montage dezign, inc. is owned by Mumtaz Anwar, Associate, AIA.

Mumtaz holds a Bachelors in Architecture and a Masters in Interior Design. He is the recipient of several academic and professional awards. He taught sophomore and senior design studios at Cornell University as a graduate student (1990-92). In addition, Mumtaz has published articles on topics such as affordable housing and dining facilities for the elderly. His work has also been published in furnishings magazine (also see designer q&a).

Mumtaz has held various design and project management positions in several architectural offices in New York, and San Francisco and Minneapolis/ St Paul. His architectural and interior design expertise ranges from small housing units, to multifamily housing, to hospitality and commercial projects. His apartment features minimal-contemporary furniture that he designed, built, and exhibited at an AIA convention in Minneapolis.

My diverse academic and professional background in architecture and interior design helps me look at each project as a whole, taking into account the impact of architecture on interior spaces. My approach to design begins with listening and exchanging the ideas. I listen to my clients--to their unique requirements, how they intend to use particular spaces, and what kind of lifestyles they lead--and use that as my primary guideline for design concepts. Once a design has been chosen, I make sure to continue to communicate with clients throughout the design and construction process; I believe that's the key to positive results.

I believe in connecting interiors and exteriors, making them more dynamic and lively, and taking advantage of natural light--playing with natural light and shade is one of my fortes. In my designs, spaces are connected to each other to encourage a natural flow--making spaces more intimate, open, and visually connected to other spaces--while maintaining the privacy and essence of individual spaces. My designs grow from the organic nature of the site, complementing the terrain; site contours, surrounding views, climatic conditions, and the orientation of the sun. A room is not just a box to me; it's a sculpture that is alive with light, shapes, colors, materials, and textures that contribute to the feel of the finished room. In order to make rooms feel spacious and serene, I select colors, finishes, lighting, and furnishings according to the unique nature of the three-dimensional space and the amount of natural light that filters through.

Whether it's a small remodeling project, an addition, or a new construction of any size, I make projects user-friendly, aesthetically pleasing, innovative, and satisfying to the senses, keeping in view my client's budget and time frame. Regardless of architectural style--classical or contemporary--my design and problem-solving strategies are always geared towards my client's needs and directions.