For The Host Part

Author:Abigail Stone

Thanks to Rati Mishra of Dekorati, this San Jose loft is now a lively hub for entertaining

While an interior designer brings their knowledge of architecture and furniture placement, color and pattern, products and space planning to the creation of a home, it’s the client that brings it to life. “My design philosophy is to listen to the client’s vision of their home and understand the architectural elements of the space and their lifestyle and present them with a design solution that is practical, timeless, livable and sophisticated at the same time,” says interior designer Rati Mishra, “I want them to create memories in the beautifully crafted spaces for years to come.”

For the owner of this loft in the heart of San Jose’s downtown, carved out of a former cannery, the kitchen was important. “Hosting friends and family was a key theme in this remodel,” says Mishra. 

In the kitchen that meant appliances in a bright, lively cobalt blue; sourced from Bertazzoni, they also channeled the treasured memories of culinary classes in Italy. A bar area, tucked into a small alcove near the entry, greets guests with a drink. In the living room, a fireplace was essential.

“Because of the HOA policy, we couldn’t make any cuts in the wall so we decided to create one!” A faux wall structure, extended to the ceiling and covered in metal-clad wall system panels from Stoli industries framed an electric version. Wooden beams inset with recessed lights and a chandelier from Troy Lighting, wash the space with a rustic, welcoming warmth. 

It’s also a great space for the busy software executive to unwind. “He also enjoys sitting next to the fireplace and reading his books,” says Mishra. Floating vanities in a warm wood finish and hexagon tiles that resemble wood in the master bath offer another retreat from from the chaos of daily life.

“He travels a lot for work,” says Mishra of the client’s hectic schedule which has him managing a global team that takes him to India, Europe as well as around the country. “It’s allowed him to collect some beautiful artwork,” says Mishra of the pieces, which she incorporated into the bedroom.

“He was just blown away with the whole space came together,” says Mishra, “In fact, he was so excited that he threw a ‘Meet the Designer” wine and cheese event on the evening of the photoshoot. It was a big hit! There was a turnout of over three dozen people and it was wonderful to see their reactions.”