Why Design IRL doesn't publish top 10 lists

A practice known for courtyard houses in brick may be wrong for a corporate office. A firm that does quiet, minimal work won't suit someone who wants something eclectic. Neither is better. They do different things.

Review scores don't settle it either. They can tell you how a client felt about the process, but not whether a building is any good.

Need and budget decide more than reputation does. For someone earning ₹40,000 a month, the best lamp is one that fits their budget and lights their room. A ₹2 lakh pendant isn't better for them, however good it is.

Our guides to architects and interior designers are local, because that's how those services work. We sort firms by project type, by design style and by how they work, and we point to specific projects you can look up.

Our guides to products and materials cover all of India, because most brands sell across the country. We sort them by the space they're for and by price, as listed on the brand's own site.

We don't number entries, and no firm or brand has paid to appear in a guide.