In the world of weddings and events, design is often seen as a visual pursuit. But for Himanshu Kumawat, co-founder of Aayat The Design Studio, design goes far beyond aesthetics—it’s about how a space makes people feel. For him, a “good design” is one that creates an emotional connection while remaining deeply rooted in function and detail.
The Philosophy of Design
“At Aayat, we believe a well-designed space should evoke curiosity, pause time for a moment, and create memories that linger long after the event ends,” says Himanshu. His design philosophy is practical yet poetic—anchored in structure, storytelling, and innovation.
“I’m not just fascinated by beauty—I’m furious about innovation. A wedding set is never just a backdrop. It’s a narrative in space,” he emphasizes.
The Process: From Idea to Impact
Every design journey at Aayat begins with intent. Himanshu starts by understanding the couple or client, their story, and the essence of the venue. “We don’t begin with ‘what will look good’. We start with ‘what should this space feel like,’” he says.
From there, rough sketches evolve into detailed concepts with mood boards, feasibility studies, and structural planning. Once the vision is crystal clear, execution begins with sharp precision. Having worked hands-on in production himself, Himanshu ensures that every design is not only beautiful but also buildable.
A Defining Project
One of Himanshu’s most memorable projects was a wedding stage floating on a lake—a concept inspired by a boat. Built using organic bamboo structures, styled with real fruits and florals, and rooted in sustainable design principles, the setup was executed in just three days amidst water and nature.
“That project redefined what was possible with raw elements—and what luxury could mean in a contemporary, conscious way,” Himanshu recalls. “It wasn’t just visually stunning—it carried a soul. It taught me that great design is not about excess but about intention.”
Fueling Creativity
Himanshu’s creative fuel comes from diverse inspirations—architecture, art installations, temple carvings, and even bustling street markets. He thrives on contrasts. “A piece of tribal embroidery might inspire a luxury stage backdrop. A cityscape at night might inspire lighting layouts. I don’t limit myself to one source—I observe, adapt, and remix constantly,” he shares.
Trends That Matter
Himanshu sees weddings moving away from templates and leaning into individuality. “Right now, I’m excited about the shift towards more personal, immersive, and experiential setups,” he notes. He enjoys experimenting with layered spatial design, dramatic lighting, and texture play—combining wood, florals, acrylic, and vintage finds.
On the other hand, he feels that cookie-cutter “royal” themes and overused pastel palettes are losing freshness. “It’s time to evolve beyond predictable luxury,” he adds.
What’s Next for Aayat
Looking ahead, Himanshu envisions a future where experiential design takes center stage in Indian weddings. “It’s no longer just about décor—it’s about how spaces speak,” he explains.
Currently, Aayat is working on a large-scale cultural installation for a government project, showcasing India’s diverse regions through 3D photo booths, interactive décor, and regional craftsmanship. For Himanshu, it’s an exciting opportunity to see design being used as a medium to educate, unite, and inspire.
“At Aayat, the future is about creating spaces that don’t just look good—but feel unforgettable,” says Himanshu.
