Interview with Swathy Sivaraman, CEO & Chief Designer of StoreyBoard Design

An exclusive interview with Swathy Sivaraman, CEO and Chief Designer of StoreyBoard Design, a Luxury interiors design and execution company

In the world of luxury interior and architectural design, Swathy Sivaraman is a luminary whose creative vision and innovative expertise have left an indelible mark. As the CEO and Chief Designer of StoreyBoard Design, a renowned luxury design firm, she has redefined the art of creating captivating living spaces and architectural wonders.

With a career spanning decades, Swathy’s dedication to transforming spaces into works of art has earned her numerous accolades and a distinguished reputation in the industry. Today, we have the privilege of delving into her inspiring journey, exploring her design philosophy, and uncovering the secrets behind the success of StoreyBoard Design.

Swathy Sivaraman is an award-winning Architect/ Interior Designer, and the CEO and Chief Designer of Storeyboard Designs -a prestigious luxury “interior design and build” company. Educated at the prestigious Harvard University, Boston & UVCE, Bangalore, Swathy’s design flair shines in contemporary, fusion, and minimalistic styles.

Guided by a unique blend of creativity and functionality, Swathy, along with her business partner, has propelled her firm to the forefront of the industry. With a clientele comprising some big names from the world of business, redefines luxury and individuality through designs that set international trends.

Can you tell us about your entrepreneurial journey and what inspired you to become an architect and interior designer, eventually founding StoreyBoard Design?

Swathy Sivaraman, the creative force propelling StoreyBoard Design (an interior design and execeution company) to unprecedented heights, traces her entrepreneurial journey back to her innate love for art and architecture.

Her educational pursuits, culminating in a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from UVCE, Bangalore, and a Master’s in Environmental and Sustainability Management from HES, Harvard University, Boston, formed the bedrock of her expertise.

The turning point emerged from a profound moment during a telecommunications engineering course when she felt an undeniable void. It was this void that fueled her curiosity, leading her to explore the realms of creativity and imagination. From that pivotal juncture, the world of architecture and interior design beckoned, offering her the canvas to express her artistic visions.

Moreover, Swathy’s journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t a solitary endeavor; it was inspired and empowered by her partner. Their casual meeting morphed into a partnership that set the stage for StoreyBoard Design’s remarkable story.

In her success story, the echo of her partner’s encouragement and belief resonates, illustrating how collaboration and inspiration are the cornerstones of her entrepreneurial triumph. Through this partnership, Swathy found her path, transforming her passion into a thriving venture that continues to inspire others in the world of design.

StoreyBoard Design is known for its luxury interior and architectural designs. What design principles and philosophies guide your work to create spaces that are both aesthetically stunning and functional?

Swathy Sivaraman: In the heart of StoreyBoard Design lies a profound commitment to seamlessly intertwining aesthetics and functionality. Our core design principles are meticulously crafted around this fundamental harmony, where every space becomes a canvas for both visual allure and practical utility.

We firmly believe that an exquisite space should transcend mere visual appeal; it should enrich lives with its thoughtful design. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that interiors are not just about creating aesthetically pleasing environments; they are about innovation, lifestyle transformation, and the infusion of luxury into everyday living.

From meticulously designed bathrooms to expansive walk-in closets, every corner we touch is transformed into a haven of functionality , innovation and elegance.

At StoreyBoard Design, we consider ourselves not just designers, but artists and artisans who craft bespoke solutions that are unparalleled. We are pioneers in pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and redefining the very essence of luxury interiors.

Our approach involves extensive research, engineering innovation, and a relentless pursuit of creativity. For example, in our recent project we architected and engineered a solution for their walk in closet that was the 1st of its kind.

We all are aware of finger print locks, but have u seen a lock system where at the press of a finger print at the entrance in the entire 20 sets of doors open at once. The beauty is it gets locked automatically in few seconds as per the settings, so u don’t need to worry about forgetting to lock and more importantly those numerous key bunches.

What is more amazing is that u can give partial access to certain cupboards to your maids so u are not worried about your valuables being tampered with. That also can further be timed to open at certain times only and for certain time only.

With gorgeous back lit panels, with space allotted for every items, tinted glass shelves and shutters, leather fascia, and a gorgeous island to house all the collectibles (which is also part of the overall lock system), with sleek printed glass doors, its an innovation we are proud off and the end result is an enhancement of one’s lifestyle beyond just aesthatics.

We hold a steadfast belief that “Luxury interiors is not about expensive spend but about expensive taste.” By incorporating cutting-edge ideas and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs, we elevate every space we touch, creating environments that are both visually captivating and exceptionally functional. In essence, we transform spaces into living works of art, where luxury seamlessly merges with purposeful design.

What is your favorite style of designs?

Swathy Sivaraman: Amidst the evolving landscape of minimalism and contemporary design, my personal favorite style leans towards a harmonious fusion of modern aesthetics and our rich Indian heritage. With clients traversing the globe, our design inspirations are as diverse as the cultures they encounter.

While we wholeheartedly cater to our clients’ specific tastes and expectations, I find immense beauty in infusing spaces with the grandeur reminiscent of India’s historical palaces, monuments, and religious sites.

India, with its heritage steeped in intricate details, vibrant colors, and the interplay of light, is akin to a captivating drama. It’s this essence that I love to bring into our projects. We seamlessly blend the grandeur of our cultural heritage with the sleek, contemporary allure of Italian-style furniture.

This fusion results in a stunning juxtaposition of modernity and our rich Indian lineage, creating spaces that are nothing short of spectacular.

This stylistic choice not only allows us to create visually compelling environments but also serves as a canvas for material innovation. We explore the opulence of gold hues, experiment with unique draping techniques, and delve into styling methods that exude grandeur in a truly grand manner.

For me, this approach is not just about design; it’s about crafting immersive experiences that resonate with the soul, transcending mere aesthetics and embracing the spirit of India’s splendid heritage.

In the world of interior design and architecture, trends are constantly evolving. How do you stay updated with the latest design trends and inc Collaboration is often a crucial aspect of design projects. How do you work with clients to ensure their vision is incorporated into the final design while adding your own unique touch? 

Swathy Sivaraman: In the dynamic realm of interior design and architecture, staying abreast of trends is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. At StoreyBoard Design, we are deeply committed to continuous learning and evolution. We draw inspiration from our global escapades and prestigious design exhibitions, such as Salon Del Mobile in Milan.

By immersing ourselves in the ever-changing landscape of design, we ensure that our creations remain not just relevant but trailblazing, reflecting the pulse of varying tastes.

Our commitment to staying ahead of the curve extends to our cutting-edge 40,000-square-foot experience center, a state-of-the-art hub where knowledge comes to life. Here, we delve into detailed material research, market trends, and innovation.

Each product category is overseen by dedicated team leads whose role is not just to learn and adapt but also to transfer their knowledge seamlessly to our designers. This depth of understanding is pivotal, allowing us to discern which materials suit specific genres or styles of projects.

Moreover, employing the same material in varied perspectives can dramatically transform a project’s aesthetic, showcasing our versatility and expertise.

In client discussions, this profound knowledge becomes tangible, guiding our conversations with a clarity that instills confidence. Combined with our unwavering commitment to ethics, transparency, and integrity, clients find assurance in our dedication.

They entrust us with their dreams, knowing that we will work tirelessly to breathe life into the blueprint of their aspirations.

Moreover, collaboration is at the heart of our design process. We engage closely with our clients, valuing their vision as the cornerstone of our projects. We ensure they get to touch, feel and see their designs in our experience center, so they can exactly visualise their output.

Through active dialogue and creative exchange, we seamlessly blend their aspirations with our unique touch. This collaborative synergy results in spaces that reflect the client’s identity while carrying the distinct StoreyBoard Design signature.

At StoreyBoard Design, evolution isn’t just a choice; it’s our way of ensuring that every project we undertake stands as a testament to timeless design and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Sustainability and eco-friendly design have become increasingly important. Can you share some examples of how StoreyBoard Design integrates sustainable practices and materials into your projects?

Swathy Sivaraman: In the ethos of StoreyBoard Design, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s an inherent philosophy that threads through our very core. As a CEO with a masters degree in sustainable Management,  this commitment resonates in every aspect of our work.

We are dedicated to seamlessly integrating eco-friendly practices and materials into our projects, ushering in a new era of conscientious design.

Our approach is comprehensive and meticulous. From utilizing recycled materials that breathe new life into existing resources to advocating for energy-efficient solutions that reduce our ecological footprint, many decision we make is rooted in environmental mindfulness.

One of our key initiatives involves minimizing material waste, a pervasive challenge in the industry. By implementing an integrated project management approach, where decisions concerning everything from sanitary fittings to curtains are made during the design phase, we curtail wastage significantly that’s comes from changes and undecided process or when design happens through the entire process or materials being chosen later than the design stage.

This approach not only fosters sustainability but also ensures that each element in our designs serves a purpose, thus reducing unnecessary environmental strain.

At StoreyBoard Design, embracing sustainable practices isn’t just about being environmentally responsible; it’s about crafting spaces with a conscience. By synergizing innovation with ecological consciousness, we not only create aesthetically pleasing environments but also actively contribute to the well-being of our planet. Our designs, rooted in sustainability, stand as a testament to our commitment to both exquisite aesthetics and a greener tomorrow.

Many of your projects involve luxury and high-end design. How do you approach creating bespoke designs that cater to the unique tastes and preferences of your clients?

Swathy Sivaraman: In the realm of luxury and high-end design, customization is key. At StoreyBoard Design, we approach each project as a unique canvas, meticulously tailored to the distinct tastes and preferences of our clients. Our process involves immersive consultations, where we delve deep into understanding the client’s vision, lifestyle, and aspirations.

By actively listening to our clients, we decipher their desires and translate them into bespoke designs. Every element, from color palettes to furnishings, is curated with meticulous attention, ensuring that it aligns seamlessly with the client’s personality and aesthetic sensibilities.

Collaborative brainstorming sessions and continuous feedback loops are integral, allowing us to refine and enrich the design iteratively.

Our approach is not just about creating aesthetically pleasing spaces; it’s about crafting environments that resonate with the client on a profound level and bringing harmonious solutions that stay true to the theme or the inhabitants.

By integrating their unique tastes and preferences into our designs, we breathe life into their visions, turning dreams into tangible, luxurious realities.

As an award-winning architect and designer, you’ve likely faced various challenges in your career. Can you share a particularly challenging project or situation you encountered and how you overcame it?

Swathy Sivaraman: Throughout my career, challenges have served as invaluable stepping stones toward professional and personal growth. One particularly noteworthy experience involved maneuvering intricate client demands within the constraints of a project. This experience underscored the delicate balance between fulfilling client expectations and adhering to predefined project boundaries.

In such situations, fostering open communication emerged as a linchpin. By establishing transparent dialogue channels, we navigated complex client requirements effectively. Embracing creative problem-solving became our modus operandi.

We approached each challenge not as a roadblock, but as an opportunity to innovate, finding solutions that satisfied both client aspirations and project limitations.

Crucially, unwavering dedication played a pivotal role. We demonstrated commitment not only to the project but also to understanding the evolving needs of our clients. This multifaceted approach, rooted in patience and empathy, allowed us to address shifting demands gracefully.

Moreover, in the realm of client interactions, another challenge surfaced. Clients, often, would start with a defined scope but gradually expand their expectations, sometimes to the point of demanding answers for even the minutest issues in their homes.

Navigating this required a deep understanding of human psychology. It called for immense professionalism, patience, and a nuanced approach to handle these situations diplomatically.

As the captain of my team, upholding professionalism and ethical standards became paramount. Standing firm on what was right and just while diplomatically addressing client demands ensured not only the integrity of our work but also the respect we commanded in the industry.

These challenges taught me the significance of adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity. They reinforced the importance of nurturing a team culture founded on unwavering ethics and the ability to navigate complex human dynamics.

Each challenge became an opportunity not just to overcome, but to evolve, ensuring that every project we undertake is not just a testament to our design prowess but also a reflection of our unwavering commitment to professionalism and integrity.

What advice would you give to aspiring architects and interior designers who are looking to establish their own design firms and succeed in this competitive field?

Swathy Sivaraman: I draw inspiration from my experiences as a mother. Entrepreneurship, much like motherhood, is about nurturing—nurturing an idea, a team, and a company. It’s a profound journey where you give life to your dreams, nurture them, and imbibe the organization with ethics and culture.

Yes, it can be overwhelming, but it’s this very challenge that empowers you. When u worked for another organisation, there are measurable parameters to define your career growth. One just needed to hone their given role to the best of ability.

Very different from that was when u stepped into an entrepreneurial journey. Every day is a day of learning and most importantly unlearning.  

In the entrepreneurial landscape, you are the chess player, maneuvering each piece strategically. The hierarchy, stability, risk assessment, planning, teamwork, competition, and even sacrifice—all these elements constitute the intricate game. Embrace this complexity & challenges with grace and determination, for in every move, there’s a lesson, and in every challenge, there’s an opportunity.

Stay resilient, stay inspired, and most importantly, stay true to your passion. Your journey, much like a well-designed space, will be a testament to your creativity, dedication, and unwavering spirit.

What is your success tips for women entrepreneurs

Swathy Sivaraman: For women entrepreneurs, my advice is simple yet profound: You are unstoppable. Your gender should never be a barrier to your dreams. Embrace your identity, multitask your way through challenges, and fearlessly invest in your aspirations.

Focus on the light at the end of the tunnel, believe in your capabilities, and let your work illuminate your path. You are not just entrepreneurs; you are torchbearers of change, resilience, and empowerment. Shine on!

Swathy Sivaraman’s journey as the CEO and Chief Designer of StoreyBoard Design reflects the epitome of creativity, innovation, and excellence in the realm of luxury interior and architectural design. Her design philosophy, deeply rooted in functionality and aesthetics, has garnered a well-deserved reputation for StoreyBoard Design as a leading luxury design firm.

As we conclude this interview, it is evident that Swathy’s passion for design, commitment to excellence, and unwavering dedication to her craft have been pivotal to the company’s success. Her remarkable career stands as a testament to the transformative power of design, and we eagerly await the continued influence of Swathy Sivaraman and StoreyBoard Design on the world of luxury interior and architectural design.

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