Miloni Shah

Art and design have always been a part of my life, nurtured by a childhood filled with creativity and encouragement. While I didn't always know I wanted to be a designer, my passion for visual expression led me down this path. I've honed my skills through education and experience, finding fulfillment in creating meaningful work that resonates with others.

For me, design is about problem-solving and creative expression. It's the process of finding elegant solutions to functional, aesthetic, or both challenges. Design is about understanding the needs and desires of people and crafting solutions that enhance their lives. It encompasses everything from graphic and product design to architecture and urban planning. Ultimately, design is about making the world better through thoughtful and intentional creation.

I enjoy designing projects that have a meaningful impact on people's lives and communities. Projects that allow me to blend architecture with urban design, creating spaces that serve their intended function and enhance the overall quality of life for those who interact with them, are particularly fulfilling to me. Additionally, I am passionate about projects that challenge conventional thinking and push the boundaries of design creativity. Whether it's a transit system that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings or a community-driven development initiative, I find joy in finding innovative solutions to complex problems. Ultimately, I gravitate towards projects prioritizing human-centric design principles, where the needs and experiences of the users are at the forefront of the design process. Creating spaces that positively impact people's daily lives and contribute to the betterment of society is what drives my passion for design.

My favorite design project is the Brno transit system, where I had the opportunity to blend social interaction with structural design, aiming to uplift the historic city of Brno. This project presented unique challenges, such as envisioning the scale of the site and integrating railway tracks spanning three football fields three meters above the ground. My core design principle focused on seamlessly blending the structure with the city fabric while maintaining openness to accommodate user flow. This project holds special significance for me due to its impact on the community and alignment with my design philosophy.

My favorite material is exposed concrete for its clean geometry and timeless elegance. Regarding platforms, SketchUp and Rhino are indispensable for their versatility in conceptualizing and refining designs. As for technology, I'm particularly fond of Lumion and Vray for rendering, as they allow me to bring my designs to life with stunning visualizations.

I feel most creative when I have ample time for reflection and exploration, often in the early morning or late at night when the world is quiet. Immersing myself in nature or exploring new environments also sparks my creativity, allowing me to draw inspiration from my surroundings. Collaborative brainstorming sessions with diverse perspectives also energize my creativity, fostering innovative ideas and solutions.

In my design process, I prioritize understanding the users' needs, integrating contextual elements, ensuring functionality, and emphasizing sustainability. By focusing on the human experience, considering site surroundings and cultural significance, and balancing aesthetics with practicality, I aim to create spaces that enhance well-being and minimize environmental impact.

When I design, I experience various emotions that fuel my creativity and drive my process. At times, I feel a sense of excitement and inspiration as ideas flow freely, and I envision the possibilities for a project. There's also a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment when I see my concepts come to life and positively impact the end users and their environment. However, designing can also be challenging, and I often feel frustrated or uncertain when navigating complex design problems or constraints. Overall, the creative process fills me with a sense of purpose and passion, driving me to strive for excellence in my work continuously.

Seeing my designs come to life fills me with a whirlwind of emotions, from pride and validation to anticipation and nervousness. It's immensely fulfilling to witness my vision transformed into reality, knowing that it will impact people's lives. I feel excited observing users interact with my spaces, yet there's a hint of nervousness during project unveilings, awaiting feedback. Overall, the experience fuels my passion for creativity and innovation, driving me to push boundaries further.

A successful design effectively addresses its users' needs and desires while seamlessly integrating with its context. It is functional, practical, and user-friendly, enhancing the human experience and improving quality of life. A successful design also considers sustainability and environmental impact, promoting long-term well-being for people and the planet. A successful design is aesthetically pleasing, inspires emotional connections, and resonates with its audience. It should be innovative, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions while remaining timeless and enduring. Ultimately, a successful design positively impacts its users, environment, and society as a whole.

When evaluating a design, I focus on functionality, aesthetics, contextual fit, innovation, and sustainability. These key aspects help me determine whether a design is successful and meets the criteria for being deemed "good" or "bad."

A designer's responsibilities to society and the environment are multifaceted. They promote inclusivity, social equity, and accessibility in their designs to ensure everyone benefits. Additionally, designers should prioritize sustainability, minimizing environmental impact through eco-friendly practices and materials. By creating designs that enhance the quality of life, foster community engagement, and promote ecological stewardship, designers play a crucial role in shaping a better future for people and the planet.

The design field is rapidly evolving, driven by technology, changing societal needs, and a focus on sustainability and inclusivity. Interdisciplinary approaches, including scientific and computational methods, AR, VR, and digital fabrication, are shaping the future of design. With an emphasis on user-centered design and sustainability, designers play a crucial role in addressing pressing challenges and shaping a more equitable world.

My design inspiration comes from nature, art, architecture, culture, and everyday experiences. Natural landscapes, artwork, iconic architects' designs, and cultural diversity all influence my creative process. Observing human behavior and social dynamics also sparks ideas. To feed my creativity, I seek new experiences, explore diverse environments, and engage in sketching, photography, and journaling. My inspiration is boundless, and I continually seek new sources to fuel my design process.

My design style is characterized by clean, contemporary aesthetics infused with functionality and sustainability. Drawing inspiration from minimalist forms and user-centric principles, I create timeless spaces prioritizing beauty and practicality. Through thorough research and iterative collaboration, I aim to design environments that enrich the lives of their users while minimizing environmental impact.

I reside in Indianapolis, USA, but my upbringing in Mumbai, India, profoundly influences my designs. The rich cultural heritage of India, with its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and diverse architectural styles, continues to inspire my work even in my new surroundings. One of the pros of designing in the United States is the access to advanced technology, resources, and diverse design perspectives. However, the challenge lies in balancing cultural influences with the preferences and expectations of the local context. Despite these differences, embracing my cultural heritage enriches my designs, creating globally relevant and culturally resonant spaces.

My design process is a dynamic journey that begins with thorough research and analysis of the project context. I then translate insights into conceptual ideas through sketching and brainstorming. Collaboration with clients and stakeholders is crucial for refining concepts and ensuring alignment with project goals. Using various tools and techniques, including 2D drawings and 3D models, I communicate and iterate on the design until it meets the highest standards of excellence.

Young designers, let curiosity steer your journey and embrace lifelong learning. Build a robust skill set as your creative anchor. Cultivate your unique voice; it will captivate the world. Embrace failure as a growth opportunity and seek feedback eagerly to refine your ideas. Stay adaptable, welcoming change as a spark for innovation. Remember, your designs can make a profound impact on society and the environment. By embodying these principles, you'll thrive and inspire meaningful change.

Being a designer is a mix of highs and lows. It's fulfilling, allowing you to bring ideas to life and make a real impact. Design offers endless chances for innovation and personal growth, plus the joy of seeing your work appreciated. However, it's also demanding, requiring patience and resilience. Deadlines, client expectations, and criticism can be tough to handle. But the rewards outweigh the challenges, making it a truly gratifying profession.

My "golden rule" in design is to prioritize simplicity and functionality. Good design should be intuitive, efficient, and accessible to all users. By keeping things simple and focusing on the core purpose of the design, we can create elegant and practical solutions. This principle guides me to strip away unnecessary complexity and ensure that every element serves a purpose, resulting in clear, user-friendly, and timeless designs.

The most essential skills for a designer include creativity, communication, technical proficiency, problem-solving, attention to detail, adaptability, collaboration, and time management. These skills enable designers to innovate, effectively convey ideas, translate concepts into tangible designs, solve complex problems, ensure precision, adapt to changing requirements, collaborate with others, and deliver projects on time and within budget.

I primarily utilize software like Rhino and SketchUp for modeling, Lumion and Vray for rendering, and Photoshop for post-production in my design toolbox. Additionally, I often rely on physical tools such as sketchbooks, pens, and markers for initial concept sketching. I draw inspiration from various sources, including architectural precedent studies, design magazines, and real-world experiences and observations. Collaborating with peers, attending workshops, and staying updated on industry trends also play a crucial role in fueling my creativity and expanding my design toolkit.

Managing time effectively is essential in design, especially when projects can be time-consuming. To stay organized, I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance. I break down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks, setting realistic timelines for each. Project management tools and techniques help me track progress and stay on schedule. Additionally, I allocate specific time slots for design work, minimizing distractions and maintaining focus during these dedicated periods. Regular breaks are also crucial for maintaining productivity and preventing burnout. Effective time management ensures I meet deadlines while maintaining quality and creativity in my designs.

The time it takes to design an object from beginning to end can vary significantly depending on various factors, such as the design's complexity, the project's scope, available resources, and the designer's expertise. Some simple objects might be designed relatively quickly, perhaps in hours or days, while more complex projects could take weeks, months, or even years to complete. It also depends on the iterative nature of the design process, which often involves multiple rounds of refinement and feedback. Each design project is unique, and the timeline can vary accordingly.

As a designer, one of the most frequently asked questions I encounter is usually related to my design process. People often want to know how I approach a project, where I draw inspiration, and what steps I take from concept to completion. This question reflects a genuine curiosity about the creative process and allows me to share insights into my approach to design.

I am particularly drawn to urban design and architectural projects that have a tangible impact on communities. Creating spaces that serve functional needs and contribute positively to people's daily lives is a profound satisfaction. Whether it's designing public spaces, transit systems, or community centers, I enjoy the challenge of balancing aesthetic considerations with practical requirements, all while keeping the human experience at the forefront. Seeing how these designs shape and enrich the lives of individuals within the community is incredibly rewarding and fuels my passion for design.

You can contact me via email or connect with me on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. I'm always open to discussing potential collaborations, design projects, or any inquiries you may have. I am based in Indianapolis, USA, while my team in India manages projects within the country.

I have extensive experience as a designer and architect. I have a strong educational foundation from the G.C.P Institute of Architecture in Surat and a master's in Architecture degree from the Savannah College of Art and Design. My career includes an international internship in Japan, where I gained valuable insights into innovative and sustainable design practices. I focus on understanding end users' needs, integrating contextual factors, and ensuring functionality in my work. I have contributed to residential, commercial, and urban planning projects, and I find immense satisfaction seeing my designs positively impact users. Collaboration and continuous learning are vital elements of my approach.

My journey to becoming a designer began with a childhood fascination for the interplay of light, shadow, and structure in my surroundings, particularly while observing the bustling streets of Mumbai during my daily commutes. This innate curiosity was nurtured by a supportive professor who recognized my potential and guided me toward architecture. I pursued my undergraduate studies at the G.C.P Institute of Architecture in Surat, followed by a transformative internship in Japan, where the minimalist elegance of Japanese architecture left a lasting impression. Further refining my skills and expanding my horizons, I completed my master's in architecture at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Driven by a passion for creating spaces that enhance human experience and community well-being, my career has been shaped by personal passion, mentorship, and a commitment to thoughtful, innovative design.

When designing, my top three priorities are understanding user needs, contextual integration, and sustainability. Firstly, I place the utmost importance on understanding the end user's needs and desires, as creating human-centered designs is central to my approach. Secondly, I focus on contextual factors, such as the site's surroundings, history, and cultural significance, to ensure the design seamlessly integrates with its environment. Thirdly, sustainability and environmental impact are crucial elements I always incorporate, aiming to promote long-term well-being for both people and the planet. In terms of technique and style, I blend traditional hand sketching with digital tools like CAD and 3D modeling software to visualize and refine my ideas. I often create mock-ups and physical models to understand spatial relationships and scale better, but I rely heavily on computer-aided design and renderings for precision and detail. My central theme across all projects is the harmonious blend of functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, ensuring that each design is visually appealing, practical, and environmentally conscious.

When I design, I experience a range of emotions, each contributing to the fulfillment and joy of the creative process. The initial idea phase excites me the most, as possibilities seem endless, and my imagination runs wild. This stage is filled with inspiration and the thrill of conceptualizing something new and innovative. As the design journey progresses, I find satisfaction in problem-solving, refining ideas, navigating challenges, and seeing the project evolve. This phase fuels my curiosity and perseverance, making each step rewarding. Witnessing my concepts take tangible form brings a profound sense of accomplishment and pride. The final phase, where the design becomes a reality, evokes anticipation, excitement, and sometimes nervousness. Seeing how users interact with and experience the spaces or products I’ve created is deeply gratifying. Designing fulfills me by allowing me to express my creativity, positively impact others, and contribute to a better environment and society. The joy of designing comes from this sense of purpose and the pleasure of bringing ideas to life.

My design journey began with a transformative international internship in Japan, exposing me to diverse design philosophies and approaches. This experience ignited my passion for creativity and innovation, laying the foundation for my subsequent pursuit of a Master's in Architecture at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Along the way, I've honed valuable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and collaboration, which have been instrumental in my design practice. My background has shaped me into a designer who approaches projects with a blend of cultural insight, technical expertise, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

As a designer, my growth path involves continuous learning and exploration, pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation in each project I undertake. I aspire to further develop my skills in sustainable design and urban planning, leveraging my expertise to create spaces that positively impact communities and the environment. In the future, I envision myself leading transformative design initiatives that address pressing societal challenges and contribute to the betterment of society. My dream design project involves collaborating with like-minded individuals to design a sustainable city of the future, incorporating cutting-edge technology, green infrastructure, and human-centric design principles. I aim to be remembered as a visionary designer who not only created visually stunning spaces but also made a meaningful difference in people's lives through design. My future plans revolve around pursuing opportunities for growth, mentorship, and collaboration, as well as embarking on ambitious design projects that leave a lasting legacy.

For designers embarking on their careers, I advise letting curiosity be their guide and embracing learning as a lifelong journey. Building a strong foundation in design skills is crucial while nurturing a unique voice and perspective. Embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth, and never stop seeking feedback to refine ideas. Collaboration is critical, so welcome opportunities to work with diverse teams and learn from others' expertise. Stay adaptable and open-minded, embracing change as a catalyst for innovation. The best advice I've received is to remain humble, continuously seek knowledge, and be open to new ideas. Growth comes from successes and setbacks, so approach every experience as a chance to learn and improve.

As a successful designer, my suggestion to fellow designers, artists, and architects is to stay true to their unique vision and voice while embracing continuous learning and growth. It's important to prioritize understanding end-users' needs and integrating sustainability into designs. Avoid the trap of complacency and always challenge yourself to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Collaborate with diverse teams and seek inspiration from various sources to stay fresh and relevant. Don't be afraid to take risks and learn from failures along the way. Invest in building solid relationships with clients, colleagues, and mentors, as these connections can often lead to new opportunities and insights. Lastly, always appreciate the power of passion and perseverance in driving success in the design field.

Keeping up with the latest design trends is essential for staying relevant in the industry, but balancing that with maintaining my design style and vision is equally important. While I pay attention to current trends and emerging styles, I strive to infuse them with my unique perspective and aesthetic sensibilities. I believe in creating timeless designs that transcend fleeting trends and resonate with users on a deeper level. To stay informed about design trends, I regularly explore design publications, attend industry events and conferences, and engage with fellow designers and artists. However, my primary source of inspiration comes from observing the world around me, drawing from nature, art, culture, and everyday experiences to inform my creative process. Ultimately, I aim to create innovative and enduring designs that reflect my creative vision while remaining responsive to evolving trends and user needs.

Good design is characterized by a harmonious blend of form and function, where aesthetic appeal is balanced with usability and purpose. When evaluating a product or project, I look for several key indicators of good design, including clarity of purpose, user-centeredness, innovation, and attention to detail. A well-designed product or project effectively fulfills its intended function while delighting users with intuitive usability and thoughtful design elements. Its approach demonstrates innovation and creativity, offering unique solutions to design challenges. Additionally, good design considers the broader context in which it exists, whether cultural, environmental, or social, and seeks to create positive impacts beyond its immediate scope. Common mistakes to avoid in design include sacrificing functionality for aesthetics, neglecting user needs and preferences, and failing to consider the broader implications of design decisions. Ultimately, good design is subjective and multifaceted, but it is characterized by its ability to inspire, engage, and enhance the lives of those who interact with it.

Deciding if a design is ready is a complex process that involves a combination of intuition, experience, and objective evaluation. While perfection may be elusive, there comes a point in the design process where I feel confident that the design has achieved its intended goals and meets the needs of its users. This moment often coincides with a sense of satisfaction and alignment with the initial design brief, where all essential elements have been addressed, and the design feels cohesive and resolved. Additionally, I thoroughly analyze if all the requirements from the client are fulfilled, ensuring sustainability in the fabric of the location and how the design gives back to the community. Once all these criteria are considered and fulfilled, I can confidently say that the design is ready. However, I also recognize that design is inherently iterative, and there may always be opportunities for improvement or refinement. Ultimately, I decide a design is ready when it has undergone thorough testing, feedback, and iteration, and I am confident in its ability to fulfill its purpose effectively. As for determining the success of a product or project, I look to various indicators such as user feedback, performance metrics, and alignment with project objectives. Success may be measured by user satisfaction, market adoption, and impact on the intended audience or environment.

As an architect, I have immense admiration for Zaha Hadid and Jan Gehl, who have made significant contributions to the world of design. Zaha Hadid, known for her groundbreaking architectural forms and innovative approach to design, has left an indelible mark on the industry. Her fluid, dynamic structures challenge traditional notions of space and have reshaped our understanding of architectural possibilities. On the other hand, Jan Gehl has revolutionized urban design with his human-centric approach, prioritizing people's needs and experiences in the built environment. His research and advocacy for pedestrian-friendly cities have influenced urban planning practices worldwide, emphasizing the importance of creating cities for people, not just cars. Both Zaha Hadid and Jan Gehl exemplify visionary design thinking and have profoundly impacted our built environment for the better.

My design perspective is deeply influenced by my lifestyle and cultural background. Hailing from Mumbai, a city known for its cultural diversity and architectural wonders, I've developed a profound appreciation for the delicate balance between tradition and innovation, community, and individuality. This amalgamation of influences guides my design philosophy, inspiring me to create spaces that honor cultural identities while meeting practical needs. Tokyo, with its seamless fusion of tradition and modernity, serves as a constant source of inspiration that resonates deeply with my design sensibilities. Music plays a crucial role in my creative process, setting the tone and fueling my imagination as I craft spaces that uplift and inspire. I firmly believe that culture profoundly influences design, a principle evident in my projects through the thoughtful integration of cultural elements. Currently, I am engaged in architectural design in Indianapolis, USA, focusing on multi-family and commercial projects. Good design is paramount for societal progress, as it not only enhances functionality but also promotes inclusivity and sustainability. On a personal level, design has brought about subtle yet meaningful changes in my life, from adopting sustainable practices to nurturing a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity.

Attending the A’ Design Award was an immensely gratifying experience, especially winning the Bronze Award for Interntwine - Transit Nexus in Brno, Czech Republic, under the category of Engineering, Construction, and Infrastructure Design. It provided validation for my design efforts and offered valuable recognition within the global design community. Participating in design awards like A’ Design Award not only enhances visibility but also facilitates networking opportunities, fostering connections with industry peers and potential clients. Moreover, such competitions encourage growth and innovation by pushing designers to explore new ideas and refine their skills. Being named the Designer of the Day is a tremendous honor, reinforcing my dedication to excellence and motivating me to continue striving for innovation and impact in my design endeavors. Sharing this achievement with my friends and family fills me with excitement and joy, as their unwavering support has been instrumental in my journey.

I have a background in architecture and urban design. I completed my undergraduate degree in Architecture from G.C.P Institute of Architecture, Surat, and pursued my master's degree in architecture with a focus on urban design and planning at the Savannah College of Art and Design in the USA.

My motivation to design stems from a deep-seated passion for creating meaningful spaces that positively impact people's lives. I became a designer because I believe in the power of design to transform environments, enhance experiences, and solve real-world problems. Design allows me to blend creativity with functionality, innovation with practicality, and aesthetics with purpose. It's a fulfilling journey where I can express my ideas, contribute to the betterment of society, and leave a lasting impact on the world around me.

I chose to become a designer out of genuine passion and interest in the field. It wasn't a decision forced upon me but rather a deliberate choice driven by my fascination with architecture, creativity, and the potential to make a positive impact through design.

I primarily focus on architectural and urban design projects, with a keen interest in creating sustainable, innovative, and human-centric spaces. While I enjoy working on a variety of projects, I am particularly drawn to designs that have a meaningful impact on communities and address pressing societal and environmental challenges. I aspire to design more projects that promote inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability, ultimately contributing to the creation of a better and more equitable built environment for all.

To become a design legend, young designers should focus on mastering the fundamentals, cultivating creativity, seeking mentorship, embracing interdisciplinary learning, staying curious and adaptable, building a strong portfolio, networking and collaborating, and staying passionate and persistent.

A good designer creates functional and aesthetically pleasing designs that meet the brief and satisfy the user's needs. However, a great designer goes beyond this by pushing boundaries, innovating, and creating designs that inspire, evoke emotion, and have a lasting impact. Great designers possess exceptional creativity, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the user's experience and context. They also demonstrate versatility, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. Ultimately, great designers leave a legacy through their groundbreaking work and their ability to shape the future of design.

A good design effectively fulfills its purpose, is aesthetically pleasing, innovative, sustainable, and enhances the user experience.

The value of good design lies in its ability to improve lives, enhance experiences, and solve problems efficiently and elegantly. Investing in good design leads to better products, services, and environments and, ultimately, happier and more satisfied users.

My secret ingredient for success in design is a combination of passion, creativity, empathy, and perseverance. Passion fuels my drive to create meaningful and impactful designs, while creativity allows me to think outside the box and innovate. Empathy enables me to understand the needs and desires of users, leading to designs that resonate with them on a deeper level. Perseverance keeps me dedicated to refining and improving my designs until they achieve their full potential.

Some other design masters and legends who inspire me include Tadao Ando, Jan Gehl, Zaha Hadid, B.V. Doshi, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Le Corbusier. Their groundbreaking work and visionary approach to design have had a profound influence on architecture and continue to inspire generations of designers.

Some of my favorite designs include the Salk Institute by Louis Kahn, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao by Frank Gehry, and the Fallingwater House by Frank Lloyd Wright, all renowned for their innovative use of materials and integration with the environment. I'm also deeply inspired by the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum by Kengo Kuma, which honors history and embodies a peace and resilience design philosophy. These designs motivate me to explore new creative avenues and contribute meaningfully to architecture.

My greatest design project to date would be the Brno transit system, which stands out due to its seamless integration with the historic city while enhancing user experience. What makes it remarkable is its ability to blend social interaction with structural design, creating a space that responds to and uplifts the community. This project challenged me to imagine on a large scale, addressing topographical concerns while prioritizing user flow and interaction. Its recognition by industry professionals validates its success in achieving its intended goals and impact on the city fabric.

To improve as a designer, study design theory, practice regularly, seek feedback, stay curious about new ideas and technologies, collaborate with others, reflect on your work, and adapt to new challenges.

Design, for me, is the art and science of creating solutions that address specific needs or problems in a creative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing way. It involves thoughtful consideration of user experience, context, functionality, and visual appeal to produce innovative and effective outcomes. Design encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including architecture, graphic design, product design, and user experience design, each with its own unique approach and principles. At its core, design is about problem-solving and making the world a better place through thoughtful and intentional creativity.

My journey in reaching these heights has been shaped by the guidance, encouragement, and support of many individuals along the way. Among them, my family has been my biggest supporter, providing unwavering encouragement and belief in my abilities. Additionally, I've been fortunate to have mentors, professors, colleagues, and friends who have offered valuable guidance, constructive feedback, and inspiration throughout my career. Their support has been instrumental in helping me navigate challenges, pursue opportunities, and continue to grow both personally and professionally.