(“Text as submitted by architect”)
Ritika Rakhiani
Founded in 2018 in New Delhi, Urban Mistrii is a leading multidisciplinary design studio led by Architect Ritika Rakhiani. What began as a spontaneous decision during the early days of freelancing has grown into a practice that thrives on authenticity, versatility, and a deep respect for contextual design.
The inception of Urban Mistrii was less about grand plans and more about seizing opportunities. While freelancing, Ritika was commissioned to handle three projects simultaneously, one of which was a residence in the mountains. To formalize her practice and meet client requirements, she registered her firm within a matter of days. It was a start driven not by rigid vision statements but by the spirit of “going with the flow,” a mindset that has since evolved into a conscious pursuit of meaningful, impactful design.
The name Urban Mistrii carries its own story. During site visits in her early years, Ritika’s sartorial choices of smart shirts and polished shoes stood out in stark contrast to the rugged work environment. A client-turned-friend humorously remarked, “You’re too stylish for a site full of mistris! You’re like a modern-day mistri, an Urban Mistrii.” What began as a joke became an identity, symbolizing a balance between tradition and modernity, hands-on pragmatism and contemporary refinement.
Practice Ideology
At the heart of Urban Mistrii lies a simple yet profound philosophy: be true to yourself and to the brief. Each design decision is guided by the principle that if Ritika wouldn’t implement it in her own home or project, she wouldn’t recommend it to a client. This personal lens ensures integrity, empathy, and a strong connection to the lived experience of spaces.
Every project is approached with the belief that good design is context-sensitive and brief-driven. Materials are locally sourced wherever possible, not only to remain environmentally responsible but also to engage artisans who bring generations of expertise. This blend of authenticity and experimentation ensures that no two Urban Mistrii projects look alike; they reflect their site, climate, and cultural milieu.
