An interview with alumnus Advay Gupta proves that even the bed, often overlooked, can redefine luxury, all while winning competitions
In a world filled with design innovations, the bed—an essential yet often overlooked fixture in modern homes—tends to remain in the background. However, as Advay Gupta reveals with his project BARCA, the bed is far from static. By fusing the sleek sophistication of Italian yachts with the timeless elegance of Italian furniture design, Gupta illustrates that exploring new forms and adhering to a brand’s design philosophy can propel a piece into the spotlight, even in a competitive landscape of emerging designers.
A snapshot from the BARCA bed by Advay Gupta. Courtesy of Advay Gupta
In this conversation, Istituto Marangoni Milano alumnus Advay Gupta discusses the inspiration behind his design, BARCA. He shares how he balances modern minimalism with organic curves and how his experiences have shaped his evolving vision as a designer. He reflects on the importance of design competitions, particularly the profound impact of the Porada Design Award on his career, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way.
In the following interview, we uncover the motivations steering this promising designer’s journey and discuss why we believe the answer to the question of whether we need new bed designs is a resounding yes.
Could you please tell us about your design, BARCA?
BARCA was created with the aim of blending the elegance of Italian yachts with the timeless design of Italian furniture, striking a balance between clean lines and organic curves. Inspired by the flowing contours of a yacht’s hull, the shape of the bed evokes a sense of natural fluidity while maintaining a modern, minimalist aesthetic. The use of high-quality solid wood, combined with leather accents, also enhances the bed’s functionality.
A snapshot from the BARCA bed by Advay Gupta. Courtesy of Advay Gupta
How did it feel to win second place at the Porada Design Award 2024?
Receiving such recognition, especially after winning first place in the previous year’s competition, was unexpected. It significantly boosted my confidence in starting my own design studio.
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What challenges did you face during the design process?
One of the most challenging aspects was adapting the bed to align with Porada’s distinctive design style, which is characterised by clean lines, soft curves, and craftsmanship. Striking the right balance between the organic curves of the bed and the sharp, straight lines was not easy. Additionally, maintaining the structural integrity of the bed while ensuring it appeared light and fluid presented a delicate challenge. The selection of materials was another crucial part of the design process. Every element needed to complement the others, ensuring that no material would overpower the overall aesthetic.
A detail from the project
What inspired you to create BARCA?
I wanted to capture the elegance, strength, and effortless luxury that yachts embody in a piece of bedroom furniture. The curves of a yacht’s hull served as the starting point for the design, while the broader essence of Italian design influenced my choice of materials. As designer Giulio Cappellini once shared with me, “It’s harder to remove elements than to add them while ensuring optimal functionality.” The BARCA bed reflects this philosophy; it embodies the essence of “less is more,” demonstrating that elegance can be found in restraint and thoughtful design choices.
How did your time at Istituto Marangoni Milano contribute to your development as a designer?
My experience has been transformative. The school’s hands-on approach to learning has has played a vital role in getting me ready for the challenges of the design industry. The curriculum is highly practical, providing students with real-world experiences through factory visits, talks with industry leaders, and workshops with renowned designers.
What do you think was the most valuable lesson you learned along the way?
The most valuable lesson I learned was the importance of adding a “wow factor” to every product I design. This perspective encouraged me to go beyond functionality and focus on creating pieces that captivate and inspire. Additionally, the school taught me to design with one eye on the future and the other on traditions, blending both elements to create timeless designs. Professor Lorenzo Bustillos, a key mentor throughout my journey, used to say, “Hard work, hard work, and more hard work.” This mantra is something I will carry with me forever.
How relevant do you think competitions like the Porada Design Award are for design students?
They provide an opportunity for design students to showcase their work on an international stage, receive feedback from industry experts, and connect with fellow designers and trendsetters. These competitions also offer essential real-world experience in a highly competitive environment, as well as exposure and credibility that are crucial for advancing your career. My achievements at Porada enabled me to exhibit my designs at Milano Design Week 2025, both at the Fiera and Fuorisalone.
What advice would you give to someone considering entering a design competition?
I would advise them to stay true to their cultural and design vision while trusting their instincts. It is vital to create work that feels authentic. Pushing boundaries and challenging norms can also lead to innovative designs. Additionally, attention to detail is crucial; consider how materials interact, the level of craftsmanship, and overall functionality. Lastly, it is important to understand the design philosophy and story of the company you are designing for. By immersing yourself in their previous projects, you can ensure that your design aligns with their expectations and contributes to their overall narrative.
How has winning the Porada Design Award impacted your career?
The recognition and credibility that come with such an accolade can open up exciting opportunities in the design world, including potential collaborations, commissions, and increased visibility to potential employers and clients. It’s all about connecting with influential figures in the design industry and expanding your professional network.
Silvia Tarini
Editor, Milan