Meet Priyal Dalvi

We were lucky to catch up with Priyal Dalvi recently and have shared our conversation below.

Priyal, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

Navigating spaces where I’m often the only one who looks like me has been a significant part of my journey as an Indian woman in the design field in the US. With five years of design experience in India, including running my own interior design startup, I came to the U.S. to complete my degree in Interior Design and explore new opportunities.
I learnt that my unique perspective was a powerful asset.

Being the only one in the room often meant I had to assert my ideas confidently. I focused on building relationships, seeking out mentors and peers who valued diversity. By sharing my experiences and insights from India, I was able to enrich discussions and offer fresh viewpoints.

My experiences taught me that success isn’t just about fitting in; it’s about standing out and making a meaningful impact.

Ultimately, my path has shown me that being the only one in the room can be my strength. By embracing my identity and perspective, I’ve been able to create a unique niche for myself in the design world, proving that diversity is essential to innovation.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My journey in interior design began with a Diploma in Interior Design and Decoration, followed by five years of hands-on experience in India. Eager to carve my own path, I launched my freelancing firm, PDDesign, where I honed my design skills and built strong client relationships.
In 2020, I took a bold step and moved to the U.S. to pursue my BFA in Interior Design at SCAD. This transition has been transformative, allowing me to merge my past experiences with new opportunities in a vibrant design landscape.

My past experiences led me to Studio G Home, where I take on the role of interior designer and contribute to a dynamic team.
A pivotal moment came when a sales representative discarded discontinued fabric samples from our design studio. Inspired, I saw potential in what others deemed waste and began gathering these materials to create unique artworks.
This venture became a powerful expression of my creativity and commitment to sustainability. Each piece I craft tells a story of rebirth, proving that discarded materials can transform into innovative art. I’m excited to show that beauty can emerge from what many overlook, making a positive impact one piece at a time.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Reflecting on my journey, three qualities stand out as impactful: adaptability, creativity, and patience.

Adaptability was essential when I moved from India to the U.S., helping me navigate new challenges and thrive in diverse environments. My advice? Embrace change and step out of your comfort zone; every challenge is an opportunity for growth.

Creativity played a vital role as well. Inspired by discarded fabric samples, I transformed waste into unique artwork, reminding me to experiment and think outside the box. Don’t hesitate to let your unique perspective shine.

Finally, patience has been crucial. The journey in design is often filled with ups and downs, and learning to navigate these moments with grace has helped me stay focused on my goals. Trust the process and give yourself the time to grow and improve.

Focusing on these qualities will help you establish a solid foundation for a fulfilling career in design.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?

Throughout my journey, my mom, my sister, my uncle and aunt, friends, and partner have all played vital roles in my growth and success.

My mom and my sister, both talented artists and entrepreneurs, have profoundly influenced my creative journey. Surrounded by their passion for Art and Business, I learned to embrace my own creativity and expression. Their techniques shaped my understanding of design, inspiring me to see beauty in everyday materials. My mom’s legacy continues to fuel my passion for art and design and my sister’s journey motivates me to become an impactful business-woman.

My aunt and uncle have been incredible pillars of support throughout my journey. They provided invaluable guidance and their belief in my potential inspired me to confront my fears and embrace challenges with an open mind. They shared their own experiences, emphasizing the importance of commitment and dedication, which pushed me to pursue my dreams to come to the US. I am deeply grateful for everything they’ve done, as their encouragement has shaped my achievements and empowered me to reach new heights.

My friends lifted my spirit almost every day. They fueled my determination as I tackled new design ventures and seized opportunities. Whenever I faced challenges, they were there to offer advice and perspective, reminding me of my journey and the importance of perseverance.

My partner has been a source of strength. He taught me the importance of patience and that nothing comes easily. His immense support grounded me, reminding me to work hard and push my boundaries. His faith in my abilities has given me the confidence to chase my dreams, even when I face self-doubt. He celebrates my achievements, big and small, as each step forward is a victory worth recognizing. Observing his own journey through ups and downs has shown me that resilience is the key.

Together, these key figures have shaped my path, equipping me with the strength and creativity to thrive in the world of design. I am deeply grateful for their influence and support throughout my journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: Portfolio: https://issuu.com/priyaldalvi/docs/interior_design_portfolio_priyaldalvi_2023_
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/priyald16?igsh=NnBpbWwxMTVzMnky
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priyal-dalvi