Architecture is the cause and consequence of social change

Ar. Nilabh Nagar talks about his journey as an architect, a few of his challenging & milestone projects, most recent projects, and façade technologies, designs & materials that he would like to see in the next 20 years. Here are the abstracts from his interview with WFM Media.

Could you tell us about your educational background and your experiences as an architect at AHC?

I graduated from the School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, in 1991 and have been actively involved in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry since January of that year. My journey began with an incredible experience at AHC, where, even as an intern, I was entrusted with significant responsibilities. I had the privilege of working directly with Hafeez Contractor on a range of projects, from master planning and single-plot dwellings to healthcare facilities – an experience that exposed me to a diverse array of project scales and typologies right from the start.

Over the years, I have had the pleasure of working on a wide variety of projects, each presenting its own unique challenges. The process of exploring new typologies, delving into deep research, planning, innovation, design, and execution, has been deeply engaging, both physically and mentally. Each project brought its own set of complexities, and addressing these diversities has been incredibly stimulating.

The satisfaction derived from navigating these intricate challenges has been profound, and it continues to drive my passion for the work I do to this day.

What inspired you to pursue a career in architecture and design?

Growing up as the son of an accomplished engineer, discussions at home often revolved around subjects like science, mathematics, logical thinking, and technology. Naturally, engineering became my initial choice. During matriculation, I chose Engineering Technical Drawing as my fifth subject, and I discovered a deep passion for it. My strong ability to visualise in 3-D and pay attention to detail allowed me to excel in the subject. With aspirations of studying at one of the top institutes in the country, I applied and performed well in the entrance exam for the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA). At that time, architecture was not widely recognised as a profession. However, I had an older cousin who had graduated in architecture and a close friend’s father, who was an interior contractor.

They both had the deepest respect for the profession and encouraged me to pursue the course at SPA. My time at SPA turned out to be the best experience of my life, where every moment, every assignment, and every exploration offered something unique. Our batch was blessed with a truly remarkable set of working professionals in each and every year. the faculty exposed us from Mud architecture to tensile structure to hyperbolic paraboloid; and from vernacular to urban design. Our team topped the urban design semester and created a record in the school history got me deeply hooked to the subject. The school encouraged travel and we got to visit all parts of the country. The travel bug continues….

Tell us about some turning points in your career. What type of projects do you specialise in?

During my initial years, I had the opportunity to work on a corporate office building for an American company, which had to be completed with interiors within a year on a minimal budget. This project required meticulous attention to detail to minimise waste. Every element, including the furniture, was designed as a multiple of an 8’ x 4’ plywood sheet. Even the light fixtures were custom-designed to be cost-effective while maintaining a unique aesthetic. Completing the project on time and within budget was highly rewarding, and the firm earned a bonus of ₹5,00,000 back in 1993 for the achievement!

My first experience with curtain walls came while working on a shopping mall and another corporate office project. One involved a stick curtain wall with a toggle fix, popularised by Schueco, while the other used a Technal system. Neither system was available in India at the time, but a fabricator imported them.

I was fascinated by the intricacies of extrusion, alloys, gaskets, joinery, drainage, and more. This interest grew into a hobby, leading me to explore various systems from around the world and apply them to my projects. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with spider glass fin façades, skylights, unitised systems, tension rod systems, and more. However, I was most captivated by CableNet façades, which I proposed and executed in several projects, some of which became the largest installations in the country.

I’ve always been drawn to technically challenging projects. One such project was Turbhe Station in Navi Mumbai, which featured one of the largest span station roofs, constructed entirely with bolted connections. Another notable project involved designing 200,000 houses for slum dwellers in Mumbai. This required a comprehensive study of the land and the creation of cost-efficient modules that could be rapidly scaled and built.

I also had the opportunity to design highly energy-efficient, platinum-rated office buildings featuring earth air cooling, under-floor air-conditioning, and green plantation envelopes. More recently, I worked on a hotel project near Mumbai airport, where I designed a double-skin façade with laminated glass capable of withstanding machine gun fire and the intense noise of aircraft. I also explored the use of coloured PVB laminated glass façades in another project.

Having built millions of square meters over the years, my current interest lies in urban spaces -between buildings, buildings and street and transit-oriented developments. My focus now is on promoting resilient neighbourhoods and enhancing interactions between people through meaningful pedestrian connections.

Please brief some of your milestone projects with AHC?

I am deeply fascinated by technically challenging mixed-use projects, particularly those intended for public use, such as hotels, malls, terminals, convention centres, and more. Some of the projects that have captured my interest include:

• 

  Office Park Powai, Mumbai – Completed within budget and on time.

• ATS Village, Noida – One of the largest developments at the time.
• ATS Hamlet, Noida – A highly sought-after real estate project, both then and now.
• Turbhe Station, Navi Mumbai.
• Atria Mall, Worli, Mumbai.
• DLF Phase 3 and Phase 4, Gurugram– Master planning and group housing.
• Airtel Building, Gurugram.
• Airport Terminal, Mumbai.
• ONGC Corporate Offices in Delhi, Dehradun, and Mumbai.
• Windsor Office, Kalina, Mumbai.
• Sylwan County Villas, Chennai.
• NICMAR Campus, Pune.
• Taj Santacruz, 5star hotel Mumbai.
• 15 Metro Stations, Pune.
• Transit-Oriented Affordable Housing, 60,000 units Navi Mumbai.

What is your take on sustainable practice in architecture today?

To me, sustainability means building, living, and travelling responsibly, with a focus on being frugal in the use of materials, energy, transportation, daylight and greenery. It also involves creating comfortable spaces that encourage meaningful interactions, fostering joy and positivity, so that humanity can coexist with nature indefinitely. This includes promoting recycling and reuse, and maximising the use of renewable resources like wood, steel, and bamboo. Thankfully, awareness of sustainability has grown, and today, every action is evaluated by its carbon footprint.

How would you define your design process for façades in your projects?

Façade design is an integral and crucial aspect of the overall project, as the building envelope serves as the most visible and important interface with the external environment. It plays both an aesthetic and functional role, requiring a thoughtful balance of cost, performance, visual impact, perceptions, and creative expression Energy savings and conservation have become a key consideration in façade design, with factors like wall-to-window ratio, external shading, orientation, and the management of heat and humidity being critical.

The integration of windows and curtain wall elements has been extensively tested and implemented, but attention is still needed for material interface details largely dependent on sealants. The interface between subcontractors, particularly those handling civil and façade work, is an ongoing challenge. Thus the shop drawings and then good fabrication under a controlled dust-free environment followed by skill installations are critical. inspection of work by site engineers is often ignored.

The façade design process and designs are significantly influenced by the above-said factors. Increasing the use of energy and daylight modelling tools has introduced a new approach. These tools allow for better understanding and refinement of the design from the outset, leading to more efficient and effective outcomes.

I have always been conscious of heat gain, internal reflections, and colour rendering while selecting glass. Also been consious about wind/leakage, performance, and sight lines while selecting the system. One must be aware that what is good in Europe is not always good for India & therefore some tweak is required.

Please talk about some most preferred façade materials.

Blockwork and concrete continue to be the primary materials for building envelopes, while the stone remains the most durable cladding option. Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) stands out for its versatility in shape, size, and installation. Currently, solid aluminium panels are favoured over composite panels. Although I haven’t personally used terracotta, ceramic, or High-pressure laminate (HPL) as cladding materials, their usage is increasing in India. Composite and PVC panels, along with wood alternatives for soffits and external cladding, are also becoming more popular, although concerns remain regarding their availability and proper installation by local contractors. High-performance glass, particularly in neutral shades, is the preferred glazing material, and uPVC fins are widely used in residential projects.

Please throw some light on the façade and fenestration designs of a few of your favourite projects and some of your challenging projects.

I’ve always been captivated by the brilliance of engineering, where every material is optimised for its specific purpose. For instance, innovation in aluminium has allowed us to achieve the same strength and barriers with less material by refining profile designs. This idea is taken even further by incorporating glass as a structural element, reducing the need for aluminium and creating sleek, minimalistic designs.

Another fascinating approach involves using tension cables to minimise structural sizes, leading to the creation of lightweight structures and façades that inspire a sense of wonder.

Some of my favourite projects embody these principles: the cable net glass façades at Atria Mall, ONGC Mumbai, Bharti Airtel, and ONGC Delhi. I also experimented with a new system called V3S, which uses aluminium point-fixed glazing, as seen at NICMAR in Pune.

A particularly intriguing project was designing cost-effective windows with intelligent extrusions that balance minimal weight per square foot and wind resistance for affordable housing.

The Gateway project at Sewri, featuring a 9-meter high freestanding glass parapet – both inclined and curved – presents an exciting challenge. The goal is to develop a unitised system while minimising glass size variations.

The Bharti Airtel project was especially thrilling. We used coloured PVB films for the façade and strategically placed them in the vision area to enhance visual impact.

Another interesting endeavour was the stainless steel tension mesh façade work on the external façade of ONGC Delhi. It not only provided shading for the east-west façade but also introduced me to the concept of media façades, blending functionality with cutting-edge design.

Please brief on future façade technologies, designs, and materials that you wish to see in the next 20 years.

When thinking about materials for the future, I envision renewable options like timber and bamboo, as well as fully reusable materials with low carbon content, ideally made from recycled or recyclable components. These materials should be lightweight, robust, scalable, and modular to facilitate easy transport and installation. High energy efficiency or even the ability to produce energy will be essential features.

For vision areas, chromatic low-carbon glass could play a key role, reducing the reliance on specialised skills to achieve high performance. The materials of the future should also prioritise robustness and ease of replacement to ensure long-term sustainability and adaptability.

What is your advice to young and upcoming architects?

To young architects, I offer this advice: immerse yourself in reading, learning, and observing, and strive to master your craft. Expand your expertise beyond design; delve into project management, business administration, branding, marketing, law, and finance. Develop your public speaking skills to effectively communicate your vision.

Leverage your architectural knowledge to build a scalable enterprise that goes beyond traditional consultancy. Focus on creating unique value that only architects can provide. Engage actively with your community and city to contribute meaningfully to society. Remember, architecture is not just about design; it reflects the cause and consequence of social change.

Case Study – 1

NICMAR, Pune

NICMAR, Pune, formally known as The National Institute of Construction Management and Research, was established through a pioneering three-way collaboration among the government, prominent business houses, and leading experts in the construction industry. This initiative aimed to create an institution that not only advanced the field of construction management but also served as a model of innovative architectural and educational design. The Institute is strategically located in Balewadi, a suburb of Pune, which provides a serene yet accessible environment conducive to academic and professional development.

The architectural vision for NICMAR was to design a building that would embody and showcase the essence of the construction industry. Covering an area of 9,000 square meters on an expansive 11-acre plot of land, the campus has been developed in five phases. The most recent addition to this growing complex is the Academic Block, which represents a significant milestone in the Institute’s evolution.

NICMAR’s academic blocks

From the beginning, the conceptualisation of Phase 5 Academic Block presented a substantial challenge due to spatial constraints. Despite this, the design team approached the project with creativity and innovation. The Academic Block was meticulously designed to cater to a range of functions including teaching, research, conferencing, and outdoor training activities. To address the spatial limitations, the building was divided into two distinct sections. The first section is dedicated to the auditorium, which features a double-height entrance lobby, while the second section is the teaching complex.

The teaching complex is a six-story structure that houses a variety of essential facilities. These include modern classrooms, a comprehensive library, a canteen, a reference section, and a documentation center. Additionally, it provides scholar’s cabins, a work area for support staff, computer centers, and faculty rooms situated above the auditorium space. The rooftop of the auditorium has been thoughtfully designed as an assembly area, complete with gardens on the sides, a panoramic view of Pune at the front, and a vibrant façade at the back, showcasing the dynamic nature of the academic block.

A striking feature of the Academic Block is the grand staircase that connects the assembly area to an open-air theatre at the front. This theatre is shaded by a sleek concrete canopy and supported by inclined columns, creating a striking architectural element. The staircase itself doubles as a meeting and interaction area for students, fostering a collaborative and engaging environment.

The façade of the Academic Block is designed as a passive sun-shading device, which optimally regulates the amount of natural light entering the building. This thoughtful design enhances the interior environment by naturally illuminating the corridors and classrooms. The use of vibrant paint on the façade injects a sense of whimsy and vitality, breaking away from traditional, monotonous institutional designs. Additionally, the colour gradation on the façade serves as a visual guide, enhancing the wayfinding experience and improving overall circulation within the building.

In summary, NICMAR’s Academic Block is a testament to innovative architectural design and functional efficiency, reflecting the Institute’s commitment to excellence in construction management and research.

Quick Facts:

• Project Name: NICMAR Phase 5
• Location: Pune
• Client: National Institute of Construction Management
• Architect: Architect Hafeez Contractor
• Team: Pankaj Nande, Rohan Kashikar, Nilabh Nagar, Haresh Borse
• Other Consultants: J + W Consultants (Structural), Ralys consulting engineers (MEP)
• Façade materials used: Vibrant-painted Reinforced Concrete Walls
• Commencement Date: Nov 2019
• Completion Date: Nov 2021 (all Phases)
• Photo credits: Noshir Gobhai

Case Study – 2

ABIL Mansion, Marine Drive, Hughes Road, Mumbai

ABIL Mansion is strategically positioned on Hughes Road, just off Marine Drive in Mumbai, a location renowned for its prestige and desirability. This prime spot places it among the city’s most exclusive addresses, ensuring residents experience the best of both luxury and convenience. The towering structure reaches an impressive height of 111 meters and houses 12 bespoke apartments, which include 7 expansive duplexes and 5 simplex units, each meticulously designed to offer a unique living experience.

The architectural design of ABIL Mansion is a testament to modern sophistication. Each apartment is thoughtfully positioned to provide unobstructed views of the Arabian Sea and Mumbai’s vibrant skyline. This careful placement not only maximises the visual appeal but also integrates the natural beauty of the sea with the dynamic energy of the cityscape. The result is a seamless blend of nature and urbanity, reflecting a refined sense of elegance.

Externally, the tower is crafted with a contemporary aesthetic that features clean, geometric lines and expansive glass windows. The use of premium materials enhances the building’s overall look, giving it a sleek, modern appearance that stands out in Mumbai’s architectural landscape. The aluminium cladding contributes to a metallic sheen that perfectly complements the glass elements, creating a building that is both striking and sophisticated. By day, the tower gleams in the sunlight; by night, dynamic lighting transforms it into a glowing beacon, further emphasizing its role as a key feature of the city’s skyline.

The pinnacle of ABIL Mansion offers an unparalleled level of luxury. At 100 meters above sea level, the crown of the building is dedicated to high-end amenities and breathtaking views. The rooftop pool is a serene oasis, providing a private retreat where residents can relax amidst stunning vistas. This space is designed for tranquillity and privacy, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city below. Additionally, the exclusive club within the building boasts a sophisticated lounge area, ideal for entertaining guests or enjoying leisurely pursuits.

The design of the lounge ensures it is suitable for both daytime relaxation and evening social events, with carefully considered lighting enhancing the ambiance as day turns to night. In summary, ABIL Mansion represents the pinnacle of luxury living in Mumbai. Its strategic location, innovative design, and exclusive amenities combine to offer a living experience that is both opulent & uniquely connected to the city’s vibrant pulse.

Quick Facts:

• Project name: ABIL Mansion
• Location: Marine Drive, Hughes Road, Mumbai
• Client: ABIL
• Architect: Architect Hafeez Contractor
• Team: Pankaj Nande, Rohan Kashikar, Nilabh Nagar, Haresh Borse
• Consultants: J+W (structure), Facade (Inhabitat).
• Typology: Ultra-Premium Residential
• Construction Area: 2.5L Sq ft
• Status: Ongoing
• ABIL Mansion Photo credits: Impact 3D

Case Study – 3

Gateway at Sewri, Mumbai

Located in Sewri, The Gateway comprises two majestic residential towers soaring to a height of 228 meters. Each tower spans 52 habitable floors, with seven levels above ground and one below, dedicated to car parking and sports facilities. Adding to its allure, the development includes 60,000 square feet of retail space, complete with a 6-meter-wide plaza at ground level. Atop the podium lies 50,000 square feet of lush recreational green spaces, enhancing the community’s well-being. The Gateway offers a range of luxurious housing options, from 3BHK to Gateway at Sewri Sewri, Mumbai 4.5BHK, ensuring residents are treated to stunning vistas of the eastern coast of the Arabian Sea, with the iconic Atal Sethu bridge gracing the horizon.

For moments of relaxation and leisure, residents can retreat to the recreational terraces situated on the 39th and 42nd levels. But the crown jewel of The Gateway is undoubtedly The Crown, featuring a floating clubhouse of 40,000 square feet. Perched 220 meters above sea level, it offers exclusive amenities and boasts a breathtaking viewing deck, providing residents with an unrivalled experience of luxury living.

Get inspired by Ar. Nilabh Nagar’s visionary insights—watch the full interview click here!

Quick Facts:

• Project Name: Gateway at Sewri
• Location: Sewri, Mumbai
• Client: Larsen and Toubro
• Architect: Architect Hafeez Contractor
• Team: Mayur Sondagar, Azhar Choudhary, Nilabh Nagar
• Other Consultants: J+W consultants (Structure), ENGVB (MEP), Aluvision (Façade), LVI (Lighting), SCI (Landscape)
• façade materials used: DGU for the Crown and SGU for the Residential Floor, Aluminium fins for the ducts and Satario marble and Metal Jaali for the podium
• Commencement Date: Feb 2022
• Completion Date: 2026 (Projected)
• Gateway Sewri Photo credits: Render Cad, AHC 3d Dept

Gallery