Sussanne Khan Brings her Aesthetics to Hyderabad

What was your first interaction with interior design?
My mother was one of the most renowned interior designers 35 years ago. She worked on iconic projects such as the Banjara Hills Hotel and other prestigious properties in Hyderabad. When I was a young girl, I would accompany her on site visits. I used to get enamoured with the colours, the cornices and the overall design elements. She would often ask for my inputs and I loved offering little suggestions.

You founded The Charcoal Project in 2011, India’s first concept store of its kind. What inspired you to create such a unique space, and what was your vision when you started?
The Charcoal Project was born out of my desire to transform spaces and experiences. Every site I visit is grey and dark, like charcoal. When I ignite it with my energy and creative ideas, it lights up. That’s the essence of the name The Charcoal Project. The vision behind it was to create a space where artistry and craftsmanship meet. I’ve always been drawn to working with mixed media, including metal, wood, natural fibres, concrete, geometric patterns, embellishments, all subtly woven together to create what I call 'quiet luxe'. I believe that luxury is about emotion and design is my tool.

What prompted you to expand to Hyderabad?
Hyderabad is incredibly progressive — fabulous, even. It’s truly cutting-edge and high-tech at every level. All the brightest minds are here and the energy is just electric. The people are creative, coming from all walks of the artistic world — Tollywood and beyond. It’s the new India, in my view — the modern, evolving version of it.

What sort of principals do you apply while designing a space?
When designing a space, I prioritize functionality, flow and balance to ensure it meets the needs of its users while maintaining visual harmony. Proportion and scale are key to creating a comfortable and cohesive environment, while lighting, color and texture add depth and mood. Sustainability and ergonomics are essential for long-term comfort and responsibility, and personalization ensures the space reflects the identity of its users. By blending contrast with harmony, the design remains both interesting and cohesive, creating a space that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

How have you curated the store? What was the process?
The Charcoal Project Hyderabad is a multi-layered experience, starting with ‘Objects of Affection’ on the ground level which offers unique memorabilia and vibrant collaborations. The first floor showcases a chic apartment with a kids play area featuring art by my son, Hridhaan, with proceeds going to charity. The second floor integrates smart tech and a collaboration with Hacker Kitchens. We have also collaborated with renowned designer Gauri Khan, who has lent her artistic vision to the third floor. The fourth level presents a botanist-inspired art furniture gallery. The fifth floor, called the ‘Barn House’, is a space for our creative discussions and consultations.

All the curated furniture and accessories at TCP Hyderabad have been designed in India. Some of the embroidery and prints in the furnishings are inspired by birds, animals, and fruits from the Konkan coast, with motifs influenced by other regions as well. We’ve also designed a furniture collection inspired by tree branches, using metal and electroplated fibre to make it suitable for tropical climates. I think this line will resonate with Hyderabad’s spacious homes and lush gardens.