Goldmine Project Consultant, led by Ketan Sheth, has established a distinct identity in Interior-architecture landscape exemplify creativity and spatial intelligence by designing innovative, design-forward, and contextually rich projects that exude luxury and fine living.
Goldmine Project Consultant, the brainchild of Ketan Sheth, stands as a distinguished name in the luxury interior design and architectural consultancy segment. Renowned for its bespoke, concept-driven design narratives, the firm is helmed by Founder & Principal Designer Ketan Sheth—an influential figure who also serves as a Mentor and Jury at prominent design forums with his better half Creative Stylist Manisha Sheth.
Driven by innovation, style and quality, Ketan Sheth offers the finest Interior Creative Consultancy with Turnkey solutions in all sectors of design fraternity. Having a vast knowledge in interior designing, Ketan Sheth acquired a degree in Interior Design & Decoration (I.D.D) from JJ school of Arts in Mumbai and later graduated from the Inchbald School of Design in London where he developed an acumen and panache on in-depth interiors.
Whereas Manisha Sheth is a creative force in the world of design and a pillar of strength for her husband Ketan and Team Goldmine. A respected expert in visual and performing arts, she effortlessly balances life as a homemaker and entrepreneur. Her passion for PR, styling, and meaningful connections drives her inspiring journey and continues to leave a lasting impact.
With a legacy spanning over 34 years, the practice brings deep-rooted expertise across diverse typologies, including high-end residential, commercial, retail, healthcare, institutional, and hospitality environments.
As Chairman of the IIID Mumbai Chapter, Ketan Sheth is recognized as a thought leader and visionary, honoured with numerous national and international accolades. Guided by the philosophy of “Energizing Spaces & Making Your Living Beautiful,” Goldmine’s design language fuses spatial functionality with refined aesthetics and contextual sensitivity.
The firm’s expansive portfolio extends across India, Dubai, London, and Africa, reflecting a mastery of materials, proportion, and narrative design. Ketan Sheth’s journey is marked by a quiet resilience and steady ascent, culminating in a body of work that showcases remarkable versatility and a signature design ethos celebrated by industry stalwarts and dignitaries alike.
In an engaging conversation with Society Interiors & Design, Ketan Sheth delves into his sources of inspiration, his distinctive design process, his journey through the world of interior design, and much more.
How would you define your design language today? In what ways has it evolved over the years with experience and changing design sensibilities?
Today, I would define my design language as contextual, refined, and deeply detail oriented. I aim at designing spaces that are not only timeless but also strike a thoughtful balance between functionality, needs and aspirations of each client. My aesthetic leans towards a subdued, custom palette, clean architectural lines, and a sophisticated approach to client individuality.
Over the years, my style has evolved where my projects are characterized by slim profiles, sleek finishes, and an understated elegance, where minimalism speaks volumes. Whether it’s designing a banquet hall, an educational corridor, or a private home, my goal is to let each space reflect its own identity while maintaining a clear sense of harmony, flow, and quiet sophistication.
With experience, my design sensibility has become more nuanced and purposeful. I’ve learned to deeply value the balance between form and function, creativity and restraint. More importantly, I’ve grown increasingly attuned to the human experience within a space—how it feels, how it moves, and how it supports both everyday living and meaningful moments.
When it comes to balancing vision and reality, how do you align your creative instincts with client expectations and functional demands?
Over the years, I’ve come to understand that aligning creative vision with functional demands hinges on clarity of intent and a deeply collaborative process. Every project begins with a thorough exploration of the client’s core expectations—uncovering not just their practical requirements, but also the emotional and aspirational dimensions of the space. With this foundation, my team and I approach the brief through a creative and strategic lens, seeking opportunities to elevate the design beyond the expected.
For me, aesthetics and functionality are inseparable. Whether it’s spatial planning, material articulation, or navigating on-site challenges, I treat technical considerations as integral components of the design narrative— not limitations, but catalysts for innovation. I see my role as a conduit between bold conceptual thinking and pragmatic, buildable solutions.
Ultimately, the aim is to craft spaces that are intuitive in use, expressive in character, and subtly transformative spaces that resonate on multiple levels while remaining grounded in purpose and precision.
Walk us through a project where site limitations or space constraints pushed you to think differently and resulted in unexpected innovation.
Two projects stand out in my journey—vastly different in scale, typology, and function, yet equally compelling in their complexity and creative demands.
A high-end residential bungalow renovation that unfolded over nearly 2.5 years What made this project particularly challenging was the evolving nature of the brief. As the client’s spatial requirements grew, we had to undertake substantial structural modifications, effectively increasing the built footprint of the villa. This expansion necessitated a complete design pivot—from an initially modern aesthetic to a more nuanced Minimal Modern European style. The final design language artfully merges clean architectural lines and restrained elegance with subtle classical European detailing, achieving a harmonious balance between minimalism and timeless sophistication.
The client’s vision was clear: to optimize every inch of the villa without compromising on aesthetics or structural strength. This required a thoughtful integration of space planning, ensuring each area served a purpose while still contributing to the villa’s overall design harmony.
A key aspect of the project was the use of bespoke artifacts. The client was particularly enthusiastic about infusing personal character into the space by curating custom-designed pieces that not only enhanced the visual appeal but also added layers of meaning and sophistication throughout the home.
From concealed storage solutions and multifunctional spaces to curated décor accents, every corner of the villa was meticulously planned to reflect the client’s lifestyle, aspirations, and appreciation for timeless design resulting in a residence that is both elegant and efficient.
These evolving parameters required us to stay agile, rethink our detailing constantly, and find design continuity even amidst changing directions. Despite these complexities, the project ultimately culminated in a luxurious, finely detailed bungalow that truly reflects bespoke living. The second project, Utpal Shanghvi School, involved the design of classrooms and corridors across Phases 1 and 2. Unlike the bungalow, the school project demanded precision under tight timelines and logistical constraints, especially given the functioning academic environment. Here, the challenge was to create an engaging and functional educational space that could withstand daily wear while enhancing the learning experience.
Since the school was in session, we had to ensure that our work didn’t disrupt daily academic activities limiting the bulk of the execution to the summer vacation period. Additionally, several key design decisions were subject to approval by the school committee. To complicate matters further, the monsoon season brought about intermittent delays, requiring us to constantly recalibrate our site planning and execution strategies.
The outcome is a thoughtfully designed, vibrant environment that balances aesthetic simplicity with pragmatic efficiency, fostering both focus and creativity.
And we are proud to share that Goldmine was honoured with an Institutional Award for this School Project and, more importantly, resulted in a repeat order from the same client for another project in Mumbai.
Both projects, though distinct in purpose and scale, underscore the importance of adaptability, clarity of vision, and the ability to marry design intent with real-world functionality. Each taught us valuable lessons in responding to change while upholding a strong and consistent design narrative.
How does your design approach shift when you’re working on an intimate residential space versus a large-scale commercial or hospitality project?
The foundational principles of good design—space, functionality, aesthetics, and emotional resonance—are consistent across all project types. However, the scale, intent, and emotional depth differ significantly between residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces, which in turn shapes my approach to each project.
In residential design, the process is deeply personal and emotional. Here, we are designing spaces for individuals or families, so the design must not only reflect their unique personalities but also their lifestyle and aspirations. Every element is meticulously considered, from how natural light bathes a bedroom to the flow of interaction within a family’s living spaces. It’s about crafting an environment that fosters a sense of belonging, warmth, and timeless comfort. The client relationship is more intimate, with a design narrative infused with personal meaning and emotional depth.
On the other hand, commercial and hospitality projects demand a more strategic, broad-spectrum approach. These spaces are intended for a wider audience, so the design needs to balance functionality with brand identity, user experience, and operational efficiency. The emotional connection in these environments is often evoked through atmosphere, spatial storytelling, and thoughtful circulation rather than individual personality. Elements such as materiality, lighting, acoustics, and flow become crucial in shaping the ambiance and ensuring the space serves its functional needs while creating an engaging experience. The scale is larger, project timelines are compressed, and collaboration with various consultants adds complexity to the process.
Ultimately, while residential projects focus on creating personal, emotionally resonant environments, commercial and hospitality spaces aim to craft meaningful, immersive experiences on a larger scale. Both are equally challenging and equally rewarding, requiring a distinct set of strategies, yet both deeply satisfy the art of designing spaces that engage and elevate the human experience.
What advice would you offer to emerging designers stepping into the field today, especially those eager to experiment, but still finding their voice?
My advice to all aspiring designers is to first gain experience by working with established firms until you have the maturity to confidently design and execute projects on your own. Experience is crucial—it’s essential to master the core design principles before venturing out independently.
Don’t shy away from stepping outside your comfort zone, whether that means experimenting with new materials, exploring unfamiliar software, or rethinking conventional design approaches. Innovation often stems from taking risks and challenging the status quo.
Avoid the urge to replicate others’ styles or follow fleeting trends. Design is a personal journey, and your unique perspective is your greatest strength. Listen closely to your clients and understand their needs, but also trust in your design philosophy and vision. The more you immerse yourself in the design world, the clearer your distinct style will become.
And, as I always say, there is no substitute for hard work. Regardless of your growth or achievements, never lose sight of the importance of diligence. Hard work is the foundation of sustained success—no matter how far we go, it is what propels us forward and keeps us grounded.
Society Interiors and Design curate’s standout projects that exemplify Goldmine’s design philosophy and expertise in various segments.
Beauty Essentials
Project Type : Corporate Office & Experiential Centre
Location : Mumbai
Area : 5600 sqft.
Time line: Completed
Scope: Interiors
Theme : Modern
Goldmine has designed an innovative office for Beauty Essentials in Mumbai. Sharing his design insights Ketan adds, “In response to the significant amount of time employees spend in office environments, our design approach emphasizes the integration of biophilic elements to enhance well-being and productivity. By incorporating natural surroundings, we aim to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also promote a sense of comfort, tranquillity, and connection to nature.”
The design features earthy tones, natural light, fresh air, walking paths, and greenery to mitigate the harsh realities of urban life. Elements such as water features, green walls, organic scents, and textured materials engage the senses, fostering inner serenity and well-being. Neutral colours like soft greys, warm beiges, and whites bring a sense of calm and sophistication without overwhelming the space. Ergonomically designed furniture ensures comfort for extended work hours, while basic Vastu planning has been incorporated to align with traditional principles. Essential oil aromas infused into the air conditioning enhance workplace productivity and create a relaxing ambiance.
The Managing Director’s cabin showcases a modern style, featuring a distinctive free-flowing desk with a stitched leather finish modesty panel and an Italian marble backdrop. A credenza ensures organization, complemented by an ergonomic and stylish chair. The seating area includes a backdrop with moulding panel designs, offering sofa seating and lounge chairs for conferences and brainstorming sessions, all in harmony with the modern aesthetic.
In the staff area, a customized MDF mural serves as a focal point, covering the entry to the ladies’ washroom and adding visual interest to the passageway. This design approach focuses on creating functional, comfortable, and peaceful workplaces that support employees’ well-being and clear minds.
The Cafeteria is designed with a vibrant and youthful aesthetic, featuring a wooden tile floor, a baffle ceiling, and hanging lights. Earthy hues and wood finishes contribute to a warm and cozy ambiance. It offers a variety of seating options to suit different activities and moods.
The walls are adorned with a caricature-style depiction of Mumbai, showcasing the Bandra Sea Link and phrases related to Mumbai, Bollywood, and Beauty Essentials.
By integrating biophilic design principles, we aim to create office environments that not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also significantly impact employee well-being and organizational performance. The presence of natural elements has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall wellbeing, leading to a healthier and more productive workplace.
La Belle
Project Type : Hotel
Location: Lubumbashi, Congo, Central Africa
Construction Area: 1,65,000 Sq. Ft.
Time line: 90% Completed
Scope: Architecture and Interior
Theme : Modern Fusion
La Belle Hotel is located in the heart of Lubumbashi, the second-largest city in the Democratic Republic of Congo and a vibrant hub of mineral wealth. This premier five-star business hotel stands as a testament to the region’s economic dynamism. Strategically connected, the hotel caters to a diverse and international clientele, predominantly from the mining industry. Acknowledging this global-meets-local dynamic, we conceived a design concept deeply rooted in the African context.
Explaining the finer details Ketan adds, “Drawing inspiration from the Okapi, the national animal of Congo, we incorporated the unique body print of this majestic creature as our central design theme. The building’s architecture is conceived as a single monolithic entity, making a profound statement. Designed to harmonize with its surroundings, the structure subtly embodies elements that echo the rich narrative of the country. In the interior, the “Okapi animal” pattern is woven into the fabric of our design. The restaurant’s waiting lobby and the overarching design scheme vividly portray Congo’s distinctive theme, crafting an immersive aesthetic experience for guests.”
This five-star business hotel, boasting 74 rooms and world-class amenities, has been thoughtfully designed to meet the sophisticated demands of today’s global traveller. The four-storey edifice, comprising Basement, Ground, Mezzanine, and three upper floors, is crowned with an open-air terrace, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, seamlessly incorporating automated systems for streamlined operations and efficient maintenance.
A standout feature is the expansive rooftop bar area, where the team has adeptly integrated a retractable roof. This innovative architectural solution allows us to adapt to the whims of weather, providing an uninterrupted, sublime experience even in the case of rain.
Navigating the project’s terrain presented unique challenges. Soil reports revealed that the load per square meter could not exceed 10 tons, imposing considerable constraints on our structural design. As a result, the design firm had to strategically recalibrate our approach, reducing the number of floors and opting for a raft foundation over a pile foundation, which was infeasible on this particular site. Designing a comprehensive and seamless guest experience within the confines of a three-storey structure, while accommodating 74 rooms, was a challenge. Moreover, conceiving the layout for the restaurant and banquet areas posed additional challenges due to the close spacing of structural columns. “Despite these hurdles, the team excelled in creating a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, encapsulating the essence of our design ethos.” informs Ketan.
The hotel features a 1-to-1 split HVAC system, with outdoor units discreetly concealed within external ducts. This infrastructure is artfully woven into our carefully crafted façade, enhancing the building’s external aesthetic without compromising on climate control performance. A key feature of our design is that all rooms afford access to external views, connecting inhabitants with the surroundings and imbuing the space with an open, airy ambiance. Each space is thoughtfully planned to strike a delicate balance between fostering communal interaction and providing seclusion, ensuring a tailored experience for every customer.
Bungalow
Project Type: Residential
Location: – Mumbai
Area – 8000 sqft. Carpet
Time line: Completed
Scope: Architecture & Interior
Theme : Modern European Design
This villa embodies the timeless elegance of Modern European design, seamlessly blending classical influences with contemporary sensibilities. Its façade is adorned with natural limestone cladding, exuding a sense of permanence and understated luxury. The interiors are characterized by a harmonious palette of neutral tones—soft greys, warm beiges, and gentle whites—that create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. These hues are complemented by the use of enduring materials such as stone, marble, and wood, chosen not only for their durability but for their ability to age beautifully over time.
The living room features a double-height ceiling, accentuated by a grand chandelier that casts a warm, inviting glow. A floral mural on the south wall introduces a touch of nature, infusing the space with a light and uplifting ambiance. This area flows seamlessly into the open dining space, kitchen, and TV lounge, promoting a sense of openness and connectivity.
Descending to the basement, one finds a dedicated library—a tranquil retreat designed for quiet reflection and reading. A staircase connects all levels, each offering uniquely styled bedrooms that reflect individual personalities and preferences. The master suite on the second level showcases a fusion of European modern design, featuring a large bed with a sunburst-patterned leather headboard and a backdrop of Italian marble.
The fourth-floor daughter’s bedroom is a study in personalized design, with a suede-clad bed, customized headboard, and warm-toned furniture. European moulding and bespoke curtains add a touch of elegance, while a large painting serves as a focal point. On the fifth floor, the second daughter’s room features a Victorian-style headboard, complemented by colour-laminated furniture and ceiling motifs that enhance the thematic continuity. An upholstered leather bench with hidden storage and dual dressing areas provides both functionality and comfort. The gym area, located under an inclined Shera-finished roof, is designed to maximize space and acoustics. A full-wall mirror creates a sense of expansiveness, while panel-effect wallpaper offers both aesthetic appeal and sound absorption.
Throughout the villa, the integration of natural materials, thoughtful design elements, and attention to detail culminate in a residence that is both luxurious and inviting—a true testament to the enduring app
Weekend Villas
Project Type : Holiday Home (Upcoming) – ( 4 Bhk – 1 nos) & (6 Bhk – 2nos)
Size : Plot Area : 2.75 Acres
Construction Area : 9000 sq.ft & Approx 11000 sq.ft x2 nos respectively
Location : Panchgani – Maharashtra.
Scope: Architecture & Interior
Theme : Bali
Perched amidst the verdant hills of Panchgani, this Bali-inspired bungalow seamlessly fuses tropical tranquillity with the rugged charm of the Western Ghats. Designed to echo the serene elegance of Balinese architecture, the residence features open-plan living spaces, natural textures, and earthy tones that create a harmonious connection with nature. Soothing water features, stone pathways, and wooden pavilions invite guests to embrace the outdoors, while each room offers panoramic valley views framed by manicured gardens, coconut palms, and bamboo accents. Indoor-outdoor bathrooms, rattan furnishings, and warm lighting further enhance the immersive retreat experience, transforming the bungalow into a private sanctuary.
The architecture thoughtfully embraces the site’s natural slopes, allowing light and wind to flow freely through the home. A majestic Balinesestyle entrance welcomes visitors with a sense of calm, while strategically placed water bodies cool the interiors and add to the tranquil ambiance.
The villa incorporates both indoor and outdoor Balinese design elements—wooden accents, earthy textures, and open spaces—that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. A swimming pool and deck extend from the living room, offering a serene spot to relax and take in the breathtaking views.
The expansive property includes charming water features at key nodes, cowsheds, artistic gazebos, a vibrant plant-scape, designated parking, and a nature trail that invites peaceful exploration. This bungalow is more than just a residence—it’s a curated sanctuary where architecture, art, and nature converge in perfect harmony.
Commercial Building
Project Type: Commercial Office Building
Location: Mumbai
Total Built-up Area: 30,000 sq. ft.
Time line: Upcoming
Scope: Architecture
Theme : Contemporary Modern Architecture
This upcoming modern commercial office building in Mumbai spans a built-up area of 30,000 sq.ft., embodying a contemporary architectural ethos that prioritizes sustainability and user-centric design. The façade features solar panel-integrated glazing, optimizing natural light penetration while minimizing solar heat gain, thereby reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning. This approach not only enhances energy efficiency but also fosters a healthier indoor environment for occupants.
A distinctive element of the building’s exterior is the perforated metal mesh cladding, which serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. The mesh introduces a dynamic, textured pattern that adds visual interest and depth to the structure. Beyond its decorative appeal, the perforated panels facilitate controlled daylighting and ventilation, contributing to the building’s passive design strategy. This design choice aligns with sustainable architecture principles by reducing the need for artificial lighting and promoting energy conservation.
Internally, the layout is meticulously planned to ensure functional efficiency, with an emphasis on smooth circulation and adaptability across various workspaces. Open-plan areas are designed to foster collaboration, while private zones offer flexibility for focused tasks. The integration of green spaces and communal areas further enhances the work environment, promoting well-being and productivity among occupant.
School
Project Type: Educational Campus
Location: Gujarat Construction Area: 6,75,000 sq. ft.
Time line: Upcoming
Scope: Architecture & Interior
Theme: Neo Classic
This upcoming educational campus in Gujarat is a pioneering initiative that integrates three distinct academic boards within a cohesive and sustainable infrastructure. Strategically designed to ensure smooth access and security, the campus features independent entry points for the School Blocks and Administrative Block. This thoughtful planning promotes operational efficiency and caters to the diverse needs of students, faculty, and administrative staff.
Aligned with the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the campus emphasizes holistic development, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning. The NEP advocates for a flexible curriculum, foundational literacy and numeracy, and the integration of technology to enhance learning experiences. These principles are realized through adaptable classroom layouts, collaborative spaces, and digital infrastructure that supports blended learning models. The campus also focuses on social and emotional learning by providing environments that encourage creativity, teamwork, and leadership development.
To accommodate outstation students, the campus includes separate hostel buildings for boys and girls, ensuring a safe and supportive living environment. These hostels are designed with attention to comfort, privacy, and community engagement, offering amenities that cater to the well-being of students.
Demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship, all buildings on the campus are being designed in compliance with the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Green Campus norms. This certification ensures that the campus meets rigorous standards in areas such as water and energy efficiency, waste management, and the use of sustainable materials. Key sustainable features include rainwater harvesting systems, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, and the use of locally sourced, low-emission materials. These initiatives contribute to a reduction in the campus’s carbon footprint and promote a healthier, more sustainable learning environment.
Prime Marina
Project Type : Luxury Residential Tower
Location: Mumbai
Built-up Area: Approx. 47,000 sq. ft.
Scope of Work: Architectural Design & Coordination, Façade Design & Interior Design for Common Areas Time line: Completed
Theme : Modern
This 14-storey luxury residential tower in Mumbai offers an unparalleled living experience, combining opulence with thoughtful design. Each of the first four residential levels features a single exclusive apartment per floor, ensuring utmost privacy and expansive living spaces. The upper levels house three luxurious duplex residences, providing enhanced space and seclusion for discerning residents. Designed with an East–West orientation and Vastu compliant, the tower maximizes natural light, ventilation, and energy balance, creating a harmonious living environment.
The lower levels are dedicated to four spacious parking floors, accommodating residents’ vehicles with ease. An amenity floor is thoughtfully integrated into the design, offering a range of recreational facilities and spaces for community engagement. This tower seamlessly blends functionality with luxury, providing a premium lifestyle with panoramic sea views and meticulous attention to detail.
Ketan Sheth’s influence extends beyond his firm, shaping the future of design discourse. Goldmine’s work continues to inspire and set benchmarks in the industry, embodying a commitment to excellence that resonates globally.
