notion of designing a space that keeps all its elements thematically connected. The incorporation of a theme-based interior with contemporary furniture collections redefines spatial perception.

In the contemporary design field, there are negligible interior or spatial designers when compared to interior curators. When compared to interior spaces which are embellished with readymade furniture, we believe that thematically designed furniture gives a holistic essence to the interior space. By incorporating aspects like functional and abstract shapes, simple colour schemes and comprehensive designs, we can ideate a timeless and relevant form that defines the look and feel of the theme for each space. 

[M.H.] One of the key interactive and functional elements in interior spaces have always been the furniture units. Also, it is an element that brings forward the venture- Agam. How is the conceptualisation of the furniture pieces at the studio done?

[N.R.] We conceptualised each theme based on the core material and its properties. These aspects dictate the form, look and feel of the furniture. Drawing inspiration from facets of nature, each piece of furniture resonates with the natural landscape. Each motif in the furniture takes you along a fantastical journey and is punctuated with realistic elements.

[M.H.] Furniture design itself has a vast history. What facets from history do you like to keep alive in your furniture designs?

[N.R.] We formulated our theme-based design tactic by drawing inspiration from the Bauhaus movement and architects like Le Corbusier who believed in keeping furniture and its layout as the core element of any spatial design. This facet of history that we bear semblance to helps us ingeniously blend furniture design and interior design.

[M.H.] According to you, what are the design aspects that must be included in a furniture design and which ones does our contemporary design lack?

[N.R.] For us, furniture is not just an irrelevant piece in a space. It is an element that is most tangible to the user. To connect the user to the space, a balance needs to be established between functionality and aesthetics. We believe that while contemporary design focuses on individual aesthetics, it fails to unify the space with the furniture.

[M.H.] All these thought processes definitely triggers a new perspective for the contemporary design world and we do have some potholes that needs to be mended. Kindly throw some light on various themes by Agam. And, on what basis are these themes curated?

[N.R.] “We have currently designed five themes – Rime Forest, Geo, Urban Voids, Fall and Parabloom. Each of these themes draws inspiration from various facets of nature and everyday life. The Rime Forest theme is a timeless amalgamation of the lively greens of summer with the elegant rime frost that envelopes trees during winter. The Geo-themed furniture brings colours and patterns from some of Earth’s most coveted natural formations into your homes. As the name suggests, Urban Voids revolves around the contemporary and minimalist mindset of an urban dweller. Amidst our tropical climate, we decided to incorporate the monsoon’s most spectacular element into our furniture with the Fall theme. Bloom is often associated with life, openness and vigour. Akin to oyster mushrooms blossoming in dense forests, the furniture in this series captivates the essence of blooming.” Explore their themes here : https://www.agamdesignstudio.com/themes

[M.H.] According to you, what is the correlation between materials and a design form? And what role does a material play in weaving the right essence in a space?

[N.R.] Materials and design form go hand in hand. By exploring various properties of the core material, we emulate facets of nature that are concurrent with our thought. The material, finish and colour of each theme is customised according to the requirements of the space. Each theme presents a carefully curated ensemble that is prudently crafted and conscientiously executed. 

[M.H.] Contemporary market has seen a rise in stylists and the need for styling since a few years ago. What according to you is the role of styling in a furniture design and an interior design space?

[N.R.] We feel that styling in interior design and furniture design must be holistic and weaved together as in nature. The styling often complements and supplements the theme at hand. Our creations are a reflection of what we see and what we perceive. Through our designs, we seek to create spaces that evoke emotions and make one feel inspired.

[M.H.] With a rapidly growing design industry, sustainability is the need of the hour. How does Agam intertwine sustainability in its designs?

[N.R.] In terms of sustainability, the design process that we adopt aims to minimise wastage during production. We incorporate automation and advanced manufacturing technology that has fewer repercussions on the environment.  

[M.H] What are Agam Design Studio’s future prospects and how do you wish to establish your mark in the market?

[N.R.] We view Agam as an entity that will keep coming up with facets that seek to inspire and, we often gravitate towards redefining common spaces. Driven by zeal, we expect to soon transition into lighting and spatial design. Our impulse to create spaces will help us make a mark in the ever-competitive market.

Indeed, that gives us a lot of food for the thought! With an ever evolving design prospects, we tend to miss the ones of utmost significance. Even a smallest change in detail or even our way of thinking can make a huge difference and Agam Design Studio has proved that with its impact over the market. Thank you Ar. Nandha for your valuable time and for such insightful talk. 

Visit : https://www.agamdesignstudio.com/