In the world of design, where aesthetics and functionality often collide, Objects by Soch embodies a commitment to reimagining craftsmanship and transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. Founded to address the challenges of sourcing quality furniture, the brand has carved a niche by uniting skilled artisans with innovative design. Their dedication to meticulous craftsmanship ensures that each piece not only enhances the beauty of a home but also serves a meaningful purpose.

In this conversation, Ar. Romit Savla, the founder of Objects by Soch, shared valuable insights into the brand’s unique philosophy and contemporary designs. Through a commitment to quality and thoughtful design, Objects by Soch is making a lasting impact on modern living.

1. Your journey from your initial embrace of the field must have been an incredible experience. Could you share some of the key moments throughout your journey?

A: My journey in the field has been transformative and continues to offer profound learning experiences. Early on, I noticed a disconnect between architects, interior designers, and furniture vendors. This led me to design custom furniture for my projects, working with vendors in Navsari and Mumbai. For me, design is not just about products or static spaces; it’s an open canvas to explore possibilities. I focus on refining each piece, striving to achieve a balance of scale, proportion, functionality, and material, ultimately creating functional yet collectible art furniture.

2. Your designs embrace tradition in modern design. What inspired the initial design philosophy, and how has it evolved over the years?

A: Our design philosophy is rooted in tradition while embracing modernity. In both design and material exploration, we focus on creating work that feels natural, local, and vernacular. By blending contemporary sensibilities with traditional values, we craft spaces and products that tell a story of Indianness, even when they travel overseas. This narrative is central to our purpose, bringing satisfaction and meaning to our designs. Our philosophy evolves over time but remains anchored in fundamental principles, ensuring our work stays relevant and impactful.

3. Your design language seamlessly integrates contemporary and vernacular elements, evident across all your products. I am curious to know what mind space you are in during the design stage of any product.

A: Each design must convey its own narrative, reflecting the values and culture it embodies. Grounding our work in vernacular elements adds authenticity and impact, honoring traditional craftsmanship while resonating with the intended context and audience. During the design phase, I focus on crafting a piece that harmonizes with its surroundings, evoking a sense of connection. My goal is to discover intangible beauty within tangible forms, highlighting subtleties that make each design unique. Whether it’s sparking conversation or inspiring creativity, I believe every detail—from materials to textures—matters in creating meaningful experiences.

4. Objects by Soch aims to provide more than just functional furniture. How do you ensure that each piece also embodies artistry and cultural richness?

A: At Soch, we believe each piece of furniture should tell a story, blending functionality with artistry and cultural richness. Our design philosophy is rooted in tradition while embracing modernity, creating pieces that honor craftsmanship and appeal to contemporary tastes. By incorporating vernacular elements, we add authenticity, ensuring our work reflects local culture and materials, giving each piece a unique identity.

For us, design must convey its own narrative, highlighting its values and origins. I aim to create pieces that feel musical, harmonizing with their surroundings and evoking connection. Every detail, from materials to proportions, is thoughtfully considered. When someone enjoys coffee at one of our tables, I want the design to spark conversation and enhance the moment, transforming everyday experiences into something meaningful. Our goal is to craft functional art that resonates deeply, celebrating both utility and artistry through intentionality and cultural significance.

5. Each collection by ‘Objects by Soch’ has its own unique story. What are some sources of inspiration that drive the themes and designs in your collections?

A. Inspiration for our designs begins with a dialogue between the materials—wood, stone, or brass. I often engage in a hypothetical conversation with the raw material, asking what it wants to become. This introspection leads to questions: How does the wood envision its transformation? What intangible qualities does it aspire to embody? Each material brings its own character to this conversation. The interplay between wood and stone can inspire innovative forms, while brass adds elegance and warmth. This collaborative discovery fuels our creativity, allowing us to see how these elements can coexist harmoniously in tables, chairs, or lighting fixtures.

We also draw from cultural narratives, personal experiences, and nature’s beauty. Each collection reflects a theme that resonates with a specific story or emotion, allowing our designs to transcend functionality and serve as vessels of artistic expression. By blending these inspirations, we aim to create collections that are visually striking and rich in meaning, inviting deeper connections.

6. How do you stay ahead of market trends while maintaining your unique design philosophy, especially in the rapidly changing world of product design?

A: In my view, true competition lies within ourselves. The key question is how we can continually challenge and improve our previous work. Design offers infinite possibilities, and it is through individual vision or a brand’s ethos that a distinctive design vernacular emerges. We can integrate elements that go beyond mere trends, as I firmly believe pieces should aspire to be timeless rather than just trendy. Trends may fade, but a thoughtfully constructed design language endures through the ages. By focusing on enduring principles and crafting designs that resonate on a deeper level, we ensure our work remains relevant, regardless of the ever-evolving market landscape. Staying attuned to cultural shifts and audience needs allows us to innovate while remaining true to our unique design ethos.

7. What are your key strategies for marketing your designs, and how has e-commerce helped you connect with design professionals?

A: For a firm dedicated to creating timeless, unique, and collectible pieces, navigating the current marketing landscape can be challenging. Connecting with our audience through digital channels and e-commerce requires a strategic approach. Fortunately, platforms like Archioo have been instrumental in showcasing our work, highlighting our designs and facilitating meaningful connections with a broader audience.

Both Archioo and The Architects Diary excel in promoting our collections, allowing us to reach design professionals who share our passion for quality and artistry. By leveraging these platforms, we engage with architects and designers who appreciate the uniqueness of our offerings. This connection fosters collaborations and helps establish our brand in the competitive design market, enabling us to focus on creating exceptional pieces while effectively communicating our vision.

8. The aesthetic of a space often lies in its intricate details. How do you ensure that each piece of furniture enhances the overall narrative of the interiors they inhabit?

A: We view the intricate details crafted by our artisans as our unique selling proposition (USP). Their dedication to finesse in design and finishing sets us apart. Each piece of furniture carries a narrative, and the authenticity embedded within enhances this story. The details act as pivotal elements that bring the design to life, much like a climax in a well-crafted tale leading to a satisfying resolution.

By ensuring these details are aesthetically pleasing and meaningful, we create pieces that resonate deeply within their spaces. Moreover, our goal is to enrich the overall narrative of the interiors, allowing each piece to enhance the ambiance and emotional impact. In this way, we transform furniture into integral elements of a larger story, creating harmonious environments that leave a lasting impression. “Tadang! A happy ending to the piece!”

9. As your career continues to gain momentum, what exciting steps do you plan to take next? Where do you envision yourself and your design practice evolving in the coming years?

A: As our career continues to gain momentum, we are actively participating in design shows around the world to showcase our collection. We are committed to enhancing our budget and increasing our engagement efforts to ensure that our furniture and lighting designs receive the recognition they deserve and find their place in homes. Additionally, we are leveraging digital marketing platforms to reach a global audience, further expanding our visibility. In the coming years, we envision our firm, both as designers and as a manufacturing unit, catering to a broader customer base. We aim to convey our story through our products, allowing each piece to reflect our journey and ethos. By establishing meaningful connections with our audience, we aspire to grow our influence in the design community and make a lasting impact with our creations.

10. How do you find a sense of fulfilment and purpose in your work as a designer, beyond just bringing designs to life?

A: Bringing designs to life is inherently satisfying and creates a dynamic learning environment. I find fulfillment in impacting the lives of our designers, interns, and craftsmen, helping them evolve their skills and realize their potential. Witnessing their growth while creating something beautiful together is truly gratifying.

I strive to foster an atmosphere within our studio that resembles a design school, where everyone is encouraged to learn from one another. By enhancing the skills of our artisans and sharing knowledge, we elevate our collective craft. The products we create become more than functional items; they transform into testimonies of our journey and narratives each person can share. This sense of contribution and connection is the fulfillment I seek through my work as a designer.

Objects by Soch is not just a furniture brand; it’s a movement towards redefined living spaces that prioritize both beauty and functionality. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and the thoughtful integration of artisanal techniques ensure that each piece resonates with quality and purpose. As Objects by Soch continues to innovate and inspire, it sets a benchmark for contemporary design, transforming everyday environments into extraordinary experiences.