We had the opportunity to interview the team of Montdor Interior Pvt. Ltd. from Ahmedabad – a city that has been immensely growing in regards to design field where the team of Montdor is making its mark through modern concepts.

Montdor Interior Pvt Ltd is an Ahmedabad-based design firm, specializing in turn-key projects. And we had the opportunity to interview Montdor where they narrate how turn-key concept helped successfully endeavor in the interior realm.

Ahmedabad city is a mélange of old and new developments, where the designers can explore various concepts and execute brilliant ideas. As the city urbanizes and areas grow, the interiors are also becoming essential and a mandatory design activity to take on hands. Weather it is residential, commercial, hospitality, or even institutional, interior design is taking over as a vital need to utilize the space in the best way possible.

In this following interview with Montdor Interior Pvt. Ltd., the team thoroughly explains what the company is about and their exciting, hard-working journey to reach where they are today.

Who are Chandni Chatwani, Kashyap Dhanak, Jatin Garach, Satendar Singh? How did you begin the journey of Montdor Interiors Pvt Ltd.

My self Chandani Chatwani along with Kashyap Dhanak and Jatin Garach, and we three are the directors and co-founders of Montdor Inteand Kashyap Dhanak and Jatin Garachrior Pvt Ltd. All of us have experience in corporates and management for more than 15 years and we began this company 7 years before. With the vision to provide end-to-end solutions, starting with space management to execution. 

When we started the company, people were not much aware of the turn-key concept. And that became our main objective to educate the clients about the same. How the concept generates hassle-free design and how less time is required to look after the process of home interiors. 

Our roles in Montdor Interior Pvt ltd are as below; I am in charge of heading the department of sales & marketing as well as design, Kashyap heads product, manufacturing, and execution, and Jatinbhai heads finance, franchise development, and factory vendor management. Currently, we have completed more than 300 interior projects based in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and Rajkot. And we are also expanding now beyond Gujarat, in Maharashtra as well.

How did you get your first project and what was it?

“The first project was a pre-Covid and post-Covid situation.” 

Earlier there was no demand for turn-key projects and we were just doing out-door furniture and furniture designs. However, in Covid, we realized that people want a one-end solution, as they want to spend more time with families. Also, work from home was trending and we gradually shifted our goal towards turn-key projects. 

We began all the marketing and media promoting the turn-key concept, where initially we did more than 150 site visits and hundreds of inquiries received. Out of which, we got one project for turn-key and the main challenge was creating a portfolio. 

The first project is always a challenge for any designer as there is no portfolio, and no brand value in the market. However, we are grateful for the first project with premium clients having an ample budget and successfully catering to their needs.

When it comes to interiors, there are plenty of choices in materials. What is your design approach and signature style in terms of planning and execution?

The materials and design definitely depend on the budget. As per the customer base that we have, they are asking us to explore the materials in a certain budget where functionality is vital. Hence, our signature style is modern and contemporary interior design, though we customize the theme as per clients’ needs.

In the past few years, especially after Covid, there has been a rapid change in residential design trends. What is one trend change that you encourage seeing in the field?

One trend change that has been increasingly popular and beneficial in residential design is the emphasis on creating flexible and multi-functional spaces. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of adaptable living spaces that can serve multiple purposes to accommodate changing lifestyles and needs.

For example, a guest room could be designed to function as a home office during the day and a comfortable sleeping space for guests at night. Living areas can incorporate built-in storage solutions to keep the space tidy and clutter-free.

Nowadays there are numerous online platforms to get inspired and get ideas. How do you cater to the client’s requirements regarding your style of design? 

Comprehensive Client Meetings where understanding clients’ taste, preferences, lifestyles, and requirements at a very initial stage helps us tailor the design to their unique needs. In addition, we create mood boards using online platforms like Pinterest and Houzz. Also, design-focused social media channels can be great tools to gather inspiration and share ideas.

We also use online collaboration tools like SketchUp, Lumian, and Vray to present design concepts virtually. This allows clients to view 3D renderings, floor plans, and material options remotely, making it easier to discuss and provide feedback in real-time. bb

If you had the opportunity to design a dream project, what would it be and why? 

The dream project would involve designing an eco-friendly and sustainable resort nestled in a pristine natural environment. Such as; a lush rainforest, a secluded island, or a breathtaking mountain range. Although, as a company, we are not driving an individual goal, hence, we would like to have quantitative turn-key projects. This becomes a different dream where we would aim to complete 2000 projects in a year.

Nowadays collaborations are in trend. If you had the chance to collaborate with another brand or a designer, who would you collaborate with and why?

Collaborations are definitely in trend and a while ago Sarita Handa visited us. As customers are keen on having various brand products, we would love to collaborate with furniture brands in coming future. And we will set up a process where clients can choose where they want to buy from.

Our readers are always looking forward to learning from the best. What advice would you give to upcoming designers or startups? 

Success in the design industry comes with dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for your craft. Stay curious, continuously improve, and be authentic in your design journey.

Build a Strong Portfolio: Your portfolio is your most potent tool to showcase your talent and skills. Create a diverse and well-presented portfolio that highlights your best work and demonstrates your range as a designer. 

Network and Build Relationships:

Attend industry events, join design associations, and participate in competitions to expand your network and connect with potential clients. Understand business and marketing: As a designer or design startup, it is crucial to understand business fundamentals and marketing strategies. Learning how to market your services and manage finances is vital for success.