Bhumika Chauhan
In the bustling creative hub of Mumbai, where design trends constantly evolve and architecture is an ever-shifting dialogue between form and function, Contours — The Design Co. (CTDC) has carved an identity that is as bold as it is timeless. Founded in the early 2010s by Anand Mehta and Prashant Halankar, the studio is a seamless blend of two complementary minds—each bringing a unique sensibility to the table, yet united by a shared vision of excellence.
Both alumni of Rachana Sansad’s School of Interior Design, Anand and Prashant did not set out to become business partners from the start. Their journey began as a serendipitous collaboration—helping each other on small projects, sharing ideas, and recognising an undeniable creative synergy. This organic partnership soon matured into a full-fledged, award-winning design practice that now enjoys a formidable reputation in both Indian and international markets.
Design That Transforms Lives
CTDC’s impact extends far beyond aesthetics. For the duo, architecture and interior design are not merely about beautifying spaces—they are about reshaping experiences and enhancing functionality while fostering a sense of community. From multi-residential projects to bespoke villas, from educational institutions to commercial complexes, their portfolio reflects a deep commitment to context-first design.
What sets their work apart is their ability to balance luxury with local flavour, marrying global design sensibilities with the cultural and environmental realities of each site. This is no accident. Their USP lies in deeply understanding the client’s needs—spoken and unspoken—and translating them into spaces that not only look exceptional but also feel intuitively right.
Overcoming the Early Hurdles
The early years weren’t without their challenges. Convincing clients to entrust large-scale projects to a young, relatively unknown firm was no easy task. Yet, both partners relied on their unwavering belief in the value of their work. Every project, no matter the scale, became an opportunity to prove themselves. Over time, consistency in delivery, meticulous execution, and a commitment to building relationships transformed initial scepticism into loyal clientele.
The key learning? In their words—collaboration and adaptability are essential to success. They attribute much of their growth to being open to feedback, learning on the job, and having the courage to take calculated risks.
A Partnership of Contrasts
Anand and Prashant’s professional chemistry is one of CTDC’s strongest assets. Prashant’s structured, analytical approach complements Anand’s creative spontaneity, resulting in designs that are imaginative yet grounded. Both are globe-trotting, media-savvy, and deeply attuned to emerging design trends, which ensures their work always feels fresh while remaining authentic to the client’s vision.
Their design sensibility is rooted in versatility—they can bring the expressive drama of a Zaha Hadid-inspired form to life while also embracing the clarity and cultural grounding of a Charles Correa philosophy.
Projects Close to the Heart
Among their many achievements, one project stands out for its creative freedom and trust: a 15,000 sq. ft. villa in Goa. The clients gave Anand and Prashant complete liberty to bring their vision to life, a rare opportunity in the design world. The result was not just a home but a work of art—crafted with precision, infused with personality, and imbued with an effortless harmony between indoor and outdoor spaces. For the designers, it was a deeply rewarding process, proving what is possible when talent meets trust.
Designing for the Future
Looking ahead, CTDC has its sights set on global expansion, sustainable design integration, and the use of technology to enhance both the creative process and end-user experience. Sustainability, for them, is not a passing trend—it is a responsibility. Their projects often incorporate local materials, energy-efficient systems, and design choices aimed at reducing environmental impact without compromising beauty or comfort.
They are equally committed to embracing the possibilities offered by smart technology in architecture, recognising its potential to elevate functionality and enrich the human experience.
Words of Wisdom for Emerging Designers
When asked what advice they would give to budding architects and designers, Anand and Prashant are unequivocal: Stay true to your design ethos, but remain flexible. Listen, observe, question, and never stop learning. They believe that design is a lifelong journey—one where reinvention is not an option but a necessity.
From their modest beginnings to becoming one of Mumbai’s most respected design firms, Contours — The Design Co. stands as proof that passion, trust, and precision are the real cornerstones of great architecture. In every project they touch, Anand Mehta and Prashant Halankar don’t just create spaces—they craft stories that will be lived in for decades to come.
