Bhumika Chauhan
By Bhagyashree & Alpesh Mahadik
Step into a One Step World interior, and you’ll instantly sense it — the quiet grandeur, the weight of heritage, the way each detail feels intentional. Founded in 2021 by Bhagyashree and Alpesh Mahadik, this Thane-based design studio isn’t just in the business of decorating rooms. They create environments that are equal parts luxury, tradition, and deeply personal storytelling.
In a landscape where interiors often follow fleeting trends, One Step World has carved a niche for itself by marrying the opulence of royal Indian design with the practical demands of contemporary living. Their work captures the spirit of palatial architecture — arches, domes, jali patterns, intricate moldings — yet never feels frozen in time. Instead, each space is alive, relevant, and tailored to its inhabitants.
From Vision to Reality
For Bhagyashree, the studio began as a deeply personal mission. “I wanted to bring back the soul in interiors,” she recalls. “To make spaces that don’t just look beautiful but carry a sense of identity and memory.” Observing the rise of sleek, globalized design, she felt there was room — and need — for something richer, something rooted. That instinct became One Step World.
Together with Alpesh, she shaped the studio’s philosophy: every design should be a reflection of its owner’s story, infused with the elegance of heritage and the comfort of modernity.
The Language of Heritage
Their projects range from luxury residences to boutique commercial spaces and event venues. In each, traditional craftsmanship plays a starring role. Domes soar overhead, carved panels catch the light, chandeliers glow softly against gold-leaf detailing. Yet, these historical references are adapted with a contemporary touch — layouts remain functional, lighting is modern, and amenities match today’s lifestyles.
This blend, Bhagyashree says, solves a very modern problem: “Many spaces today are aesthetically pleasing but emotionally hollow. We create designs that resonate with pride, belonging, and cultural connection.”
Design with a Deeper Purpose
Beyond visual impact, One Step World’s work sustains craft traditions that risk fading away. By collaborating with local artisans, they keep endangered skills alive while ensuring clients own something truly unique. “It’s about more than sourcing decor — it’s about preserving culture,” Bhagyashree explains.
For clients, this approach transforms a design project into a personal legacy, turning a home or space into a vessel for history and meaning.
The One Step World Signature
The studio’s USP is its balance of grandeur and livability. Each project is bespoke — designed from the ground up to capture the client’s narrative. No two projects are alike because no two stories are alike. Attention to detail is non-negotiable, whether it’s the precision of a hand-carved jharokha or the finish on a custom brass handle.
Overcoming the Early Hurdles
Establishing this unique voice wasn’t without challenges. Early on, resources were limited and the concept of culturally rooted luxury was unfamiliar to many clients. Bhagyashree found herself educating people about the lasting value of heritage-based design.
Her own journey into entrepreneurship was a leap of faith — one that defied the more secure path her background encouraged. “It wasn’t easy,” she admits. “But staying true to my vision and delivering on promises helped us earn trust.”
Spotting an Untapped Market
The turning point came from recognizing a clear gap in the market. The Indian design industry was thriving but leaned heavily towards minimal, Westernized aesthetics. The Mahadiks offered something different — interiors that embraced Indian identity without compromising modern comfort.
A Project to Remember
One residence remains close to Bhagyashree’s heart — a home reimagined as a modern-day palace. Every element was custom-made: hand-carved moldings, traditional jharokhas, ornate chandeliers. “It was more than just a home makeover,” she says. “It was breathing life into a family’s heritage.”
Sustainability in Tradition
For One Step World, heritage and sustainability are natural partners. Traditional Indian architecture was inherently eco-conscious — using local materials, natural ventilation, and climate-aware design. Today, the studio builds on that wisdom, integrating long-lasting finishes, handmade décor, and artisan-crafted elements that respect both the planet and tradition.
The Human Connection
While design skills are vital, Bhagyashree believes true success comes from understanding clients on a personal level. “Every project starts with listening,” she says. “People share dreams, memories, even unspoken desires — it’s our job to translate that into a space they can live in and love.”
Lessons from the Journey
Entrepreneurship has taught them the importance of patience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. Trends may change, but authenticity endures. “Our goal isn’t just to create beautiful spaces,” Bhagyashree reflects. “It’s to create environments that leave a lasting emotional imprint.”
Advice for the Next Wave of Designers
Her message is direct: “Your roots are your biggest advantage. Learn the rules, but don’t be afraid to rewrite them when your story demands it. Great design is not just about aesthetics — it’s about emotion, function, and integrity.”
From their Thane studio to projects across India, Bhagyashree and Alpesh Mahadik continue to prove that luxury and legacy can coexist — and that the most beautiful spaces are those that tell a story worth remembering.
