People

Sonia Dutt, Chief Creative Officer of ELLE DECOR India, offers us a peek into her study

JUN 21, 2020 | By ELLE Decoration network
( L-R ) Sonia seen in her study; The space features chairs by Calligaris from Studio Creo, an Indi Store table and a basket by Muji. Her pet dog Rafa sits just outside; Often consumed is coffee from Quick Brown Fox in this mug by Miniso India

After years in the field of advertising, Sonia joined ELLE DECOR India, where she started the style section of the magazine. Over the last 19 years, she’s pursuing her passion—being a stylist at heart, she loves photography and often enjoys little makeovers around her house and workspace. Eight years ago, the tennis enthusiast pleasantly surprised everyone when she named her then-new pet dog Rafa after her favourite sportsman. 

How have you set the mood to work efficiently from home?
It wasn’t easy in the beginning because there were a lot of uncertainties. But, gradually, I’ve gotten accustomed to this new way of working. I’d rather say, to the uncertainties, while trying to understand all this negativity around and recognising it as a possible precursor to a new way of living.

Are there any hobbies that you’re indulging in while confined?
There were a lot of movies that I wanted to watch. So, I made a list and I’m ticking them off one by one.

Who is your greatest inspiration?
I am hugely inspired by the work of stylist Dietlind Wolf.

What is your most treasured possession?
My Wedgewood powder blue classics.

Your current favourite design object…
Jaime Hayon’s Plenum Furniture Collection, which works for the home as well as the office. Though not a part of his latest collection, it is cocooned style and so apt for our present times.

A book you’d happily read over and over again…
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Your all-time favourite architect…
BV Doshi—he is someone who is inspirational for thinking global despite staying in touch with his roots. I have never met anyone who has with his personality or conversation mesmerised me more.

Once the travel ban is lifted, where would you first travel to?
I will run to meet my mother and take my dog for a spa.

Scroll below to see images from her home

On the other end of the study is a bookshelf and pouffes upholstered using fabric from Seasons Furnishings, while the fabric for blinds is from Nivasa
A multipurpose holder on one of the Calligaris chairs from Studio Creo
Two of my favourite books: Home is where the heart is by Ilse Crawford, and the Art of Looking Sideways by Alan Fletcher
Knick knacks on my desk