3 new design stores changing the way we shop

Interiors that Tell a Story

Picture courtyards that echo the warmth of village clusters, a communal kitchen where laughter and the aroma of home-cooked meals mingle, and creative studios that host residencies and spark innovation. The architecture here is a sensory journey, inspired by the layout of traditional village clusters, where each room unfolds as an experience—inviting visitors to explore, linger, and connect. Doshi’s signature use of voluminous, tactile walls contrasts with minimalist interiors. Courtyards, narrow alleys, and thick walls evoke a sense of nostalgia, while clean lines and modern detailing ensure the space feels forward-thinking.

What’s in Store

Expect innovative designs that cater to modern Indian living, such as the versatile ‘Rise’ collection by Bhate and German designer and creative advisor, Pascal Hien. Inspired by shrinking spaces in urban homes, this collection features thoughtfully crafted sofas, benches and dining tables that nest within each other seamlessly. A perfect solution for space-saving without compromising on style or functionality.

We’re Taking Home…

If you’re looking to swap out a dated plastic chopping board, the simple ‘Bay’ block—available in a rectangular or arched shape in teak—is the perfect high-quality addition to any kitchen.

Price: ₹3,000

The Faces Behind the Spaces…

Nila is part of the Lady Bamford Foundation, spearheaded by Lady Carole Bamford, a British entrepreneur and philanthropist deeply inspired by Indian crafts since her first visit in the 1960s. Bamford’s vision for Nila stems from her lifelong commitment to preserving the legacy of Indian textiles and crafts, creating a space to celebrate their beauty while supporting artisans and promoting sustainability. Alongside her, Anuradha Singh, who heads Nila House, plays a crucial role in ensuring the authenticity of Indian craftsmanship is showcased—from refining the supply chain to collaborating with craftsmen to set up traditional dyeing vats.

Inside the Space

Overlooking the historic 18th-century stepwell, Toorji ka Jhalra, this intimate, immersive space harmonizes traditional Rajasthani architecture with contemporary design sensibilities. The structure exudes heritage charm with its intricate stonework, arched windows, and muted tones that blend seamlessly into the Blue City’s landscape. Inside, the space unfolds as a serene yet dynamic showcase for handcrafted textiles, clothing, and home goods. Whitewashed walls and minimalist shelving create a gallery-like setting, a clear canvas behind the vibrant pops of electric indigo in each textile.

What’s in Store

From home linens and clothing to stationary and even baby Nila (a cosy collection for toddlers), there’s a mark of indigo across every one of Nila’s pieces. Each piece is handmade and dyed with a zero-waste management system—making it the perfect gift for a friend with an eye for thoughtful, meaningful design.

We’re Taking Home…

Handwoven by Kallu Ji and his family in Govindgarh, Jaipur, the ‘Zero Waste Rug’ is made from fabric offcuts and scraps collected from local markets in a symphony of blues—from airy sky tones to deep navy. And, the set of ‘Ink Edge Coasters’ with their indigo-dipped edges, handwoven from banana fibres by women artisans in Karnataka for a striking touch to any table.

Price: ₹1,860 for the ‘Zero Waste Rug’; and ₹860 for the ‘Ink Edge Coasters’

GENERAL ITEMS

Bengaluru

Tucked along a tree-lined street in one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Bengaluru, Ulsoor, General Items is a 300-square-foot concept store that runs out of a once-upon-a-time school provision shop. Co-founded by Spandana Gopal and Malini Malik with a vision to create a space where the everyday and the extraordinary coexist, every corner in this design-forward hub is a design lover’s haven—offering a simple yet unique take on pieces that are omnipresent in our everyday lives.

We’re Revisiting on the Weekends for…

While there’s a thoughtful curation of homeware, stationery, textiles, ceramics, and décor pieces sourced from brands like Casegoods, Claymen, and Lovebirds; the space also opens up on the weekends for workshops and creativity pop-ups. The workshop series include ‘Meet the Maker,’ where creators like ceramicist Tosha Jagad lead hands-on sessions; and ‘Sundays at General Items,’ featuring chefs, artists, and creatives who demonstrate their craft while weaving the store’s products into their work. The workshops are priced between ₹300 and ₹1,000 and can be booked via Instagram.

We’re Taking Home…

The Lovebirds x GI Utility Jacket! Designed to feel like you’re gearing up for an adventure, its thoughtfully designed roomy pockets—and there are many—it will hold everything you need on the go, or even snacks and tools. Price on request