We use tables, chairs, lamps, every day, everywhere we go. Often overlooked as purely utilitarian it is difficult for furniture to stand out. This is not the case for pieces designed by Delhi-based Vakr Studio. Inspired by the art and craft of Indigenous Indians, co-founder Devyani Gupta is making furniture out of largely antithetical elements. Coffee tables made of micro concrete and rattan, end tables hanging from ceilings via metal chains, and old-world inspired flora and fauna adorning metal powder pendant lights exuding modern, almost brutalist sensibilities. 

Devyani’s background is in chemistry, and all of Vakr’s designs begin with a “scientific approach.” They create “designs where technology is a major part of the process” but the pieces are fully realized through “handcrafted precision.” With this attention, it makes sense that Vakr is able to make pieces that are just as much sculpture and art as they are furniture. And given Devyani’s understanding of physics, one can only bet a water glass atop the hanging side table would never drip a drop. 

Stereotypes define much of today, presenting itself in every medium, outlet, and creative scape. How do you challenge these stereotypes as a creator and in what ways are your designs breaking through the status quo?

Vakr started with a single mindset of contextual, high-end furniture by exploring India’s rich arts and crafts when evolving and expanding the ‘sculptural furniture’ vocabulary became necessary. The studio was born out of the need to address contextual furniture design that complies with the modern, minimalist look and evokes a feeling of luxury. With numerous design innovations, the studio has formalized combining vernacular and contemporary materials by involving local Indian artisans.

Vakr supports indigenous arts and crafts, incorporating them into their designs to create innovative, unique and contemporary products. They believe that the pieces in any space must prompt conversation about India’s craft and culture and the advent of technology and materials. Guided by the laws of physics and the nature of the materials, Vakr breaks from the utilitarian conforming mold that the design language of furniture typically follows by introducing bold aesthetic elements into these pieces, making them statement pieces.

You use various materials in your work, including a combination of concrete and rattan. Why pursue creating with those two substances? How has this decision impacted your creative process when designing?
In the Lehar Collection, fluidity reigns supreme. Each piece captures the essence of undulating waves and the graceful transformation of shape under pressure. This furniture collection is a re-interpretation of how form yields and morphs to achieve a stable and captivating structure.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it boasts a gentle dip in the center, intricately woven with wickerwork supported by concrete concrete-finished flat table top. This subtle depression serves as a stylish housing for lights or planters, adding a decorative touch to the table. This fusion of material represents modern vocabulary while highlighting old techniques such as rattan work.

At Vakr, we endeavor to produce designs where technology is a significant part of the process. Yet, the final pieces are achievable only through handcrafted precision, epitomizing expert artistry and experienced thinking from conceptualization to production of each product.

How do you relate to the phrase: every cloud has a silver lining?
Vakr relates well with this term! The conception of Vakr was in COVID times when we could actually pause from the chaotic world and get back to the drawing board. The time period of COVID gave us time to experiment, iron out details, and present something unique to the world. The philosophy and ideology have earned Vakr global recognition, having been prominently featured in several esteemed national and international magazines, including, India Today Home, Casa Vogue, Elle Décor, and Condé Nast Traveller, amongst others. 

Written by Annie Winerip