“I’d like to believe that my work is for people who enjoy the simple things in life — those who prefer grinding their coffee beans to buying instant coffee. Or those who enjoy cooking their own food rather than ordering out,” says Ravi Vazirani, who identifies himself as a slow designer.
The 36-year-old takes inspiration from everything around him. “Slow design is my personal style and an extension of my inner self. I like to bring a sense of calmness and simplicity to my work. My ideas can come from the clothes people wear or from my travels,” says Vazirani, who works out of his Bandra design studio, where he also opened a bed and breakfast last year, which is an extension of his aesthetic.
He believes the slow life — from slow fashion to slow food — is in demand now because people need a break from their busy lives. And slow design is an integral part of this lifestyle. “If we look at the current political scenario, it is total chaos. Cities are filled with a sea of people trying to survive. So they want their personal space to bring them peace,” says the interior designer, who identifies with the works of Vincent Van Duysen, Axel Vervoordt, Sandeep Khosla Architects and Architecture Brio. “My designs are simple. I shy away from vibrant colours, using layered materials or ornate ceilings.” The designer, who is currently working on two holiday homes in Goa, and the flagship store of Jaipur Rugs in Mumbai and Jaipur, among others, shares his five slow design tips.
1. Restrained material palette. My designs are about blank walls and floors. The materials I use — mostly stone, cement and wood — are subtle. I also try to recycle old furniture and introduce plants in the room. Currently I am using a lot of ponytail palms, brassias and kokedamas (Japanese moss ball).
2. Muted colours. I tend to veer towards the natural shades like grey, beige and brown instead of more vibrant colours. These have a calming effect. I also try to bring in lots of natural light whenever the space allows it.
3. Do not obsess over perfection. It is over-rated. Crumpled linen or an imperfect porcelain dish can add to the beauty of your living space.
4. Shop local and engage in fair trade. This will support local artistes and reduce the carbon foot print. I use curtains woven by weavers in Kutch and pots made by local potters. We need to understand that slow living is about identifying the things that you cannot live without.
5. Let your home grow with you. Don’t be in a hurry to furnish every corner. Shop slowly and build a space where one can reflect on one’s life.
