In the vibrant city of Guwahati, Assam, where the fusion of tradition and modernity paints the landscape, one man has managed to carve a niche for himself in the world of interior design. Mridul Konwar, the founder and director of Urban Designers, has been a driving force in shaping the interior design industry in the North East of India. With over 12 years of experience in the field, Mridul’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and creativity.
The Birth of Urban Designers
Urban Designers was officially founded on February 7, 2018, and in its relatively short lifespan, it has already become a recognized name in the interior design industry, not just in Guwahati but across the entire North Eastern region of India. What started as a dream to build something meaningful has now grown into a company that is contributing to the local economy, providing job opportunities, and helping shape the architectural landscape of the region.
The journey wasn’t an easy one, but the passion Mridul had for design and architecture made it all possible. He knew that interior design was the perfect avenue to channel his creativity and vision. “I’ve always been a creative person,” says Mridul. “This profession allows me to bring new ideas to life with every project, which is both fulfilling and challenging at the same time.” His love for the craft was the seed that eventually blossomed into Urban Designers.
The Mission and Impact of Urban Designers
From the outset, Urban Designers aimed not just to be a design firm but a company that creates lasting value for society. The firm’s business philosophy is deeply rooted in creating jobs and supporting local businesses. One of their core missions is to use locally sourced materials and products wherever possible, making a conscious effort to support the local economy.
Mridul is also aware of the role sustainability plays in today’s world. “As designers, we have a responsibility to look out for the environment,” he shares. Urban Designers uses renewable sources of energy, such as solar panels, and integrates eco-friendly materials into their designs. They focus on maximizing natural light and ventilation to reduce electricity consumption, and their sustainable approach to design sets them apart from many others in the industry.
Their designs aren’t just about beauty but also about functionality and sustainability. The company specializes in interior designing, focusing on carpentry as well as modular works, offering personalized and creative design solutions for homes, offices, and commercial spaces. “We don’t just build structures; we build your dreams,” Mridul proudly states. Transparent communication and free consultations are central to their approach, and they take pride in delivering tailored designs that reflect their clients’ visions.
Challenges and Growth
Starting any business comes with its own set of challenges, and for Mridul, these were no different. Coming from a family with no background in business, one of the initial hurdles was developing a clear vision and understanding how to turn that vision into a viable business model. He faced financial constraints, struggled with manpower issues, and sometimes found it difficult to manage cash flow, especially in the early stages.
However, Mridul’s determination, patience, and willingness to push forward were instrumental in overcoming these hurdles. “I learned early on that patience and willpower are essential in this field,” he reflects. “There were a lot of ups and downs, but I always believed that if you’re committed and stay focused, success will follow.” His perseverance paid off, as the business steadily gained momentum, and today, Urban Designers is a leading player in the North East India market.
Market Opportunities and Client Psychology
In a competitive industry, identifying opportunities in the market is crucial. Mridul credits his success to his ability to understand market trends and customer needs. He keeps a keen eye on shifts in design preferences and the evolving demands of clients, ensuring that Urban Designers stays ahead of the curve.
For Mridul, however, understanding the psychology and requirements of his clients is just as important as design knowledge and technical skills. “It’s essential to understand that each project is a dream for the client. Their satisfaction should always be our ultimate goal,” he emphasizes. Building a strong rapport with clients and understanding their visions allows Mridul and his team to craft personalized spaces that are not just functional but emotionally resonant.
“Design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating environments where people feel at ease and truly connect with the space,” he adds. Mridul’s hands-on approach to understanding clients has helped him build long-lasting relationships, many of which have resulted in repeat business and referrals. His personality—approachable, empathetic, and willing to go the extra mile—has played a huge role in his professional success.
A Memorable Project
Every entrepreneur has that one project that holds a special place in their heart, and for Mridul, it was his very first solo project. “The first of everything is special,” he says with a smile. This project laid the foundation for Urban Designers and remains one of his proudest achievements. It taught him valuable lessons about client communication, problem-solving, and managing a project from inception to completion.
The Path Ahead: Future Prospects and Expanding Horizons
Looking forward, Mridul envisions expanding Urban Designers’ footprint beyond the North East and into the broader Indian market. The growing demand for interior design services across India, particularly in urban areas, offers a significant opportunity for expansion. As clients increasingly prioritize aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability, Mridul sees a bright future ahead for his business.
With the success they’ve seen in the North East, Mridul is determined to replicate that success on a national scale. “Our vision is to expand our business and services all over India,” he says, “and to make Urban Designers a household name in the interior design industry.”
Learnings and Advice for Aspiring Designers
As an entrepreneur who has weathered the ups and downs of running a business, Mridul has learned countless lessons along the way. From developing problem-solving skills to managing his team effectively, his journey has been transformative. “One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of communication, both with clients and within the team. Clear communication can make or break a project,” he shares.
To aspiring architects and interior designers, Mridul’s advice is simple yet profound: “Patience and dedication are the keys to success. There will be times when things won’t go as planned, but if you stay focused and committed to your work, success will follow.” He encourages young designers to stay true to themselves, embrace creativity, and be open to learning from every experience.
