In the heart of Mumbai’s dynamic design scene, Contours — The Design Co. (CTDC) has become synonymous with refined creativity, bold vision, and flawless execution. Founded in the early 2010s by Anand Mehta and Prashant Halankar, the firm has grown from a shared dream into an award-winning studio whose work speaks across scales and geographies.
The partnership began organically. Anand and Prashant, both graduates of Rachana Sansad’s School of Interior Design, initially collaborated on small projects. These early ventures revealed not just compatibility, but a shared design philosophy—spaces should be as functional as they are beautiful, and every detail should serve a purpose. What started as a casual collaboration soon became a fully formed creative alliance, giving birth to CTDC.
Beyond Aesthetics — Designing for Impact
At CTDC, architecture and interiors are more than visual statements—they are catalysts for experience. The studio’s portfolio ranges from institutional and commercial developments to multi-residential and bespoke single-family homes. Whether designing an urban public space or a private villa, their aim remains constant: to elevate the way people live, work, and connect through thoughtful design.
What distinguishes their work is their context-first approach. Anand and Prashant believe every site, client, and community tells a story, and their role is to translate that narrative into built form. Global design standards merge seamlessly with local influences, resulting in spaces that are luxurious yet grounded, ambitious yet human-scaled.
The Challenge of Beginnings
In the early days, their greatest challenge was credibility. Convincing clients to entrust a young studio with significant projects required persistence. The solution? Deliver excellence—consistently. Every project, no matter the size, was treated with the same rigor and creativity. As satisfied clients became advocates, CTDC’s reputation grew, reinforced by its ability to handle both high-concept vision and detailed execution with equal skill.
Over time, the partners discovered that adaptability and collaboration were not just business strategies, but essential survival tools in the fast-paced world of design.
A Balanced Partnership
If CTDC’s work feels both imaginative and meticulous, it is because Anand and Prashant bring different strengths to the table. Prashant is structured, precise, and methodical—he ensures every technical element aligns with the broader concept. Anand thrives on creative spontaneity, drawing inspiration from travel, art, and global design trends. Together, they form a partnership where vision and detail never compete, but complement.
They also credit their growth to a mindset of continuous learning. From the clarity and contextual depth of Charles Correa to the daring fluidity of Zaha Hadid, they draw inspiration from a spectrum of global masters—while infusing their own cultural and personal perspectives into each project.
A Project That Defines Trust
Among their many works, a 15,000 sq. ft. villa in Goa holds a special place in their hearts. The client granted them complete creative freedom—a rare gift in the profession. The result was a home that celebrated openness, fluidity, and harmony with its lush surroundings. It was not merely a design exercise, but an emotional journey, affirming that the best results emerge when talent is matched by trust.
Commitment to Sustainability
CTDC views sustainability not as an optional feature, but as a professional responsibility. Their designs incorporate energy-efficient systems, locally sourced materials, and timeless aesthetics that age gracefully rather than chase fleeting trends. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also ensures their spaces remain relevant and functional for decades.
Technology, too, plays a growing role in their vision for the future. By integrating smart systems and innovative building solutions, they aim to enhance comfort, efficiency, and adaptability in their projects.
Advice for the Next Generation
For aspiring architects and designers, Anand and Prashant’s message is clear: Stay authentic, but be flexible. Listen deeply, observe the world around you, and evolve constantly. In their view, design is a lifelong apprenticeship—one where curiosity and humility are as vital as talent.
From overcoming early scepticism to shaping some of the most striking and functional spaces in Mumbai and beyond, Contours — The Design Co. has shown that great design is born from the intersection of skill, passion, and trust. Whether it’s a villa in Goa or a community-focused urban space, Anand Mehta and Prashant Halankar bring not just expertise, but a genuine desire to improve the way people experience the world around them.
And in doing so, they prove that when design is done right, it doesn’t just fill a space—it transforms it.
