Chinmaya Misra
The founder of L.A.’s CHINCHIN Design brings an international outlook to projects big and small.
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
AMY BARTLAM
Chinmaya Misra is an award-winning architect and designer, a teacher and mentor, and the creative force behind L.A.-based (but internationally staffed) CHINCHIN Design. Her approach to interiors is successful largely thanks to a commitment to education and experience. CHINCHIN spaces go beyond a singular aesthetic—featuring site-specific furnishings, custom textiles, and installationdriven artwork—which results in joyful, meditative spaces that call for a closer look.
When did you first discover your love of architecture and design?
Reflecting on my upbringing in India, I realize how I was surrounded by a myriad of color and textures and layers of history—much of which I now recognize was overlooked in our daily lives, especially growing up there. It was an environment I absorbed, perhaps more subconsciously than consciously. My mother was a selftrained painter and a textile artist, and perhaps that design language stayed with me through my formative years. It wasn’t until a close friend applied to architecture school that I, too, found myself drawn to that prospect. It was only upon entering school that I discovered a profound affinity for orchestrating order
amidst chaos. This led to a primal urge, you could say, within me to infuse even the smallest gestures with a sense of structure, a subtle defiance to my perceived chaos in Indian culture.
I would say my passion for architecture and design really began when I recognized that, while I hold deep respect for tradition, I don’t particularly care for the traditional in the same way. In my design world, I find solace and joy in the juxtaposition of diverse elements and celebrating quirks and idiosyncrasies through one design narrative.
How did your move from India to Los Angeles impact your design philosophy?
My education at the Southern California Institute of Architecture profoundly influenced my identity and cognitive framework. Established in 1972, SCI-Arc initially gained renown for its avant-garde institutional and artistic ethos, setting it apart from traditional architecture schools in the United States. This philosophy has nurtured an environment of boundless creativity and innovation, fostering an outside-the-box approach to design. It helped me see constraints in a different light— where constraints were not viewed as limitations but rather as welcome challenges, catalysts for the imaginative process of space creation. That is the tool that has helped me design spaces (large or small) that defy expectation and convention.
Your team is international. How does this work day-to-day, and what are some of the benefits of having your staff spread out across the world?
Having an international team spread across different time zones is undeniably advantageous. However, what truly sets us apart is the invaluable contribution of each team member’s daily life experiences to our design charrettes. We firmly believe that design is enriched when influenced by diverse cultures and travel. In our studio, we’re privileged to have a frontrow seat to this dynamic exchange. With core team members residing in design hubs like London and Milan, every discussion becomes an exploration of diverse perspectives and influences. Our approach is hybrid, combining synchronous design workshops on Zoom with individual work sessions to accommodate the varying time zones. Beyond mere logistics, this setup fosters a healthy worklife balance and promotes genuine connection among team members. It’s a testament to the collaborative spirit that transcends geographical boundaries and underscores the
importance of cultural exchange in our creative process.
You also work as a teacher and mentor at Cal Poly Pomona. What has been the most rewarding thing in this role?
One of the most gratifying aspects of this role has been witnessing my students venture into the design world and carve out their own paths of success. Whether they’re contributing to design teams, spearheading creative concepts, or serving as design reps within the industry, it’s truly fulfilling. Occasionally, I encounter them at design events and gatherings, and they fondly recall our class as instrumental in shaping their journey as aspiring designers. This recognition deeply humbles me and fills me with immense pride.
Claudia and Seammala were once such students of mine and now they are valued members of our team. I trust their design input and creative vision wholeheartedly.
Frank Chimero from Human Digital famously said, “People ignore design that ignores people,” and this plays a big part in your practice. Can you tell us about this approach?
At the heart of our philosophy lies the belief that design should prioritize human emotion and connection above all else. This distinction between good and bad design
hinges on its ability to resonate with people on a deeply personal level. We firmly believe that design transcends aesthetics; it has the power to shape experiences, stir emotions, and forge profound connections. In every project we undertake, large or small, we are motivated to bring that emotional connection to life.
What do you think every room needs?
A unique point of view, character, personality, and a sense of humor.