In conversation with Shabnam Gupta

What is your first memory of being interested in design and architecture?

As a teenager I had done a backpacking trip to Europe and the experience of visiting the architectural monuments in Italy and Paris along with museums reconfirmed my inclinations towards architecture and design.

Who has been a steady influence in your life?

My parents and my partner. Talking to them keeps me inspired and makes me want to push my limits while still keeping me grounded. They are my motivators and my biggest critics.

What is your daily work routine like? Take us through a typical first hour at work for you.

There is no typical routine and no one day is like the other. The first one hour is chaotic with ticking checklists and creating lists of things to do.

What is the most challenging part of designing someone’s home?

The most challenging part is understanding their lifestyle and their mindspace, to be able to be an instrument in creating something that is going to be a very important part of their life. It’s imperative to know them as people.