Designing Excellence
From humble beginnings with just three staff members 21 years ago, Anita Srisakulchawla has transformed her small boutique firm into a renowned international interior design company, particularly known for its work with major hotel chains. Anita is the Founder and Executive Director of ASC Interior, a multidisciplinary design consultancy specializing in innovative interior design for customized experiences.
When Anita started the company in 2003, she implemented a 20-year strategic plan that has been instrumental in the company’s growth, boosting annual revenue from 500,000 BHT to 20,000,000 BHT. Today, ASC Interior provides top-tier services in interior architecture, urban design and planning, as well as interior graphics, with a portfolio of 150 projects across hospitality, commercial, spa, residential, signage, and graphics sectors in Thailand and throughout Asia.
Background
Reflecting on her journey, Anita shares: “I hold a bachelor’s degree in interior architecture from Jefferson University (formerly Philadelphia College of Textiles & Science). After graduating, I returned to Thailand and joined P49 Deesign & Associates, a well-established international design firm, while pursuing a master’s in business administration at Bangkok University in the evenings. During my time at P49, I had the privilege of working with talented mentors who shaped my career. However, after nearly four years, I faced a pivotal decision between continuing my career or completing my degree as I was preparing for an arranged marriage. Recognizing that I needed to gain more expertise to succeed in the Thai market, I chose to resign from the firm shortly before my wedding to focus on completing my master’s degree."
After earning her MBA, Anita launched her own interior design firm, which has flourished into a recognized name in the industry, specializing in mid-range hospitality, commercial, and residential projects. “Establishing my own design firm marked a significant transition from being an employee to becoming a visionary leader, guiding the company towards success,” she says.
Being a Leader
“As the Founder and Executive Director of ASC Interior, my role is defined by resilience, growth, and continuous innovation,” Anita reflects. “This journey traces back to my upbringing and education. From my parents' resilience—both descendants of North Indian refugees during the India-Pakistan partition—to my all-girls convent education in Thailand, boarding school in India, and then my studies at Jefferson University, my experiences shaped my passion for design, culture, and business. My father’s decision to send me to the US against societal norms allowed me to cultivate a love for diversity and creativity, further enhanced by my MBA studies in Bangkok. This foundation has equipped me with the strategic insight necessary to navigate the complex landscape of the hospitality design industry."
Being a woman-owned boutique firm, establishing and scaling ASC Interior in Bangkok has been a noteworthy accomplishment, particularly in a competitive market dominated by larger firms. Winning awards against more seasoned competitors has been a turning point for the company. “It motivated us to integrate more international standards into our work, further enhancing our standing in the industry,” she adds.
Anita’s award-winning work includes notable projects like Dream Hotel in Thailand, Hyatt Place Bangkok, Hyatt Place Rameshwaram in India, Mercure Karawang in Indonesia, Dusit Princess Kathmandu in Nepal, and Marasca Khao Yai—listed as a small luxury hotel within a year of its opening in Thailand.
Challenges
Despite its success, ASC Interior’s journey has not been without challenges. The COVID-19 crisis forced the firm to downsize significantly to survive. Today, the company has recovered, operating with a dedicated team of 13 staff members, including administrative personnel, design professionals, and freelance collaborators.
ASC Interior fosters a supportive and dynamic work environment where creativity thrives, and contributions are valued. “We prioritize employee development through tailored learning programs focused on enhancing technical skills, project management, and cultural sensitivity,” Anita says.
ASC Interior’s journey embodies resilience, creativity, and a commitment to excellence, establishing the company as a trusted partner in hotel interior design. “Our approach is fueled by continuous innovation,” she explains, “aligning clients’ strategic visions with our creativity, incorporating cultural influences, and leveraging market trends and technology to deliver outstanding results.”
CSR
ASC Interior is also committed to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), emphasizing sustainability in design practices, community support, and fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry.
