We like to explore things say Laila and Farhan Furniturewalla

Their first wedding anniversary is coming up and artist Laila Furniturewalla knows hubby Farhan may have plans in store as she loves surprises. But though travel — being a common love — may happen as part of it, they have already been there done that, having spent a large part of last year, visiting art and interior shows and galleries abroad as part of their work.

“We’ve been mostly to the Far East and Europe — sourcing furniture and going to home stores. We (Farhan and she) share a passion for art and interiors. Farhan has been involved with his furniture line for long now and it has been his dream to re-invent the brand, so we both painstakingly chose things. What we have now is more of an aspirational store, but luxury that’s within reach,” she says.

Adds Farhan, “In India, most furniture is ridiculously priced. Our idea is to present a basic line with opulent accessories, quite arty in a sense.” 

What made their task interesting is putting thoughts together. “Laila’s been instrumental in encouraging me through this. It’s fun when your partner is interested in what you are. A kind of secure feeling to have someone who shares a passion with you. Our relationship has happened at an age when we both know what we want, so it’s a mature relationship. We both like to explore things and we make sure we give each other enough space,” he informs.

He also appreciates her being an artist and Farhan’s store will have a wall with Laila’s art works. “I’ve chosen to showcase my new series in gold leaf and acrylic as well as portraits. I want to show that I celebrate life so there’s a certain joie de vivre on the canvas. Farhan’s my critic. He’s adorable; a very open person and he’s honest with me about my work — I like that. He’s also a very
involving husband,” she adds.

When work doesn’t take up time, they follow their other penchant — being foodies. “I’m no great cook, but I can follow a cookbook,” she laughs. And any motto that they follow? “Just have fun everyday of your life — with whatever you do,” they say.

Come summer, the couple is off to some more furniture fairs. “It’s a work and play thing...hectic of course, but nice,” ends Laila.