In a world where creative spaces shape the way we live, work, and feel, there are designers who don’t just follow trends—they create them. Payal Kapoor, Founder of Visions, is one such extraordinary figure. With over three decades of experience, she has turned empty spaces into experiences, design briefs into brilliance, and challenges into stepping stones. Her journey from a young design student in Delhi to one of India’s most respected interior designers is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and purpose.
A Passion Discovered Early
Payal’s story begins in New Delhi, where she studied at Carmel Convent School before moving briefly to Mumbai, following her father’s naval transfer. After completing her schooling, her innate passion for aesthetics led her to pursue Interior Design at Polytechnic College for Women, where she spent three years honing the foundational skills of her craft. Her academic background expanded beyond interiors to include hospitality and commercial design—giving her a robust understanding of spatial storytelling.
Graduating in 1987, Payal worked with two prominent design firms. It was here she learned the intricacies of site execution, civil interiors, and furniture making. But soon, she was ready to take a leap of faith. With no business background, no powerful network, but a burning desire to create her own legacy—Payal launched Visions in 1990.
“I admit, it was hard-hitting in the beginning because I did not have connections or ideas on how to acquire projects. But I gave 100% to every small assignment I got.”
Building a Brand: The VISIONS Story
From its earliest days, Visions was driven by purpose and precision. Payal’s approach was rooted in attention to detail and the belief that interior design should never be typecast. She refused to limit herself to any one genre of design, working across schools, residences, hotels, palaces, and even trains.
The turning point came in 1991 when Payal bagged her first independent hotel consultancy project—a landmark moment that proved her capabilities as a solo designer. What followed was an enviable portfolio of high-profile assignments, including The GD Goenka School in Vasant Kunj, The USI building for the President of India, and the majestic Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, where she worked closely with the Royal Family over nearly a decade.
But her most defining accomplishment remains the Palace on Wheels—a luxury train she redesigned from meter gauge to broad gauge. The project elevated the train’s ranking from #10 to #1 globally, putting Indian design firmly on the map alongside international standards.
“The Palace on Wheels was a turning point—it gave me recognition and a high I’ll never forget.”
Inspirations & Influences
Throughout her journey, Payal has drawn inspiration not just from design, but from people of character. She credits the Royal Family of Jodhpur—especially Maharaja Gaj Singhji, Maharani Sahiba, and the late Thakur Raju Singhji—as powerful influences who taught her grace, humility, and legacy.
She also deeply admires Ratan Tata, whose values and leadership style serve as a north star for professionals across industries.
Inside VISIONS: Designing with Meaning
Today, Visions is regarded as one of the leading interior design firms in Delhi NCR. The company is known for its client-centric philosophy, careful space planning, and the ability to merge modern trends with timeless traditions. Payal and her team are intentional with every design—whether residential or commercial—and bring transparency, innovation, and a deep understanding of user experience into every project.
“Our focus is always on listening—because every space must reflect the soul of the people who use it.”
Payal’s team has mastered the art of color psychology, space utility, and creative collaboration. Their work is a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality, ensuring every client sees their own vision come to life.
Women, Challenges & Leadership
Being a woman entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry wasn’t easy. From dealing with unprofessional clients and late payments to managing all-male site teams and traveling alone for work—Payal faced it all.
“Sometimes clients didn’t pay despite contracts. I was in my twenties, and it was disheartening. But each experience made me stronger.”
Instead of retreating, she learned. She developed a sharp sense of reading people, honed her interpersonal skills, and grew confident in managing both creative and business aspects of her work. These lessons would later become her strongest assets as a business leader.
“I never had a godfather or a godmother in this field. But I kept my head high and focused on the work.”
Creative Energy, Always On
What sets Payal apart is her refusal to stay comfortable. She thrives on complex, high-pressure, turnkey projects—whether it’s a hotel, ship, school, or even aircraft simulators. She has worked across the US and Europe, constantly evolving and learning.
“I need excitement and challenges to stay motivated. That’s when I do my best work.”
Even when she feels disconnected from a project, she finds small creative sparks to re-ignite her passion. That dedication is what continues to fuel her 30+ year journey in design.
Redefining Success
For Payal, success is not just about wealth—it’s about recognition, evolution, and staying true to one’s values. Despite the highs and lows, she has built a name that stands tall without endorsements.
“To grow, adapt, and evolve—and stay afloat even through the hardest times—is my definition of success.”
She emphasizes honesty, hard work, and constantly staying relevant in an industry that keeps changing.
Self-Care & Balance
When she’s not designing remarkable spaces, Payal finds peace in solitude, nature, and silence. Her favorite moments are those spent gazing at the hills with a warm cup of tea, or simply listening to music at home in Delhi.
“Give me fresh flowers, a good view, and quiet—that’s my perfect ‘me-time’.”
Words to Women in Design
To young women entering design and business, Payal offers heartfelt wisdom:
“Respect yourself. You are worth more than you think. Don’t compromise your dignity. Learn to laugh and let go.”
She urges women to embrace time management, delegate where needed, and never forget to take care of themselves. According to her, balance, self-belief, and perseverance are the real tools of success.
