In the domain of interior design and architecture, the seamless fusion of aesthetics and utility is paramount. Crafting spaces transcends mere visual appeal; it necessitates the integration of beauty and functionality, elevating the ordinary into extraordinary environments. The aim is to enhance the human experience within these living spaces - spaces that inspire, comfort, and adapt to evolving needs. This steadfast pursuit of merging form and function underpins every remarkable design. Jutamat’s establishment of The Matchbox Company mirrors this very ethos, emphasizing spaces that epitomize this harmonious blend.
As the visionary founder of The Matchbox Company, Jutamat Pattamavipart Narula has played an instrumental role in the company's meteoric growth. Her passion for innovation, quality, and harmonizing form with function has set The Matchbox Company on a trajectory of success. Jutamat's leadership and creative prowess continue to shape the company's future, as it emerges as a powerhouse in the world of interior design and architecture.Below is an excerpt of Jutamat’s exclusive interaction with The Global Women Leader magazine.
Take us through the formative years of your life. What were some key early influences in life that shaped you as an individual?
My formative years in interior design commenced at Silapakorn University, a prestigious institution with an artistic heritage. Graduating with honors, I embarked on a 27-year journey that began in the hospitality sector, allowing me to witness the intricate fusion of art and function. Working on the design and construction of Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport was also a defining experience. Over the years, I honed my craft through diverse roles in various companies, culminating in co-founding PDM Design International, and serving multinational corporate giants. The acquisition by Jones Lang LaSalle expanded my horizons, and I later established 'The Matchbox,' dedicated to innovative workspaces. These formative years nurtured my passion for design and an unwavering commitment to crafting functional yet aesthetically pleasing spaces.
What led you to establish The Matchbox Company? What are your focus areas in terms of driving growth for the company?
The inception of The Matchbox Company was a pivotal moment in my career. Following the sale of my previous venture to Jones Lang LaSalle, I seized the opportunity to create something new, driven by an unwavering passion for crafting innovative and functional spaces, especially for multinational corporations. Currently, we primarily focus on the corporate sector, with nearly 90% of our projects. We're committed to diversifying our clientele and expanding into the retail industry. We're also venturing into the medical sector, responding to Thailand's evolving role as a medical hub in the Asia-Pacific region. The Matchbox Company's growth strategy revolves around diversification, expansion, and adaptability, reflecting our commitment to innovation and leaving a lasting mark in design and functionality.
"Our Resolve To Persist & Adapt In The Face Of Challenges Drives Our Continued Success"
Throw some light on the major business challenges you encounter in terms of leading The Matchbox Company. How do you overcome the said roadblocks?
Leading The Matchbox Company comes with its share of substantial challenges. First, we are strong in our commitment to delivering top-notch service to our clients. Each project demands our utmost dedication, even when unforeseen obstacles arise. Second, maintaining impeccable quality is a perpetual struggle. We meticulously oversee both design and construction quality, enhancing health and safety measures, and minimizing defects. Third, adhering to client requirements regarding project timelines and budgets can be demanding. The pursuit of meeting these obligations while ensuring flawless project execution requires constant attention. Lastly, adept crisis management is vital, tackling unexpected issues promptly and effectively. Our resolve to persist and adapt in the face of challenges drives our continued success.
In your opinion what are the biggest ‘wins’ that you have achieved in your professional journey so far?
Throughout my professional journey, I cherish significant achievements, notably The Matchbox Company's organic growth. This growth extends beyond interior design into architectural ventures, broadening our creative horizons. In the next year or two, we aim to compete in the prestigious PSI awards, a platform to showcase our innovative designs. I've also set an ambitious goal – to list the company on a stock market segment within 15 years. This vision stems from the belief that creative businesses can carve a unique financial niche, reflecting our holistic approach that combines creativity with business acumen. These milestones highlight our adaptability and unwavering determination in an ever-evolving industry.
What inspired the creation of The Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health Milk Bank and its mission?
The creation of The Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health Milk Bank was inspired by a profound commitment to the welfare of Thailand's underprivileged children. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, our passion for making a difference remained unwavering. The mission was driven by our designer's heartfelt dedication, crafting a space where the purity of mother's milk is symbolized in white, and green exudes freshness and calm. This initiative serves as a sanctuary for mothers with excess milk, offering a lifeline for babies in need. We proudly provided construction and furniture, urging clients to support this hospital's vital work.
Jutamat Pattamavipart Narula, Founder, The Matchbox Company
Jutamat Pattamavipart Narula, Founder of The Matchbox Company, is an acclaimed interior design luminary. With a background in interior design from Silapakorn University, she possesses vast experience, including instrumental roles at PDM Design International and Jones Lang LaSalle. Her strong commitment to merging beauty and functionality defines her innovative approach to design.
Role Model - Khun Jareeporn Jarukornsakul, the Chairman of the Executive Committee and Group Chief Executive Officer of WHA Corporation Public Company, is my role model, as her exceptional management skills and strategies consistently inspire me in my professional journey.
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