Founders’ Return from the UK

Sarika began the studio after a transformative period in the UK, where she gained global exposure and enhanced her expertise. This international experience laid the foundation for SK Design Studio’s approach to creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply personal. “I started SK Design Studio in 2017 after working independently for several years. Returning from the UK, I had to rebuild from scratch. From starting with nothing, we have now grown into a team of 15 people in just 7 years”, shares Sarika.

Jeetendra, who joined as a Co-Founder, left a successful career at TCS to support and scale the studio. “Sarika returned to India with a clear vision for her career. She didn’t want to have a mediocre life just managing household responsibilities but wanted to further establish her own identity and restart her career. In 2016, while I was still in the UK, she came back alone, set up her office, and eventually, started SK Design Studio”, Jeetendra recounts.

Core Values & Vision

The studio’s mission and vision are clear–to be known as the most trustworthy, innovative, creative, and efficient design firm. This commitment is evident in their core values, which include delivering quality services within schedule and budget, treating all stakeholders with respect and fairness, and maintaining transparency in all their dealings. “For example, if somebody wants to know the cost of a double bed, we give the detailed cost of a double bed, including the side table”, explains Jeetendra.

Customization and personalization are key aspects of SK Design Studio’s approach. Recounting a notable project where a couple had completely different design preferences, Jeetendra adds, “The lady preferred contemporary design while her husband leaned towards a spiritual theme. We managed to blend both preferences seamlessly, satisfying both stakeholders”. This attention to detail and understanding of cultural nuances are the hallmarks of SK Design Studio’s work, earning the firm recognition of all kinds. Apart from being published in Times of India and magazines such as Design Source and Architects Diary, the firm has received the Blindwink Design Excellence Award and the National Woman Achievers Award.

Overcoming Challenges with Technology

The SK Design Studio team continuously learns new technologies and implements them to offer the best to its clients, which includes upgrading from 3D Sketches to VR systems, enabling clients to visualize their 3D homes as if they were seeing them live. Additionally, Sarika Kulkarni’s Youtube channel, boasting over 25,000 followers, showcases detailed walkthroughs that attract numerous client inquiries and accolades.

Despite the challenges, particularly in dealing with the unorganized contractor sector, SK Design Studio has successfully navigated these hurdles through dedication and meticulous project management. The firm has also introduced a CRM system to ensure a smooth experience for clients. To continually enhance

its services, SK Design Studio gathers client feedback on design, staff performance, craftsmanship, and overall finishing through written and video formats. Furthermore, the firm stays abreast of the latest industry developments through seminars, exhibitions, and continuous team education.

Looking ahead, SK Design Studio has set revenue and design targets, aiming to expand its reach in South Mumbai and increase the number of projects it delivers each year. The firm also plans to expand overseas and enhance its brand through strategic initiatives, focusing on residential interiors while catering to commercial and corporate projects. With a strong foundation built on trust, transparency, and excellence, SK Design Studio continues to transform spaces into timeless works of art, reflecting the unique personalities and aspirations of its clients.