Beyond Mass Production: Sumessh Menon Explores the World of Bespoke Opulence

In an era dominated by mass-produced offerings, bespoke luxury emerges as a resplendent embodiment of individuality, providing discerning connoisseurs a realm of unparalleled opulence and exclusivity. Sumessh Menon brings a refined perspective to bespoke luxury, likening it to the smooth, matured notes of a single malt whiskey. He advocates for a toned-down approach to opulence, where monochrome elegance takes center stage. Collaboration emerges as a key tenet of Sumessh’s design philosophy, where the synergy of diverse talents culminates in extraordinary creations. By prioritising bespoke craftsmanship and customisation, Sumessh ensures that each design exudes exclusivity and refinement.

Subtle Sophistication
“Luxury is toned down; opulence is out of the window. For me, monochrome or monolithic as a taste bud really works, like a smooth, matured single malt.

Collaborative Triumphs
“The way forward is collaboration and collaboration only. I firmly believe in that. It’s about bringing the best minds together for one project. Any successful project owes its success to collaboration, given due credit.”
“For instance, in a lighting project, we collaborated with Rhea Mehta. We provided her with a mood board, brainstormed ideas, and then gave her free rein. It’s important not to step into the shoes of the collaborators; the result is always better when egos are set aside, focusing solely on the project’s outcome.”

India’s Unique Flair
“Interestingly, even in Milan, renowned brands like Cavalli or Armani primarily offer catalogue designs rather than bespoke options. It’s in India, with Indian designers, that bespoke and customisation thrive as our unique selling proposition. From furniture to carpets to lighting, everything is tailored to individual preferences.”

Creative Freedom
“Innovation is our focus; repetition is to be avoided at all costs. When collaborating with artists known for their specific style, I give them creative freedom. For example, when working with Orvi, the marble specialist, I trust them implicitly to produce the best inserts. By granting them autonomy, they ensure each piece is one-of-a-kind, blending marble and metal inserts seamlessly.”

Artistry in Upcycling
“At Kingfisher Tower, in the foyer, we repurposed basic waste materials from the living room and foyer. Sent to Orvi’s factory in Kishangarh, they transformed it into a stunning floral carpet using malachite, lapis and mother of pearl. The intricate design appears as though painstakingly crafted over months, a testament to the beauty of upcycling.”

Craftsmanship Caution
“It’s crucial to engage reputable craftsmen and individuals from within the same industry. Experimenting with newcomers can lead to undesirable outcomes and compromises the quality expected in bespoke craftsmanship.”

Pride in Uniqueness
“Bespoke designs are a signature of pride for clients. Each piece is unique, reflecting their individuality and taste, eliciting a sense of ownership and satisfaction.”