Name/Firm: Sashya Thind Fernandes, Sashya Thind

Education: Bachelors in Architecture, Leed AP

Years in the industry: 20 

Year you founded your company: 13

Dollar value or # of projects completed since inception: Tough question. 75

Tell us about you and your company. 
I started my company in 2012. The studio was formed to enable that life long journey of learning, forming connections with interesting people, and experimenting with ways to design spaces that will ultimately nurture the soul.

We describe our ethos as Warm Minimalism. This principle guides our thinking on all our commissions to create a calm, intentional and nurturing environment. We work with both traditional and contemporary architectural envelopes, which are studied thoughtfully and reimagined to create an interior environment that feels relevant yet elevated.

With a background in Architecture and a love for Interior Design, I am committed to developing a design ethos that is all encompassing on a range of project types from residential, to commercial and hospitality. Being of Indian origin, and having lived internationally, I have been exposed to a myriad of cultures and experiences that are incorporated in my approach and diverse design aesthetic.

Tell us about your path to where you are now and how you got into the A/E/C industry.
As a child, I watched both my mother and grandmother run their own Design Studios. This is where my love and appreciation of the world of art and design come from!

What was most helpful as your company first began competing in the local market? Did anyone help you along the way?
Everybody I have encountered has helped me learn something about myself or my company along the way. Whether it be a new way of doing things or learning what not to do. I’ve had several cheerleaders who have watched me grow. My mentors, peers, clients, vendors are amazing allies in this industry.

Where do you wish you had more help and what else could the industry be doing to help and promote underrepresented business owners?
I wish there was more transparency in our industry on how to run and operate a creative business in an ever changing economy. Balancing being a creative entrepreneur and business owner can be challenging as you have to wear many hats and perform several roles within your company.

What would you say is your biggest success in your path to entrepreneurship? Similarly, what would you say was your biggest lesson learned?
I would say the freedom to be creative in my own way has been my biggest success! My biggest lesson learned has been with client management and how to navigate to incorporate their creative ideas while adding value with my own.

What skills or qualities helped you overcome the hurdles that come with starting your own business?
As an entrepreneur, you learn something new every day. Being curious, reading and constantly adapting new techniques and approaches to problem solving has helped with my own business 

Do you have any advice for someone starting their own business in our industry?
Be open minded, curious and flexible. Find a mentor early and don’t give up when people say it cannot be done.

Favorite thing about working in the A/E/C industry? 
Every day is unique. No one day has been the same as the next. Being part of a physical manifestation of a space that has only been imagined is still exciting to me

Recent project or accomplishment you’re proud of?
We were recently awarded Best Modern Interior Designer by Modern Luxury Interiors Boston. To be recognized alongside other industry leaders is a proud moment for me. To be recognized for our contemporary aesthetic is truly exciting.

Favorite place you’ve ever been: So far, Costa Rica. 

What fills your cup? Spending time with my children on the soccer field.

Who or what inspires you most? My grandmother inspires me most! Her zest for life and her commitment to creativity even to this day is truly incredible.