After 20 years into the business, it is now a widely-known fact that travel has always been our biggest source of inspiration. There’s something about stepping into a new city and letting its energy, culture, and beauty wash over us that fuels our creativity like nothing else. But, if there’s one ritual that has become a non-negotiable part of our travels, it’s finding the best or the nearest park and taking at least an hour out of our day to stroll through it.
Now, you might wonder, why a park? For us, a leisurely walk in a city’s green space is the best way to truly get to know the place. It’s where the locals unwind, people of all generations gather, and the city breathes. There’s a certain beauty in watching life unfold—children revelling in the joy of playtime, the elderly sharing a quiet moment on a bench, a street performer serenading passersby, or that one ice-cream or soda kiosk somewhere in or around the park! People-watching in a park is like witnessing a live painting, if you ask us.
But it’s not just about the people. We’re also architecture enthusiasts, and nothing beats strolling down the streets, admiring the one-of-a-kind buildings, and soaking in the history etched in every stone. However, if we had to pick between a city’s architectural marvels and its parks, we’d choose a park every time. There’s an unmatched joy in sitting down on a bench or the soft grass, feeling the breeze on your face, and letting the peace of the surroundings inspire your thoughts. It’s the perfect reset button amidst the hustle and bustle of our work and travel schedules.
And so, wherever we go, we seek out these moments of calm. From the well-trimmed gardens of Paris to the sprawling green spaces of New York, parks have now become our sanctuaries. Here’s a peek into a few of our favourite parks from some of the cities we frequent—each one a cherished stop whenever we visit the city!
Hyde Park – London
Hyde Park is our little slice of calm in the whirlwind that is London. Whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll by the Serpentine or people-watching near Speaker’s Corner, this park gives us the space to breathe and let our creativity run wild. Plus, there’s something incredibly grounding about wandering through the same green spaces where so much history has unfolded. It’s our favourite way to unwind amidst London’s bustling energy.
Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries), Paris
Where else can you feel like you’re in a painting while sipping coffee by a fountain! This garden is a feast for the eyes with its perfectly manicured lawns, statues that seem to tell stories and views that remind us why Paris is the ‘City of Love’. Every visit here feels like a mini getaway, and it’s impossible not to leave feeling a little more inspired (and maybe a little more French, too)!
Villa Borghese Gardens – Rome
Rome comes close to being one of our favourite cities in the world and the Villa Borghese Gardens are pure magic. We absolutely adore this place—every winding path seems to lead to a breathtaking view, a historic building, or a hidden fountain. It’s like stepping into another world–one filled with beauty, art, and history. When in Rome, these gardens are our ultimate escape: perfect for dreaming up new designs and soaking in the timeless charm of the Eternal City.
Mustard Fields – Kashmir
While not a traditional park, the vast mustard fields of Kashmir are truly mesmerising. The endless sea of bright yellow blooms is breathtaking, and for us, it’s a spot that evokes the ultimate Bollywood moment. There’s something magical about strolling through these fields, with the beautiful landscape of Kashmir as a backdrop. It’s like stepping into a film scene that provided us the perfect setting for inspiration and creativity for one of our collections.
Central Park – New York
Central Park is one of our favourite parks and a place where we go to recharge when New York’s fast pace starts to wear us down, especially after our New York Fashion Week shows. It’s a haven of tranquillity smack dab in the middle of the city that never sleeps. Whether we’re walking through the Ramble, taking in the city skyline from Sheep Meadow, or just grabbing a coffee by the lake, Central Park never fails to inspire. It’s our way to escape the chaos and find the beauty in the madness.
Millennium Park – Chicago
Millennium Park in Chicago is like a giant playground for creativity, and we can’t get enough of it! From marvelling at the reflective wonder of “The Bean” to catching live performances at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, there’s always something buzzing with energy. We love to stroll through the park, taking in the blend of art, architecture, and nature that makes this spot so uniquely Chicago. It’s the perfect place to recharge and let the city’s creative vibes seep into our designs.
Griffith Park – Los Angeles
Griffith Park in Los Angeles is where we go when we need a dose of nature with a side of Hollywood glamour. Hiking up to the Griffith Observatory for those iconic views of the city (and the Hollywood sign!) never gets old. The sprawling trails, the mix of urban and natural beauty, and the sense of adventure make this park a must-visit every time we’re in LA. It’s our secret to balancing work with a bit of wilderness in the city of stars.
Mehtab Bagh – Agra
Mehtab Bagh is our favourite spot in Agra for one simple reason: the view of the Taj Mahal! There’s something magical about seeing this world wonder from across the Yamuna River, especially at sunset. The gardens themselves are beautifully serene, and wandering through them feels like stepping back in time. This peaceful retreat offers the perfect contrast to the bustling crowds of the Taj, and it’s where we find inspiration in the calm reflection of history and beauty.
Kanak Vrindavan Gardens – Jaipur
Kanak Vrindavan Gardens in Jaipur is like a little oasis of serenity amidst the city’s vibrant chaos. We adore the lush greenery, the fountains, and the beautifully maintained Mughal-style gardens that feel straight out of a fairy tale. It’s a place where we can sit, relax, and soak in the royal vibe of Jaipur, all while being surrounded by nature. This garden is our go-to spot for finding peace and channelling the rich history of Rajasthan into our designs.
The Gardens at Umaid Bhawan Palace – Jodhpur
Though not your typical park, the meticulously manicured gardens at Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur are nothing short of extraordinary. For us, these gardens, with their labyrinth-like designs and lush greenery, offer a picturesque mood board of sorts. Whether it’s a serene walk through the greenery or an impromptu photoshoot amidst the royal backdrop, one just can’t get enough of these green and colourful pockets!