Overnight success in the design world is exceedingly rare, often overshadowed by the polished aesthetics of crafted illustrations and clean lines. Yet, behind these façades lies a story of perseverance and passion. Manjari Sharma, Founder and senior Interior designer of Wagma designs—a visionary who transcends the mere selling of designs to evoke emotions and imbue spaces with soul.
In 2004, amidst the daunting landscape of entrepreneurship, Manjari founded Wagma Designs—a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence. Beyond her revolutionary spirit, Manjari is a beacon of joy, infusing spaces with happiness and positivity. Her innate calling fuels her drive to transform the perception and experience of design, turning fleeting ideas into timeless masterpieces. Her ability to harmonize creativity with economics and human values sets her apart, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. As Manjari continues to redefine the boundaries of design, her legacy serves as an inspiration, reminding us that true success lies not in overnight achievements, but in the relentless pursuit of excellence and the ability to touch hearts and souls through design.
Excerpts
Q: What sparked your initial interest in design, and how has it evolved over time?
A: My journey in design commenced from humble beginnings, where necessity nurtured creativity. Raised in a modest environment, I found joy in transforming spaces within budget constraints, cultivating a passion for design born out of simplicity. Over two decades, this spark has evolved into a blazing fire of creativity and innovation, propelling me to the helm of a thriving design firm. My initial interest in design, rooted in necessity, has blossomed into a lifelong commitment to the art of creating transformative spaces.
Q: How do you approach the balance between creativity and functionality in your designs?
A: In my 20-year career as an interior architect, balancing creativity and functionality has been paramount. I foster a culture of innovation and draw inspiration from diverse sources while maintaining a user-centric and sustainable approach. This delicate balance defines my design philosophy, ensuring that artistic expression harmonizes seamlessly with practicality. By prioritizing both creativity and functionality, I create spaces that not only inspire but also enhance the lives of those who inhabit them.
Q: Could you share a project that holds special significance for you? What made it memorable?
A: Crafting Timeless Bonds: A Special Journey with a Dubai Couple stands out as a project of immense significance. Collaborating with a retired couple from Dubai transcended mere design; it became a celebration of life and relationships. By understanding their lifestyle, celebrating their journey, and infusing passion into every detail, we created a space that was not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply meaningful. This project exemplifies the transformative power of design when fueled by genuine passion and commitment to building lasting relationships.
Q: What challenges have you encountered in your design career, and how did you overcome them?
A: Navigating a successful career in design has been fraught with challenges, from financial constraints to building credibility and trust. By prioritizing resourcefulness, establishing strong relationships, and maintaining a relentless focus on quality, I overcame these obstacles. Additionally, balancing single parenthood with business ownership and adapting to industry changes required resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning. Through unwavering passion and commitment, I transformed challenges into opportunities for growth and success.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring designers who are just starting their careers?
A: For aspiring designers embarking on their careers, I offer the following advice:
=Find your passion and purpose.
=Embrace continuous learning and never give up.
=Turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
=Build a strong portfolio and prioritize relationship building.
=Develop business acumen and stay adaptable.
=Pay attention to detail and communicate effectively.
=Uphold ethics and integrity in all endeavors.
=Stay inspired and learn from industry pioneers.
=Cultivate persistence and resilience in the face of adversity.