Search
Close this search box.
#Podcast
Search
Close this search box.
#Podcast

From a Simple Café Redesign to Global Projects: Anirudh Osuri’s Design Legacy

The Design Epicenter was founded in 2015, sparked by an unexpected moment of inspiration. Anirudh Osuri, the founder and director, had no intention of starting a design studio while on a break from his master’s program in Sydney. But when friends asked him to redesign their café in India, he couldn’t resist the challenge. What started as a simple favor soon became the seed for a design philosophy that would shape his entire career.

From that one project, The Design Epicenter has grown into a studio celebrated for its innovative approach and diverse portfolio, covering over 150 residential and F&B projects. At the heart of the studio is a belief that every space should tell a story. The team blends creativity with practicality, creating spaces that not only function but also deeply resonate with the people who use them.

Mr. Anirudh Osuri
Anirudh Osuri, the founder and director of The Design Epicenter

In this interview, we dive into the journey of The Design Epicenter—its beginnings, core philosophy, and vision for the future. It’s a story of how a chance encounter led to a studio that’s all about creating unforgettable experiences through design.

1. What inspired you to establish The Design Epicenter in 2015, and how has the journey been so far?

The story of The Design Epicenter is a perfect example of how life’s unexpected twists can lead to something extraordinary. In 2015, I was in India on what was supposed to be a short personal break while pursuing my master’s in Sydney. However, life had other plans, and what started as a few weeks stretched into several months. During this time, I reconnected with some friends who were building a café but were unhappy with its design. They asked if I could help, and something about their request felt like an invitation to explore a new path.

I took on the challenge, of redesigning the space with a mix of instinct and passion. When the project was complete, their enthusiasm and joy were infectious. At that moment, I realized I’d stumbled onto something much deeper than I had anticipated.

That serendipitous encounter turned into the foundation of The Design Epicenter, a journey that unfolded in ways I never could have planned. It was a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most meaningful opportunities emerge when we least expect them.

Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing—there’s nothing but gratitude for the unexpected moments that shaped this incredible journey.

2. How has your diverse educational background shaped your unique design philosophy?

Curiosity has always been my compass. From an early age, I was drawn to exploring the unknown—whether it was coding, creating websites, or immersing myself in the arts. This drive to experiment shaped how I approached learning: unconventional, unafraid of failure, and always eager to take the road less traveled.

Even during design submissions, I never stuck to formulas. I sought the unfamiliar, trusting that innovation often lies in uncharted territory. Those moments of divergence became defining, showing me that the beauty of design lies in the unexpected. I’ve always believed in the beauty of “the road not taken”—for it is there, in the unmarked paths, that innovation and authenticity live. This philosophy became the foundation of my design approach—one that celebrates difference, embraces exploration, and finds beauty in the unexpected.

Tansen ED 4

3. Your firm has a rich portfolio of over 100 residential projects and 50 F&B projects. What sets The Design Epicenter apart in these domains?

Growing as a firm was never a goal we set; it was never a destination we sought. There was no grand strategy, no master plan. We simply dedicated ourselves to each project with relentless passion and attention to detail. Perhaps, as Malcolm Gladwell suggests, we unknowingly followed the “10,000-hour rule,” honing our craft with every new challenge.

Our strength lies in the depth of our material knowledge, and in our ability to grasp the underlying economics of every project. This expertise allows us to guide clients from the inception of a project, helping them make thoughtful, sustainable decisions. For us, it’s never been about growing for the sake of growth—it’s about learning continuously and letting that knowledge shape our work.

4. Since 2021, your firm has focused significantly on F&B projects. What challenges and opportunities do you find in designing for this sector?

Our journey into the F&B sector began with the success of a few key projects and quickly grew into a steady stream of opportunities. While we’ve always embraced a wide range of built environment designs, I discovered my true passion in creating spaces for restaurants, cafés, bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

Designing for this sector is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Each project brings its own unique set of hurdles—often without clear reference points—but that’s what makes it so engaging. It’s a field that demands constant learning and collaboration, and I’ve had the privilege of working alongside people from diverse industries. Together, we craft spaces where stories are told, connections are made, and experiences come to life.

Despite the challenges, the joy of transforming concepts into vibrant, functional spaces keeps me inspired. It’s this blend of creativity, problem-solving, and the chance to shape environments where people gather and connect that makes designing for the F&B sector so fulfilling.

Tansen ED 7
Tansen ED 9
Tansen ED 58

5. The Design Epicenter is venturing internationally with a project in Nairobi. What does this milestone mean for your firm?

This milestone is a significant chapter in our journey—one that came sooner than expected. While I can’t share too many details yet, we’re collaborating with a reputed hospitality group in Kenya on a very exciting project. It’s opened doors to incredible opportunities and relationships, and we’re thrilled about what lies ahead.

6. Your projects span multiple Indian cities like Cochin, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Goa. How do you adapt your designs to align with local contexts and cultures?

We’ve always prioritized connecting with the essence of a place. Whether it’s reflected directly in the design or subtly infused through materials and forms, we strive to harmonize with the environment. Every project is a collaboration with the local context—a way to let the spirit of the place shape the design naturally.

7. Experimentation and innovation are at the heart of your work. What drives your passion for exploring unconventional design concepts?

For us, the ordinary is never the goal. We believe the best solutions often lie outside the familiar. Innovation flows when you’re willing to take risks, but that’s only possible with a solid foundation of skill and experience.

Mastery of execution is our anchor, giving us the confidence to experiment with new techniques and materials. This balance allows us to push boundaries, creating spaces that surprise, inspire, and redefine what’s possible in design.

0J3A1309

8. With such a diverse service offering—from architectural design to spatial identity—how do you ensure consistency and quality across projects?

While we work across a wide range of industries, the unifying thread is our approach. Consistency for us doesn’t mean repetition—it means dedicating ourselves to crafting spaces that are distinct yet uphold the same high standard of excellence.

We’ve achieved this by steadily growing our team, and ensuring we have the right expertise to give each project the attention it deserves. Staying accessible and involved is key to bridging the gap between vision and reality. By closely guiding our execution teams, we make sure every design comes to life with precision and care. This blend of diversity, attention to detail, and a hands-on approach ensures that quality remains at the heart of everything we do.

9. How do you view the evolving role of architects in today’s competitive and fast-paced market?

The role of architects has transformed far beyond creating forms and structures. Today, we are visionaries who shape identities and bring aspirations to life. Whether it’s designing a towering commercial space or a cozy home, each project becomes a canvas for dreams, and our job is to turn those dreams into reality.

In this dynamic interplay between vision and craftsmanship, architects do more than build; we create spaces where lives are lived, businesses flourish, and stories are written into every corner. Every detail reflects something deeper—a desire, an emotion, or a purpose. Ultimately, we are the storytellers of space, weaving together the threads of design to create the places where memories are made and futures are imagined.

10. What exciting projects or goals do you have planned for The Design Epicenter in the near future?

The horizon ahead gleams with promise, as we find ourselves drawn towards the vast landscapes of larger hospitality projects. After immersing ourselves in the world of F&B spaces, we’re now stepping into a new chapter where scale and vision merge.

These projects, with their grandeur and allure, are not just buildings—they are dreams taking shape in the most enchanting places, crafted to stand as landmarks of experience and elegance. For us, the future is an expansive canvas that stretches across continents, and every project is a testament to ambition, collaboration, and our passion for creating spaces that leave a lasting impact.

DSC00153

11. Sustainability is a growing focus in design. How does The Design Epicenter incorporate sustainable practices into its projects?

We’ve always believed that sustainability in design shouldn’t be an added feature or a selling point. Hence wherever possible we’ve kept our designs quite inclusive of sustainability, by using locally sourced materials and indigenous techniques.

12. Your client-centric approach has earned you lasting trust and repeat business. How do you maintain strong relationships with clients?

For us, sustainability is not an added feature or a mere selling point—it is the very essence of design, woven into the fabric of every project we undertake. We believe that true sustainability is not something to be tacked on, but something that flows naturally, like the rhythm of the earth itself. Wherever possible, we embrace the wisdom of the land, drawing on locally sourced materials and time-honored techniques that speak to the heart of the environment. 

Our designs are not just buildings, but living, breathing expressions of balance—where human creativity and nature’s generosity come together in harmonious collaboration. To us, sustainability is not a goal to reach, but a principle to live by, a quiet thread that connects each space to the world around it.

13. How do you see the future of architectural and interior design evolving, and where do you envision The Design Epicenter in that landscape?

India is entering an era of rapid transformation, and with it, the demand for thoughtful, innovative design is only growing. Technology has become both a tool and a bridge—it lets us dream bigger, reach farther, and work seamlessly across distances, creating a more interconnected world. The future of architecture and interior design isn’t limited by geography anymore; it’s defined by the vision we bring to each space.

At The Design Epicenter, we aim to be more than participants in this revolution—we want to be catalysts. Our goal is to create designs that go beyond limitations, connecting cultures, ideas, and aspirations across time and space. The future is a blank canvas, and we’re excited to paint it with innovation, compassion, and an unrelenting commitment to possibility.

Hoist ED 28

14. The Design Epicenter’s work is described as a “choreography of experiences.” Can you elaborate on this philosophy and how it influences your designs?

At The Design Epicenter, we see design not as a static creation, but as a living, breathing choreography—a dance of elements, emotions, and encounters.

“Come by and let’s talk spaces” isn’t just a phrase, it’s an invitation to step into a world where every corner, every surface, and every detail is crafted to evoke a response, to spark a moment of connection. 

Every project we take on becomes a carefully orchestrated symphony, where all the components work together to leave a lasting impression. It’s this focus on creating meaningful, resonant experiences that define our work and sets it apart.

Written by Isha Chaudhary

Similar Stories

Architecture

News

House Tours