The man behind one of the leading furniture brands, Royal Oak, Vijai Subramaniam, takes us through his inspirational journey, what makes the Hyderabad market special, and more.
K. Ramya Sree
The addition of furniture completes the look of our home. Regardless of the reason you choose furniture, it is essential because it fills the majority of the room and makes it appear lived-in and finished. Your house should provide comfort and support a more balanced existence, both psychologically and physically. We are aware that we require furniture in order to live comfortably, store things, sit on them, and unwind.
Since 2010, Royaloak Furniture has been using its products to create stunning, aesthetically pleasing spaces in your home or office. Although the company was founded in Bengaluru, its popularity across the Telugu-speaking states has grown immensely thanks to its premium products.
The man behind this is Vijai Subramaniam, Chairman of Royal Oak. What started off as the dream of a middle-class man now has a network of over 200 stores.
In an exclusive interview with The Pioneer, Vijai took us through their journey, which only inspires others that passion can drive you places: “My journey in the organised furniture industry began with my younger brother Mathan Subramaniam in 2010, when we founded Royaloak. Our initial foray into the industry involved participating in government exhibitions across South India, showcasing small kitchen items, and eventually transitioning to smaller furniture like TV stands. These early experiences were invaluable, as they allowed us to truly understand the nuances of the furniture market and cultivate a genuine passion for providing people with their dream furniture at affordable prices. During this time, we discovered our shared commitment to delivering quality and value to our customers. With our first store in Bengaluru, we set out to create a brand that not only offered exquisite furniture but also fostered an exceptional customer experience. The response was overwhelming, and our dedication to customer satisfaction quickly paved the way for Royaloak’s rapid expansion.”
This humble man credits all his success to his suppliers, vendors, and customers.
The brand recently launched three more stores in Hyderabad, apart from the existing ones. Asked what makes Hyderabad market special to him and the changes he witnessed in public and their purchasing mindset, he shared, “The vibrant community of Hyderabad has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, particularly in their purchasing mindset when it comes to furniture. With easy access to information through the internet, the people of Hyderabad have become more discerning and knowledgeable about the best industry practises. This newfound awareness has empowered them to make well-informed decisions about their furniture choices. The wide array of options available on the market has given customers in Hyderabad the freedom to seek out the absolute best for their homes. They have developed a keen eye for quality, aesthetics, and functionality, demanding nothing less than excellence in the furniture they intend to purchase.”
He added, “Gone are the days when customers in Hyderabad expected furniture to last for decades. Instead, their evolving tastes and dynamic lifestyles have led them to embrace change and creativity in their living spaces. They now prefer to redecorate and refresh their houses every 3–4 years, seeking out new styles and trends that resonate with their ever-evolving preferences.”
Hyderabad holds a special place in Vijai’s heart as it has been the catalyst for his personal and professional growth. The experiences he encountered in this vibrant city have played a significant role in the success of Royal Oak. “In my early exhibition days, my travels to Hyderabad were transformative, shaping me and our brand in unique ways. The dynamic atmosphere and diverse culture of Hyderabad have inspired and influenced the vision of Royaloak, making it a brand that resonates with people from all walks of life. The city’s essence is ingrained in our values, and I am forever grateful for the journey, paving the way for our achievements and accomplishments,” he shared, further adding, “The vibrancy and diversity of Hyderabad are truly enchanting. The city’s unique rhythm sets it apart from any other place, creating an atmosphere that is both captivating and exhilarating. The lively vibe, the rich tapestry of culture, the tantalising food, and the soul-stirring music all come together to leave an indelible mark on anyone who experiences them. Hyderabad has a way of embracing you with open arms and making you feel at home, regardless of where you come from. Its magnetic charm is something to be cherished and celebrated, and it’s no wonder why so many people, including myself, adore and are captivated by this extraordinary city.”
As India’s leading furniture brand, Vijai takes immense pride in the title they hold, and they carry the responsibility of living up to it with great dedication. According to Vijai, their vision extends beyond national boundaries as they aspire to become global leaders in the furniture industry. To achieve this, they ensure that their products reflect the same royal treatment and quality that they intend to offer their customers.
At their stores, they will discover not only the best of international furniture but also trendsetting designs that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Moreover, their products are affordable too.
He has been in the industry for over a decade now, and who better than him to take us through the furniture trends this year? Giving our readers information on what’s trending in the furniture world, Vijai told us in conclusion: “It’s fascinating to observe how global furniture trends have evolved to cater to the changing preferences and lifestyles of people. Earthy tones and natural materials, particularly wood, have become a dominant choice for consumers worldwide, adding a sense of warmth and connection to nature to their living spaces. The increasing demand for multifunctional and space-saving furniture showcases the practicality-driven approach of modern consumers. As living spaces shrink and adapt to urban environments, furniture that can serve multiple purposes helps optimise functionality without sacrificing style.”
“Curved and organic shapes have made a strong comeback, adding a touch of elegance and fluidity to contemporary interiors. These designs bring a sense of comfort and visual appeal, creating a harmonious balance in the overall aesthetic. With technology becoming an integral part of our lives, integrating tech features into furniture is a natural progression. Built-in speakers, wireless charging stations, and hidden power cords are just some examples of how furniture is evolving to keep up with the tech-savvy demands of consumers,” he added.
“As furniture continues to evolve to meet the needs of modern living, these trends reflect the desire for a harmonious blend of functionality, style, and technological convenience in our homes. Embracing these trends allows consumers to create spaces that not only align with their lifestyle but also enhance their overall living experience,” concluded the businessman.
