By Bhagyashree & Alpesh Mahadik
Some interiors impress at first glance, only to fade from memory. Others stay with you — not because they are merely beautiful, but because they feel like they’ve always been there, as if they carry a story centuries in the making. One Step World, the Thane-based studio founded in 2021 by Bhagyashree and Alpesh Mahadik, designs the latter.
Here, luxury is not about following trends. It is about creating timeless spaces rooted in India’s rich architectural traditions, reimagined for modern living. From the sweep of a dome to the lacework of a jali, every design choice honors heritage while serving the needs of contemporary life.
An Idea with Roots
The seeds of One Step World were sown when Bhagyashree noticed something missing in the design world. “Many interiors were sleek and stylish,” she recalls, “but they lacked soul. I wanted to create spaces that felt personal, that spoke of where you come from.”
Her fascination with India’s royal architecture, combined with Alpesh’s practical design approach, became the foundation for a studio that treats interiors as more than décor — they are cultural narratives made tangible.
The Design Language
Their portfolio ranges from private residences to boutique commercial spaces and bespoke event venues. In each, traditional elements — arches, domes, carved moldings, ornate chandeliers — are adapted to work seamlessly with modern layouts, lighting, and technology.
It is a balance of grandeur and functionality. The Mahadiks believe that while beauty should inspire, a space must also serve daily life with ease.
Beyond Aesthetics: A Social Purpose
One Step World’s philosophy extends beyond design to preservation. They work closely with local artisans, commissioning handcrafted elements that sustain traditional skills and provide livelihoods. For clients, this means their spaces feature pieces made with human hands, each carrying its own history.
“It’s not just about filling a room,” says Bhagyashree. “It’s about keeping our culture alive — one carved panel, one hand-painted wall at a time.”
What Sets Them Apart
The studio’s USP is personalization. Every project starts with understanding the client’s heritage, lifestyle, and aspirations. These conversations shape everything — from the motifs etched into a window frame to the palette of fabrics used in a living room.
The result is a space that feels deeply individual, impossible to replicate, and anchored in authenticity.
The Early Challenges
Like many young businesses, One Step World began with tight resources and a need to build credibility from scratch. Convincing clients to invest in heritage-inspired design required patience and education.
“Some thought heritage meant outdated,” Bhagyashree admits. “We had to show them it can be timeless, relevant, and incredibly luxurious.”
Her decision to step into entrepreneurship was as much a personal leap as a professional one. Coming from a background that valued stability over creative risk, she learned resilience early.
Spotting the Opportunity
The Mahadiks saw a clear gap in the market. While India’s design scene was flourishing, it leaned heavily toward Western minimalism. Very few firms offered culturally rich spaces that still embraced modern comfort. One Step World stepped in to fill that space.
A Palace for Today
One of their most treasured projects was a residence transformed into a modern-day palace. Every element was custom-made — from hand-carved jharokhas to gold-leaf detailing — each telling a piece of the family’s story. “It wasn’t just a home,” says Bhagyashree. “It was a legacy brought to life.”
Sustainability as Inheritance
The studio also proves that heritage and sustainability are natural partners. Traditional Indian architecture was inherently eco-conscious, using local materials and climate-responsive design. By continuing these practices — sourcing handmade pieces, choosing long-lasting finishes — the Mahadiks create spaces that are both environmentally responsible and culturally resonant.
The Human Element in Design
For Bhagyashree, the success of a project hinges on understanding the people who will live or work there. “A good design solves functional needs,” she says. “A great design understands emotional needs too.”
Listening deeply to clients allows the team to translate memories, values, and aspirations into physical form.
Lessons Learned
Running One Step World has been an education in patience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. The Mahadiks have learned that while creativity draws people in, consistency and authenticity keep them.
“Trends come and go,” Bhagyashree reflects. “But a space that tells a story will never be outdated.”
Advice to Aspiring Designers
Her message to the next generation is clear: “Your roots are your greatest strength. Learn the craft, then add your voice to it. Don’t design just for the eyes — design for the heart.”
With each project, One Step World reinforces its belief that luxury is most powerful when it honors where we’ve come from, while embracing where we’re going. In their hands, every room becomes more than a space — it becomes a legacy.
