From renowned interiors to furniture and product designs, India Mahdavi has become an international icon, proving that design is more than function; it is a celebration of form, colour, and emotion.
Born in Tehran to an Iranian father and an Egyptian-English mother, Mahdavi’s global perspective was shaped by her nomadic upbringing, having lived in France, the United States, and Germany. This exposure to diverse cultures profoundly influenced her work, resulting in a design language that speaks of contrast, unity, and cosmopolitan style. “My culture is a mixed culture. I come from a very hybrid background, and that has influenced the way I see the world,” Mahdavi shared in an interview with The New York Times.
This eclecticism allows her to draw from various sources of inspiration, blending Middle Eastern elegance with Parisian chic, American modernism, and Mediterranean warmth. Each project carries the unique imprint of these influences and reflects Mahdavi’s personal obsession with texture, form, and colour.
Master of colour
India Mahdavi is often called the “Queen of colour.” Her ability to transform spaces with tones that evoke emotion, joy, and fascination is unmatched. Whether it’s the iconic pink interiors of Sketch in London or the pastel paradise of Ladurée patisseries in Paris, her work exudes a joy that captivates the eye. “I don’t think I could live without colour,” Mahdavi confessed. “Colour is about life; it makes me happy, and I think it can make others happy too.”
For Mahdavi, design is not just about aesthetics but about creating experiences. In an interview with Architectural Digest, she emphasised, “A space should be an invitation to dream. It should envelop us, awaken our emotions, and tell a story.” This philosophy is evident in projects like the Ristorante della Rinascente in Milan, where bold colours and geometric patterns create an immersive dining experience. Her ability to blend art, architecture, and design into cohesive environments makes her projects extraordinary. Whether a hotel, restaurant, or private residence, her spaces always feel alive and personal, as though imbued with a unique personality. “My work is very sensual,” she explains. “It’s about touch, feeling, and emotion.”
Furniture and beyond
Beyond her renowned interiors, India Mahdavi has built an impressive portfolio of furniture and product designs. Her collection includes everything from ceramics to sofas, all showcasing her distinct aesthetic. Mahdavi’s designs feature bold forms, soft curves, and a deep connection to craftsmanship – her pieces are as artistic as they are functional. One of her most famous creations is the Bishop stool, a sculptural lacquered piece inspired by the shape of a chess piece. “I love designing furniture because it’s like creating architecture on a smaller scale,” she remarked.
A compelling aspect of Mahdavi’s work is her intuitive approach to design. She believes a space should be created with feeling and instinct. “I try not to overanalyse,” she revealed in an interview. “For me, design is very instinctive. It comes from within, from all my experiences and everywhere I’ve lived. You absorb things, and they emerge in your work.” This philosophy of instinctive design enables her to create spaces that are authentic and emotive.
India Mahdavi also resists following trends. “I don’t believe in the word ‘fashion’. What I try to do is create spaces that endure, that people remember. Design is about storytelling. It’s not about what’s trendy now but about creating something that resonates on a deeper level,” she asserts.
A legacy of playful elegance
With a career spanning over two decades, this architect and designer has left an indelible mark on the world of interiors, objects, and beyond. From her early days working with Christian Liaigre to founding her own studio in Paris, Mahdavi has forged a path entirely her own. She continues to inspire a new generation of designers to embrace boldness, break the rules, and most importantly, infuse their work with joy.
