Decoding A Star, Decoding A Home... Alia Bhatt

Hello! Visits the home of an actress-of-the-moment to discover youthful, quirky and fun interiors, all engineered by Richa Bahl. We look into the interior designer’s wonderful journey with the creative process and her psychological understanding of the stars, to arrive at their truest ‘homes’

- Sangeeta Wadhwani

What turns in your journey as Principal Designer, Richa Bahl Design Studio, have led to so many empowered single women actors approaching you to create spaces that resonate with them?

“I guess it would be my journey of discovering for myself that I love creating spaces, finally, after spending so many years in advertising. Really, for me, it is about the passion of creating designs that come from a more holistic approach than just being a decorated space. Maybe the ability to give a “home” which resonates with them and has a bit of them and me combined.”

What is the process you initiated with busy women like Dia Mirza, Alia, Kriti Sanon, to understand their needs and their aesthetics?

“Everyone is very busy in this city :), but a home is something that’s very personal and special to all. They gave me enough time and required attention. We had meetings where I understood the functional needs for the space and then divided it accordingly. They wanted spaces that they require for personal needs and for use in case of meetings, for getting dressed up, narrations etc.

“In terms of aesthetics, one creates layers into the spaces for them, after understanding their likes and dislikes – how they would want the usage of space – and then, take them through what appeals to them. Also, everyone’s tastes, their choices are evolving all the time. Design can be influenced by a place one travels to or a hotel one has stayed in. I focus on creating a home that works as a great base for adding future touches. If you are stuck with one particular type or style, adding new elements becomes difficult.”