Meet Shreya Thakkar | Design Researcher & Strategist • Experience Designer • Futurist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shreya Thakkar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shreya, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Nestled in the heart of Vadodara, India, I was born with an insatiable desire to express my artistic side. Creating art was my escape, my haven, and my passion. As I grew older, my interest in design intensified and I pursued a degree in Interior Architecture in Gujarat. Soon after graduation, I found myself at Nikki Thomas Architects, a prestigious firm in Bangalore. My love for sustainability and human emotions quickly took root in my practice. I delved deeper into the complexities of human behavior, fascinated by their experiences and how they interacted with their surroundings.
Driven by my curiosity, I embarked on a journey with Auroville Green Practices, eager to explore the intricacies of human settlements and circular living. My thirst for knowledge led me to discover the wondrous possibilities of bamboo as a material in architecture and furniture design.

My journey in the world of design led me to the bustling city of Los Angeles, where I pursued a Master’s degree in Industrial Design and Furniture Design at the prestigious ArtCenter College of Design. The experience allowed me to view design problems from both a micro and macro perspective, providing me with a unique lens through which to approach design challenges.

In the city of angels, I found inspiration in the dynamic energy that permeated every corner of the city. The diverse communities that called the city home, I found myself constantly stimulated by the rich cultural tapestry that surrounded me.

Throughout my journey, I have come to realize that my love for art, design and my fascination with the human experience are inseparable. As I continue to create spaces that inspire and nurture the human spirit, I remain ever-curious, always seeking to uncover new insights into the human psyche, emotions, and behavior and push the boundaries of sustainable design.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey as a student of the built environment was akin to piecing together a complex puzzle. Every element, from the intricate transit systems to the essential power lines, was a crucial component in designing a city. It was a stimulating experience to navigate through a maze of sewers, greenways, and waterways, working with such multifaceted systems. As an architectural designer, I relished the challenge of bringing together these diverse pieces into a cohesive and practical whole.

During my education in industrial design, I learned to examine everything from a macro to a micro lens. However, what I found most intriguing was understanding the people who would ultimately use the product or service. I enjoyed observing them, listening to them, and even immersing myself in their lives, with all their complexities and intricacies

As a design researcher, my area of expertise lies in identifying human-centered insights and transforming them into significant opportunities for design and innovation. I take pride in my ability to address complex questions that have real-world implications.For example, I have tackled questions such as: how can we design smart cities that contribute to sustainable mobility and reduce carbon emissions in the transportation sector? How can we design mobility solutions that support the longer lifespans of aging baby boomers and promote active aging? And how can we promote circular design in the built environment by utilizing construction waste and addressing the issue of affordable housing?

Throughout my career, I have engaged in various design projects, including my dissertation entitled “Engaging in Aging,” which explored the concept of making aging a fun experience and designing mobility aids for tech-savvy seniors. I have also been involved in Petal Power Place, a revolutionary project aimed at creating decentralized renewable energy systems that are aesthetically integrated into urban environments. Additionally, this initiative involves sharing infrastructure with urban farming operations to maximize the use of existing structures. As a designer, I take pride in designing innovative and artistic sculptures that double as renewable energy sources, making them both functional and visually appealing. An example of this is the stunning flower installation that integrates solar energy and agriculture in a captivating way.

Engaging In Aging:
My own personal experiences with aging came from growing up with my grandparents in Vadodara, observing firsthand the effects of aging on one’s health and the environment around them. Watching my mother serve as their caretaker taught me the importance of compassion and empathy in the care of the elderly. Additionally, as a volunteer at senior living facilities in Los Angeles and Grand Rapids, Michigan, I was able to hear their stories and truly experience their lives, further solidifying my passion for assistive technology and the potential it has to improve the quality of life for our aging population.

My research into the future of healthcare and homes for the elderly opened my eyes to the possibilities of how our homes can act as caregivers, providers, and arbitrators. In fact, health management is projected to be one of the largest areas of growth in the home of 2040, thanks to the continued advancements in science and technology that are pushing the boundaries of life extension. By having our homes act as our own well-being guardians, we can potentially shift healthcare from simply supporting our lives to actually changing them for the better.

The aging population is a demographic on the rise, and with advancements in healthcare, people are living longer than ever before. As a result, there is an increasing need for products that cater to their unique needs and promote their wellbeing.
By designing products specifically for the elderly population, we can greatly enhance their quality of life. Aging can bring physical limitations and reduced mobility, making everyday tasks more challenging. However, by creating tailored solutions, we can help promote independence, improve accessibility, and make their lives easier.
Innovation and design that caters to the aging population is not only practical, but it is also essential for creating a more inclusive society. We must strive to break down barriers and ensure that everyone has access to the same resources and opportunities. By designing products that address the unique needs of the elderly population, we can promote social responsibility and create a world that is more diverse and integrated.

My intention was to create a mobility assistance collection that would help elderly adults actively age in place by making products more engaging and appealing. I wanted to encourage them to feel cheerful and make healthy and enjoyable life decisions. With this in mind, I developed the “Wander On” cane and walker, which was specifically designed for aging baby boomers and others who may lack the self-assurance necessary for independent mobility.
The “Wander On” was created to be a genuine “helping hand” by leading and keeping one from becoming lost, providing a sense of security, and enabling one to get aid right away if they need it, while also providing physical support. It strengthens the independence equilibrium that one always strives to preserve.
Overall, I created a product that improves the quality of life for the aging population and helps them actively age in place with dignity, independence, and grace.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love to delve into topics related to philosophy, sociology, and psychology. I find it fascinating to gain a deeper understanding of the world around us. On weekends, I often find myself browsing the shelves of my favorite local bookstore, discovering new authors and ideas. I also enjoy visiting museums to learn about history, art, and culture. And if I’m not at a bookstore or museum, you might spot me people-watching at a bustling public plaza, observing the diverse range of individuals and interactions taking place.

As an avid museum-goer in Los Angeles, I have been fortunate enough to visit some of the most captivating and awe-inspiring exhibitions the city has to offer. Among my favorites is the Jurassic Technology Museum, located in the vibrant Culver City neighborhood. This museum is a true gem, taking visitors on a journey through time to discover the fascinating world of prehistoric creatures and the technology used to study them.

Another museum that always leaves me spellbound is the Getty Villa, nestled in the breathtaking hills of Malibu. This stunning museum transports visitors back to ancient Rome and Greece with its unparalleled collection of art and artifacts. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a history buff, the Getty Villa is a must-visit destination.

But not all of my favorite experiences in Los Angeles are confined to museums. For a truly unique and entertaining outing, I highly recommend a trip to the Santa Monica Pier. This iconic attraction is a hub of activity and energy, attracting visitors from all walks of life. From street performers to food vendors to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Monica Pier is a microcosm of the vibrant and diverse city of Los Angeles.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I was born and raised in Vadodara, India, where my passion for design emerged. I pursued a degree in Interior Architecture and worked at Nikki Thomas Architects in Bangalore, where I became interested in sustainable design. Later, I joined Auroville Green Practices and discovered bamboo’s potential for architecture and furniture design. To further my knowledge, I moved to LA and earned a Master’s in Industrial and Furniture Design at ArtCenter College of Design. I found inspiration in the city’s energy and diverse communities, and I became more excited about the possibilities of design to transform the world.

I am overflowing with gratitude for the countless individuals who have supported me on my journey. From my esteemed professors in India to the brilliant minds at ArtCenter College of Design, your wisdom and guidance have been invaluable to me. To the incredible alumni community, thank you for your unwavering support and for believing in my potential. And to my cherished friends and family, your love and encouragement have kept me going through the highs and lows.

But my thanks extend beyond these familiar faces. To the kind strangers who crossed my path and placed their trust in me, I am humbled and grateful. It is through these small acts of faith and generosity that our society is built, brick by brick.

Indeed, my achievements are not solely my own. It takes a village to raise a child, and in much the same way, it takes a community to nurture and support the growth of a creative mind. To all those who have played a role in my journey, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Website: https://shreyathakkar.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shreya-thakkar-756ba6142/

Image Credits
Credit : Shreya Thakkar