5 minute read
The Construction Crew
The Construction Crew is a firm where civil engineering and interior design come together to create holistic, functional, and visually appealing spaces. Founded by Neha and Vedang Prabhudessai, the company is built on the principles of innovation, creativity, and a shared vision of excellence in design and construction. This article delves into the journey of the founders, the unique approach of their firm, their project management process, and the challenges they face in balancing civil engineering with interior aesthetics.
The Vision Behind The Construction Crew
Neha and Vedang Prabhudessai, both civil engineers by education, started their careers with the ambition to create something extraordinary in the fields of civil engineering and interior design. The two graduated from Goa Engineering College in 2015, with Neha subsequently pursuing a diploma in interior design from Deccan University, Pune, and Vedang gaining experience with Paranjape Schemes Constructions Ltd, one of India’s top real estate developers.
Their complementary skill sets—Neha’s expertise in interior design and Vedang’s experience in large- scale construction—laid the foundation for The Construction Crew. Together, they envisioned a company that would not only handle structural elements but also focus on creating cohesive interior designs. Realizing that many clients were seeking a single-point solution for both aspects, they established the firm with the goal of integrating civil engineering and interior design under one roof.
The Construction Crew’s Approach
The Construction Crew integrates civil engineering and interior design from the start, ensuring both structural and aesthetic elements align seamlessly. This approach offers clients a single point of contact throughout the project, streamlining communication and avoiding delays. By planning everything inhouse, the firm prevents conflicts and last-minute changes, delivering a unified and efficient project execution.
The Project Management Process
The Construction Crew starts with a detailed client consultation, integrating any masonry, electrical, or layout adjustments early in the planning process. This proactive approach minimizes costly changes later. Once needs and budget are set, the team
creates a comprehensive plan to ensure smooth progress. Their in-house vendors, including carpenters and electricians, work together efficiently, with regular quality checks to meet client expectations at every stage.
Balancing Structural and Aesthetic Design
One of the key elements of The Construction Crew's process is ensuring that both the structural integrity and aesthetic design of each project are aligned. From the very beginning, the civil engineering team collaborates with the interior designers to ensure that every decision supports both the structure and the overall design.
For instance, structural elements like load-bearing walls, plumbing, and electrical systems are carefully planned in conjunction with the interior design layout. This approach eliminates the need for core cutting or last-minute adjustments that could compromise the project’s integrity. By incorporating 3D modelling and simulations, the team can visualize how the structural elements will interact with the aesthetic features, ensuring a harmonious final product.
The Construction Crew believes that the key to integrating architecture and interior design lies in early collaboration. By working closely with architects from the very beginning, the firm ensures that the architectural design is in sync with the interior plans. This allows them to harmonize the layout, materials, and finishes across all aspects of the project.
This collaborative approach ensures that the structural and aesthetic elements reflect a cohesive theme. By aligning the architectural features with the interior design from the outset, The Construction Crew creates spaces that are not only functional but also aesthetically unified.
A Challenging Project: Building During a Pandemic
One of the firm’s most challenging projects was constructing a lock-and-key residential bungalow during the Covid-19 pandemic. The project faced several obstacles, including material and labour shortages due to the lockdowns, as well as the impact of the Tauktae cyclone. Despite these setbacks, the firm managed to source materials from different locations and kept the project on track.
The project was completed within two years, from demolition to new construction and interior design. The firm’s dedication to overcoming these challenges earned them a jury appreciation award from the Indian Concrete Institute-Ultra Tech, and the project was featured in The Architect’s Diary.
Sustainable Practices and Future Goals
Sustainability is a core value for The Construction Crew. The firm prioritizes the use of recycled materials, sources local products, and integrates natural ventilation and lighting into their designs.
They also believe in reusing existing furniture whenever possible, applying new finishes and techniques to transform these pieces into personalized focal points within the home.
Conclusion
The Construction Crew is a testament to how civil engineering and interior design can be seamlessly integrated to create functional and visually stunning spaces. Their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and client satisfaction has set them apart in the industry. By offering a holistic approach to design and construction, they continue to transform spaces and bring their clients' visions to life.
