Inside artist Seema Kohli’s New Delhi studio

This atelier and work studio, once a 30-year old factory, is designed by Studio Sangath

15 May 2025

Artists. Creators. Design lovers. Dreamers — we look at the world differently. There’s a certain discernment in creative eyes that often goes unnoticed in passing glances. This sentiment permeates the visually stimulating interiors of Seema Kohli’s workspace and studio in New Delhi’s Okhla. Titled B-85, this is a refurbished factory-turned-atelier that Seema describes as a den with an undeniable allure. “Open on three sides, it radiates vibrant energy and was brimming with potential from the moment I laid my eyes on the space,” she states. Now fully functional, the double-storeyed studio is open to visitors by appointment.

Much like most dream projects, Seema’s visualisation of her perfect workstation transpired into reality with a clear-cut plan and by entrusting her vision with the right creative partner, Khushnu Panthaki Hoof of Studio Sangath. “I already knew I wanted Khushnu as my architect. I had seen her work on my friend’s gallery a few years ago and really liked it. I was certain Khushnu was the right choice for my studio and arranged an initial meeting,” she recalls.

Artist Seema Kohli’s iconic Gulab Ke Khet painting is available for viewing at the studio; Photography by Lokesh Dang

Present knocks on the past

Transforming a 30-year-old factory into a designer’s address called for a major structural overhaul. An unexpected personal loss that led to a hiatus initially derailed plans, but Seema believes the redirection has only re-affirmed her belief in divine timing.

A thorough assessment highlighted significant structural weaknesses that required reinforcement with metal pillars and substantial modifications to the original design. The basement area, however, remains mostly preserved, aside updated waterproofing and the addition of a fire exit.

Daylight allure

Three sides of the main work area are lined with large windows, and a curved skylight above the work table diffuses harsh sunlight, providing even illumination. The layout duly points to how a steady stream of daylight can instantly infuse charm to a space, besides eliminating any feeling of confinement.

The fusion of red and white adds character to the space; Photography by Lokesh Dang

A volley of thoughtful art inclusions lend a culture-meet-comfort vibe to the space—emblematic of the artist’s unbridled aesthetic; Photography by Lokesh Dang

“The building’s design featuring numerous light shafts, allows for abundant natural light — a hallmark of B.V. Doshi’s and Sangath’s architectural philosophy,” opines Seema, enthusing that she wanted her table to face a window framing the sky and the trees. “I had already planted roughly thirty trees outside the studio, anticipating their growth by the time the construction was completed, not realising they too would bear the brunt of construction,” she rues. But the plants survived, being hardy fruit trees like jamun, neem, guava and mango. “I planted them outside the vicinity of my studio so they would provide
shade to anyone passing by and the fruits would become a part of the studio’s
experience without intruding the interiors.”

Varying levels of personality

Each floor embodies a distinct personality, signalling curiosity to seep in. The ground floor serves as a reception area. An inviting nook exists too for gallerists and collectors to convene for shows or pre-release of exhibitions. The loading bay, accessible from the north-west, is designed with truck-level access for easy handling of large sculptures and artworks.

The first floor is where all the magic happens, suggests Seema. This level includes a library featuring a trove of books collected over generations. The metal drawers on the first floor hold all the paper works. “I also have some collections gifted to me by friends,” she concludes, conveying a sense of contentment at the way the studio took shape eventually.