Amit Porwal’s leadership reflects a philosophy rooted in detail, craftsmanship, and vision. As the creative force behind IPIPL, he has spent over two decades redefining the meaning of modern luxury, creating environments that inspire, endure, and evolve with time.
Amit Porwal, Founder and Principal Designer of Icon Projects In-space Pvt. Ltd. (IPIPL), has been shaping India’s design landscape for over two decades. Based in Mumbai, he has carved a niche as one of the country’s leading names in interior and architectural design, celebrated for his ability to craft spaces that are refined, purposeful, and deeply personal. Guided by the belief that every environment should narrate the story of its inhabitants, Amit’s design philosophy blends intuitive client understanding with creative versatility and functionality.
Under his leadership, IPIPL has evolved into a multidisciplinary practice that seamlessly integrates interiors, construction, and bespoke furniture, powered by a strong in-house team. From luxury residences to cuttingedge commercial spaces, and now with projects extending to Dubai, the studio continues to push boundaries while staying rooted in excellence, innovation, and detail-driven design.
Widely published in magazine such as Forbes, GQ, and Society Interiors and Design, and honored with accolades from FOAID, Grohe India Bath Design Awards, The Ace of Space, and many more, Porwal’s influence extends across the industry. As IPIPL celebrates 23 years of design excellence, he remains grounded yet visionary— committed to creating spaces that not only inspire but also leave a lasting legacy.
In an exclusive conversation, Amit Porwal, Founder and Principal Designer of Icon Projects In-space Pvt. Ltd. (IPIPL), opens up about his journey in design and the evolution of his practice.
You’ve built IPIPL into a leading name in luxury interior design over two decades. Looking back, what do you consider the turning point in your journey?
A significant turning point for us came around 2015, when we had the opportunity to work on more focused and detail-oriented design projects. One project led to another, and we seized that momentum, realizing that this was our true calling. It was then that we decided to forge ahead by capitalizing on our strengths—refining our design sensibilities and bringing a level of standardization to our work.
IPIPL is known for impeccable attention to detail and a seamless fusion of aesthetics with functionality. How do you strike the right balance between creativity and functionality?
At IPIPL, we see creativity and functionality as two sides of the same coin. A design is only successful when it delights the eye and serves its purpose seamlessly. Our approach is rooted in understanding how people will interact with a space and then layering it with thoughtful details, materials, and innovations that elevate the experience. This balance allows us to create environments that are aesthetically inspiring, highly functional, and timeless in appeal.
Luxury means different things to different people—how do you interpret “luxury” in design today?
Luxury in design today goes far beyond opulence or grandeur—it’s about creating deeply personal, meaningful experiences. For us at IPIPL, luxury is defined by comfort, individuality, and attention to detail. It lies in bespoke craftsmanship, thoughtful spatial planning, and materials that tell a story. True luxury is when a space not only looks refined but also resonates emotionally with the people who inhabit it—offering a sense of ease, exclusivity, and timelessness tailored to their lifestyle.
What are the core principles that you believe should be a part of your design, regardless of scale or type of project should uphold?
Regardless of scale or type, every project we undertake at IPIPL is guided by a few unwavering principles. The first is human-centric design—spaces must respond to the people who live, work, or engage in them. The second is attention to detail—from spatial planning to finishing touches, precision defines quality. Third, we emphasize a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality, ensuring beauty never compromises usability. Finally, we uphold timelessness and sustainability—designs that are relevant, responsible, and built to endure. These principles form the foundation of our work, whether it’s a private residence or a large commercial space.
Sustainability is becoming central in design conversations. How do you incorporate it into your work without compromising on elegance?
Sustainability, for us, is not an afterthought but an integral part of the design process. At IPIPL, we carefully select materials, finishes, and systems that are environmentally responsible while ensuring they meet our exacting standards of elegance and luxury. Thoughtful spatial planning, energy-efficient solutions, and durable craftsmanship allow us to create spaces that are both beautiful and conscious. The key is to weave sustainability seamlessly into the design so that it enhances the narrative of the space rather than feeling like a compromise.
Technology and AI are reshaping design workflows— how do you see them influencing interior architecture in the next decade?
Technology and AI are redefining the possibilities of interior architecture. In the coming decade, they will allow us to imagine spaces with unprecedented precision, explore countless design iterations instantly, and anticipate how environments will feel and function even before they exist. At IPIPL, we see these tools as enablers—enhancing creativity, refining craftsmanship, and allowing us to focus on what truly matters: creating spaces that connect with people emotionally. The future lies in a harmonious dialogue between innovation and artistry, where technology amplifies design without ever replacing the human touch.
Among your diverse portfolio spanning residences, corporate offices, and hospitality, which project has been closest to your heart, and why?
It’s difficult to single out just one project, because each of our projects is like a part of us—each one special in its own way. Every project has been a valuable learning experience, offering us a new curve, a new perspective, and an opportunity to bring in freshness and originality. That’s what excites us—the chance to explore something different each time.
In fact, some of our recent projects have allowed us to experiment with genres beyond what we usually do, which has been particularly exciting. But the truth is, we’ve been able to achieve this only because of the way we’ve been guided and led on this journey. So, rather than choosing one, we see every project as equally meaningful, each contributing to our growth and identity.
What advice would you give to young designers entering the industry today?
For young designers, my advice is to stay curious and remain true to your own design voice. Master the fundamentals, but don’t be afraid to experiment and push boundaries. Learn to observe how people interact with spaces, as empathy is as important as creativity. Finally, embrace collaboration and technology—they are powerful tools that can elevate your vision, but your ability to create meaningful, human-centric spaces will always be what sets you apart.
A curated collection of projects showcasing IPIPL’s dedication to thoughtful, innovative design. Each space reflects the firm’s commitment to excellence, functionality, and aesthetic finesse.
Kanira_Design
Spanning 12,000 sq. ft. in the serene hills of Khandala, Kanira was envisioned as a residence that brings together the ornate elegance of colonial architecture with the openness and transparency of contemporary glass design. Conceived as a dialogue between the past and the present, it has grown into a home where tradition and modern living coexist seamlessly.
The colonial character was articulated through mouldings, arched openings, tiled pitched roofs, and finely detailed cornices. These elements anchored the architecture in timeless tradition, adding richness, rhythm, and a sculptural quality to the façade. In contrast, expanses of glass introduced a bold modernity—flooding interiors with natural light, creating visual transparency, and opening the house to its natural surroundings. The design language thrived on dualities—solid and transparent, ornamental and minimal, heavy and light. Grand colonial-inspired entrances were balanced with glass atriums, skylights, and glazed pavilions, resulting in immersive interior spaces that felt both formal and fluid. Each space was shaped to create a layered architectural narrative, one that continues to resonate with both heritage and innovation. Kanira became more than a residence; it remains an experience. From its stately colonial-inspired arrival to its serene glass-enclosed lounges, every corner reflects a philosophy of living that honors tradition while embracing the clarity, openness, and fluidity of the present.
Navodaya
Located in Andheri, Mumbai, this 5,000 sq. ft. residence redefines contemporary luxury—not through overt opulence, but by balancing comfort, elegance, and functionality within a seamless spatial narrative. Its greatest triumph lies in being both sophisticated and personal, favouring quiet refinement over cold grandeur.
The entrance sets the tone with bespoke panelling and marble flooring that strike a balance between richness and restraint. Lighting, fluted panelling, and tinted glass partitions aren’t used merely as embellishments but as devices that layer privacy, texture, and atmosphere.
The living room establishes itself as the social heart of the home. Plush seating, reflective finishes, and bold artworks lend drama, but the real achievement is the spatial openness—the vast windows that blur indoors and outdoors, creating light-filled expanses without losing intimacy.
The dining space is equally considered: a minimalist glass table and cabinetry are warmed by greys, metallics, and subtle vintage notes. The study, with its olive seating and wood finishes, successfully contrasts this formality, offering a retreat of calm focus and creative energy.
Elsewhere, the mandir’s serene restraint and the AV room’s immersive indulgence demonstrate the home’s ability to accommodate both spirit and leisure. The bedrooms extend this philosophy—master and guest suites echo quiet luxury through textures and sleek finishes, while the daughter’s room introduces playfulness without undermining the home’s cohesive language.
Ultimately, the residence’s achievement lies in its precision—whether in material contrasts, bespoke details, or lighting compositions—crafting a house that is at once contemporary, elegant, and enduringly livable.
Nirvaana Farmhouse in Kolkata
Set against the green fringes of Kolkata, this 15,000 sq. ft. farmhouse reads less like a conventional residence and more like an architectural statement on modern sanctuary living. Its design ambition is clear: to merge contemporary form with nature’s rhythms, creating a home that privileges calm, connection, and quiet luxury.
The architectural language leans confidently modernist yet avoids rigidity. Sweeping curves, clean geometries, and a palette of glass, wood, and concrete soften what could otherwise have been stark. The sculpted façade and expressive roofline do more than dramatize the silhouette—they imbue the home with a sense of movement that makes it visually engaging from every angle.
What elevates the project is the integration of landscape as an active design layer. Vertical gardens, green terraces, and landscaped pockets dissolve the edges of the built form, cooling it passively while nurturing a biophilic sensibility. The gesture is as pragmatic as it is poetic, allowing the structure to breathe with its surroundings.
The journey through the site is deliberately theatrical. An organically patterned driveway and cantilevered carport transform functional thresholds into sculptural moments. Inside, double-height volumes and generous glazing drench the interiors with light, maintaining a constant dialogue between indoors and out. Material choices are carefully restrained—tactile, timeless, and quietly luxurious.
The rear courtyard extends the narrative of leisure and repose. Here, a pool with cascading water, pergola-shaded lounge, and a bespoke wooden gazebo anchor the outdoors, while the sound of water and shifting reflections animate the interiors. Even the children’s play area is folded into the landscape with surprising sensitivity, proving that practicality need not compromise design coherence.
Ultimately, the farmhouse succeeds not by overwhelming with scale, but by orchestrating balance—between modernity and nature, spectacle and intimacy, boldness and restraint. It is a residence that feels as if it is always in dialogue with its environment, a retreat where architecture becomes the quiet frame for lived experience.
Satyageeta
Nestled within a sprawling 20,000 sq. ft. estate in the heart of Raipur, Chhattisgarh, this 8,000 sq. ft. luxury villa exemplifies modern opulence infused with timeless elegance. Conceptualized as a seamless blend of contemporary architecture and refined aesthetics, the home is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and an enduring sense of spatial harmony.
The design narrative is driven by the interplay of materials and light. Natural stone, warm wood, sleek metals, and expansive glass converge to create a residence that is firmly rooted in luxury yet deeply connected to its natural surroundings. Flow, openness, and abundant daylight define the villa, establishing an environment that feels both inspiring and welcoming.
At the core of the home lies the main living area, setting a tone of quiet sophistication. Plush neutral sofas rest against striking avant-garde artwork, while sculptural lighting introduces intrigue. Towering floor-to-ceiling windows dissolve the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, flooding the interiors with sunlight. Adjacent to this, the double-height dining area celebrates architectural grandeur. A custom marble dining table forms its centerpiece, surrounded by upholstered chairs and crowned by a cascading chandelier. Expansive windows frame panoramic views, making dining a truly immersive experience.
A floating staircase serves as the villa’s sculptural focal point. Crafted from glass, metal, and stone, it spirals upward beneath a dazzling waterfall chandelier, anchored by bold, patterned flooring that amplifies visual drama.
Private spaces continue the theme of refined luxury. The master bedroom, layered in soft neutrals, custom furniture, and ambient lighting, exudes serenity. The guest bedroom, accented in deep green, offers warmth and elegance, while the son’s bedroom balances youthful energy with sophistication through textured panels and a fresh palette.
For entertaining, the villa houses a high-energy party lounge complete with a designer bar, statement art, and atmospheric lighting, infusing glamour into social gatherings.
Every detail—from handcrafted chandeliers to curated materials—speaks of a design ethos rooted in refinement. More than a residence, this villa is an orchestrated experience, where elegance and emotion converge, and luxury becomes an intrinsic part of everyday living.
The Cove
Spread across 3,000 sq. ft. in the heart of Kolkata, The Cove is more than a luxury furniture showroom—it is an immersive destination that reimagines the retail experience through modern elegance and refined living. Designed as a lifestyle space rather than a conventional display, The Cove seamlessly blends design, comfort, and sophistication.
Every detail within the showroom is meticulously curated, turning furniture into expressions of individuality, aspiration, and taste. The spatial journey unfolds gracefully through exclusive display zones, intimate lounges, elegant dining arrangements, accent corners, and a warm reception area. Each setting is styled not only to highlight functionality but also to spark an emotional resonance, showcasing the deeper connection furniture brings to everyday living.
Lighting plays a pivotal role in shaping the showroom’s mood. A carefully orchestrated mix of warm ambient tones, accent highlights, and focused illumination elevates materials, finishes, and textures, allowing every piece to reveal its true character. The interplay of luxurious surfaces, rich palettes, and tactile detailing enhances the sense of opulence while maintaining an understated elegance that defines The Cove. The design language of the showroom balances minimalist sophistication with timeless grandeur. While clean lines and uncluttered layouts reflect modern sensibilities, statement pieces and curated décor infuse richness and drama. This balance ensures that The Cove resonates with both contemporary lifestyles and those who appreciate classical luxury.
What truly distinguishes The Cove is its experiential approach. Visitors are not merely browsing through furniture; they are immersed in fully realized lifestyle environments. From the warmth of a lounge to the intimacy of a reading nook or the elegance of a dining space, each zone encourages clients to visualize these pieces in their own homes, bridging the gap between inspiration and reality.
Ultimately, The Cove is more than a showroom – it is a stage where design meets experience, and where furniture is celebrated as both art and lifestyle. With its thoughtful curation, innovative design language, and refined ambience, The Cove sets a new benchmark for contemporary luxury furniture retail in Kolkata, inspiring every visitor to embrace the essence of modern living with timeless elegance.
The Nautical Escape
Perched on the 44th floor of Mumbai’s prestigious Blu development in Worli, this 4,000 sq. ft. apartment redefines urban luxury with a language that is both sophisticated and deeply personal. With uninterrupted views of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, the interiors take cues from the coastal setting, bringing lightness and serenity into the heart of a bustling metropolis.
Structural constraints became the starting point of design innovation. Instead of concealing columns and beams, the architects softened them with curvilinear forms that now flow across the home. These fluid gestures lend the apartment its signature warmth, turning limitations into defining features.
The living room, expansive and bathed in natural light, sets the tone. Neutral hues form the canvas, enlivened by hints of blue that echo the sea beyond. Marble flooring, refined brass detailing, and sculpted seating define elegance, while a fiery Murano stone bar introduces a dramatic focal point. A distinctive swing and curved veneer wall add further dimension, striking a balance between grandeur and intimacy.
Attention to detail continues through the dining area, framed by delicate metal arches and mirrored motifs, and into the powder washroom, which glows with gold accents and intricate finishes. Even the passageway, often neglected in apartment planning, has been transformed into a visually rich corridor through mirrors, lighting, and patterned ceilings.
Private spaces are equally considered. The parents’ bedroom offers calm through warm veneers and soothing tones. The children’s rooms inject vibrancy—one bathed in cheerful yellow, the other in pinks and blues—linked by a sliding partition that adapts to shared or independent use.
With its seamless blend of coastal inspiration, artistry, and modern detailing, this Blu residence is less an apartment than an urban sanctuary—crafted for elegance, comfort, and lasting resonance.
Sylvan Ply Corporate Office
The 3,800 sq. ft. corporate office for Sylvan Ply in Kolkata, India, exemplifies how brand identity and spatial ingenuity can converge to create a refined, contemporary workplace. Designed to showcase the versatility of the company’s plywood range, the office balances sophistication with understated elegance through a cohesive palette of sepia tones, soft browns, beiges, whites, and greys.
The entrance lobby immediately establishes the tone—marble surfaces and delicate metalwork convey grandeur without excess, reinforcing the premium stature of the brand. A linear passage organizes the narrow floor plate, separating private cabins from open workstations, while glass partitions amplify volume and allow light to flow across the interiors.
Celebrating the brand’s core material, raw and exposed plywood dominates key wall elevations. Fluted patterns and vertical grains highlight structural strength, juxtaposed with geometric lines and rugged tiled flooring to introduce a contemporary edge. False ceilings were minimized, confined to passages and conference areas, preserving a sense of openness.
Custom furniture, detailed in premium Corian, along with distinctive lighting, unites the interiors into a cohesive whole. The office transcends spatial constraints to become both a functional workspace and a showcase of Sylvan Ply’s identity—a modern, luxurious environment that demonstrates how materiality and design can articulate brand narrative.
With every project, IPIPL redefines what it means to merge innovation with elegance, crafting spaces that resonate with meaning, functionality, and artistry. Under Amit Porwal’s visionary leadership, the studio continues to push boundaries, setting benchmarks in design that are both timeless and forwardlooking. The journey ahead promises not just new spaces, but new ways of experiencing design—immersive, human-centric, and enduring.
