Tell us about your background, and what led you to start your business.
I discovered my passion for architecture and design when I watched my dad design and build my childhood home in Kerala, India. Every evening was spent watching the home getting built, brick by brick. The construction site was my happy place. My mom is a brilliant homemaker with a keen eye for design and I was inspired by how her creativity transformed our new house into a home. The rigor of a Bachelor of Architecture degree provided me with a solid foundation and a great work ethic. Moving to America introduced me to new ways of construction and styles of design. To fully immerse myself in this new world, I enrolled in a Bachelor of Interior Design course at Cornish College of the Arts, Seattle.
I spent almost ten years working in some of the best architecture firms in Seattle, working on award winning Corporate and Luxury High-Rise Residential projects alongside some of the brightest minds in the world. This experience honed my technical skills and allowed me to further understand the emotional and functional aspects of design. I started my own interior design studio to channel my creativity and expertise into a personalized, client-focused venture. Persimmon Design has been an amazing journey of collaborating with clients and creating environments that resonate with them on a profound level.
What "defines" Persimmon Design?
One unique aspect of Persimmon Design is that we approach every project with a fresh eye. When I meet a new client, I have no preconceived notions about how their space should look, feel, and function. I let my client’s design sensibilities and goals inform me about what the space needs to become.
In every project, I aim to blend innovation with functionality, ensuring that each design tells my client's story and evokes a sense of harmony. Sustainable design is at the core of my philosophy as an interior designer. From finishes to furniture, I source materials that have minimal impact on the environment, such as rapidly renewable materials, or recycled or upcycled elements. I believe in creating timeless designs that stand the test of time. A space that remains relevant and functional over the years inherently supports sustainability by reducing the need for frequent renovations or replacements. There is a strong focus on sourcing quality and artisanal products that can be passed on as family heirlooms, instead of sourcing products that are made with questionable materials and unfair labor practices that will not stand the test of time.
Nature has always been a profound inspiration to me. We’re lucky to live in the Pacific Northwest - there’s boundless beauty right at our doorstep. I am an avid hiker and love observing the changing seasons, the subtle play of light filtering through the leaves, and the majesty of the mountain ranges. Incorporating elements inspired by nature into my designs fosters a deep sense of connection and well-being within the spaces we create.
Color palettes and textures of materials often take cues from intricate details found in nature. Integrating biophilic design principles, such as large windows that frame outdoor views, water features, and indoor plants, further enhances the kinship between the interior and the natural world.
Describe a recent memorable project you worked on.
One of Persimmon Design’s favorite recent projects is the Cenote Bathroom. What started out as an unused office nook in my clients’ bedroom has now become a transformative retreat reminiscent of a shimmering cenote.
We really brought the spa home with this design! The design employs expansive and textural porcelain tiles that mimic rock formations, accented by layers of lighting that can be independently controlled to create different moods in the space. A moon-like mirror casts soft light on a custom floating vanity with a pebble shaped vessel sink. Brass accessories glimmer and reflect in the seamless shower enclosure with an infinity drain at one end. The magic of two massaging body jets combined with a soothing rain shower from above is an experience above the ordinary. We had fun styling this space with accents of richly grained green marble, glowing candles, and lots of greenery. If you give us a small space, we will go big on drama! This tiny gem adds a lot of value to our clients’ home and gives them a soothing oasis to rejuvenate.
My client’s design sensibilities and goals inform me about what the space needs to become.
