The crusade for sustainability is no more a separate sect in the world of art and design. It has grown, and justifiably so, to impact the creative community and the globe in its entirety. As people switch to greener alternatives for mundane tasks, may it be renewable energy sources, public transportation, or materials to curb plastic waste, there is one aspect that cannot be overlooked: small scale efforts are futile unless they are replicated by the big fishes of the industry. The need of the hour is not just awareness, but action, one that resounds across the spectrum, from laymen to tycoons—whose actions, in fact, bear the greatest consequences. Over the past years, the status quo has been in a constant state of flux, awash with questions, challenges and a slow but steady turn of the tide. More and more companies restructure their fundamentals to do their bit for the planet; one such brand is Andreu World.

Spain-based brand Andreu World is a global sustainable furniture company. Its product designs rest on the tenets of circular economy and it is a carbon neutral and zero waste company. For over 65 years, the company has built an industrial culture based on the production of quality seats and table designs—crafting innovative designs in partnership with acclaimed designers, reiterating their commitment to ensure a positive impact on the planet. In conjunction with the grand opening of Andreu World India’s newly refurbished Pune showroom, a dynamic panel discussion animated its interiors. On March 3, 2023, the discourse brought four of the arguably most accomplished women pioneers from Mumbai and Pune who are making waves in the design world under one roof. “We are honoured to host this unique event at our Pune showroom,” says Daniel Griñan, Sales manager India, Andreu World. “We wanted to give the design fraternity a chance to view our newly launched sustainable products designed by Philippe Starck,” he adds.

The recently refurbished showroom located in the city of Pune, India, features a ravishing terrace space opening to beautiful views and a built-in bar area which formed the setting for this event. Power Women of Design (PWD) is a series of round table events orchestrated by Women in Office Design (WOD) UK, founded in the UK by interior designer Harsha Kotak with a vision to empower women working in all areas of the office design industry. The talks have traversed various countries across the world to underline the status of women in the sphere of workplace design—bringing forth their journeys to provide inspiration to others. “Designing for inclusivity is becoming a hot topic. The ambition is to level the playing field for everyone regardless of their situation,” shares Harsha Kotak, founder, WOD UK. “If we design for the widest range of people, we can create better working environments that will ultimately benefit everyone,” she adds.

Designers from M Moser, Edifice, Zeyta and Cushman & Wakefield each provided an insight into the highs and lows they encountered on their career path. Alongside personal anecdotes, each panel member shared glimpses of their work and inspirations. “Each of our speakers will share some engaging and fascinating stories which will certainly inspire others to achieve their ambitions,” says Kotak. The discussion was hosted by Kotak and Ar. Payal Sandhu Khurana, WOD India Ambassador. Following the stirring debate, guests were invited to an exclusive viewing of Andreu World's latest collection by French designer Philippe Starck and Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola including product presentations. The evening concluded with dinner, live music and, of course, networking.

Two protagonists emerged in the event: inclusivity, to create a safe space for everyone to flourish and be seen; and sustainability, a solid commitment to design and work cultures that are responsible. Furnishing corporate and public spaces, outdoors, hotels, cafeterias and restaurants, Andreu World believes in the transmission of design culture. Hence, their collaborations with international designers and architects globally. With good furniture design, production capacity and commitment to sustainable design as its pillars, the brand adds another limb to its expedition, aspiring to be and inspire change.