For the People

Poonam Mehta and Akash Mehta try to understand their clients before starting the design process

Every house is about the people living in the house. I do a lot of people-centric designs.” That’s how Poonam Mehta approaches a project for her design studio AMPM. An acronym for Akash Mehta and Poonam Mehta, AMPM is a premium luxury interior design studio that’s making waves for all the right reasons.

A psychology graduate, Poonam Mehta was always interested in human behaviour and how it changes in different surroundings. She amalgamates her study of human psychology with her designs to create perfect luxurious homes for her clients.

“I feel psychology has really helped me deal with people, understand what they want in advance.” Her love for the creative arts and design persuaded her to do a master’s in interior design from University of Arts, London.

She has worked with renowned design firms like Talati and Panthaky Associates and DSP Designs. “Working with such reputed firms laid the foundation of my career. It’s always important to respect the journey that you’ve come from.”

Akash Mehta comes with a background in lighting and design. He creates the drama of light and shadow for their creations. For them, understanding the client in-depth first is important for creating a good relationship with them. “We start understanding them as individuals, what they come from, their background, their lifestyle, how they have lived, how they have seen their journey, before starting the design process.”

Their most favourite project is the stud farm that they designed in Pune. It was inspired by the heritage of India, especially the rich tapestry of palaces.

AMPM, as a firm, does the wholesale design process for any house, or retail or office project, from interior lighting and styling to designing their interior space. For every project, they design a few pieces of customised furniture for their clients, also adding a touch of personalisation, like creating a family crest or logo introduced in embroideries, or towels or napkins, which really makes it bespoke and brings luxury to the space.

Going forward, Miller would love to work on an adaptive reuse/conservation project in India. “That is where my interest in architecture, interiors and conservation will truly be amalgamated.”

By Mohan Siddharth, Studio Gulmohar