The Essence Of Sustainability Begins With Design – It Is About Building Responsibly, Flexibly, And Thoughtfully

Q – Could You Tell Us About Your Educational Background And Experience With The Architectural Firm Gensler (India) And Other Architectural Firms?

I moved to Canada shortly after receiving my Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Pune in 2000, intending to continue my education for a master’s degree. However, because of unavoidable circumstances, I had to take up a job in sales. This improved my ability to communicate and negotiate with clients and taught me how to be a better listener. After a year, I relocated to Chicago, where I started working as an architect for a small boutique firm; there, I understood the nuances of design and the craft of woodwork. Over the next several years, I gained more knowledge of site coordination and construction detailing while working for a company that specialised in contractor-led projects.

I joined Gensler India in 2013 after moving to Bengaluru. Joining Gensler was a matter of chance; I happened to be at the right place at the right time, almost by coincidence, when a casual visit to the office evolved into an interview. Despite having an affinity towards architectural projects, I got involved in interior design projects and investigated architectural interventions in them. I have worked in a global design environment for the past 12 years at Gensler, contributing to a variety of projects and developing as a designer all the while.

Q. What Inspired You To Pursue A Career In Architecture And Design?

I grew up in a family of photographers. My grandfather started the very first photo studio in my hometown of Porbandar, in Gujarat. Terms like focus, composition, contrast, and exposure became part of my vocabulary at a very early age. I used to join my father in the processing room to see how photos were developed. As a kid, seeing graphics emerging on a blank photopaper was nothing short of magic.

This process of creating something tangible from a thought or an idea never left my subconscious, and when I started seeing and appreciating built forms and their processes of evolution, architecture became an obvious choice. Though it was a learning curve once I started understanding different facets of the course—some came easily, some needed a lot of work—it was nonetheless a wholesome and rewarding five years of my life.

Q. Tell Us About Some Turning Points In Your Career.

I had two critical junctures in my professional career. The first was when I moved to Canada after finishing my bachelor’s degree. New place, new culture, new systems, etc.—that was a significant shift in perspective. It was like being thrown into the unknown and having to figure your way out to earn a living. Working in sales was an eye-opener: to understand people, their requirements, and provide them with solutions, no different from what an architect would do.

The second was when I moved back to India—to find my ground, my calling. Having no prior experience of working in India, I found myself a little lost. But this also helped me to look at things without any preconceived notions; almost a second chance to shape my career.

Q. Could You Please Brief Me On The Journey And Projects Of Gensler In India, As Well As The Projects You Are Currently Working On? What Type Of Projects Do You Do In India And Outside?

‘Borderless design will be the difference-maker between merely getting through the next crisis and ensuring that our whole world has a brighter future’-Gensler.

As we have several global projects prevalent in the Bengaluru office, I was able to contribute successfully during this phase thanks to my U.S. architectural licensure and my experience with American codes and construction methodologies.

The emphasis gradually shifted to regional initiatives. My first significant local project in Hyderabad was an interior project; it started as an interior fit-out but eventually evolved into a comprehensive architectural intervention. I gained first-hand knowledge of Indian construction methods on this project.

Since then, I have worked on a variety of domestic and international projects across various practice areas, including residential, workspace, retail, adaptive reuse (such as the Samsung Opera House in Bengaluru), and hospitality (like ITC Colombo).

Q. What Is Your Take On Sustainable Practice In Architecture Today?

I believe that the concept of sustainability in architecture is often misunderstood or reduced to a list of certifications, energy ratings, and material choices. While these are important, the essence of sustainability begins with design. It all boils down to creating spaces that are durable, adaptable, and versatile. Keeping with the idea that ‘the greenest buildings are those that have already been built’, designing an office that can be adapted into residences will eventually reduce the need for new construction. Sustainability should be more than simply a term; it should be a way of life. It concerns the long-term interactions between a space and its surroundings and its users. In the end, sustainable architecture is about doing the right thing, which is to build responsibly, flexibly, and thoughtfully.

Q. How Would You Define Your Design And Installation Process For Façades And Fenestrations In Your Projects?

The façade, in my opinion, is the building’s dialogue with its surroundings; it represents the character of the space it encloses. I think the façade should be a response to the function it caters to and the aesthetic it enhances.

Unfortunately, a lot of modern techniques prioritise aesthetics above functionality, such as metal coverings and glass façades, which frequently contradict our climate. Understanding climate, orientation, and cultural clues is the first step in my method. I place a high value on integrated design, in which features like fins or shading devices naturally develop from the shape of the building rather than being added on as accessories.

Q. Please Talk About The Most Preferred Façade Materials.

The building’s façade, in my opinion, is its initial interaction with the outside world; it should convey the building’s function, setting, and personality.

Glass is an obvious material because of its transparency and ease of upkeep, particularly in high-rise offices. I do, however, support the thoughtful use of glass rather than full-height curtain walls everywhere. Recessing floor-to-ceiling windows by a metre, for instance, can improve performance, lessen the glare, and provide shade without the need for additional fins, and this can also be economical.

I like materials like brick and natural stones due to their reduced embodied carbon, thermal performance, and contextual relevance. These materials age gracefully and possess a sense of belonging.

We created glass fins that encircled both the buildings in ITC Colombo; these were essential components of the façade, not add-ons. They contributed to the building’s individuality, offered shade, and reacted to sun angles. Even at night, the fins were expressive and useful because of integrated illumination.

Q. Could You Please Brief Me On The Latest Trends In Façade And Fenestration Designs, Materials And Technologies?

Currently, through parametric and computational design, we can program façade iterations according to characteristics like daylight, ventilation, and visual permeability using tools like Rhino + Grasshopper.

Q. Please Throw Some Light On A Few Of Your Milestone Projects And Also Some Of Your Challenging Projects.

Two projects from my years at Gensler stand out as having had a significant influence on my architectural career:

• ITC Colombo, Sri Lanka (now ITC Ratnadeep): This historic five-star hotel and branded homes were ITC’s first foreign endeavour. The project sought to make a strong statement and was politically crucial after the Civil War. It included two towers (30 and 50 floors) with a pool and F&B area, joined by a two-storey bridge. A significant engineering achievement, the bridge was prefabricated and lifted into position. The site’s rich historical background and waterfronts necessitated thoughtful design, which included terrace gardens influenced by Sri Lankan tea culture. I learnt the value of contextual design and the extent of interdisciplinary teamwork needed for this project.
• Samsung Opera House, Bengaluru: A retail experience centre that was nestled inside a 100-year-old Opera House in the heart of Bengaluru. After serving its course, it later functioned as a movie theatre, a market, and eventually became obsolete. As a part of adaptive reuse strategies, the façade was restored, the structure was upgraded, and contemporary MEP systems were integrated while maintaining the building’s historical significance. The community-focused endeavour struck a balance between innovation and conservation. It is one of the most impactful projects I have ever worked on.

Q. What Kind Of Software And Tools Do You Use While Designing Efficient And Effective Façades And Fenestrations?

We combine parametric modelling, performance analysis, and BIM tools in our design process to make sure façades are expressive and efficient.

Our preferred tool for collaboration and documentation throughout construction is Revit.

We utilise Rhino and Grasshopper for creative façade design because they enable us to rapidly test design alternatives and script intricate shapes.

We use programs like Climate Studio, which simulate solar exposure, glare, and daylight autonomy, for daylight and environmental studies. This enables us to optimise a façade by comprehending its behaviour in a particular climatic setting.

Q. Please Brief On Future Façade Technologies, Designs, And Materials That You Wish To See In The Next 20 Years.

High-performing materials and technologies that are integrated into the local climate and culture are examples of contextual sustainability and should be incorporated into façade design in the future. Technologies should promote long-lasting, adaptable façades that age well and integrate with their environment. I find it incredibly appealing when traditional materials like brick and stone are used creatively. This is because they are locally sourced, maintained, and offer timeless quality, durability, and thermal comfort.

Q. What Is Your Advice To Young And Upcoming Architects?

Despite being a very fulfilling career, architecture is frequently misinterpreted by others. Many people only see the ‘glamorous’ side of things, but the truth is much more complex. It requires diligence, patience, and purpose in addition to creativity.

Young architects should always grasp the “why” behind their work, in my opinion. There should be a purpose behind every design choice. Building confidence in your process is more important than showing you’re correct. You’re already developing as a designer if you can justify your choice of material, form, or detail.

Moreover, architecture is more than just drawings; it’s about turning ideas into reality. For that, you need to be persistent. It’s perseverance that truly tests your love for the craft, as projects may constantly evolve.

Finally, remain open to new information, keep your curiosity alive, and accept the patience needed for the task. The development of architecture requires time and careful thought. And that, to me, is the ‘glamour’ element in the profession.