Kumpal Vaid’s journey with Purple Backyard is a testament to her passion for storytelling through design. Kumpal has transformed countless spaces into vibrant narratives that reflect the unique stories of their inhabitants. Drawing inspiration from her early experiences, cultural heritage, and a keen understanding of materials, she has cultivated a distinctive aesthetic.
The Spark of Inspiration
Kumpal's passion for design traces back to her childhood, heavily influenced by her mother and grandmother. "My granny had impeccable taste in maintaining the home, and my mother was an oil painter who helped with many of my projects," Kumpal recalls. Saturdays and Sundays were often spent in art classes, nurturing her innate inclination towards aesthetics. By the eighth grade, Kumpal felt a natural pull toward interior design, a path she pursued with her mother’s unwavering support. Her education at Rachana Sansad School of Interior Design laid the foundation, leading to valuable experiences working with prominent architectural firms.
In 2009, Kumpal joined Planet 3 Studios, where she encountered a fresh perspective on spatial design. This experience prompted her to study at Central Saint Martins in London, specializing in visual merchandising and staging. “The way they thought about spaces was mind-opening,” she reflects. However, upon her return to India, she recognized a lack of dialogue around visual merchandising in retail, prompting her to pivot towards interior design. In 2011, after a series of freelance projects, Purple Backyard was born. Kumpal’s vision for the studio emphasized not just layout, but a rich narrative behind each space. The name Purple Backyard symbolizes a blend of luxury (purple) and casual collaboration (backyard), encapsulating Kumpal’s aim to fuse different design worlds.
Defining Aesthetic and Philosophy
Throughout her career, Kumpal has worked on a variety of projects, from residential spaces to retail environments. Notable projects like Bong Bong, a café inspired by Bengali and Parisian cultures, showcased her ability to blend experiences through design. "I wanted to create a design conversation beyond mere layouts," she explains. Kumpal’s aesthetic evolved over time, particularly after pivotal projects like House No. 7 and Shibui. These projects solidified her distinctive style, which balances elegance with a sense of calm. “The personality of the clients plays a crucial role in our designs,” she emphasizes, highlighting the importance of storytelling in her work.
PB Home
Kumpal describes PB Home as an extension of her design philosophy, aiming to create "objects of desire." She envisions it as a brand that transcends typical retail, focusing instead on unique pieces that tell a story. At PB Home, Kumpal is keen on exploring innovative materials, including resin and stone. She expresses excitement about the "revival of stone products," highlighting her goal to incorporate high-quality materials into her designs that are both beautiful and durable.
Indigenous Materials
Kumpal's dedication to using indigenous materials is reflected in her new venture, PB Home. Inspired by her travels and experiences, this initiative aims to create contemporary designs that honor Indian heritage. “Our landscape is filled with gems and stories waiting to be told,” she notes, emphasizing the importance of showcasing Indian craftsmanship. Kumpal frequently uses Indian stones, which are celebrated for their beauty and uniqueness. She believes in showcasing these materials in their natural state, allowing their inherent qualities to shine. Instead of conventional paint, she often opts for lime textures, explaining, "Just doing the lime texture on the wall just elevates your wall." This choice adds depth and a unique aesthetic while promoting a healthier indoor environment. She is particularly enthusiastic about the revival of materials like acrylic and resin, which she believes can elevate contemporary design without losing their classic essence.
Kanso House
One of their recent projects is Kanso House. Kumpal embraces the concept of "kanso," which is rooted in the Japanese principle of simplicity and minimalism. She emphasizes, “I believe that homes are supposed to be calming,” reflecting her desire to create spaces that promote tranquility and balance. While Kanso House embraces a soothing color palette, Kumpal is open to introducing vibrant colors. She states, “We are creating a full on colored home for you, but it'll still be...calming,” indicating her skill in balancing bold design choices with serene aesthetics. The use of natural materials is central, it incorporates elements like wood, stone, and soft textiles to foster a sense of warmth and harmony. Kanso House is a manifestation of Vaid’s design philosophy, embodying simplicity, calmness, and a deep connection to nature.
Words Paridhi Badgotri
Date 16.10.2024