Chandan Mahimkar is one of India’s leading independent designers, creative directors, and typographers. Based in Mumbai, his work draws from decades of experience across branding, design, advertising, and strategy. What sets Chandan apart is his belief in deep craft, clear thinking, and meaningful mentorship. From early influences shaped by family and school competitions to founding his own studio, he has stayed focused on timeless design principles in a fast-changing world. For Chandan, design is both a strategic tool and a cultural conversation—rooted in craft, but open to evolution.
Can you tell us a little about your first few steps in your career. Was there a moment or experience when you realised this was what you'd do as a career?
I was always interested in graphic design and typography since my school days. My parents and teachers encouraged me to draw and participate in competitions, so I decided on design very early on. My father too was inclined to design and architecture so I naturally took it as an inspiration to move ahead into design and communication.
What lessons from your career have most shaped your style and approach?
Post graduation I joined a creative hot shop in Mumbai, from where I learnt the importance of craft both in ideas and execution. Later on this early learning proved immensely helpful while navigating design projects and ad campaigns. Since starting my own studio I choose projects based on the same philosophy and try to push my clients out of their comfort zone.
Tell us about the core values or philosophies that guide your creative practice.
Research, insights, market visits, interviews and clear strategic direction is where the foundation of any good design practice lies. Then to build on that with your ideas, craft, team work, execution & passion makes it extremely satisfying. To be willing to adapt as per circumstances and expectations is the key to a successful practice.
What needs to change, so emerging and under-represented creative professionals have more opportunity, are seen and heard?
Established designers and thought leaders need to take on the role of mentors to under-represented creatives. Younger designers too need a lot of guidance to navigate their careers. A lecture here and a workshop there is not going to help, a meaningful mentorship requires continued guidance.
How important is it that creative professionals find their unique voice?
I think creatives need to first understand the importance of adding value to their own work and simultaneously add value to their client projects. Finding a unique voice takes its own time and effort, but that should not stop creatives from adding value to client projects through their expertise. Besides commissioned work, staying proactive plus working on passion projects definitely helps creatives to hone their ideas & craft, and gain exposure in the process.
Looking ahead, what do you think are the key factors that will influence change for creative professionals?
AI of course being one of the factors. One needs to explore it and be able to use it effectively. I personally do not bother about AI as anyone and everyone is using it. If you are specialized in what you do and are a thinker then the power of insights, ideas and craft is your biggest super power even in these AI powered times. The other factor is working on your craft and practicing regularly to be better at what you do. There are no shortcuts for a long and successful career.
How much does your city influence your work?
A lot, Mumbai is very very fast paced and therefore it impacts the way clients approach their needs too. Hence strategic discussions become a key part of my design projects. Certain sectors are more stronger in Mumbai as compared to other Indian cities, and that has also been an advantage for my practice.
How much does your culture influence your work?
India is so diverse in its culture & geography that there is no pattern here. Each client brings in their own unique culture...like family background, the science of Vaastu, their unique organizational culture and processes. I feel this diversity helps in crafting refreshing work and narratives.
Tell us some of your favourite, creative professionals and inspiring places in your city!
I love the South Mumbai area of Colaba and Fort. They are great for heritage walks, f&b, shopping, galleries and museums. My favourite designers are Herb Lubalin, Paula Scher, Louise Fili, Tobias Frere-Jones, Turner Duckworth & Dave Dye.
What should emerging creative professionals keep in mind as they begin their design career?
Design trends come and go, but timeless design principles stay on. Power of ideas and craft over anything else. Never stop practicing or doing what you love. Make real world connections.