If you are an enthusiast of the world of interiors or like to read up on architecture, the name Contractor will definitely ring a bell. Born in a celebrated family, here we have a young architect who despite her roots is determined to write her legacy on her own terms.
Zoish Contractor started her architecture consultancy in late 2019 and blossomed her independent design career in the lockdown. Today we discuss with her the change that the pandemic has bought in the world of interiors and her own personal style and career choices.
Coming from legacy did you pick architecture as a career on purpose, or was it something that came to you naturally?
“Honestly, I tried to avoid architecture for as long as I could cause in my gut I knew that if I walk down this path it’s going to be very difficult. So I tried everything else around it. I thought about becoming an artist, an interior designer, even a fashion designer during my teens. But I’ve just grown up around design and seen my parents approach work with so much passion that I landed up doing architecture almost naturally.
However, for me starting from scratch was very important, and managing projects, which I feel I can confidently own at this stage, was a priority. Besides the biggest plus of starting on my own is the freedom to collaborate with young talent and work with whomever I want.
That being said I do love architecture and I can’t wait to start work on larger, more complex, and challenging projects.”
What are the types of projects that you are working on at present?
“I’m currently working on interiors of three villas for Isprava, Alibaugh, two independent villas in Goa, and a flat in Khar.”
Since most of your work has been in lockdown, have you seen a shift in the mindsets of the homeowners post the pandemic?
“I began most of my projects during the lockdown so I don’t have a lot of before and after comparisons. But I definitely feel that people are giving more importance to the functionality of space now, more than its entertainment value. Clients now want a desk in every room, which was never a priority in the past. There is a lot of focus on day-to-day activities and how well the house is equipped to handle mundane tasks. Something as simple as, getting the house cleaned while having all the rooms occupied with people working, or children attending online classes without interruptions are important aspects. These were things that were not relevant before the pandemic. Also, a lot of families have gotten pets in the lockdown; so designing homes suitable for pets is also of significance now.”
Do you think the current generation has very different design aesthetics from the previous ones?
“Most of my projects are with a much younger segment and I can confidently say that our generation is far more clearer with what we want. The older generation I feel is clearer in the practical usage of space, but the younger folks have a far better idea of the aesthetic that they want to achieve.”
With families having more working members do you think spaces need to be designed differently to accommodate all their needs?
“Honestly, this has a lot to do with the space available. If the family does not have dedicated rooms for each individual, I feel the dining table ends up becoming the center of the house. It’s used as a workstation, sitting space, and lounging area. Hence using multifunctional furniture is of the essence.”
With mindfulness gaining popularity slowly and steadily, do you feel it’s important to add soothing elements to interiors?
“I feel in a place like Bombay as soon as you leave your home you are bombarded with so many things, that at least your home should be filled with just the things that you love. Don’t fill your homes with things that are trend suggestions. Do what you truly like. If you love ornamentation, go for it. But if you like simple spaces, keep it simple. Surround yourself with things you love.
I also think we really need to bring in the longevity aspect in interiors. Whatever you do, think of the long-term impact of it, on yourself and your environment. Don’t be influenced by a Pinterest board, think about if you’ll be able to use these space years in the future. If you have the privilege to make an eco-friendly choice, please do opt for it. Though this is a personal choice, as a designer I would at least want to inform my clients of the better options out there.”
What has been the most challenging project that you’ve worked on so far?
“I was working in New York with an artist and designing art installations. These installations were made using unique materials and we had no reference samples for them so it was really challenging to work with them. My entire experience there just made me realize that you can figure everything out when put in the spot.”
What is your dream project?
“Growing up in Bombay, I traveled from Dadar to fort almost every day for school and now work. I passed the mills in Lalbaug and have watched them age and patina through the years. I think they are vital pieces of architecture and history for our city. When there comes a time that those mills( or any others) are ready to be repurposed it would be my dream to lead the team that retrofits new programs and designs into these beautiful spaces.”
