Interview with Miloni Shah

Miloni Shah ("MS") interviewed on Wednesday, 15 May.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

MS : I have extensive experience as a designer and architect. I have a strong educational foundation from the G.C.P Institute of Architecture in Surat and a master's in Architecture degree from the Savannah College of Art and Design. My career includes an international internship in Japan, where I gained valuable insights into innovative and sustainable design practices. I focus on understanding end users' needs, integrating contextual factors, and ensuring functionality in my work. I have contributed to residential, commercial, and urban planning projects, and I find immense satisfaction seeing my designs positively impact users. Collaboration and continuous learning are vital elements of my approach.

How did you become a designer?

MS : My journey to becoming a designer began with a childhood fascination for the interplay of light, shadow, and structure in my surroundings, particularly while observing the bustling streets of Mumbai during my daily commutes. This innate curiosity was nurtured by a supportive professor who recognized my potential and guided me toward architecture. I pursued my undergraduate studies at the G.C.P Institute of Architecture in Surat, followed by a transformative internship in Japan, where the minimalist elegance of Japanese architecture left a lasting impression. Further refining my skills and expanding my horizons, I completed my master's in architecture at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Driven by a passion for creating spaces that enhance human experience and community well-being, my career has been shaped by personal passion, mentorship, and a commitment to thoughtful, innovative design.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

MS : When designing, my top three priorities are understanding user needs, contextual integration, and sustainability. Firstly, I place the utmost importance on understanding the end user's needs and desires, as creating human-centered designs is central to my approach. Secondly, I focus on contextual factors, such as the site's surroundings, history, and cultural significance, to ensure the design seamlessly integrates with its environment. Thirdly, sustainability and environmental impact are crucial elements I always incorporate, aiming to promote long-term well-being for both people and the planet. In terms of technique and style, I blend traditional hand sketching with digital tools like CAD and 3D modeling software to visualize and refine my ideas. I often create mock-ups and physical models to understand spatial relationships and scale better, but I rely heavily on computer-aided design and renderings for precision and detail. My central theme across all projects is the harmonious blend of functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, ensuring that each design is visually appealing, practical, and environmentally conscious.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

MS : When I design, I experience a range of emotions, each contributing to the fulfillment and joy of the creative process. The initial idea phase excites me the most, as possibilities seem endless, and my imagination runs wild. This stage is filled with inspiration and the thrill of conceptualizing something new and innovative. As the design journey progresses, I find satisfaction in problem-solving, refining ideas, navigating challenges, and seeing the project evolve. This phase fuels my curiosity and perseverance, making each step rewarding. Witnessing my concepts take tangible form brings a profound sense of accomplishment and pride. The final phase, where the design becomes a reality, evokes anticipation, excitement, and sometimes nervousness. Seeing how users interact with and experience the spaces or products I’ve created is deeply gratifying. Designing fulfills me by allowing me to express my creativity, positively impact others, and contribute to a better environment and society. The joy of designing comes from this sense of purpose and the pleasure of bringing ideas to life.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

MS : My design journey began with a transformative international internship in Japan, exposing me to diverse design philosophies and approaches. This experience ignited my passion for creativity and innovation, laying the foundation for my subsequent pursuit of a Master's in Architecture at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Along the way, I've honed valuable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and collaboration, which have been instrumental in my design practice. My background has shaped me into a designer who approaches projects with a blend of cultural insight, technical expertise, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

MS : As a designer, my growth path involves continuous learning and exploration, pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation in each project I undertake. I aspire to further develop my skills in sustainable design and urban planning, leveraging my expertise to create spaces that positively impact communities and the environment. In the future, I envision myself leading transformative design initiatives that address pressing societal challenges and contribute to the betterment of society. My dream design project involves collaborating with like-minded individuals to design a sustainable city of the future, incorporating cutting-edge technology, green infrastructure, and human-centric design principles. I aim to be remembered as a visionary designer who not only created visually stunning spaces but also made a meaningful difference in people's lives through design. My future plans revolve around pursuing opportunities for growth, mentorship, and collaboration, as well as embarking on ambitious design projects that leave a lasting legacy.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

MS : For designers embarking on their careers, I advise letting curiosity be their guide and embracing learning as a lifelong journey. Building a strong foundation in design skills is crucial while nurturing a unique voice and perspective. Embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth, and never stop seeking feedback to refine ideas. Collaboration is critical, so welcome opportunities to work with diverse teams and learn from others' expertise. Stay adaptable and open-minded, embracing change as a catalyst for innovation. The best advice I've received is to remain humble, continuously seek knowledge, and be open to new ideas. Growth comes from successes and setbacks, so approach every experience as a chance to learn and improve.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

MS : As a successful designer, my suggestion to fellow designers, artists, and architects is to stay true to their unique vision and voice while embracing continuous learning and growth. It's important to prioritize understanding end-users' needs and integrating sustainability into designs. Avoid the trap of complacency and always challenge yourself to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Collaborate with diverse teams and seek inspiration from various sources to stay fresh and relevant. Don't be afraid to take risks and learn from failures along the way. Invest in building solid relationships with clients, colleagues, and mentors, as these connections can often lead to new opportunities and insights. Lastly, always appreciate the power of passion and perseverance in driving success in the design field.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

MS : Keeping up with the latest design trends is essential for staying relevant in the industry, but balancing that with maintaining my design style and vision is equally important. While I pay attention to current trends and emerging styles, I strive to infuse them with my unique perspective and aesthetic sensibilities. I believe in creating timeless designs that transcend fleeting trends and resonate with users on a deeper level. To stay informed about design trends, I regularly explore design publications, attend industry events and conferences, and engage with fellow designers and artists. However, my primary source of inspiration comes from observing the world around me, drawing from nature, art, culture, and everyday experiences to inform my creative process. Ultimately, I aim to create innovative and enduring designs that reflect my creative vision while remaining responsive to evolving trends and user needs.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

MS : Good design is characterized by a harmonious blend of form and function, where aesthetic appeal is balanced with usability and purpose. When evaluating a product or project, I look for several key indicators of good design, including clarity of purpose, user-centeredness, innovation, and attention to detail. A well-designed product or project effectively fulfills its intended function while delighting users with intuitive usability and thoughtful design elements. Its approach demonstrates innovation and creativity, offering unique solutions to design challenges. Additionally, good design considers the broader context in which it exists, whether cultural, environmental, or social, and seeks to create positive impacts beyond its immediate scope. Common mistakes to avoid in design include sacrificing functionality for aesthetics, neglecting user needs and preferences, and failing to consider the broader implications of design decisions. Ultimately, good design is subjective and multifaceted, but it is characterized by its ability to inspire, engage, and enhance the lives of those who interact with it.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

MS : Deciding if a design is ready is a complex process that involves a combination of intuition, experience, and objective evaluation. While perfection may be elusive, there comes a point in the design process where I feel confident that the design has achieved its intended goals and meets the needs of its users. This moment often coincides with a sense of satisfaction and alignment with the initial design brief, where all essential elements have been addressed, and the design feels cohesive and resolved. Additionally, I thoroughly analyze if all the requirements from the client are fulfilled, ensuring sustainability in the fabric of the location and how the design gives back to the community. Once all these criteria are considered and fulfilled, I can confidently say that the design is ready. However, I also recognize that design is inherently iterative, and there may always be opportunities for improvement or refinement. Ultimately, I decide a design is ready when it has undergone thorough testing, feedback, and iteration, and I am confident in its ability to fulfill its purpose effectively. As for determining the success of a product or project, I look to various indicators such as user feedback, performance metrics, and alignment with project objectives. Success may be measured by user satisfaction, market adoption, and impact on the intended audience or environment.

Who is your favourite designer?

MS : As an architect, I have immense admiration for Zaha Hadid and Jan Gehl, who have made significant contributions to the world of design. Zaha Hadid, known for her groundbreaking architectural forms and innovative approach to design, has left an indelible mark on the industry. Her fluid, dynamic structures challenge traditional notions of space and have reshaped our understanding of architectural possibilities. On the other hand, Jan Gehl has revolutionized urban design with his human-centric approach, prioritizing people's needs and experiences in the built environment. His research and advocacy for pedestrian-friendly cities have influenced urban planning practices worldwide, emphasizing the importance of creating cities for people, not just cars. Both Zaha Hadid and Jan Gehl exemplify visionary design thinking and have profoundly impacted our built environment for the better.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

MS : My design perspective is deeply influenced by my lifestyle and cultural background. Hailing from Mumbai, a city known for its cultural diversity and architectural wonders, I've developed a profound appreciation for the delicate balance between tradition and innovation, community, and individuality. This amalgamation of influences guides my design philosophy, inspiring me to create spaces that honor cultural identities while meeting practical needs. Tokyo, with its seamless fusion of tradition and modernity, serves as a constant source of inspiration that resonates deeply with my design sensibilities. Music plays a crucial role in my creative process, setting the tone and fueling my imagination as I craft spaces that uplift and inspire. I firmly believe that culture profoundly influences design, a principle evident in my projects through the thoughtful integration of cultural elements. Currently, I am engaged in architectural design in Indianapolis, USA, focusing on multi-family and commercial projects. Good design is paramount for societal progress, as it not only enhances functionality but also promotes inclusivity and sustainability. On a personal level, design has brought about subtle yet meaningful changes in my life, from adopting sustainable practices to nurturing a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

MS : Attending the A’ Design Award was an immensely gratifying experience, especially winning the Bronze Award for Interntwine - Transit Nexus in Brno, Czech Republic, under the category of Engineering, Construction, and Infrastructure Design. It provided validation for my design efforts and offered valuable recognition within the global design community. Participating in design awards like A’ Design Award not only enhances visibility but also facilitates networking opportunities, fostering connections with industry peers and potential clients. Moreover, such competitions encourage growth and innovation by pushing designers to explore new ideas and refine their skills. Being named the Designer of the Day is a tremendous honor, reinforcing my dedication to excellence and motivating me to continue striving for innovation and impact in my design endeavors. Sharing this achievement with my friends and family fills me with excitement and joy, as their unwavering support has been instrumental in my journey.

Miloni Shah Profile