The Studio

Salai envisions spaces that breathe with their surroundings—architecture, interiors, and landscapes shaped by sensitivity, balance, and belonging. The word Salai comes from the Kurumbas of Attappady, where it means the dwelling. For the tribes who live in harmony with the land, a salai is not just shelter—it is a way of life, rooted in cycles of nature and community.

Inspired by this timeless wisdom, Salai – The Breathing Space is founded on the belief that the spaces we inhabit should breathe with us, nurture us, and stand as quiet companions in our daily lives. Led by Ar. Ashwathy Nair, our Principal Architect and Founder, the studio embraces minimalism as the key to sustainability. Each project is a dialogue between material, context, and people—designed to be functional yet poetic, modern yet timeless, simple yet profound.

From architecture that rises lightly on its site, to interiors that balance aesthetics with comfort, and landscapes that echo the rhythms of nature, we approach every project with sensitivity and care. Our work is inspired by ideas of creating breathable spaces, where openness, light, and air shape a sense of calm. We are drawn to the elegance of minimalism, believing that simplicity often carries the deepest meaning. We also seek to integrate sustainable practices wherever possible, using design as a way to honor the environment and its resources.

At Salai, we believe that good design is not about grand gestures—it is about creating spaces that inspire, heal, and endure. Welcome to Salai – The Breathing Space, where architecture becomes a dwelling for the body, mind, and spirit.