Founder Magazine
In the scenic landscape of Kashmir, where tradition meets modernity, the inspiring story of Shakir Shera unfolds—a young entrepreneur whose vision transformed his passion for interior design into a flourishing business. At the age of 23, Shakir, hailing from a modest middle-class family, made the courageous decision to follow his dream and pursue interior design, leaving behind a promising MBA career.
Shakir’s journey to becoming an interior designer was anything but conventional. Initially enrolled in an MBA program, he followed a path that many considered the surest route to success. Yet, the corporate world did not resonate with his heart, which longed for creative expression. Driven by a desire to create meaningful, functional spaces, Shakir chose to take a bold step. Dropping out of MBA was a risk that could have derailed his future, but it was a decision he never regretted.
From a young age, Shakir was captivated by the art of interior design. He spent hours rearranging furniture, experimenting with color schemes, and envisioning how spaces could be transformed. What began as a hobby soon evolved into a calling. He realized that interior design wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about crafting environments that spoke to the soul and enhanced people’s lives.
With a clear vision, Shakir launched “Home Interior Solutions,” his first venture into the world of interior design. The early days were filled with challenges. Without significant resources or a well-established reputation, he took on small projects, from designing living rooms to bedrooms, each one serving as a stepping stone to build his portfolio. As a self-taught entrepreneur, every project was a learning experience that helped him hone his craft.
Networking proved to be instrumental in his early success. Attending industry events, building connections with other designers, and actively seeking out clients helped him spread the word about his work. His reputation quickly grew, with word-of-mouth referrals becoming the cornerstone of his marketing strategy. Satisfied clients became his strongest advocates, and their testimonials attracted new opportunities.
Shakir’s approach to interior design is holistic. He believes that design is more than just a selection of colors and furniture—it’s about understanding the lifestyle, preferences, and aspirations of the client. He integrates functionality, ergonomics, and sustainability into his designs, ensuring that each space is both beautiful and practical. His goal is not just to create visually appealing environments but to enhance the well-being of his clients, transforming their spaces into true reflections of their lives.
In today’s tech-driven world, Shakir embraces modern tools to streamline his design process and improve client communication. From virtual reality tours to online consultations, he uses technology to bring his designs to life and make the design experience more interactive.
At the heart of Shakir’s business lies a commitment to quality. He works closely with trusted suppliers and artisans, ensuring every project is executed to perfection. From material selection to installation, his meticulous attention to detail has earned him a reputation for excellence. Clients recognize this commitment to quality, which has helped Shakir build a loyal customer base.
As the business grew, Shakir felt a deep responsibility to give back to the community. He has been involved in charitable initiatives, designing spaces for underprivileged children and organizing workshops to educate others about interior design. This spirit of generosity has not only strengthened his connection to his roots but also reinforced the value of using his talents to create a positive impact.
Looking to the future, Shakir envisions Kashmir Blues (The Interior Hub) as a leader in the interior design industry. His goal is to expand the business to include commercial design and sustainable solutions, positioning his firm as a pioneer in innovative and functional design. With his unwavering passion and dedication to his craft, Shakir’s journey is far from over.
His entrepreneurial path, marked by challenges and triumphs, has taught him the importance of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As he continues to grow, Shakir remains driven by his vision of creating beautiful spaces that not only inspire but uplift. He believes that every home deserves to be a place of comfort, memories, and dreams—a space that reflects the people who inhabit it.
