Anda Ba: Where Ancient Roots Meet Modern Horizons
The formative years and the genesis of a designer's vision
Growing up between the vibrant cityscapes of London and the culturally rich environs of Ludhiana in Punjab, Armaan Bansal's early fascination with design was sparked by readily available international magazines in airport lounges. Lacking personal electronic devices during his formative years until adolescence, these publications served as his primary gateway to the expansive realm of global design, nurturing a profound appreciation for its diverse expressions.
The establishment of Anda Ba: A fusion of varied influences
After successfully completing his studies at the Architectural Association in London, Bansal honed his skills by working alongside prominent designers such as Samuel Ross and contributing to esteemed fashion labels like Stella McCartney and Martine Rose. In 2024, he founded Anda Ba, his own multidisciplinary firm. This venture stands as a testament to his unique ability to integrate modern design principles with rich historical and cultural elements, drawing deeply from both India’s natural resources and London’s energetic urban scene.
India's influence: Textures, colors, and architectural marvels
Bansal's creative palette is significantly enriched by his Indian roots. He frequently incorporates historical references, distinctive textures, and vibrant color schemes from India into his work. Specific inspirations include the raw concrete structures and warm wooden accents found in Chandigarh, the golden expanse of wheat fields, and the intricately carved ancient rock formations of the Elephanta Caves. These elements provide a tangible connection to his heritage, infusing his designs with depth and narrative.
London's impact: Contextual design and cultural cross-pollination
From London, Bansal absorbs a different kind of inspiration: the dynamic interplay of diverse elements within a single urban environment. The city's neutral and relative context, where various cultural influences, artistic expressions, and contemporary movements coexist, allows him to frame his work within a novel and expansive perspective. This dual influence enables him to create designs that are both globally resonant and deeply personal.
The 'Fly-Ash' collection: A study in material restraint and collaboration
A cornerstone of Bansal’s practice is his dedication to collaborative projects. His 'Fly-Ash' collection, developed in partnership with the Indian interior design brand Essentia Home, originated from a shared ambition to forge an Indian design identity that honored its past while seamlessly fitting into both a contemporary Delhi dwelling and a traditional English countryside home. This collaboration showcased Essentia Home's trust in Bansal's vision and their mutual confidence in craftsmanship.
The design philosophy behind 'Fly-Ash': Simplicity and subtle detail
The core concept for the 'Fly-Ash' collection arose from Bansal's observation that Indian design often overemphasizes material opulence. He adopted a strict design brief, limiting materials to just stone and metal. Aesthetically, the collection was profoundly influenced by an extensive journey through northern Italy, exploring the works of Carlo Scarpa. This inspiration is evident in the meticulous use of offsets, shadow gaps, and visible connection points, which highlight the raw beauty of locally sourced Indian sandstone, basalt, and cast concrete, imbuing the pieces with a modern sensibility.
The diverse portfolio and an unwavering commitment to exploration
Bansal's ongoing projects reflect a broad spectrum of scales and disciplines. He is currently involved in designing jewelry, a Switch collection, culinary art (ravioli and a hand-drawn recipe), candles, ceramics, studio uniforms, a residential house and gallery, a sports resort in India, and even a rocket intended for launch in the Mojave Desert. Regardless of the project's magnitude, his approach remains consistent: thorough research, meaningful collaboration, meticulous refinement, and a spirit of playful experimentation are central to his creative process.