Since modern design is constantly innovating at a fast pace, what would you describe are the trending elements within the design field today?
There has been an increasing demanding for spaces that are more eco- friendly, energy- efficient along with the luxurious eye catchy ambiences. The environment and the impact of construction on the environment as well as local aesthetic are now trending. The concept of green spaces has become an integral part of all residential as well as commercial projects in the modern times. The boom in sustainable building is driving new levels of architectural innovation. Smart Homes, also known as home automation allows the users to control their house with a single swipe or a tap. It can control the lighting, temperature, appliances and even maintain the security. Another area that’s having a moment in architecture is parametric design.
What is your most exciting “realized” architectural design to date?
One of the most exciting project I find is Viveka Tirtha Art Institute, Newtown, Kolkata. The art institute building is designed to resemble the iconic
Art Institute of Chicago where Swami Vivekananda gave the historic speech. The design and requirements of the client needed to be achieved amidst stringent statutory requirements and a very tight budget. It was challenging, considering downscaling all the architectural elements in an exact fashion while making the building look only G+1 whereas the inside is 20 m high spanning over four levels of lobbies and balcony seatings. The flat roof rcc auditorium spanning over 20.7m casted over a height of 20 m, is the first of its kind in Kolkata of this scale, & it posed a great structural challenge due to non- post tension structure. The interior of the building has spaces of varying volumes and dimensions all creating to invoke surprises as one moves inside, with open & covered terraces, internal balconies, double & triple height spaces, curved & straight walls, level changes etc. The entire building is dry cladded in chunar stone of varying thickness from 40 mm to almost 600 mm. The interior of building is very simple with maintenance free material, granite flooring, glass and stainless steel.
Any words of wisdom for youngsters starting out today?
I always see such a lot of passion and talent around me – and we can only do our best work while working together. I always set my ways to mentor and advice the younger generations during my work in hope for better future. I always advise them firsthand two things, – always learn and develop skills because architecture requires a lot of skill and a lot of sensitivity. Secondly, be obstinate because there aren’t many opportunities and when they appear you need to focus on them to ensure “work brings more work”. It is very satisfying to see the next generation grow confident and more competent.
