In the heart of Dubai’s ever-evolving architectural and design ecosystem, one visionary founder is reshaping the landscape – both literally and figuratively. Vandana Gupta, an experienced architect and entrepreneur, is the powerhouse behind V Design Studio, a multidisciplinary boutique firm known for its placemaking sensibilities, sustainable ethos and immersive biophilic designs. Originally launched in 2020 as PJL and Partners, Vandana rebranded the studio in 2022 to reflect a more focused and contextually driven design narrative. Today, V Design Studio stands as a leader in merging landscape and interior architecture through cohesive, experience-centric environments that speak to both functionality and emotion.

We sat down with Vandana Gupta, the founder and creative head of V Design Studio, to explore her entrepreneurial journey, her global experiences and her vision for the future of sustainable design in the Middle East and beyond.

TFS: Hi Vandana! It’s an absolute pleasure having you here today. To begin with, congratulations on building such a unique design practice with V Design Studio. Could you walk us through the story of your transformation from PJL and Partners to what we now know as V Design Studio?

Vandana Gupta: Thank you! It’s wonderful to be here. The transformation from PJL and Partners to V Design Studio in 2022 was both strategic and deeply personal. When I launched PJL, it was a partnership that served as a springboard for us to test the waters and identify our niche in the UAE market. Those initial years were invaluable for learning and growth.

However, I reached a point where I felt the need for a more distinct identity that aligned with my own design philosophy. That’s when V Design Studio was born – named not just after my initial, but also as a symbol of vision, versatility and value in design. This rebranding allowed us to refine our focus around contextual, emotionally resonant and biophilic design narratives. It helped us reposition ourselves not just as service providers but as creative collaborators crafting meaningful spaces. Since then, we’ve grown into a multidisciplinary team delivering holistic design solutions that celebrate both built form and nature.

TFS: Your career spans from Hong Kong to Dubai, including work with icons like Disney and Cirque Du Soleil. How did those global experiences shape your design lens at V Design Studio?

Vandana Gupta: Working with global giants such as Disney and Cirque Du Soleil was incredibly transformative. Those projects were about more than just aesthetics – they were about experience, storytelling and emotion. Every space needed to evoke a narrative, transport the user and leave a lasting impression. That philosophy really stuck with me.

At V Design Studio, we draw upon those foundational lessons in every project we undertake. Whether it’s a visitor centre or a luxury residential development, we start by asking: what story are we telling? How does the user feel in this space? These global experiences taught me that great design transcends borders, it’s about creating universally human experiences that are emotionally immersive, culturally grounded and visually engaging.

TFS: Rebranding often requires both cultural and strategic realignment. How did you guide your team through the shift into the V Design Studio vision?

Vandana Gupta: That’s a great question. Rebranding isn’t just about a new logo or website, it’s about redefining who you are as a company. When we transitioned to V Design Studio, I knew the shift had to come from within. I didn’t want it to be a top-down directive. Instead, I invited the entire team to participate in crafting our new narrative.

We conducted a series of internal design charettes, workshops and open dialogues to align on values like innovation, integrity and openness. I encouraged team members to take creative ownership and speak up – whether it was about workflow, project approach or studio culture. This participative approach created a sense of shared purpose. Today, every team member feels personally invested in our brand story and that has built a truly collaborative and creative culture.

TFS: You often speak about the “art of placemaking” and the ‘Outside-In’ approach. Can you share a specific project where this really came to life?

Vandana Gupta: Absolutely! A perfect example is the Visitor Centre interiors at the Al Maha Reserve, part of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. This project was close to my heart because it embodied our ‘Outside-In’ philosophy in its truest form.

We wanted visitors to feel as if the natural desert ecosystem was flowing seamlessly into the interiors. From the use of earthy textures and native-inspired colour palettes to the spatial planning that mirrors desert dunes, every design element was carefully curated to blur the lines between inside and outside. The exhibits weren’t just functional, they told a story of conservation, ecology and immersive learning. This project proved that design can be both informative and emotional, all while honouring the surrounding environment.

TFS: Designing for the Middle East means embracing environmental constraints. How do you approach sustainability without sacrificing aesthetics?

Vandana Gupta: Sustainability isn’t a checkbox for us – it’s a mindset that drives every design decision. We integrate eco-conscious strategies right from the conceptual stage. This includes passive cooling techniques, shading systems and the use of ESTIDAMA and Al Safat-compliant materials and design methods.

What makes it exciting is that these constraints actually fuel creativity. For instance, we often work with native plant species and adaptive landscape systems that require minimal water and maintenance. We also experiment with recycled and local materials, reducing our carbon footprint while enhancing the cultural authenticity of the space. This balance of form and function results in designs that are not only sustainable but also aesthetically engaging and deeply contextual.

TFS: Biophilic design is a cornerstone of your work. How do you apply this principle in commercial spaces that prioritize efficiency?

Vandana Gupta: Biophilic design doesn’t have to be overt or ornamental. In fact, subtle integration often has the most impact, especially in commercial settings. We achieve this through elements like natural light organic textures, indoor planting and spatial fluidity that reflect the rhythm of nature.

In offices or retail spaces, where functionality is crucial, we use green walls, skylights or nature-inspired materials to improve not just visual appeal but also emotional well-being. Research shows that such environments enhance productivity, reduce stress and create a positive brand image. For us, the goal is always to create spaces that nurture people, not just accommodate them.

TFS: You describe your studio as the cultural heart of your business. What does a typical day look like inside V Design Studio?

Vandana Gupta: Our studio is a dynamic, buzzing space full of energy and ideas. Mornings usually begin with coffee and sketching sessions. Then we transition into design development, 3D modelling and cross-functional meetings.

We maintain an open-desk culture that promotes easy exchange of ideas. Our environment is non-hierarchical, everyone is encouraged to contribute, challenge and collaborate. We also make it a point to celebrate birthdays, project milestones and cultural events. These informal moments are key to nurturing a positive, emotionally intelligent workplace where creativity flows naturally.

TFS: You strongly believe in mentoring the next generation of designers. How do you foster both creative and professional growth within your team?

Vandana Gupta: Mentorship is a core responsibility for me as both an entrepreneur and creative head. Young designers at V Design Studio are exposed to real projects from the get-go. We encourage them to participate in everything, from brainstorming to site coordination.

I also facilitate learning through critical feedback, case studies and exposure to international design references. More importantly, I emphasize client interaction, cross-disciplinary thinking and soft skills like communication and leadership. We want our young team members to evolve not just as great designers, but also as thoughtful, culturally aware professionals.