Talk Shop: Tina Ramchandani // Tina Ramchandani Creative
ABOUT TINA
Tina Ramchandani’s design lens was shaped by her global upbringing—she grew up in the States and summered in Dubai and India. Traveling the world, she was immersed in a world of colors, textures, and cultural influences which sparked her early inspiration, instilling a love for design, materials, and craftsmanship.
After studying at The Art Institute of Philadelphia, Tina worked for renowned firms in NYC like Vicente Wolf Associates, before starting her own firm where her love for connecting with her clients inspires her designs daily. Tina Ramchandani Creative specializes in designing warm, modern interiors that reflect our clients' polished lifestyles. Our passion for Soulful Minimalism® allows our clients to experience life surrounded by the things that matter most, focusing on the people that matter. We so enjoyed learning about Tina’s approach, inspirations, and more in our latest Talk Shop!
Describe your style in three words or less:
Contemporary Soulful Minimalism
What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:
My aesthetic has been shaped by so many influences, but three major ones stand out. My extensive travels continually inspire me, exposing me to diverse design concepts, architectural marvels, and artistic expressions. I'm particularly fascinated by how contemporary artists reinterpret traditional motifs and techniques.
My home base, New York City, serves as a constant wellspring of inspiration. Its dynamic energy, eclectic mix of cultures, and iconic landmarks all contribute to shaping my design sensibilities.
Lastly, my clients play a pivotal role in influencing my aesthetic. Their enthusiasm for their homes and their unique visions inspire me to create spaces that reflect their personalities and lifestyles, fostering a deep connection between them and their living environments.
How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:
After a decade of working with industry giants like Vicente Wolf, I felt empowered to launch my own firm. While the learning curve was steep, the chance to grow alongside my team and tackle diverse projects has been incredibly rewarding. My first two projects came about at the same time and were very different. One was a ground-up construction home, where I was able to make my mark before we broke ground, and the other was a decorative project here in New York City. I loved them both, it was a wonderful experience!
What truly fuels my passion is forging connections with clients. By understanding their vision, we create spaces that perfectly reflect them. Witnessing their joy at the final reveal, even after being intricately involved in the process, is pure magic. I'm incredibly grateful for such a supportive and appreciative clientele.
Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:
Mentorship has played a crucial role in my journey. I've been fortunate to have several formal mentors and coaches who provided invaluable guidance. But my learning extends beyond that. My incredible designer friends act as a constant sounding board, fostering a collaborative environment where we share knowledge and resources. It truly takes a village, and I'm a firm believer in both receiving and giving support within the design community.
What does your home say about you:
My current home is undergoing a transformation! While it doesn't fully reflect my vision yet, the renovation will showcase my love for handcrafted pieces and high-quality materials with unique shapes and colors. Just like the spaces I create for clients, this home will prioritize functionality and comfort for a life well-lived with several nieces and dogs. Ultimately, it will be a home that blends warmth with a touch of minimalism.
Where do you find inspiration:
Everywhere. Instagram.
Who are your style icons:
So hard! David Hicks and Vincent Van Duyson.
What are your key ingredients for entertaining:
Cocktails and an amazing (and large) charcuterie plate.
Do you collect anything:
Art when I travel.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration:
@christianelemiex , @rum_id , and @hugotoro_.
What are you working on right now:
We’re working on a lovely duplex in Tribeca for a young family, and it’s a bit different from our typical homes. It’s going to be filled with chinoiserie, traditional rugs, and vintage pieces, paired with contemporary elements. I’m excited to see it all come together.
Wardrobe staples:
Jeans, a white T-shirt, and sneakers.
Favorite fabric/wallpaper:
Elitis wallpaper has been my most recent obsession.
Best interior advice you ever received:
It’s important to try everything. Play with things to find what you feel and find what really works.
Best career advice you ever received:
Listen to your instincts. You always know the right thing to do.
Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:
Splurge: Bathroom and kitchen
Save: Side tables - there are gorgeous side tables out there. And you can always replace it as you grow with your home.
Your greatest extravagance:
Food and travel, particularly hotel rooms. Clearly being in beautiful spaces is important to me.
Favorite places to shop for home:
1st Dibs, Chairish
Most prized possession and why:
Figaro, my fur baby!
Your interiors motto:
“Elegance is Elimination.” - Balenciaga
Your life motto:
Find moments to enjoy every day. Time flies by so fast!
Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:
Figure out what you enjoy and what is more important to you and let that be your compass.
Take Ten: My Favorite…
Food: Sushi
Drink: Negronis
Film: Something’s Gotta Give - for the interiors
Hotel: Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
City: New York, New York
Bedding: Parachute Percale
Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): Coffee, with oat milk, no sugar
Playlist: I change my playlists up frequently but they’re typically a blend of hip hop, electronic, pop, afro pop, and reggae. Depends on the day!
Weekend Activity: Hanging out in the park with my dog, Figaro
Design Book: AD at 100