DesignAsia
In the heart of New Delhi, nestled in the serene surroundings of Anand Lok, lies the foundation of a dream — Kalakshetra Designs. Founded in the year 2000 by two driven and creative minds, Shalini Gupta and Shipra Kakrania, Kalakshetra has grown over the last two decades into a well-regarded name in the world of interior design and architecture. Their journey is not merely about creating beautiful spaces; it’s a compelling tale of blending emotion, purpose, and design to shape environments that inspire and uplift.
The Beginning of a Beautiful Journey
The seeds of Kalakshetra Designs were sown by a simple but powerful desire — to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. Shalini and Shipra were always fascinated by the way spaces could influence human emotions, productivity, and interactions. Armed with a deep passion for design and a strong desire to create, they came together to form Kalakshetra Designs in 2000.
Back then, the world of interior design in India was still evolving. Clients often viewed design purely from an aesthetic or utilitarian lens. But for Shalini and Shipra, design meant more than just furniture and layouts. It was about crafting an identity — a soul — for each space. With this vision, Kalakshetra was born.
Building Foundations with Purpose
From the outset, Kalakshetra was not just a business endeavor; it was a heartfelt pursuit. Shalini and Shipra strongly believed that spaces are reflections of those who inhabit them. Whether it’s a cozy residence, a buzzing office, or a sprawling commercial project, every design at Kalakshetra is infused with individuality, character, and function.
Their approach has always been deeply human-centric. “We never viewed our work as solving problems,” says Shipra, “rather, it’s about creating environments that elevate lives — emotionally, mentally, and functionally.”
This belief is evident in every project they undertake — from luxury apartments and elegant clubhouses to boutique offices and intimate living spaces. Each design tells a story, not just of the space, but of the people who will use it.
The Growth Phase: Expanding Horizons
Today, Kalakshetra Designs is in a vibrant phase of growth. Their portfolio has grown to include high-end residential projects, commercial interiors, and large-scale luxury developments. A mix of loyal clients and exciting new collaborations continues to fuel their creative momentum.
As they expand their footprint, the team remains grounded in their core values. “Giving character to a space is key,” shares Shalini. “We bring in the personality of the owner — their likes, their essence — so that the space comes alive and feels authentic.”
One of their unique strengths is their collaborative, empathetic approach to design. Their process begins with listening — not just to the functional needs of the client, but to their unspoken aspirations. This allows them to craft spaces that are not only beautiful but deeply meaningful.
The Emotional Impact of Design
At the heart of Kalakshetra’s philosophy is the belief that design can heal, inspire, and transform. “Thoughtfully designed spaces enhance well-being, reduce stress, and boost happiness,” says Shipra. “We’ve seen how good design can bring peace to a chaotic life, energize a stagnant routine, or simply make someone feel at home.”
This human touch is perhaps what sets Kalakshetra apart. Their spaces are not just visually pleasing but are environments where life unfolds — where children grow, where families gather, where ideas are born, and where dreams are nurtured.
Challenges: The Hidden Layers of Success
Of course, no entrepreneurial journey is without its hurdles. The road to success for Kalakshetra Designs has had its fair share of bumps — from financial constraints and market uncertainties to the delicate balance of personal and professional life.
“Every challenge has been a learning curve,” shares Shalini. “Whether it was managing budgets, scaling the business, or just finding the right people to work with — each experience made us better. It taught us resilience, adaptability, and above all, patience.”
The early days were especially tough. As women entrepreneurs in a competitive industry, they had to prove themselves through their work, again and again. But their determination, combined with an unshakable belief in their vision, carried them forward.
Entrepreneurship, they believe, is a journey of personal growth as much as professional. “You have to constantly evolve — as a designer, as a leader, and as a person.”
Craft, Collaboration, and Community
Kalakshetra’s growth has been organic, rooted in strong relationships and an unwavering commitment to quality. Over the years, Shalini and Shipra have built a robust network of suppliers, artisans, architects, and contractors. These relationships are not just transactional; they are collaborations built on mutual respect and trust.
Understanding the market has also been key. “Identifying opportunities isn’t just about what’s missing — it’s about understanding what people feel is missing,” says Shipra. This client-centric lens allows them to anticipate trends and offer designs that are both current and timeless.
Signature Style & USP
What makes Kalakshetra truly unique is their ability to infuse personality into space. Every project reflects a distinct character — often derived from the client’s own journey, style, or values. It’s a mix of creative intuition and methodical process that helps them strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and utility.
They are not afraid to experiment, and yet their designs are always anchored in purpose. Whether it’s a minimal modern home or a richly layered traditional space, their work has a quiet sophistication that resonates.
Their USP lies not in loud statements but in thoughtful details — a textured wall that adds warmth, a cleverly placed light that highlights a memory, or a subtle material palette that soothes the senses.
Looking Ahead: The Future is Green
As Kalakshetra Designs looks to the future, the founders are clear about their direction. They want to explore hospitality design — hotels, resorts, and experiential spaces that allow them to push boundaries and innovate further.
They are also deeply committed to sustainable and green architecture. “Clients today are more aware of their environmental footprint,” notes Shalini. “We see this as an opportunity to bring in eco-friendly materials, smart technology, and sustainable practices into mainstream design.”
This shift is not just market-driven but value-driven. For Kalakshetra, sustainability is not a trend but a responsibility — to clients, to society, and to the planet.
Inspirations, Reflections & Lessons
When asked about their inspirations, both founders mention not just global designers but also everyday creators — artisans, craftspeople, and nature itself. It’s this grounded approach that makes their designs so authentic.
Over the years, the most valuable lesson they’ve learned is the importance of relationships — not just with clients, but within their team and their extended professional network. Trust, transparency, and collaboration have been the cornerstones of their success.
Their advice to budding architects and designers is simple but powerful: Master your craft. Be curious. And above all, work hard. Passion alone isn’t enough — it needs to be backed by discipline, empathy, and relentless learning.
Closest to the Heart
For Shalini and Shipra, every project is special. But it’s the trust their clients place in them that holds the most meaning. “When someone gives you the responsibility to design their home or workplace, they’re letting you into their world. That’s a privilege we never take lightly,” they say.
Some projects stand out because of the challenges they posed, while others are memorable for the joy they brought. But each one is a testament to their dedication, creativity, and client-focused approach.
Final Thoughts: Designing with Heart
Twenty-five years on, Kalakshetra Designs continues to thrive — not just because of their stunning work, but because of the heart behind it. Shalini Gupta and Shipra Kakrania are not just entrepreneurs; they are storytellers, dreamers, and quiet revolutionaries reshaping the way people experience space.
Their journey is a reminder that success is not just about accolades or expansion — it’s about impact. It’s about creating spaces that feel right, that function beautifully, and that hold meaning.
