DesignAsia
In the bustling heart of Varanasi, where ancient tradition meets the promise of modern India, one woman is quietly redefining how people experience their living and working spaces. Meet Niharika Singh, a visionary interior designer and the founder of Mustache Home Pvt. Ltd., whose unwavering passion for design and commitment to sustainability has turned her childhood dream into a thriving business—and a beacon of inspiration.
The Spark Behind the Dream
For Niharika Singh, the journey into the world of interior design was less of a decision and more of a calling. From an early age, she was captivated by the way colors, textures, and spatial arrangements could transform a room—and influence the emotions of those who entered it. “Growing up, I noticed how even small changes in our home impacted the way we lived and felt,” she recalls. “That’s when I realized that design is not just about beauty—it’s about how we live, interact, and connect with our surroundings.”
After earning a degree in interior design, where she honed her skills in space planning, color theory, and sustainable design, Niharika worked on diverse projects that helped her cultivate a deep understanding of client psychology and the nuances of architectural functionality. Her hands-on experience in both residential and commercial design laid the groundwork for something bigger.
Mustache Home Pvt. Ltd.: The Birth of a Vision
In 2020, armed with experience, a clear design philosophy, and a fierce entrepreneurial spirit, Niharika launched Mustache Home Pvt. Ltd. Located on the 4th floor of Kuber Complex in Rathyatra, Varanasi, the studio quickly carved a niche for itself in the competitive world of interior design.
The company’s website, www.mustachehome.com, showcases a wide array of projects that reflect its unique approach: spaces that are visually stunning, deeply personal, and sustainably designed.
“At Mustache Home, every project is a conversation,” Niharika explains. “We don’t impose a style—we discover it with the client.”
Defining a Business Rooted in Empathy and Innovation
Today, Mustache Home Pvt. Ltd. stands as a symbol of innovation and integrity in design. With a growing portfolio of customized homes, functional offices, and public spaces that prioritize user experience, Niharika’s studio has grown from a local favorite to a recognized design consultancy across northern India.
“Our strength lies in the way we listen,” Niharika says. “Understanding the client’s lifestyle, personality, and emotions allows us to translate ideas into spaces that truly feel like home.”
This human-centric approach is complemented by a strong commitment to sustainability. From using eco-friendly materials to incorporating energy-efficient design elements, Mustache Home is part of a new wave of design studios that prioritize environmental consciousness.
Design That Makes a Difference
Beyond aesthetics, Niharika believes in the power of design to uplift society. “Design impacts how people feel, think, and connect with one another,” she notes. “A well-designed space can reduce stress, boost productivity, and even foster stronger communities.”
This belief was exemplified in one of her most meaningful projects: the charitable renovation of Narayan Medical College and Hospital. “It was a heartfelt project,” she says. “We focused on creating a warm, healing atmosphere—something that can make a real difference in the recovery process of patients and the morale of staff.”
A Journey of Challenges and Growth
Like many entrepreneurs, Niharika’s path hasn’t been without its struggles. “Starting a design business in a competitive market was intimidating,” she admits. “It took time to define our brand, build credibility, and earn client trust.”
One of the most significant challenges was managing client expectations. “Design is deeply personal,” she explains. “Clients come with dreams, but also with constraints like budget and timelines. Learning to communicate clearly and set expectations early was key.”
Another hurdle was scaling the business while maintaining quality. “Delegating was hard at first, but it allowed me to focus more on creativity and client engagement. Time management became crucial.”
Through these challenges, Niharika grew not only as a designer but as a leader. Her resilience, empathy, and eye for detail helped her turn obstacles into stepping stones—and she continues to evolve with every project.
What Sets Mustache Home Apart
The USP of Mustache Home lies in its deeply personalized design approach. Niharika spends time understanding each client’s story, emotions, and aspirations. “Design should not just look good—it should feel right,” she says.
She also brings a forward-thinking perspective to her practice, integrating virtual reality tools for immersive client presentations and staying ahead of emerging design trends. “We’re exploring new technologies that can make the design process more collaborative and engaging,” she says.
Shaping the Future of Design
Looking ahead, Niharika has ambitious plans for Mustache Home. She envisions expanding into larger commercial projects, collaborating with architects and builders, and establishing design education programs for aspiring designers.
As sustainability becomes a global priority, she is committed to embedding green architecture principles into every aspect of her business. “We need to design not just for today, but for future generations,” she asserts.
Learning from the Ground Up
Niharika’s entrepreneurial journey is rich with lessons—many of which she eagerly shares with budding architects and designers.
“First, listen—truly listen—to your clients. Understand what makes them feel at home,” she advises. “Second, never stop learning. The design world is constantly evolving, and curiosity is your greatest asset.”
She also emphasizes the importance of blending creativity with practicality. “Design is not just art—it’s problem-solving. You need to balance beauty with function, imagination with empathy.”
Drawing Inspiration from the Trailblazers
Niharika draws inspiration from a global community of designers who are unafraid to push boundaries and innovate. “I admire designers who challenge the status quo while staying rooted in sustainability,” she says. “They remind me that we’re not just decorating spaces—we’re shaping experiences.”
Personal Growth Through Professional Passion
Interestingly, one of Niharika’s biggest personal lessons came from her own home renovation. “It taught me what clients go through—the anxiety, the excitement, the need to be heard,” she says. “That experience deepened my empathy and made me a better designer.”
This blend of professional expertise and emotional intelligence has become a cornerstone of her approach.
Advice to the Next Generation
To aspiring designers and entrepreneurs, Niharika offers a simple yet powerful message: “Let your passion guide you, but let empathy ground you.”
She encourages young professionals to explore widely, challenge norms, and view every challenge as an opportunity to grow. “Design has the power to transform lives. Take that responsibility seriously and let it inspire you every single day.”
Designing with Purpose
From a passionate student of design to the founder of a thriving design studio, Niharika Singh’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and heart. Through Mustache Home Pvt. Ltd., she is not just creating beautiful interiors—she’s shaping meaningful environments that elevate lives.
As trends shift and technologies evolve, one thing remains constant: her commitment to understanding people and using design as a tool for positive change. And that, perhaps, is her most enduring legacy.
