Suchi Reddy, the founder of Reddymade, approaches design in a way that privileges the emotional quality of human engagement with space. Guided by the mantra “form follows feeling,” she is dedicated to expanding our notions of empathy, equity, and is informed by her research at the intersection of neuroscience and the arts. This year, Suchi graces our Honorary Committee, and we took the opportunity to ask her some rapid-fire questions about Salon pieces she'd choose to design her dream home, her upcoming projects, and more.
Art + Design Favorites
What exhibitors are you excited to see at the fair?
I am excited to see Verso and the works from Black Folks in Design, particularly the works by Little Wing Lee, as well as Donzella, Maison Gerard, Ippodo Gallery, and J. Lohmann. There is always such an exciting collection of works that show breadth and refinement in the show.
What's your favorite piece of art/design in your own home or collection?
My Jasper Morrison cork lounge chair.
If you were designing your dream home, which pieces would you choose?
I would love to have the super creative chair and table combination from Erwan Boulloud with Jouffre from Galerie Negropontes, paired with some carved Etienne Moyat panels also from Galerie Negropontes. That would be a dream.
Who is your favorite artist to collect?
Mark Bradford.
What’s your go-to NYC spot for creative inspiration?
What's your favorite NYC museum?
What's your favorite NYC building?
How would you describe your own style when it comes to interior design or decorating?
I believe that form follows feeling, and I design warm and modern spaces. But mostly I am described as a "Serenist." Whatever makes a space and client feel serene is what I am called to do.
What is your most recent acquisition?
A Glenn Ligon artwork.
Lifestyle
What was your introduction to design?
My home in India, where I grew up. Designed by a Japanese-influenced architect, it shaped my being and led me to the world of design and architecture. Also my mother, who would take me to small weavers in India as a child, as she custom designed her saris!
What are the first three songs on your "get work done" playlist?
"Music for Thinking" by Brian Eno
"So Beautiful" by Robert Glasper
"Cheer Up My Brother" by HNNY
Best design book / podcast / meme / blog / article you’ve consumed recently?
The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin.
Advice
What's your advice to an entry level design collector?
Buy what moves you.
What's the best design advice you've ever received?
Sleep on it.
Plugs
What’s a recent assignment or project you’re proud of?
I just launched my first collectible furniture edition in collaboration with Ekaya Benares, a centuries-old weaving house in Benares, India at Les Ateliers Courbet. It is called 9.5 after the number of yards in a saree, and celebrates Indian textiles and craftsmanship. I designed the textiles, made by Ekaya, based on the idea of the zero, Brahmagupta's contribution to the mathematical system in 685 AD, and designed the forms as continuous curves to reference the wrapping of the saree around the body.
What upcoming project(s) are you most excited about?
We are designing a project in India that integrates commissioned artworks, design and architecture into a holistic living sculpture consisting of three buildings. A first of its kind, I am excited to see it come to life.