In the competitive world of furniture design, Archana Menon is a name that stands out. A Mumbai-born, New York-based designer, Menon is redefining how furniture can evoke stories, honor cultural memory, and inspire connection. Her work is a thoughtful exploration of design’s potential to be both functional and deeply expressive.
“Growing up in Mumbai, I was surrounded by objects that seemed to hold quiet stories—an ancestral chair, the intricate carvings on wood,” Menon shares. “These weren’t just objects; they were pieces of a larger narrative, tied to memory and connection. That’s the kind of depth I strive to bring to furniture design.”
Menon’s approach prioritizes cultural resonance, intuitive engagement, and material integrity. Her designs challenge conventional ideas of form and function. For instance, Seating I invites users to engage with furniture in fluid, exploratory ways, moving beyond rigid notions of ergonomics. “Furniture should feel natural and instinctive—it’s not just about how it looks but how it interacts with the body,” she explains.
Cultural heritage also plays a central role in her work. Pieces like Lighting I and Lighting II from her primal-forms collection draw inspiration from ancient Indian architectural forms, reimagining them as minimalist illuminated sculptures. By distilling these traditional motifs into essential geometries, Menon bridges the past and present, crafting furniture that is both modern and deeply rooted in history.
Since debuting her collection primal-forms at ICFF 2021, Menon’s designs have earned international acclaim. She has exhibited at Design Miami/ and collaborated with brands like West Elm. “For me, furniture isn’t just about utility—it’s a way to tell stories and create spaces that resonate with people,” she concludes. With her innovative approach, Archana Menon is reshaping the future of furniture design and is undoubtedly a talent to watch.
