Milan, ITALY

Born and raised in India, Vani discovered her natural talent for design at an early age. Her creative journey led her to pursue a degree in Footwear Design at the London College of Fashion, where she refined her skills and embraced a new cultural perspective.

In 2016, Vani moved to Italy to pursue a Master's degree in Accessories Design at the prestigious Istituto Marangoni.

This rich blend of influences set her on a transformative path, leading to the launch of her home decor brand, Aekyem in 2025.

Inspired by the traditional Paper Mâché craft of Kashmir, her work reflects a harmonious fusion of India’s cultural heritage, where she was born, and Europe’s artistic sensibilities, where she now lives.

The delicate and ephemeral beauty of this medium aligns perfectly with her vision—allowing her to express her creativity while remaining committed to responsible craftsmanship. At her studio in Milan, each piece is crafted using recycled paper, salvaged paints, and sustainable materials, giving new life to discarded elements and transforming them into distinctive, one-of-a-kind creations.

Unbound by a singular style, she effortlessly blends contemporary design with traditional artisanal techniques, crafting timeless pieces inspired by nature and her travels.