Room for More Art | Why Art is Essential in Every Space | Mudra Shah | The Design Umbrella

In this episode of Room for More Art, we sit down with Ar. Mudra Shah, Principal Architect at The Design Umbrella, Ahmedabad. Practicing since 2011, Mudra leads her multidisciplinary firm offering end-to-end solutions—approvals, licensing, ROI calculations, design, and project management consultancy. She shares how art is more than just decoration—it’s therapy, meditation, and a timeless design element. From integrating art into conceptual sketches to balancing residential and commercial projects, Mudra explains why art should never be an afterthought but an integral part of design DNA. Discover her design philosophy, the influence of academic and practical thinking, and how art brings depth, life, and soul to every space. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on the power of art in architecture and why clients are now valuing art more than ever.

She says that art helps tell a story in a space. It can reflect culture and identity. Art brings personality to a room. Without art, spaces can feel flat or cold. With art, spaces feel complete. It doesn’t matter how big the room is. Even small spaces benefit from art. Art can make a small room feel bigger and more interesting. Choosing art requires listening to the client. It must match their taste and life. Art can be functional too. It can guide movement and focus. Architects must think about art early. Art should be part of the design process. Otherwise, it feels forced. The right art makes spaces feel warm. It makes people want to stay. It makes spaces memorable. In the end, art and design work as one. They make rooms feel alive and personal.