On the quirky side of design

Beautiful Homes (BH): How would you describe your design philosophy at MuseLAB? How does this approach manifest itself in your projects?

Huzefa Rangwala (HR): Over the past 13 years, we've come to realise that our practice is nonconformist and fluid. While we've developed a methodical process, our approach to aesthetics is responsive to our clients and their contexts. Each project begins with extended conversations to understand our clients' goals, personalities, and aesthetic inclinations. Rather than imposing our vision, we act as facilitators, converting their vision into a tangible project. This ensures that the spaces we create are deeply personal and functional for the families who inhabit them.

BH: Colour and patterns are another distinctive feature in your work. What are your tips for mixing both without overwhelming a space?

Jasem Pirani (JP): We're quite conscious of how we use colours and patterns in a space. It’s all about context—the project's scale, the tonality of the colour, and how light interacts within the space. We carefully consider these elements to layer spaces effectively and play with scales where needed. This ensures that the result is harmonious and not overwhelming.

BH: What is the story behind the Channapatna toys series MuseLAB created?

JP: The exercise started during the 2020 lockdown when we wanted to create something impactful and collaborate with artisans. At the same time, we were approached by RAW Collaborative for an installation. In terms of our approach, our intent was threefold, creating something purposeful that impacts more people beyond the exhibition, understanding the craft and its limitations, and crafting something that would excite the craftsmen in terms of design language. That is when we decided to design gender-neutral, shape-shifting toys. After the RAW Collaborative, these toys were distributed to a school in Ahmedabad through Teach For India. That’s how their story began. Today, the toys are integral to our design inspiration, often making their way into the homes we create and becoming a signature element of our work.

BH: What is your take on interior design trends?

HR: Honestly, trends have never excited us. Instead, we prioritise what is relevant to the time and brief of each project. This approach has consistently worked in our favour, as it ensures that our designs are tailored to the end users and uniquely customised. Enforcing trends often leads to unsatisfactory results but reversing the approach and focusing on the client’s goals and applying our aesthetics to it, leads to successful, meaningful projects.

BH: For homeowners looking to add a touch of drama to their décor, what are some simple yet effective changes they can make?

JP: To add a touch of playfulness or drama, it’s always effective to incorporate an accent piece or bring in some colour and texture. Reupholstering furniture, introducing striking patterns in small doses can make a significant impact without overwhelming the space. These simple changes can instantly elevate a room’s personality and create a unique, dramatic flair.