About Us
Our Story
AKAR Design brings together art, architecture, and everyday objects. Founded in 1998 by architects Sanjay and Jigna Jani, we curate a collection of beautifully designed products from around the world for your home and life.
What's in a Name?
AKAR means "forms and shapes" in Sanskrit — a fitting name for a store founded by two architects. We believe that good design elevates the everyday. Whether it's a coffee maker, a greeting card, or a piece of jewelry, each item in our collection is chosen for its thoughtful form, quality materials, and the story it tells.
The Founders' Story
Sanjay and Jigna Jani came to Iowa City with a shared passion for art, architecture, and design. Trained as architects, they spent years developing a deep appreciation for the relationship between form and function — how an object's shape, material, and craftsmanship can transform the way we experience everyday life.
In 1998, they turned that passion into AKAR Design. Their vision was simple but ambitious: to create a space where people could discover beautifully designed objects that they might not find anywhere else in the Midwest. A place where a perfectly weighted pen, a hand-blown glass vase, or a thoughtfully designed kitchen tool could stop you in your tracks.
Their architectural training shapes everything about how AKAR is curated. They look at products the way an architect looks at a building — considering proportion, material, purpose, and the experience of the person using it. Over 27 years, that eye for design has guided every single product that has come through our doors.
Our Collection
From Scandinavian glassware to Japanese stationery, Italian kitchenware to American-made jewelry, our collection spans the globe. We work with established design houses like Alessi, Iittala, and Lamy, as well as independent artists and makers. Every product is selected for its combination of beauty, function, and craftsmanship — objects that are as meaningful to use as they are to look at.
Iowa City Roots
For 27 years, we've been proud to call Iowa City home. Our store at 257 Iowa Avenue is a place where locals and visitors alike can discover something special — whether that's the perfect gift, a new favorite pen, or a piece of home decor that sparks joy. We love being part of this creative, thoughtful community, and we're grateful for every customer who has walked through our doors.
What We Stand For
- Quality over quantity — we'd rather carry one exceptional item than ten mediocre ones
- Timeless design — we look for objects that will be just as beautiful in 20 years as they are today
- Supporting artists and makers — we champion designers who put craft and intention into their work
- Sustainability — well-made products that last are inherently more sustainable
- Making design accessible — great design shouldn't be reserved for galleries and museums
- Community and connection — we believe in the power of a thoughtfully chosen object to connect people
Visit Us
We'd love to see you in person! Stop by our Iowa City store to browse the full collection, chat about design, or find the perfect gift.
AKAR Design
257 Iowa Avenue
Iowa City, IA 52240
Whether you're shopping online or visiting in person, we're here to help you find beautifully designed objects that bring joy to your everyday life.