Arbor Living, in Anjuna, is a brand that curates lifestyle products that can transform your wardrobe and home into works of art.
It’s not just a store; it’s a feeling. It’s the warm Goan sun on your skin, the rhythm of the waves in your ears and the vibrant energy of Anjuna that breathes air into this space.
The idea of the store came from the owner, Ria Mohta, who put her talent and living in Goa to produce creative home décor and wardrobe items.
Arbor Living curates products with a mix of fun illustration and colours, inspired by the natural landscape.
The best part of shopping at this store is that they have small batches of manufacturing to ensure there is uniqueness and no wastage of material. The brand aims to be sustainable, mindfully designed and joyous that can be enjoyed by all.
.jpg?w=640&auto=format%2Ccompress)
SETTING THE SCENE
Stepping into the store will transport you directly to an art destination. The ambience is made up of textures and colours, giving a lively feel out of the Pinterest app.
There is much to take in from the mannequins that don attractive hats and sarongs, and also the display of creatively illustrated planners and artsy items. The store is truly a playground for the creative self.
If you're seeking to infuse a touch of Goa into either your attire or home decor, then this store is a must-visit.
At the store, you'll find an array of items such as tote bags, bucket hats, fridge magnets, art prints, cards, cushion covers and more, with illustrations primarily crafted by Ria.
These artworks draw inspiration from pastoral scenes, garden-fresh vegetables, plants, wildlife and the small pleasures that enrich life.
EXPERIENCING THE JOURNEY
Ria, who has made Goa her home, narrates to us how her brainchild of Arbor Living came about.
She explains that it was never her plan to open a store, but used to paint and sell stationery as a college student in order to earn a bit of extra pocket money.
She shares, “As an architecture student, I was obsessed with good stationery and when I couldn't find any cool ones in the market, I decided to make some myself."
"These items started circulating among my friends until someone asked ‘oh that's a cool sketchpad, where did you get it from?’ I soon started selling them under a brand name,” she explains.
Over time, Ria started developing a deep passion for illustration, and learnt more about the art by watching YouTube videos.
The big break happened when Snapchat approached her to design a college filter.
“That was my ‘oh, this can turn into something legitimate’ moment. I worked hard, and fell more and more in love with the medium of illustration. By the time I graduated, I had a small clientele,” reveals Ria.
And slowly, she carved her niche and that’s when Arbor Living came into being.
At 28, Ria is an enthusiast of colour and design, and infuses her personal touch into the majority of items at the store.
She works as an illustrator and brand designer, steering her brand ‘Arbor Living’ to channel creativity into the realms of home and design.
Inspired greatly by nature, Ria’s work strives to inspire people to cherish the simple joys in life. So, if you find yourself in Anjuna, be sure to visit her store and bring a piece of Goa into your world.
WHERE: Near Starco junction, Anjuna
WHEN: Everyday except Thursday
TIMING: 12pm to 10pm
