Travel gives me inspiration: Gauri Khan
GARAVI Gujarat caught up with interior designer and the wife of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan to discuss her globally accessible course and design tips. She also revealed what husband Shah Rukh Khan’s interior design skills are like.
What first connected you to interior design? Design is something that I have always been fascinated with. Growing up, I was greatly inclined towards art and culture. Design and design curation, I felt, came naturally to me.
The spaces that we live in are crucial to our all-around development and creating these spaces to be conducive to creativity gave me immense joy.
When did you realize you are really good at it?
Well, you know how the artist’s curse works. An artist can never enjoy their work fully. But I think the first time I realized that I could pull it off commercially was when I put together my ideas while designing our house ‘Mannat’ and all the designs came together to form a beautiful union of landscapes. Hearing positive reviews from friends and family also helped a lot. What creative approach does interior design demand?
I think the most important part of it is navigating space. I believe that the design should provide ease of movement to the client. Everything should be accessible, handy, and not at all cluttered. Open spaces encourage open minds. What led you towards setting up your online classes?
Learning is a process that has always intrigued me and helped me stay ahead in this industry. It is no wonder then that I would like to share my experience in the industry with future designers. My collaboration with The Designer’s Class is an ideal and organic evolution of my love for learning. It gives me an opportunity to share my professional experiences with people who love design as much as I do.
Who are you hoping to connect with the online classes?
Design aspirants and anybody with an interest in interior design can have access to this course. The Designer’s Class and I have ensured that the modules provide the fundamentals as well as an advanced look at interior design and its aspects.
What are Shah Rukh Khan’s interior design skills like?
I would say he has a keen eye for interiors. He was extremely passionate while the Red Chillies office revamp was in process. He had a huge say in design, and inputs about colours and possible uses of the ceiling, and flooring. He took a lot of interest in that project and likes to get involved whenever possible. He greenlit all the designs for the project.
What is the secret of being a successful working mother?
Balance. The right balance between your work life and family time is essential. I try to prioritize my time with my kids and also manage my work better. I always like to pre-plan my schedule, which gives the perfect work-life balance. What inspires you creatively?
I think most of my inspiration comes from my travels. The architectural styles, designs and cultures inspire me a lot. Every time I travel, a small part of my experiences stays within me and comes out as a kaleidoscopic outcome in my designs. Hence, every time I feel I’ve burned out all of my creativity, I try to visit places that can give me artistic inspirations.
Why should we connect with the classes? The Designer’s Class’ association with Gauri Khan Designs is an organic evolution born out of a shared passion for good design, creative spaces, and the intent to give back to the industry. Together, we are bringing design education that shapes the new age of interior design, inspires and educates the younger generations, and equips them with the skills to succeed.