In conversation with Ranjit Prasad, Founder & Principal Architect of RAW Interior Design, on how authenticity, storytelling, and purpose-driven design shape spaces that balance calmness, luxury, and innovation across diverse sectors
Jeeva Restaurant — luxurious dining with grand elegance. A space where every meal feels extraordinary
Jeeva Restaurant — luxurious dining with grand elegance. A space where every meal feels extraordinary

RAW has evolved significantly since its founding. Can you tell us about the rebranding process and what the new identity reflects about the studio today?

RAW originally started under a different name — Splyce, reflecting the idea of “splicing” strategy, storytelling, and design into a unified offering.

As our services grew, we naturally gravitated towards a design-first approach. RAW initially represented our design services, but the name came to embody pure, unfiltered design and the values we hold dear: authenticity, originality, and honesty.

Making RAW the parent brand was a natural evolution — bold, memorable, and true to our ethos.

Minimalism is key to RAW — how do you make it feel impactful and luxurious?

Minimalism at RAW isn’t about taking things away; it’s about giving every element meaning. Precision in proportion, scale, and balance creates impact, while materials, lighting, and detailing elevate the space into something luxurious.

Luxury comes from authenticity, not excess. A single bold gesture, warm wood, or subtle texture can transform a minimalist environment into something memorable. Minimalism feels impactful when intentional, and luxurious when effortless.

How do you maintain RAW’s signature identity across healthcare, hospitality, and workplaces?

RAW’s signature is a mindset, not a single aesthetic. Whether designing a restaurant, hospital, or workplace, we focus on clarity, purpose, and human connection.

We ask: How should this space make someone feel? Calm in healthcare, immersive in hospitality, energising in workplaces. Minimalism and attention to detail tie it all together, ensuring our identity is unmistakable across sectors.

How does storytelling influence your design process? Any standout examples?

Storytelling is the backbone of RAW. Every project begins with a narrative — of the brand, the users, and the intended experience. Design brings that story to life.

Lane 88 is more than a recreational centre; it immerses visitors in a journey of fun and relaxation. Kraken, inspired by a mythical sea creature, uses bold, dramatic design to create a multi-sensory experience. Both projects earned awards for their narrative-driven design.

Ranjit Prasad, Founder & Principal Architect of RAW Interior Design
Ranjit Prasad, Founder & Principal Architect of RAW Interior Design

Storytelling transforms spaces from functional to award-winning, connecting every detail to the overall experience.

How has technology changed the way clients experience your designs?

Technology has redefined client engagement. Tools such as 3D visualisation and virtual walkthroughs let clients experience scale, mood, and flow before construction begins.

It acts as a creative enabler, allowing us to refine concepts dynamically and translate ideas into spaces that connect vividly with people — virtually and physically.

How do you integrate sustainability without compromising aesthetics?

Sustainability at RAW doesn’t mean “basic”. Every material, finish, and system is chosen to be environmentally conscious while enhancing design.

We treat it as a creative opportunity. Natural materials, energy-efficient systems, and thoughtful detailing become signature design elements, proving that conscious choices can be luxurious, intentional, and fully integrated.

What’s RAW’s approach to ensuring flawless execution from concept to completion?

Flawless design is about translating client vision into reality — and exceeding it. We start with discovery sessions to understand aspirations and unspoken ideas.

The process is broken into intentional stages, with regular reviews to ensure alignment. Through meticulous planning and detailed visual representation, we refine every element before it reaches the site. Flawless means leaving clients awestruck, seeing what was in their mind realised in space.

How do you design spaces that balance calmness and functionality, like clinics or spas?

Calmness and functionality are complementary. Across the UAE and US, we focus on how people move, feel, and interact. Through zoning, circulation, lighting, and material choices, we create environments that are practical yet serene. This approach has resulted in award-winning dental clinics and spas, balancing efficiency with restorative experiences.

How do you foster collaboration between your team, clients, and contractors?

Collaboration is central to RAW. We begin with discovery sessions, listening to client goals and expectations. Detailed design documentation provides a common language for all stakeholders.
Regular reviews, milestone check-ins, and site walkthroughs ensure alignment. By fostering transparency and shared accountability, every idea is considered, and every detail thoughtfully realised.

What future design directions will RAW explore to stay award-winning and innovative?

Innovation is embedded in RAW’s DNA. We are exploring experiential design, sustainability at scale, and emerging technologies to create cutting-edge, timeless spaces.

We focus on design that engages all senses, using light, sound, texture, and storytelling to strengthen connections between people and space. Sustainability drives creativity, showing that responsible choices can be bold, luxurious, and transformative. Our goal is to push boundaries while staying true to RAW’s essence, delivering spaces that inspire, surprise, and achieve global recognition.