SPOTLIGHT ON: INDIA (MAHDAVI THAT IS)
Known for her vernacular furniture and designs, as well as use of soft pastels and luxurious velvets, India Mahdavi is highly regarded within the design world. Based in Paris, the Iranian and Egyptian Interior Designer is one of my favorites; her whimsical design, combined with a keen sense for couture and detailed aesthetic, is captivating, engaging guests and appealing to many, as seen in the works displayed below.
Mahdavi was raised between Germany, France and America ( at one point she attended both SVA and Parsons, as well as studied in France). In an interview with Architectural Digest from 2016, she explains how her projects are location oriented, meaning they are tailored to each street, city, country, residence or more. This is something that I myself identify with as a designer: it is evident that travels and upbringing dictate Mahdavi’s design sense, influencing her choices in material, furnishings and other selections.
One of my favorite projects was created for Nilafur Gallery in Milan. Dubbed “Chez Nina,” the space was designed as a temporary club and lounge within the gallery, and named for its founder and owner Nina Yashar.
Initially designed for the 2018 Salone del Mobile fair in Milan, the lounge has been a hit ever since. Pierre Frey fabrics, enveloped within a hypnotizing de Gournay wallpaper and furnished with custom velvet banquettes from Mahdavi’s collection, dance within the space, conjuring a vibrant and enticing atmosphere. The two-tone glass tables were specially designed, mimicking the geometric wallpaper and creating a juxtaposition between the more feminine and curvaceous seating.
“The ideal place for listening to Satie and sipping long drinks.” Quoted from Mahdavi herself, the intimate ambiance and small rounded seating areas encourage conversation and intereaction between guests. The setting is completed with selections from the Nilufar gallery itself, including vintage pieces from Angelo Lelli, armchairs by Gio Ponti and more.
As a young designer who loves color, I am a huge fan of “Chez Nina” (even the name alone is striking). The luxurious seating options are inviting, and I can imagine after dinner drinks and cocktails with friends, or murmuring conversations between lovers. The environment is more than intoxicating, and the use of velvet, especially in a club environment, is a rare and daring feat by Mahdavi, but one that works all the same. So next time you find yourself in Milan, I highly recommend a visit, where immersing yourself in Satie and drinking long drinks is a must.