As summer 2024 draws to a close, it is a perfect moment to reflect on a remarkable convergence of Indian design and travel. This year has revealed the myriad ways in which these two realms interlace, providing a rich tapestry of inspiration and creativity.

The journey began in Milan with the renowned Salone del Mobile. The city came alive with transformative sculptural installations, thoughtful design pieces that showcase the confluence of heritage and contemporary innovations. Amidst the lively crowds and the bustling traffic of Milan’s historic streets, it became clear that design transcends geographical boundaries, evolving as it travels. The emergence of innovative Indian designers heralds a new direction for Indian design.

“You exist as a creative being in a creative universe.” – Rick Rubin

The summer exploration continued in Venice at the Biennale, where Buccellati’s celebration of its storied legacy offered a visual feast of the brand’s iconic creations. This year’s theme, ‘Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere’ by curator Adriana Pedrosa, saw the central pavilion of the Giardini painted by a group of indigenous Amazonian artists “Movement dos Artists Uni Kuin.” There was a strong focus on artists in the margins and voices from over 80 countries.

Travel underscores the pervasive influence of design, evident in every choice from accommodations to experiences. In Morocco, the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech, designed in the signature Andalusian-Berber style by Gilles & Boissier, stood out with its meticulously crafted details, such as the red-bricked arches leading to the spa, creating an immersive sensory experience. With villas over the size of 794 sq mts and 3 golf courses around the property, soaking in every bit the nuances of luxury that MO brings under the African sun. 

One evening, we chanced upon a super chic, secret speakeasy, PSC, Pétanque Social Club, a very if you know kind of place. Under the orange trees I played my first game of Pétanque, the chic French game. The game was codified in 1907 or 1910 in La Ciotat, in Provence, France and the objective is to score points by having boules or balls closer to the target than the opponent. The neighboring Jardin Majorelle and the YSL Museum provided ideal settings for capturing moments of elegance, while the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, teeming with souks, storytellers, and performers, highlighted the dynamic cultural landscape. The square’s transformation from half-filled during Barack Obama’s visit to overflowing with the arrival of Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan underscores its love for Bollywood.

While my summer concluded in Morocco, Design Pataki continues to have conversations around innovativeness and explore the intersections of travel and design.

“The object isn’t to make art, it’s to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable.” – Robert Henri 

Hope you had a summer that sparkled with joy, colour and sunshine!