About me - I’m Ayesha, a designer, DIYer, and the creative force behind Ayesha Anwar Interiors. My passion lies in curating spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also deeply rooted in the stories, cultures, and journeys that define each of us.
Ayesha Anwar Interiors was born out of my love for design, storytelling, and a desire to make meaningful, accessible design achievable for everyone. Through my eDesign services and social media, I aim to inspire and empower others to create homes that reflect their unique narratives and values.
Specializing in culturally infused designs, I work closely with clients who want their spaces to celebrate their roots, honor their eclectic experiences, and serve as a true reflection of their identity. At Ayesha Anwar Interiors, every project is an opportunity to blend history, culture, and personal style into spaces that feel authentic, intentional, and timeless.
As a first-generation Pakistani Muslim American, my identity has always been shaped by the convergence of two worlds: the rich traditions of my Pakistani roots and the dynamic, evolving culture of the United States. My parents, like many immigrants, held tightly to the customs, aesthetics, and values of their homeland. Meanwhile, my surroundings in Brooklyn exposed me to a melting pot of Western influences. This duality was not a contradiction—it was a unique harmony that deeply shaped my worldview and my creative spirit.
Even as a child, I was drawn to beauty, especially in textiles and the spaces we called home. I remember helping my father fix up and decorate our modest apartments, treating every small project as an opportunity to express creativity. Those experiences planted the seeds of my passion for design. By college, I had a little more financial freedom, and my instinctive desire to curate led me to collect items that brought beauty and meaning to the spaces around me. From trips to the Middle East and South Asia, I’d return with treasures: Islamic calligraphy, vibrant handwoven textiles, and intricately designed pottery that echoed the rich traditions of my heritage.
Naturally, as I began curating my own home, I sought to craft a space that reflected the multifaceted layers of my identity. My design aesthetic became a tapestry woven with threads of South Asian heritage, the historic charm of Brooklyn architecture, and the timeless influence of Islamic art and architecture. These elements weren’t just decorative; they were deeply personal and rooted in my lived experience. I wanted my home to tell the story of where I came from, who I am, and what I value most.
This connection to culture and ancestry runs deeper than aesthetics. It’s an emotional anchor—a sense of belonging and pride. Walking past block-printed textiles, serving chai in handcrafted mugs, or serving roti from a handwoven basket isn’t just about utility; it’s about carrying forward the traditions of generations before me. There is something profoundly grounding about surrounding yourself with objects that tell your story. For me, it’s also an act of resistance.
Living in a society where cultural erasure and appropriation are so prevalent, reclaiming and celebrating my heritage feels revolutionary. It’s a reminder that my culture is not just something to embrace—it’s something to proudly showcase.
As someone who has spent years working in social justice and health equity, I understand all too well how history has often silenced marginalized voices. In design, this translates to the theft or commercialization of traditional crafts and aesthetics, stripping them of their origins and meaning. This awareness drives my commitment to incorporating South Asian and Islamic design elements in ways that feel authentic and respectful, not just for myself but for the clients I work with. It’s a celebration of our stories, told through our own lenses.
When designing spaces—whether for myself or others—I anchor my approach in four core principles: What story do you want your space to tell? How can we integrate your culture and personal journey into the design? What feeling should the space evoke? And, finally, what function or purpose does it serve? These questions guide me in creating designs that are not only visually appealing but also deeply meaningful.
Many of the clients I work with share my South Asian or Muslim heritage, and I see it as both a privilege and a responsibility to reflect their identities in my designs. To achieve this, I make a conscious effort to source materials, décor, and furnishings from artisans and brands rooted in their culture. This approach not only enriches the designs but also supports the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. As we know, South Asian artistry and Islamic influences have left an indelible mark on global design trends, yet their origins are often overlooked. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to celebrate these art forms through our own narratives.
In a world that often demands assimilation, designing with cultural integrity is a way of reclaiming space—both literally and metaphorically. For me, it’s not just about creating beautiful rooms; it’s about honoring heritage, sparking pride, and crafting spaces that truly feel like home.
Follow my creative journey @ayeshaanwarinteriors on Instagram.
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