The SBID UK Interior Design Icons were selected to recognise leading design practices throughout the UK who have consistently displayed exceptional standards within our esteemed industry network.
This week’s instalment of the SBID Icon Insights series features Shalini Misra. The design studio, with offices in London, Milan, New York, Delhi and Dubai, is dedicated to creating elegant, timeless and finely crafted interiors.
The practice has a culture of research and inspiration sharing and an ‘always learning’ approach to new technology and the ever evolving industry as a whole. The studio has CPDs and attends trade shows, art and industry fairs. Suppliers visit regularly to present their latest collections. The team visits suppliers’ showrooms and workshops and enjoys learning about the techniques and methods used by diverse makers and businesses. SMD’s brand pillars involve innovating and not repeating. Shalini often speaks at panels and events, and enjoys information and education sharing both in terms of sharing with others and hearing from industry peers.
In every project a client’s collection of furniture is reviewed first to see what can still be used, relocated, repurposed or reimagine. Clients are encouraged to consider the lifecycle of their objects and supported in understanding how existing pieces can work in the context of a new space.
Sustainability through longevity of design is a focus for the practice. This means buying well with a focus on quality, purchasing things that will last a lifetime and beyond.
Focusing on the footprint of an object is a core studio value, so local production is important. Alternative materials are always considered, and the studio is currently building its knowledge base in this area with research into materials such as banana leaf, aloe vera and agave as well as the impact of overall supply chains.
Every project is unique, however layering of textures and use of many finishes throughout characterises a lot of the studio’s work - playing with surface finishes on walls, floors, joinery and addressing the ceiling in unusual ways.
Art and design curation is something that runs through many of SMD’s projects and client briefs.
Learning is never finished, and inspiration is everywhere. However far you progress and however many years you have behind you, always look at the world through fresh eyes.
Remaining open to new ideas, technologies, techniques and processes is one of the most important things a designer can do as they progress.
Design for feeling as well as style, trust your instinct and listen to your client.
A strong emphasis on art and a razor-sharp understanding of how it transforms a space. An understanding of the wide spectrum of health and wellness and its relationship to interior spaces, and an unwavering dedication to exceptional craftsmanship.
The Farmhouse in Delhi epitomises what the studio stands for. The design in its entirety - interior, architecture and landscape architecture all being designed around core principles that sum up the working philosophies the practice is built on.
The farmhouse was intentionally built in the vernacular of the region, so had many suppliers and craftspeople working on building furniture and specialist finishes.
Its focus on reviving heritage crafts meant extra support in bringing artisanal skills back to the surface, which meant intricate management yet ultimately is what makes this project so special.
To offer this support an on-site ‘crafts village’ was created, meaning many artisans in one place. Lots of extra project management and coordination of all the different trades.
The practice works with certain brands, galleries, craftspeople and makers regularly.
Several collaborations and collections are in progress in 2025 and the studio released a collection with CC Tapis last year.
Sister company, Curio, is an excellent resource of distinct suppliers. The team at Curio conducts global research to uncover and support makers and brands whose work is standout.
About Shalini Misra
Shalini Misra, an internationally celebrated interior architect, designer and property developer, has shaped exceptional spaces for over two decades. Often collaborating with artists and galleries to curate bespoke collections, in 2022 Shalini launched Curio, the global platform for extraordinary art, craft and design. In 2024, she announced the inaugural Shakti Design Residency, a first-of-its-kind initiative that builds bridges between Indian artisanship and the global design world. Shalini earned her architecture degree from the Delhi School of Architecture and Planning in India and further honed her expertise in Urban Planning at the University of Columbia in New York. Her enthusiasm for new technology led her to explore Virtual Reality in Architecture at the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, London. The recipient of numerous awards and accolades, Shalini is an active contributor to her field. She serves on the advisory board at KLC School of Design and plays an integral role on Tate’s South Asian Acquisition Committee. Committed to philanthropy, Shalini is a trustee and mentor for the Vahani Scholarship Trust.
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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a feminine and serene office design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Shalini Misra.
On a thriving street in London’s Mayfair, Shalini Misra has designed the interiors to a feminine, modern office space with a curated mix of materials from marble and timber with metal accents to fluted glass. Artwork is hung in the entrance, main office and board room giving a high-end residential feel. The main office is separated from the other areas with a glass fluted wall to allow light to flow throughout the space, with motorised blinds installed for privacy. Plants are placed throughout to bring in the essential presence of nature and the terrace provides a private outdoor space.
SBID Awards Category: Office Design Under 2,000 SqM
Practice: Shalini Misra
Project: Mayfair Penthouse Office
Location: London, United Kingdom
The client aspired for an office space that radiates a homely, feminine, modern, and serene ambiance, enriched by an abundance of green elements. With a harmonious combination of materials like timber, marble, glass, and elegant metal accents, the bespoke shelves incorporate captivating accessories, creating a striking backdrop for the client. Meticulously crafted custom furniture, rugs, and the addition of exquisite Hermes and silk wallpapers catered to individual needs, elevating each space with an extra layer of elegance and charm. Additionally, the use of burgundy and navy upholstery infuses a vibrant and colourful rhythm throughout all areas.
Our design approach was guided by the client's love for nature, greenery, and abundant natural light, along with her impressive art collection. The design layout seamlessly integrates a cleverly crafted glass-fluted wall that delineates the main office space, allowing for the uninterrupted flow of natural light while ensuring privacy through the inclusion of motorized blinds. Carefully positioned plants breathe a vital sense of nature into the setting, while the terrace offers a secluded outdoor sanctuary.
Although we faced challenges posed by joinery-related delays, achieving timely project completion was effectively overcome through swift on-the-spot solutions, ensuring the smooth progression of the project.
When we handed over the project to the client, she was thrilled. Over the years, every time we see her or hear from the team, they fondly recall the office's inception and express ongoing enjoyment of their work environment.
I entered the SBID Awards to showcase my recent interior projects, gain recognition within the industry, and connect with fellow professionals. The awards provide an excellent platform to highlight my studios creative abilities and contribute to the broader design community.
Being a finalist in the awards has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me and my design studio. It signifies that our hard work, dedication, and innovative approach to interior design are being acknowledged and celebrated by our peers and the industry. This recognition not only boosts our team's morale and motivation but also enhances our credibility and reputation. It inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity in our projects.
We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a homely and soulful house design by Róisín Lafferty, click here to read it.
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