Studio
“We take a wholistic approach to our design projects, integrating architecture and interiors to create thoughtfully conceived, carefully crafted spaces, luxurious, but never conventionally opulent.”
Founder and Principal
Shamir Shah
Born in Nairobi, Kenya to a family of East Indian origin, Shamir Shah studied architecture at Yale before moving to New York, where he spent 12 years with a large Architecture studio before starting his own practice. In 1999, he founded Shamir Shah Design, an Architectural and Interior Design studio based in New York City's Flatiron District.
The firm's work is informed by more than two decades of experience in private, high-end residential and large-scale, multifamily development projects, combining a deep understanding of finely crafted interiors with careful attention to each client's unique goals and rigorous requirements.
Widely published, the studio is inspired by the craft of construction, innovation in design, and a collaborative process that places clients at the center of every project. Having completed residences and development projects throughout the United States and abroad, the firm's work is distinguished by thoughtful planning, meticulous attention to detail, a restrained yet elegant aesthetic, and the artful layering of natural materials. Influenced in part by Shah's upbringing in Kenya, the studio's interiors are known for their warmth, quiet sophistication, and strong connection to materiality.
Rooted in the traditions of functional modernism, the firm's work reflects the culture and character of its setting without resorting to parody or pastiche, resulting in thoughtfully conceived, carefully crafted spaces that provide a sense of calm and refuge while celebrating the individual lives they are designed to enrich and support.
The firm has won numerous design awards over the years, most recently winning Best of Year from Interior Design Magazine for a private residence in Pacific Heights, San Francisco. In 2026 Shamir Shah was nominated for induction into Interior Design’s Hall of Fame.
Founded 1999
Studio Flatiron District, New York City
Practice Interior architecture and interior design
WorkPrivate residences and large-scale development projects across the U.S. and abroad
Approach
The craft of construction
Inspired by construction technique and by innovation in the design field. Interiors are finished with close attention to detail.
A collaborative process
The client’s needs sit at the center of the work, balanced with a thorough understanding of well-finished, residential interiors.
Layered, restrained, modern
Rooted in the traditions of functional modernism: a restrained, elegant aesthetic and the skill to layer materials artfully.
Recognition
2026 · Interior design