In a city known for its textiles and diamonds, Mauliv Patel chose to build something different—spaces that breathe, inspire, and leave a lasting impression.
It all started with a sketch.
Long before he founded one of Surat’s most distinctive architectural studios, Mauliv Patel was a boy fascinated with lines, shapes, and the silhouettes of buildings against the sky. While the rest of his family practiced law, Mauliv’s heart pulled him in another direction. Architecture wasn’t just a career path—it was an obsession, a quiet pull that only grew louder with time.
“Good buildings have always caught my eye,” he says. “Even when I didn’t know the technicalities, I was drawn to structure and space.”
From Passion to Profession
In 2018, that quiet passion took the form of a business. Mauliv launched Studio TAG from a modest space in Surat, starting with small renovation projects and a few trusted collaborators. Fast forward to today, and Studio TAG operates with a talented team of over 10 designers and 3D artists, delivering luxurious, large-scale bungalows and villas across Gujarat and beyond.
The studio’s headquarters—located at 303 Pulse House, Lal Darwaja, Gotalawadi—is a reflection of its founder: grounded, refined, and full of intent.
For Mauliv, each project is more than a blueprint or a 3D render. It’s an experience—designed not just to look beautiful but to live beautifully. “Architecture is where aesthetics meet emotion,” he explains. “And every space we design must serve both form and function.”
Building with Purpose
Studio TAG is best known for its luxury homes—opulent bungalows and elegant villas that marry modern design with timeless elegance. But behind the aesthetics lies something deeper: a commitment to functionality, sustainability, and staying ahead of the curve.
“We don’t just build walls and roofs. We create environments. Places that breathe, connect with the people inside them, and stand the test of time.”
At a time when “green design” is often used as a buzzword, Mauliv takes it seriously. Sustainability isn’t a trend to follow—it’s a responsibility to uphold.
“It’s our duty as designers to protect our environment,” he says firmly. “Designing sustainably isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential for our future.”
From incorporating eco-friendly materials to optimizing natural airflow and lighting, sustainability is woven into the DNA of every project that leaves the Studio TAG drawing board.
The Journey of Becoming
No entrepreneur’s path is without obstacles. For Mauliv, the biggest challenges came not from design—but from managing people.
“In the beginning, project management was the real test,” he recalls. “Coordinating contractors, chasing payments, ensuring work quality—all while meeting deadlines—was overwhelming.”
But challenges didn’t deter him. Instead, they shaped his leadership style. Calm, communicative, and quietly confident, Mauliv learned how to manage teams, build trust with clients, and maintain quality across every stage of the design process. He credits his growth to every struggle he faced.
“You learn on the field. Each project teaches you something new,” he says. “Architecture school gives you knowledge—but running a practice teaches you resilience.”
Influences, Inspirations & Identity
Mauliv often draws inspiration from Ar. Premnath, a renowned architect whose work challenged conventions and embraced innovation.
“He’s someone I’ve always looked up to,” Mauliv shares. “Not just for his creativity, but for his courage to do things differently.”
That same spirit is evident in how Mauliv approaches his own work. Whether it’s experimenting with materials, adopting new technologies, or embracing cutting-edge software, he believes in staying curious and constantly evolving.
“Comfort zones are the enemy of creativity,” he adds. “If you stop learning, you stop growing.”
And it’s not just technical skill that defines a good architect—Mauliv believes emotional intelligence plays a huge role. Understanding a client’s needs, personality, lifestyle, and even unspoken aspirations is critical to delivering a design that resonates.
“Client psychology is everything. You’re not just designing for the eye. You’re designing for how someone will live, feel, and grow in that space.”
Leading from Within
What sets Mauliv apart as an entrepreneur isn’t just his eye for design—it’s his attitude. He leads from the front, not just with instructions, but with integrity, innovation, and a willingness to evolve.
Whether it’s training his team on the latest tools or encouraging experimentation with new materials, Mauliv ensures Studio TAG stays on the cutting edge of design. His openness to change, hunger for knowledge, and a deep sense of accountability have created a studio culture that’s collaborative, bold, and future-forward.
“I believe in exploring. I never want us to do the same thing twice. Every project should challenge us to think deeper and design smarter.”
A Project Close to the Heart
Ask him to name a project that’s closest to his heart, and he lights up.
“The Screen Bungalow,” he says with a smile.
It’s a luxury home designed for a young builder—thoughtfully structured with elegant facades and functional interiors, designed to balance privacy with openness, natural light with shade. Currently in its final stages, the project represents everything Studio TAG stands for—creativity, sustainability, and a deep connection to the client’s vision.
“It’s a project that tested us creatively and technically. And I believe it will speak for itself once it’s complete.”
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Mauliv is focused on scaling the studio’s impact—both creatively and socially. While luxury remains at the core of Studio TAG’s identity, sustainability is the studio’s growing pillar for the future.
“We want to build smarter, greener, and more meaningful,” he says. “Our future lies in how well we adapt and how deeply we care about the world we’re designing for.”
He envisions expanding the firm’s footprint beyond Gujarat, engaging in larger public projects, and mentoring young architects who share his values.
For the Next Generation
To aspiring architects and designers, Mauliv offers grounded, no-nonsense advice:
“Keep learning. Keep evolving. Architecture isn’t just drawing—it’s problem solving, people management, and vision. And most importantly, don’t forget your ‘why’. Never lose sight of what got you into this field in the first place.”
He encourages young professionals to stay updated with design trends, emerging tools, and global case studies—but to also stay true to themselves.
“This is a field of expression. Your designs will reflect who you are. So let your work speak your truth.”
