Minimalist designs and multifunctional furniture are the latest trends: Gauri Khan

Gauri Khan needs no introduction. Her interior design company, Gauri Khan Designs (GKD), boasts a portfolio featuring spaces for celebrities such as Mukesh Ambani, Amitabh Bachchan, Karan Johar, Jacqueline Fernandez, Alia Bhatt, Sidharth Malhotra, Ranbir Kapoor, and most recently, Ananya Pandey. The multi-talented wife of superstar Shah Rukh Khan has recently collaborated with Bonito Designs to create themes inspired by global aesthetics. Over the past year and a half, she has tirelessly worked with them to develop contemporary designs, drawing inspiration from Cairo, maximalist themes from Miami, and more, each blending international influences with her signature creative touch. In an exclusive chit-chat with her, she spoke about her vast experience as an interior designer, her collaboration and the latest design trends that are in vogue. Excerpts:

1. You have a long experience as an interior designer. How, according to you, has the interior designing landscape changed over the years? What are the new preferences that people have for their interiors now?

Interior design has evolved significantly, with a shift towards personalized and functional spaces reflecting individual tastes. Post-pandemic, there's a preference for open spaces, natural lighting, and greenery. People now favor a blend of contemporary but sustainable elements, and smart home options with more stress on seamless designing in a home and not just a room. Minimalistic designs and multifunctional furniture are in vogue, emphasizing aesthetics, practicality, and comfort.

2. Tell us about an unforgettable experience you had in designing a celebrity home.

Designing any home is always a unique challenge due to their distinct tastes and high expectations. Because every individual has a professional side and a personal side. Your home is your private space. People in a public space have to create a balance.

3. Is it easy or difficult to design the home of an acquaintance?

Designing for an acquaintance requires understanding their personality and preferences the same as a customer. Whether for a friend or client, my goal is to create a space that resonates with their individuality. But with someone I know , there is an added advantage because I know their personality , likes and dislikes personally.

4. What are some unique elements in interior designing that are hugely in trend these days?

Current trends include bold art pieces that add personality, neutral color palettes like grey, teal, and mustard, and versatile spaces that serve multiple functions. Strategic lighting enhances ambiance, while a blend of antique and modern art creates imaginative environments. These trends collectively ensure stylish, personalized, and functional living spaces.

5. Designing mistakes most people commit in their homes.

Common design mistakes include overcrowding, which clutters spaces, and poor lighting, which affects ambiance, not personalizing just creating out of an inspiration. Your home should be about you.

Some of the common design faux pas are - using too many colors; instead, choose a base color with complementary tones.

Finally, personalize your space rather than following trends blindly.