Calm, earthy and craft-forward, Anavila’s newly launched flagship store in Delhi’s art and design hub, Mehrauli is a manifestation of everything that the brand stands for. A checkerboard of sunlit flooring, concrete brickwork and stone archways adds an unostentatious character to the all-white retail space that reflects ample sunlight coming in from its statement windows. It is safe to say that through this store, Anavila Misra has created a quiet haven for experiential shopping, tucked away in a corner courtyard of an otherwise bustling city.
The moment one walks past the bougainvillea blooms and steps into the studio, a curation of the label’s signature linens creates an inviting ambience, seamlessly blending with the interior’s natural palette. Anavila’s core mantra – Mindful creation leads to mindful consumption – is what makes this space a discovery worth your while. The brand’s identity is further mirrored through a one-of-a-kind collection of terracotta pottery that is a result of the designer’s collaboration with master potter Bhuvnesh Kumar. It is these understated elements that add depth to this muted-tone oasis of artisanal brilliance.
Misra’s minimalistic aesthetic is deeply rooted in indigenous craftsmanship, a product of years of collaboration with craft clusters across West Bengal. Photographic installations inside the store by Pranoy Sarkar trace the founder’s milestone chapters, right from her first inspirations derived from her father’s village to Bengal where she created her first linen saree. Ever since the eponymous brand was established in 2011, the NIFT graduate founder has not only redefined how craft is perceived in the luxury landscape but also, built a network of artisans through employing women across rural areas.
Today, Anavila is a niche name in the industry with many prominent names as patrons of its creations. The label’s flagship store gives its visitors a glimpse into the designer’s world, making the shopping experience that much more memorable. In a world saturated with extravagant boutiques boasting grandiose settings, Anavila has created a sanctuary that translates the virtuosity of unadulterated artisanship.