In the world of interior design, few names resonate as powerfully as Misbah Kapadia, the founder and visionary behind Design Konstruct. With over a decade of experience, Misbah has become the driving force behind some of India’s most iconic hospitality spaces, blending creativity, culture, and functionality into designs that tell stories and elevate experiences.

Her portfolio reads like a who’s who of Mumbai’s dining scene, with trailblazing designs for Pleo, Bougain Villa, Asian Kitchen in BKC, Silver Beach Cafe in Bandra and Lokhandwala, and Sorozai in Nagpur, to name a few. These spaces don’t just serve food; they provide an immersive experience. Each design is thoughtfully curated, blending aesthetics with function to create environments where every corner feels alive, where every detail adds to the narrative.

But Misbah’s creative genius doesn’t end with restaurants. She has also conceptualized dream homes, including a chic 4BHK apartment at Raheja Imperia and a serene 3BHK for artist Deepti Sadhwani, each tailored to the tastes and personalities of its owners. Her work extends to retail too, with standout designs like the enchanting Ethnicity store in Mumbai. Whether it’s a living room, a restaurant, or a retail space, Misbah approaches each project with a unique perspective, always striving to infuse soul and style into her creations.

In an exclusive conversation with Sumita Chakraborty, Editor-in-Chief of TheGlitz, Misbah Kapadia, founder and curator of Design Konstruct opens up about her design philosophy, the journey of shaping India’s hospitality landscape, and the art of creating spaces that captivate.

Over To Misbah

As someone who has successfully transformed the interiors experience across India, what key elements do you focus on when conceptualizing interiors that not only reflect a brand’s identity but also create a lasting impression on people?
Misbah: When designing a space, I start by understanding the brand’s core values and unique personality. My role is to bring that essence to life through thoughtful design choices. I focus on key elements like lighting, textures, colors, and layout to create an atmosphere that truly reflects the brand. Lighting, for example, can set the perfect mood whether it’s warm and cozy or bright and modern. Textures and colors add depth, making the space feel unique and inviting. I also pay close attention to how the space flows, thinking about how guests will experience it from the moment they arrive to when they leave. Ultimately, every detail is crafted to align with the brand’s identity, creating a memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits.

When designing, how do you strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality to create a seamless dining experience?
Misbah: Balancing aesthetics with functionality is at the heart of my design philosophy, especially when creating dining spaces. A beautifully designed space isn’t enough, it also needs to be practical for guests and efficient for staff. For instance, I focus on layouts that allow smooth movement, ensuring guests feel comfortable and staff can easily serve tables without obstacles. Thoughtful flow is key to making the experience enjoyable and seamless.
Materials and furnishings are chosen with both style and durability in mind, so the space remains inviting and functional even after heavy use. For example, chairs and tables should not only look appealing but also be sturdy and easy to maintain. This way, the space retains its charm while staying practical for everyday operations. By carefully balancing visual appeal with usability, I create dining environments that feel both welcoming and well-organized, enhancing the overall experience for everyone who steps in

Your portfolio includes some of the most popular restaurants across India. How do you ensure that each space tells a unique story while maintaining your signature design touch?

Misbah: My approach to each project begins with understanding the brand’s story and vision, ensuring that each space not only stands out but also feels distinct while reflecting my signature style. Sorozai in Mumbai is a great example. Located in Versova, Sorozai captures the vibrant, nostalgic essence of Goan culture through thoughtful design. We used Portuguese tiles, vintage hardware, and traditional motifs to give the space an authentic feel, blending modern elegance with cultural depth. Each detail, from the intricate tilework to the facade, invites guests to embark on a sensory journey through Goan flavors and ambiance. It’s a space where every visit offers a sense of discovery, creating a unique, memorable experience.

Similarly, Co.So in Nagpur exemplifies my dedication to unique and context-driven design. Co.So, integrates elements of nature to create an exquisite wine and dine experience. Here, I used materials and finishes that evoke a lush garden’s serenity, blending indoor sophistication with a touch of outdoor tranquility. The result is a calming ambiance where guests feel connected to nature while enjoying a refined, contemporary space. All my projects are unique, yet reflect my commitment to balancing creativity with functionality, crafting spaces that are both visually stunning and deeply engaging for guests.

With the growing trend of ‘Instagrammable’ spaces, how do you incorporate visually stunning elements into your designs without compromising the comfort and functionality of the space?
Misbah: The trend of creating Instagrammable spaces is exciting, but it requires a careful balance to ensure that visual appeal doesn’t come at the expense of comfort and functionality. I approach this by designing spaces with layered details, textures, lighting, and focal points that naturally draw attention without feeling forced. It’s about enhancing the aesthetics in ways that serve both the visual experience and practical use.
Comfort and ease of movement are top priorities, so I select furniture and layouts that are both stylish and user friendly. The goal is to create a space that feels as good as it looks, where guests can relax and enjoy themselves while also wanting to capture and share the experience. By focusing on an inviting atmosphere first and adding visually compelling elements second, I’m able to achieve spaces that photograph beautifully but still function effortlessly for guests and staff alike.

How do cultural and regional influences play a role in your design concepts, especially when creating spaces in cities as diverse as Bangalore, Mumbai, and Nagpur?
Misbah: Cultural and regional influences play a significant role in shaping my design concepts, particularly in cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Nagpur, each with its own unique charm and identity. I always tailor my designs to reflect the local culture and vibe of the city, blending traditional elements with modern aesthetics to create spaces that resonate with their surroundings.

For example, in Bangalore, I designed 1BHK, a cozy cafe that captures the essence of Portugal, Goan, and French influences. The space, housed in a bungalow surrounded by lush greenery, features a glass house at its center, allowing guests to enjoy the natural beauty around them. This fusion of nature and culture creates a space that feels both grounded and inviting.
In Nagpur, Co.So seamlessly blends sophisticated interior design with elements of nature, offering guests a calming ambiance while enjoying their meals and drinks. The design integrates organic materials and finishes that evoke a sense of serenity, perfectly balancing elegance and comfort.
Mumbai’s Pleo, on the other hand, embraces an earthy, fun vibe with vibrant, creative interiors that make it an ideal spot for relaxation and socializing. The lively atmosphere, combined with a fresh and exciting menu, makes Pleo an engaging space that encourages laughter, conversation, and connection. Each design draws from the city’s cultural influences, ensuring the space feels local and authentic while still offering a unique experience.

What are some emerging trends in interior design that you’re excited about, and how do you foresee them shaping the interiors landscape in the future?
Misbah: One trend I am excited about is biophilic design, which brings nature indoors through elements like plants, natural lighting, and organic materials. This design approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes a healthier and more relaxing environment. Another emerging trend is the use of technology to enhance comfort and efficiency in interiors, from smart lighting and climate control to interactive surfaces. As technology advances, these innovations will become more integrated into everyday design, shaping future spaces to be more intuitive, sustainable, and user-friendly.

Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority in design. How do you incorporate eco-friendly materials and practices into your projects while keeping the aesthetic appeal intact?
Misbah: When it comes to eco-friendly design, I focus on using materials that are both sustainable and visually appealing. This includes sourcing locally made products, using recyclable materials, and prioritizing energy-efficient lighting and furniture that are durable and easy to maintain.