Elite Creations

Designers think differently and have a mind of their own. A chat with three thought-provoking designers, who not only are masters in their craft, but also are distinguished personalities

Iqrup Dhamija & Ritika Dhamija (iqrup+ritz)

What prompted you to become a designer?

Iqrup: I have always had a passion for beautiful homes. Travelling from a young age within India and then Europe played a large part in awakening my design sensibilities.

Ritika: I grew up surrounded by design. My mother and business partner, Iqrup Dhamija is an interior architect. I’ve accompanied her to her workshop, joined her on-site visits, and spent days with her shopping for materials in market from a very young age. These adventures inculcated a sense of design discipline in me.

What is your specialisation?

Iqrup: Ritika usually starts with a big picture of styles and trends that she is currently attracted to. It could be a colour palette or a picture, but there is a cohesive collection or ‘look’ vision from the word go. I start with individual pieces. When planning a space, I first think about placement and flow while Ritika goes straight to the moodbaord.

Ritika: We’re both actively involved in designing collections, however, my mother, who is the creative director, takes the lead and makes the final decisions when it comes to design. I take the lead on strategy, marketing, our customer experience/journey both online and at stores, events, etc. Mom has the final say on design/product decisions. When designing new collections we both start from very different places, but usually end upon the same place.

Who are your icons and inspirations?

Iqrup: Textiles and architectural details are a huge source of inspiration. I’ve been collecting textiles and taking snaps of grills, railings, cornices and arches for many years before Instagram made it fashionable.