In April 2022, when designers Falguni and Shane Peacock unveiled their flagship store in Hyderabad—designed by Gauri Khan—it signaled her debut in the city’s interior design landscape. Now, nearly two years later, she deepens her presence through a collaboration with Sussanne Khan’s The Charcoal Project (TCP). Located on Floor 03 of TCP, on HITEC City Road, Jubilee Hills, Gauri Khan Designs (GKD) presents an exquisite collection of luxury furniture and accessories, featuring elegantly curated bedroom and living room setups adorned with custom-made screens, hand-painted wallpapers, statement mirrors, and contemporary lighting.
Sussanne and I have been close friends, united by our shared passion for design. Over the years, I noticed a gap in India’s design industry—world-class furniture and accessories were often out of reach. Our goal was to bridge that gap by offering handcrafted pieces that celebrate Indian artisanship,” says Gauri. Her interest in interior design deepened when she took on the challenge of refurbishing her iconic home, Mannat, after moving into the now-famous Mumbai landmark with her husband, superstar Shah Rukh Khan.
Sussanne founded The Charcoal Project in Mumbai in 2011. With an associate art degree in Interior Design from Brooks College, Long Beach, California, she honed her skills while working alongside her mother, renowned interior designer Zarine Khan.
As Gauri brings GKD to Hyderabad, she has carefully curated a collection of furniture, home décor, soft furnishings, art, and artifacts. “I hope people enjoy experiencing the collection as much as we enjoyed creating it,” she shares.
Gauri highlights that every piece on display, from rugs and linens to furniture, is designed and crafted in-house. While the brand occasionally sources unique elements internationally, the core materials and craftsmanship remain distinctly Indian. “I travel extensively, visit design fairs, and stay updated on global trends—whether through the works of great masters or social media. But ultimately, a designer must find their own voice. Our aesthetic is contemporary and refined, blending global influences with an understanding of what resonates with the Indian market,” she explains.
The Drama Quotient
While the display floor embraces predominantly muted tones, the drama comes alive through creative lighting. “Lighting is a powerful design element. Whether it’s a grand chandelier or an unconventional turbine pendant, statement fixtures add character and intrigue to a space,” says Gauri. She believes the right lighting can instantly transform a room, infusing it with warmth, depth, and personality.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
Beyond lighting, mirrors hold a central place in Gauri’s design philosophy. To her, they are more than just functional reflective surfaces—they are transformative elements that elevate a space. “I love using mirrors to amplify natural light, create an illusion of openness, and make a statement,” she explains.
Offering an example, she says, “A sleek white dresser with clean lines, paired with a softly-lit mirror, exudes refinement and modern elegance. Meanwhile, a sculptural mirror framed in rich golden wood with fluid, organic edges feels like a work of art, seamlessly blending luxury with nature’s beauty.”
