Bhumika Chauhan
The Beginning of a Vision
For some, design is about furniture and finishes, but for Jumana Kanchwala, it has always been about people. The founder of JK Atelier, based in Nagpur, Jumana approaches interiors as living, breathing extensions of the individuals who occupy them. Her design journey officially began in 2019, when she set out with a simple yet powerful mission: to create spaces that are not just visually appealing but deeply personal.
Crafting Meaningful Environments
At the core of Jumana’s philosophy lies the belief that design is transformative. A well-planned space has the power to influence moods, encourage connections, and provide a sense of sanctuary. With JK Atelier, she has successfully delivered luxury residential projects that balance beauty and practicality, while also expanding into high-end commercial interiors. Each project is seen not as a template, but as a unique narrative tailored to reflect the client’s lifestyle and aspirations.
The Art of Personalisation
Personalisation is the defining element of Jumana’s work. Every detail is thoughtfully curated—whether it’s the flow of a layout, the choice of materials, or a custom-designed piece of furniture. Her process begins with listening, truly understanding the client’s psychology, and translating subtle cues into design elements. “I believe empathy is my greatest strength,” she says. “It allows me to design spaces that my clients connect with on an emotional level.” This careful blend of elegance, functionality, and individuality ensures that no two JK Atelier projects are ever the same.
Overcoming Challenges with Grace
Like most entrepreneurs, Jumana’s early years were filled with challenges. Building trust as a young designer and managing the demands of business while staying true to creativity tested her resilience. Yet, through clear communication, consistent delivery, and unwavering passion, she carved a niche for herself. Her greatest learning has been adaptability—understanding that unexpected obstacles in design and execution are opportunities to innovate rather than setbacks.
Inspirations and Influences
Jumana draws professional inspiration from Kelly Wearstler, whose fearless creativity and bold aesthetics remind her that design should be unapologetically unique. At the same time, she remains rooted in her own philosophy—spaces should be functional, timeless, and aligned with the human experience.
Designing with Responsibility
For Jumana, sustainability is not a buzzword but a responsibility. She advocates for local materials, artisan collaborations, and designs built for longevity. Her belief is that small, mindful choices in design can collectively make a large impact on the environment. This awareness, paired with her design sensibilities, positions JK Atelier as a studio that values both style and responsibility.
Looking Ahead
The future of JK Atelier is ambitious yet grounded. Jumana envisions expanding into larger luxury residential and boutique commercial projects across India, while also nurturing young designers through a collaborative studio culture. Her long-term goal is not only to grow her business but also to shape JK Atelier into a trusted name in premium interior design.
A Message for Young Designers
For those beginning their design journey, Jumana’s advice is simple yet profound: stay curious, stay authentic, and remember that design is about improving lives, not just creating beautiful rooms. She emphasizes the importance of empathy, adaptability, and finding one’s own unique voice in a crowded industry.
Website : https://www.jkatelier.in/
