We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Vahdat and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Mike, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Iran and moved to the United States at the age of 18. My journey brought me to Cobb County, Georgia, where I completed high school. I then pursued both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Tech. After graduating, I began my career working for a Fortune 100 company as a researcher and project manager. After five years, I transitioned to a short tenure with a large international firm as a program manager before being recruited as Vice President and Engineering Manager for a major manufacturing company. In that role, I was responsible for factory remodeling and expansion, which is where I discovered my passion for construction.
In 1999, I launched my first construction company, focusing on starter homes and properties for first-time movers. Over nearly a decade, I built over 300 homes ranging from $150,000 townhomes to million-dollar single-family residences. Since 2008, my focus has been on growing Ambiance Atlanta into one of the premier design-build companies in the city, offering tailored solutions that bring clients’ visions to life.
What should our readers know about your business?
At Ambiance Atlanta, we specialize in providing customized design-build solutions that balance creativity and functionality. What sets us apart is our commitment to truly understanding our clients’ needs and delivering projects that exceed their expectations. I’m most proud of the relationships we’ve built with clients, many of whom return for additional projects or recommend us to others.
The journey has not been easy. Challenges are an inevitable part of entrepreneurship, from economic downturns to the complexities of managing a growing business. I’ve always approached problems by breaking them down to their fundamental components, solving smaller issues first to simplify the larger ones. This methodical approach, coupled with persistence and an ability to learn from setbacks, has been instrumental in my growth as a business owner.
I want the world to know that Ambiance Atlanta is more than just a construction company; we’re partners in transforming your vision into a reality. We take pride in every project, big or small, because we believe that your space should reflect your lifestyle and aspirations.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First and foremost, I’d invite them to experience my family’s hospitality by hosting them at my home. Beyond that, I’d take them to explore Georgia’s beautiful state and national parks, as we’re incredibly fortunate to have so many natural wonders nearby.
For dining, I’d recommend Rumi’s Kitchen in Sandy Springs for exceptional Persian cuisine and C&S Seafood for fresh, expertly prepared seafood. For entertainment, a visit to The Velvet Note in Alpharetta for an intimate jazz night would be a must. These experiences showcase the richness of Atlanta’s cultural and culinary scene, making for a memorable visit.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The majority of my success is due to the unwavering support of my wife and children. They’ve stood by me through all the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Their love, patience, and encouragement have been my greatest motivators. They are my toughest critics, pushing me to improve both personally and professionally, and also my loudest cheerleaders during challenging times. Without their support, I wouldn’t have been able to build Ambiance Atlanta into what it is today.
Website: https://www.ambianceatlanta.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambiance_atl/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ambianceatlanta
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ambianceatl