Crafting Timeless Elegance: Lata Valia On Redefining Bespoke Furniture

FDT Bureau

Within a few years of graduating as an architect in 1978, Lata Valia discovered her true passion for designing and creating furniture, inspired by the intricate beauty of wood carvings, stone, metal, and glass. Alongside her sons, Aashir and Vishesh Valia, co-founders of Zayin Home Living, she has brought a vibrant vision and innovative approach to the company. Zayin Home Living, under their leadership, has expanded to offer a comprehensive range of interior solutions. The brand specializes in designing, retailing, and manufacturing exclusive and custom furniture, both in-store and online, redefining modern living with elegance and creativity. In an exclusive interview with FURNITURE DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY (FDT), she shared insights into her journey, the inspiration behind her designs, and the innovative approach that has shaped Zayin Home Living into a leader in bespoke furniture and interior solutions.



CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT ZAYIN HOME LIVING AND ITS OFFERINGS?
Lata Valia: We operate under the name of Zayin Home Living, catering to our exclusive clients with refined tastes. Our goal is to create pieces that stand apart from what is available in other showrooms. Each piece is uniquely designed, keeping the client’s interests in mind, while incorporating creativity from both our end and theirs. The result is an exclusive product that aligns with current market trends, finishes, and fabrics, giving our clients unique conversational pieces for their living spaces.

HOW LONG HAS ZAYIN HOME LIVING BEEN OPERATING?
Lata Valia: The showroom was established in 2014, so it’s been 10 years now. However, my journey began long before that. I graduated as an architect from JJ School of Architecture in 1978. I initially started with a small workshop in my garage at home and later expanded to a 3,000-square-foot workshop. When my sons grew up, they joined me in the business, and that’s when Zayin Home Living truly came to life. This was shortly after my husband passed away. My sons, who originally worked in investment banking, found this field more creative and challenging, so they decided to take the plunge into furniture.

COULD YOU ELABORATE ON THE BRANDS AND COMPANIES UNDER ZAYIN HOME LIVING?
Lata Valia: Under Zayin Home Living, we run two verticals One vertical handles mass products for example for Hotel’s restaurants cafe and online platforms , while the other vertical focuses on high end furniture for private residences which include architects, industrialists, corporate houses, and interior designers. We cater to all segments, from mid-range to premium, ensuring that everyone - regardless of budget - can find something special.



WHAT ARE THE KEY PRODUCT CATEGORIES YOU OFFER?
Lata Valia: Our key categories include sofas, living and dining furniture, Bedrooms and other custom pieces for various spaces. We also specialise in in-house production, covering everything from artwork to inlay work, marble cutting, polishing, carving, and metal setting.Our ability to produce everything internally ensures high-quality craftsmanship and customisation for our clients.

"EACH PIECE IS UNIQUELY DESIGNED, KEEPING THE CLIENT’S INTERESTS IN MIND, WHILE INCORPORATING CREATIVITY FROM BOTH OUR END AND THEIRS."

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR DESIGNS?
Lata Valia: My designs draw inspiration from various sources, including nature, old Indian and Persian architecture, and Islamic and European influences. My work often combines colonial and Indian styles to create a fusion. For instance, you’ll find tables featuring Islamic or Tibetan scripts. This blend of history and creativity results in furniture that tells a story and stands out in any space.

DOES ZAYIN HOME LIVING USE IMPORTED FURNITURE?
Lata Valia: No, all our products are made in-house in India. As our honourable Prime Minister Modi advocates, “Make in India,” we follow that principle. Our clients get the look and feel of imported furniture, but at a much more reasonable price. This commitment to local craftsmanship is one of our strengths



HOW DO YOU ENSURE YOUR FURNITURE MEETS LUXURY STANDARDS?
Lata Valia: All our designs is meticulously planned, with an emphasis on using the best materials and finishes. We aim to match the quality of imported furniture while keeping our prices competitive. From headboards side tables sofas to your dining tables we ensure every piece exudes luxury.

WHAT’S YOUR MESSAGE TO CLIENTS ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY?
Lata Valia: Sustainability is crucial. We encourage clients to recycle old furniture, and we’re happy to remodel these pieces to give them a fresh look. Using sustainable materials and repurposing discarded wood helps us contribute to saving the environment. This approach aligns with modern trends while respecting traditional craftsmanship.

HOW DO YOU STAY UPDATED ON THE LATEST TRENDS?
Lata Valia: We keep a close eye on global trends through Social Media and visiting Global Events like Milan/Paris and integrate these ideas into our designs. Whether it is finishes, flooring, tiles, or paints, we aim to offer clients the latest options that combine style, functionality, and sustainability.



HOW DO YOU UNWIND AFTER A BUSY WEEK?
Lata Valia: Weekends are my time to relax. Creating art is like meditation for me; it de-stresses and brings immense joy. It’s fulfilling to produce something beautiful and meaningful while unwinding from the week’s challenges.

HOW CAN PEOPLE FIND ZAYIN HOME LIVING?
Lata Valia: Most of our clients come through word of mouth. With nearly 34 years in this field, people know us well. If you Google “Lata Walia” or “Zayin Home Living,” you’ll find us easily. We were among the first to introduce the concept of fusion furniture, blending materials like metal, wood, stone, and glass for unique results. Our legacy speaks for itself.