Inspired by her love of travel, nature, architecture, and culture, Shima Javan’s creativity burgeoned into a successful career in architectural and interior design. Over the last 14 years, Shima has become a sought-after Interior Architect and Designer, who is transforming residential and commercial spaces. Shima’s portfolio is impressive – from custom residences to designing iconic places such as Vancouver House, Three Harbour Green and a mansion of a very well-known Surrey movie star and director.
After moving to Vancouver, she began designing condos in Downtown Vancouver, including Coal Harbour. “I’ve always been drawn to design, and knew I wanted to do something creative in the arts,” says Shima. “I started directing movies, then switched to Interior Architecture and Design, which has always been my ideal way of expressing myself.”
She believes that architecture and the outside surroundings are important considerations in interior design. If done right, this is when architecture blends harmoniously with interior design. Her inspiration often comes from the works of Le Corbusier, Oscar Niemeyer, Zaha Hadid, and Carlo Mollino. Exploring intelligent use of materials, blending colour, and bringing a touch of the unexpected are what challenges Shima.
“I fall in love over and over again with each project I start.”
This self-directed designer puts her own unique stamp on every new project, in order to be a creator of unexpected and fascinating experiences. “My designs should be full of soul and influences. My responsibility is to be a good listener and then interpret my client’s desires my way. I always ask them what story they want to tell and how they want to be seen.”
The design process first comes to life from listening to her clients’ visions. From there, she takes their ideas and brings them to life. “I need to understand what their goals are. Each project has to have its own identity,” explains Shima. “By providing a Mood board, I visualize what the project will look and feel like and when get aligned with my client, I begin designing.”
Her first project was a living room remodelling. Once the word got out about her signature style, her business grew. She juxtaposes modern sophistication with traditional, for timeless spaces that will never go out of style. “The core of my design always has a minimal luxury in it. My job is to reflect my client’s distinctive personalities and lifestyles, but I also want them to shine,” she says. “I create an environment for my clients to expand their experiences within and add an element of adventure to their lives. It is so challenging when they have a strong voice and distinctive point of view. That is where the fun starts.”
Shima considers herself lucky to have found her passion: “To be part of my client’s dream home has always been my desire. I design for them as it is my own, with all the passion I have for this business. I fall in love over and over again with each project I start.”
604 363 3631
Email: projects@shimajavan.com | Website: shimajavan.com
IG: shimajavan.interiordesign