As the world seeks its unique touch of artistry and aesthetic design to complete a walled space, the realm of home decor is undergoing revolution. The interiors industry is no longer just about furnishing rooms; it’s about infusing spaces with creativity and personalized elegance. This transformation has given way to innovative possibilities, breathing life into every decor at home.
Moreover, the shifting lifestyles and urban migration has propelled this vibrant sector into rapid development. Amidst this dynamic landscape, founders and business leaders of decor brands are continuously striving to offer the very best to consumers.
In recognition of their outstanding contributions of gogetters, Asia Business Outlook presents ‘Entrepreneurs of the Year’ – topping this list in the furniture and home decor segment is Rohan Verma. Leveraging his experience & exposure from Singapore, Indonesia and India he has built his own brand, Sculptree. Through which he has not only transformed living spaces but has also embraced sustainability as an integral part of his creative vision.
The Journey
Rohan’s foray into furniture design started during his college days when he crafted a rattan chair with aluminum legs entirely on his own, in a college workshop. This initial endeavor ignited a passion within him a passion for furniture design. It was more than just aesthetics; it was about negotiating with materials, understanding tolerances, and blending technical finesse with artistic vision.
Determined to refine his skills, Rohan embarked on a paid internship with the renowned furniture brand Christopher Guy, Singapore. Here, he had the privilege of learning from none other than the late Christopher Guy himself, gaining invaluable insights into detailing and the art of proportions. This experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors and set him on the path to becoming a distinguished designer and entrepreneur.
His educational background played a crucial role in shaping his career. Armed with degrees in Industrial and Product Design from the Raffles Design Institute, he was well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the fields of design and sustainability.
Under the mentorship of his professor, Pierre Webster, Rohan delved deep into the principles of sustainability, including concepts like cradle-to-cradle techniques and ‘HBT’ (Heat Beat Treat) involvement in sustainability.
Sustainability, as Rohan emphasizes, is an everevolving field, but its core principles remain constant. It’s about considering every facet of a product’s lifecycle and minimizing its environmental footprint. For Sculptree, this commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of their creations.
Meaningful Designs & Tree-Planting Initiatives
One of Sculptree’s defining features is its commitment to creating meaningful designs while contributing positively to the environment. For every product sold, the company has an ambitious tree-planting initiative through its sister company, ‘Trees for India.’ While the challenge of simultaneously selling products and planting trees is demanding, Rohan remains transparent about their plans. They intend to plant trees once their inventory is sold out, and each customer will be notified of the trees planted, fostering a sense of involvement in the process.
Sculptree’s dedication to sustainability goes beyond mere lip service. They employ innovative practices to ensure their products are both aesthetically pleasing and eco-conscious. For instance, they upcycle teak roots, ensuring these valuable resources aren’t wasted or used as fuel. Their glass is molded without adding compounds to clear impurities, preserving its unique characteristics. The wood, left in its natural state, is fumigated to minimize infestation but is not altered with chemical finishes. This commitment to using materials in their most authentic forms is a testament to Sculptree’s dedication to true sustainability.
Sculptree’s dedication to meaningful designs & tree-planting initiatives manifest Rohan’s passion for making a positive environmental impact
Inspiring Sustainable Living
The company aims to inspire customers to embrace sustainable living through their products. While Rohan is humble about calling his brand a leader, the impact they create is undeniable. The quality of products and their plastic-free, eco-friendly packaging reflect the brand’s commitment to sustainability. Customers increasingly appreciate sustainable packaging, understanding that it aligns with their values of reducing waste and embracing eco-conscious choices.
Sculptree has ambitious plans. They aim to become the top seller in sustainable home decor within the next five years. The introduction of rattan/cane home decor items, wooden products sourced from legal wood plantations, and sculptures is on the horizon. Moreover, their ‘buy one product, plant one tree’ initiative will continue to foster environmental consciousness among their growing customer base.
Advice for Aspiring Eco-Conscious Entrepreneurs
Rohan highlights the importance of a thorough design education and hands-on experience with sustainable materials. Patience and perseverance are essential, as understanding the materials and translating them into functional, appealing designs can be a long and arduous journey. Ultimately, Rohan’s message is clear: “Sustainability is not an accolade but a continuous and evolving commitment—one that requires dedication, innovation, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the planet”.
Rohan Verma, Founder, Sculptree
With a passion for merging creativity with environmental responsibility, he has carved a remarkable niche for himself in the world of furniture design and home decor.
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