The 7 Influential Leaders in Architect - 2021

July 2021 Architecture Today Modern Architectural Marvels - An Overview

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Oscar Concessao Architect

Architecture Insights Essentials for Being an Ideal Architect Ponni Concessao Architect

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Architecture is in some ways a paradoxical profession

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Oscar & Ponni Architects Facilitating Sustainable Architectural Designs

Editor's Note

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MAKING YOUR UTOPIA COME TRUE

ndian architecture has always sparked interest among architects, connoisseurs, and the beholder in general.

Being magnanimous and intricate, the architecture of ancient to medieval India fascinated the visitors, rulers, and invaders of other countries. Indian architecture also starkly reflects the mark of each ruler, with each creation representing the era that it came into existence. The heritage buildings of India are testimony to the fact that Indian art and design spell quality and strength.

state-of-the-art architecture at par with the global architecture and sustainability written as clear and loud as one could see and hear. Architecture today means not aping the West blindly but simply picking what will suit the Indian topography and climatic condition, most importantly, it is all about living close to nature.

Technology is only incorporated where it is essential, particularly for security purposes. Technology is, however, used for the construction material and process.

Indian architecture is a pleasant amalgamation of monuments and modern buildings. Post-independence and with the exit of the British, India saw a mix of both modern and traditional architecture to strike a balance between the needs of growing urbanisation and retaining the heritage.

These are the architects who chose to do things differently, aesthetically, sustainably, and yet established themselves on the global platform. They are the ones who are most sought after and are showing the way to the world.

With rapid urbanisation there was no stopping for the developments in architecture. To satiate the needs of a growing urban population, compact spaces and tall buildings came into existence. Before one could bat an eyelid, high rises became the focus of architects, be it commercial or residential projects. Suddenly, everyone wanted to live in ultra-modern homes and work in ultramodern offices. Air-conditioned offices became the basic requirement in an all-enclosed office where ventilation meant AC and light meant electric lamps instead of the traditional windows, outlets, and natural lights. With globalization practically percolating every corner of the world, architecture was also naturally swept by it, and being world-class became the mantra of each architect.

The changing trends in architecture were sheer reflections of a developing society. Infrastructure and landscapes also changed dramatically to accommodate the demands of urban town planning.

Even as Indian architecture began booming at an enviable tempo, realisation dawned upon some architects to have a harmonious balance of nature with

Contemporary architecture is all about sustainability, aesthetics, and world-class architecture that includes minimalistic but multi-utility features. The attempt has always been the best use of available space where more room is created. Malls, shopping complexes, and most commercial establishments, however, are as per the global tastes. Today, even smart city projects of the government are focused on retaining natural elements while providing infrastructure and necessary amenities for comfortable living.

In our latest edition of CIOLOOK, The 7 Influential Leaders in Architecture, 2021, we featured architects who chose not to take the beaten path and proved that commercialisation does not necessarily mean compromising on creativity and nature.

Have a great read as each page unfolds interesting ideas and creations by exceptional architects.

Featuring

Company Name

Brief

Amit Gangal Principal Architect

Modarch India

Modarch India believes in creating environments that are contemporary, multi-layered, and sensitive to relative conditions

Amit Gupta Founding Partner

Studio Symbiosis

Studio Symbiosis is an architectural, master planning, and interior design studio based in Stuttgart Germany and Delhi NCR India

Oscar & Ponni Architects

Oscar & Ponni Architects specializes in urban design, architecture, and interior design stressing on green building norms and sustainable architectural design

Architects Dr. Oscar G. Concessao Dr. Ponni M. Concessao Dinesh Kirve Interior Designer

D Zone Interiors

Pratap Dhopte Co-Founder

Excelize

Ramesh Thamilmani Chief Architect/ Interior Designer

BLD Design Studio

Utssav Gupta Partner/ CEO

Creators Architects

D Zone Interiors provides personal, modern, and warm designs to incite a feel good atmosphere to home interiors

With over a decade of experience under its belt, Excelize is a one-stop-shop for its clients

BLD Design Studio offers specialized service in architecture, interior design, elevation, and landscape design

Creators Architects is a brand that has not only created stunning buildings but has delivered award-winning innovative architectural 'landmarks' in a wide array of industries

Oscar & Ponni Architects Facilitating Sustainable Architectural Designs

08 08

Utssav Gupta

Innovative Virtuoso Architect Transforming Vision into Reality

38 38

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D Zone Designers Delivering Desirable Designs Dynamically

Architecture Today

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Architecture Insights

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Modern Architectural Marvels - An Overview

Essentials for Being an Ideal Architect

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July, 2021

Ponni Concessao Architect Oscar Concessao Architect

Influential Leaders

Architect 2021

Oscar & Ponni Architects Facilitating Sustainable Architectural Designs Running an architecture practice is not a sprint, and it takes years

and countless hours of dedication and careful planning to create

a business that can weather crises and grow sustainably

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ovid-19 has fast-tracked changes in the architecture and construction industry, bringing in its wake an emphasis to safety and wellness. There has been a paradigm shift across industries and the construction industry can take the lead in re-strategizing, upskilling, and investing to reshape the industry.

Companies, with investments in digital capabilities, saw great success with remote working policies, and considering the global environment, this is expected to continue at least till 2021. The impact of the lockdown on office spaces, has been rather restricted, and comprises only a portion of the firm's overheads.

However, this unprecedented time has somehow prompted firms to go back to their drawing board, to restrategize their approach of the conventional workplace. Firms that are flexible enough to reinvent themselves and conceive out-ofthe-box solutions to stay connected with their target audience, will be the successful ones in the postCovid era. Invisible presence of technology in the structures developed is another trend that is winning attention everywhere.

The Covid-19 pandemic has hit architectural firms hard, and what lies ahead for the industry and potential recession is impacting this industry and how we can shield ourselves from this worst economic outcome is a real challenge. “At Oscar & Ponni Architects like most design studios, we followed the instructions from our government to shut our sites as well as our offices and operate remotely with all the technology at our disposal,” says Ponni Concessao and Oscar Concessao, Architects.

Oscar & Ponni Architects' approach to architecture, interiors and urban design studio imbued based in logic, beauty, and humanism, with a spirit of idealism and innovation

The Dynamic Duo The duo has experienced project delays as a result of the pandemic, while at least 50% projects were impacted by site closures. There have been reduced cash flows as well as increased business costs and unrecoverable outlays. For practicing architects, this has proven to be a tremendous challenge. The Covid-19 pandemic has changed everything for the global populace. Its impact has forced people in every industry to flex and evolve, in real-time and with lasting effects that will endure in the long-term. “The very ways in which we live, work, learn, and even play have transformed dramatically during the days of the crisis. In many ways, the changes are here to stay,” shares Oscar.

Oscar & Ponni Architects is husband and wife partnership firm specializing in Urban design, Architecture and Interior Design stressing on Green Building norms and sustainable architectural design.

“Our project typologies include institutional, hotels and resorts, IT parks, government building complexes, museums, 100 acres plus housing projects, luxury homes and all types of commercial projects,” describes the duo.

They have also been involved in the Indian government's Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana project and built mid-day meal centers, toilets for underprivileged girl students as well as schools for leprosy afflicted patients' children as part of their corporate responsibility and charity works. Their architectural entrepreneurship was encouraged by both Indian corporate and government agencies. “Our footprint of projects is in over 100 different locations of India and abroad. We are proud winners of over 140 international, national, state and local awards,” shares Oscar and Ponni.

A Differentiated Approach “Our architectural journey has been relentlessly optimistic and exhilarating, one which has embraced both the possibilities and challenges of international practice in the 21st century,” states the duo. Their USA academics and work experience really gave them confidence to work on large scale projects in India. One thing that sets the duo apart is that they do not fish in the same pond as their competitors.

Specialized overseas education and international work experience which set them apart few years ago is no longer enough. “Surviving, thriving, in this very creative competitive field depends on your ability to serve your customers in a way that is unique, authentic and memorable. However, you can't do that if your architectural firm isn't firing on all cylinders,” suggests Ponni.

Originally, they chose architecture because it is a very creative profession. As time progressed, the duo began to be intrigued by how buildings could affect the way we live, our mood and behaviour.

People spend most of their lives in buildings and through architecture one can influence the way people live their lives for the better.

“With the above-mentioned philosophy, we draw inspiration from nature, my client's brief, site conditions as well as contextual factors,” claims Oscar and Ponni. They both strongly believe in technologically allied design and combine it with elements of the Indian heritage, contextual architecture, culture, sustainability, and materiality.

Bringing in new work while handling the daily ins and outs of running a company requires a combination of talent, skill, team effort, a great business plan and smart

organization. Particularly in the moments that call for scaling up, it becomes apparent that architecture is an industry in which technical knowledge, management, and business understanding are as important as good design.

“We are also looking at Growth in new territories and to penetrate new markets and globalization and serve new clients better by being more diversified geographically or offering more services and in different sectors or building typologies,” shares Oscar.

“It's time for architecture to be inspirational and broaden its mission in an increasingly urbanized world,” concludes Ponni.

Our practice is research-oriented and forward thinking, drawing upon a depth of experience to solve contemporary building challenges in imaginative and unexpected ways and a patient search to discover the art inside

Oscar Concessao’s Journey I did my schooling at the St Aloysius Institutions in Mangalore a coastal western town and was very much inspired by the local Portuguese and Mangalore tile architecture, was interested in building miniature models, carpentry at our school workshops, and I also had a fascination in the sciences – architecture is a good mix of all three. After my Pre-University exams I got selected to the B. Arch degree program at the National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli and then my Master's in Architecture on a research scholarship in Urban Design at the University of Oklahoma at Norman and specialization in Advanced Design Studies at the Harvard University.

During my master’s program in the USA, I also took part in my first International van Allen Fellowship Design competition to design a University in Africa, which I won at a very young age of 23.

That motivated me to be very competitive and then I moved to New York City to work with marquee design firms and gained international experience on working on projects in different cities around the world, before moving to Chennai to set up the firm Oscar & Ponni Architects, Chennai.

Ponni Concessao’s Diary I have always had a combined interest in art and engineering right from my student days in Church Park Convent, Chennai. As my father was an IRSE officer, a structural engineer in the Indian Railways, who built bridges, tunnels, buildings, etc and I had a phenomenal exposure to buildings early in life. I often accompanied him to his sites pan India which was an exciting experience for me.

After my Plus 2 board exams I got selected into the B. Arch degree program at the prestigious National Institute of Technology in Tiruchirapalli and was the first girl student of the campus amongst hundreds of male students. I pursued post graduate studies on a research scholarship in Design at Cornell University and specialization in Advanced Design studies at Harvard University, USA. In the Summer of 1988, I got the fellowship from Yonkers Planning Department, New York, USA, and National Trust of Historic Preservation, Washington D.C., USA. I had the privilege of working directly with Architect Edward Larrabee Barnes in New York, USA and got a fantastic insight into international architecture which spurred me to return to India and be a nation builder.

At Oscar & Ponni Architects, I spearhead projects right from inception which involves absorbing the brief from the client, visiting sites that influences concept generation, and design presentation that leads onto design development and ultimately monitor the building built under a specific timeframe. My professional work experience in India has spanned more than two decades and we have built projects all over the country as well as abroad in more than 100 locations in India and abroad.

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iving in the 21st century and looking at thousands of different architectures that are centuries old is simply mesmerising. We notice differences and similarities in those monuments as they have evolved. We enjoy their beauty and try to understand its connection with the purpose of its creation.

Have you ever tried to imagine how such huge and glorious sites were constructed in those old times? Do you feel the curiosity to know how it was made and who made them?

Every architecture is unique. There are more than 30 types of architecture from ancient times till the late medieval time in India itself.

But what were the challenges faced by its creators?

What kind of training and experience did the engineers of those days had who contributed to such exquisite buildings that are still standing proudly?

This article will focus upon the technology that has helped the architects to realise their imagination.

And shed some light on the innovations in technologies that have played key role in architectural evolution.

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Architecture Today

Architectural Marvels For centuries, people have believed in the theory of heaven and hell. Heaven is above in the sky, where the gods live and hell below the earth’s surface.

In history, we have read about many kings who claimed to be the secondary to the gods. They used to build tall architecture to feel closer to their gods.

The tallest minaret in the world is 210 metres - Hassan II Mosque standing on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, in Morocco. Construction of this mosque took five years and six thousand workers contributed to it.

The key feature of this mosque is that all its structures are made of concrete cement. Its builder, King Hassan, said that he wanted to build this mosque on water because he believed that God’s throne was on water.

But that is not all, the architecture building capacity of the kingdom displays its economic strength and technical accomplishments in matter of construction.

And this theory of building great structures is applicable even today, as it showcases the economic strength and power of the country.

-an overview

Today, we can witness a game of ‘oneupping’ between some of the tallest architectural developments around the world like: After the great pyramid of Giza, it was Eiffel Tower- France; Empire state building - New York; Petronas tower - Kuala Lumpur, Taipei – Taiwan; World Trade Centre - New York; Willis Tower – Chicago; CN Tower - Toronto KVLY-TV Mast – Blanchard; Warsaw Radio Mast – Gabin, and now it is Burj Khalifa Dubai.

One by one, all of them had succeeded each other in breaking the world record and in becoming the world’s tallest building.

These constructions require technology, manpower, top architects and humongous funding.

Construction of Burj Khalifa – The technology used was Buttressed Core System – the high-performance concrete wall. This design makes the building strong enough to stand stiff against the wind force and the related effects.

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More than 12000 workers worked hard for its construction.

Its head architect was Adrian D. Smith.

Funding for this project was supported by the ruler of Abu Dhabi, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan when Dubai borrowed billions of dollars for its project’s construction, Abu Dhabi and the federal government of UAE lent Dubai tens of billions of US dollars so that Dubai could pay its debts.

Another most awaited project is located on the north side of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the Jeddah Tower, which is planned to be the world's first 1 km high building.

The leader of this grand project is the Saudi Arabian prince Al-Waleed bin Talal.

Its design is created by the American architect Adrian Smith, who also designed the Burj Khalifa.

So, what are the ‘key factors’ that gave birth to the next level of great heights in human history?

The architects, who plan the skyscraper are the key persons in the projects. And one first nest from where the world class architects come from is - The Chicago school of architecture – developed a spatial aesthetic approach that has influenced the parallel development in Europe's architectural evolution.

It also promoted new technologies of steel frame construction in the commercial buildings also known as commercial style of Chicago School.

The term ‘Skyscraper’ became very common with these schools, which means a tall habitable building with multiple floors, steel framework, and which supports the curtain walls.

Steel, key ingredients that support tall buildings. Excess amount of steel is required to build skyscraper. But how, from where this much of steel is being arranged?

Its the Bessemer process, named after Sir Henry Bessemer of England.

(It removes impurities by oxidation from the iron, with air being blown through the molten iron.)

Some of the latest technological developments in geometrical forms, sustainability, advanced materials, structural system, and damping systems are the reason that play a key role in the construction of a skyscraper.

construction work at both very high and very low temperatures.

The concrete used in Burj Khalifa or Jeddah tower, was Self-consolidating concrete (SCC) and very high strength concrete (VHSC), the latest developed concrete. It also allows diversification in the construction of the forms and shapes of the buildings.

Some of the best examples of those developments are Diagrid system is used in the construction of buildings and roofs. It ‘eliminates the need for columns’ and can be used to make large column-free expanses of the roofing. It is a framework of diagonally intersecting metal and concrete.

The secret behind Tokyo Sky-tree (the highest free-standing tower, 634 m) is the Developed Steel Material – Thermo-Mechanical Control Process (TMCP), technology that makes high strength steel.

The best examples are the construction of Swiss Re - London, UK and Capital Gate Tower - Abu Dhabi, UAE.

This is the reason why the construction of the Tokyo Sky-tree was possible in Japan despite its unfavourable geographical location.

Such tall buildings also stand against the danger of vibrations, caused by calamities, for which Advanced Vibration Damping Systems is developed for safety reasons against earthquakes.

But what about the wind pressure and temperature, that these buildings face at such height?

It is a system that reduces the vibration level to avoid the shaking of the entire building.

Sir henry discovered the first method of steel mass production, in 1856.

The best example of this technology is in Japan, the most active seismic zone in the world, which is also in the top three on the list of countries for having skyscrapers, like the ‘Tokyo Skytree’.

So, what technologies made this construction possible? What are the new inventions that played a key role in the birth of this skyscraper?

Buildings higher than 200m are sensitive to wind-induced vibration.

Earlier, steel was the key element in the creation of Skyscrapers. Now, concrete technology has developed ‘mixed steel-concrete technology’. It is the main material used for skyscrapers.

The special quality of skyscrapers is their stiffness, resistance towards resonance with the wind and oscillatory swaying.

In the past few years, concrete properties have been modified, resulting in a significant improvement in its strength. Now it enables the

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This problem is solved by the development of Low-E glass. It helps to reflect long-wave radiation and minimizes its transmission. It can take extreme wind load and temperature differences.

There are various qualities of glass that are used according to the geographic location and the need of the skyscraper.

Such combination of ingredients like, a leader with the reasons and ability to sponsor the construction of skyscrapers, the invention of technologies that gives builders the ability to build, and the skilled architects who can build them are the reasons that has given the next level of high in the history of humankind that we are witnessing.

- Nidhi Arya

Utssav Gupta Partner and CEO

Innovative Virtuoso Architect Transforming Vision into Reality Architects, “AtweCreators don’t see our work just as design but as a way of crafting client’s vision into reality. When the solutions we design give a creative edge to our clients and help them disrupt their space, we take it as an achievement.

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arketing and business expert, Steven Jeffes once said - Innovation is the unrelenting drive to break the status quo and develop anew where few have dared to go.

Nothing could be truer for Utssav Gupta, partner, and CEO of Creators Architects who has rewritten the way innovative and strategic design can be used to create mindful architecture. This kind of architecture focuses on sustainability of the project right from the conceptualisation till the completion rather than just as an afterthought.

Utssav is renowned in the field of architecture for his ‘Diagnostic Innovation’ and holistic approach. Passionate for

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architecture and driven by the impact of innovation, the company works on strategic designs that enhance their clients’ business cases in every solution it offers.

As an innovation expert and strategic thinker, Utssav does not believe in limiting innovation only to the aesthetics of architecture. He finds that a very limiting way to define it and does not extrapolate what innovation can truly do for humans.

In his book Rebound, Utssav talks about the relationship between business and ‘Diagnostic Innovation’ for a successful outcome.

His approach of going beyond the ordinary and sowing innovative ways into client solutions has transformed his clients’ vision into reality. “To create architecture as a tool for transformation, is our pursuit,” says Utssav.

Nurturing Passion to Profession Born and raised in a family of architects, Utssav was exposed to the field of architecture from a young age and was fascinated with it. “As both my parents were architects, our family atmosphere and dining table conversations were naturally built around everything related to this way of life.” shares Utssav.

Pursuing his passion, he studied architecture in Delhi and completed his post-graduation from the United Kingdom.

Utssav says, “I feel included and driven by this profession. I constantly look for newness, problemsolving approaches, and trends to understand changing demands for the architecture to respond towards.” His words express his passion for architecture that encourages him to return to work with the same zeal every day.

Leading with the Science of Innovation After completing his post-graduation, Utssav forayed into the architecture space as a professional and has been diligently leading Creators Architects by blending technology and

art. As an ambitious and visionary leader, Utssav brings innovation as a science to the table.

His framework of ‘Diagnostic Innovation’ helps the company to incorporate a holistic approach and creative ways to the architectural processes and in understanding business case of the client. The company’s emphasis on holistic innovation to understand the client’s pain point and think beyond aesthetic architecture has helped Creators Architects stand out from their competitors.

The Genesis of Creators Architects Founded by late Mr. Rajiv Gupta and Mrs. Mukta Gupta in 1986, Creators Architects has always focused on delivering an experience with honesty to the clients. Over the years the company has evolved as the customer-centric service provider in the architectural field by emphasising on indepth understanding, avoiding preconceived notions, and rigour in work.

From the start, precise work and clear communication have been the bedrock of the company's success. “As most of our projects were out-of-station, my parents made sure that the whole design be conceptualised and clearly communicated with the clients and teams at remote sites,” Utssav explains.

Utssav further shares the company’s expansion in several fields. Over the years, Creators Architects has experienced organic growth in several sectors from the private sector to the public sector and in the field of education.

As a second-generation architect, Utssav shares his gratitude towards the team at the firm. “Most of the team members have been with us for years. I can remember having seen some of them around since I was 10 years old,” he says, “When I joined the firm, earning respect from such senior associates mattered to me.”

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The 7 Influential Leaders in Architect - 2021

Utssav further shares that the experienced associates collaborating with fresh talent bringing new technology to the table, have helped the firm to grow. The team’s contribution and collaboration towards delivering quality work in time have helped the firm complete 35 successful years, catering to an array of sectors today.

Crafting Client’s Vision into Reality Creators Architects has thrived on delivering highquality work since it was founded and led by Ambitious Architects. Following the customercentric philosophy, the company has always sought to better understand and build solutions around customers’ needs. This zeal of delivering quality and constantly bringing freshness to the

work has built the foundation for a sizable portfolio of one-of-a-kind projects that the firm holds.

Over the last decade, technological revolutions and new business models have changed the needs of clients in every industry, talking about which Utssav says, “At Creators Architects, we enjoy picking up such challenges, which require out-of-the-box solutions and innovate for new typologies.”

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The work culture with holistic innovation, the team’s efforts to go beyond conventional means and methods to create architecture that fulfils the client’s dreams and solves their pain points have given a strong edge to Creators Architects in today’s market.

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Facing the Pandemic with Technology and Innovation Over the years, the company has been a pioneer in incorporating technology to streamline processes and improve business operations. The company has long been a proponent of cloud computing for the efficient management of business processes. Thus, when the lockdown was enforced in India due to COVID-19, the entire Creators Architects team was able to work from home.

However, design is a subject requiring high degree of interpersonal communication, which had to be entirely replaced

by Zoom and Google meets.

It is our objective for architecture to serve as a tool of transformation for the people, communities and businesses. As a practice, we have had a keen eye towards emerging needs that we believe architecture must respond towards including climate change and human empathy.

“

“At Creators Architects, we don’t see our work just as design but as a way of crafting client’s vision into reality. When the solutions we design give a creative edge to our clients and help them disrupt their space, we take it as an achievement,” shares Utssav.

DTU Raj Soin Hall, New Delhi

World Heartfulness Centre, Hyderabad

Utssav shares how the company managed to tackle that challenge as well, “Our team has always shared tight-knit bond at the workplace. The culture is very

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BM Cambridge School, Surat

Integrated Election Complex, New Delhi

Apex Hospital, Jaipur

Central Park, Guwahati

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grounded using physical tools like sketches and quick models to inspire each other, and that is what supported the communication across a virtual desk with the same efficiency.”

Advancing with this technological approach combined with basic tools for team communication and collaboration enabled the company to perform reasonably well during the pandemic.

Financial disruption caused due to the lockdown was yet another issue that nearly every industry encountered during the pandemic. The company leaders at Creators Architects faced similar challenges, which they met with candour and integrity.

Awards • DTU Raj Soin Hall - Best Innovative Infrastructure of the Year by Time2Leap MSME Awards 2020 (India)

“Openly talking about the situation with the team helped us all move through the tough time together,” Utssav shared, “We maintained our optimistic attitude, which was needed more than ever. The team focused on the work at hand, delivering their best even during such circumstances.”

• World Heartfulness Centre - Best Health & Wellbeing Architecture Project (India) - by Build Architecture Awards 2021 (UK) • Creators Architects - Most Innovative Architecture Studio - by Build Architecture Awards 2021 (UK) • Creators Architects - Most Innovative Architecture & Design Firm of the Year 2021- by National Architecture and Interior Design Excellence Awards and Conference, 2021, Global Edition (India)

Additionally, Utssav emphasizes how the core practices established by his parents as co-founders of the company served as the backbone of the organization during COVID-19. By focusing on creative necessities, being transparent, and avoiding luxury from the start, Creators Architects was able to stay afloat with everyone on board during the crisis.

Creators Architects: Tool for Transformation “Can you imagine a world without virtual meetings today? The technological revolution that we have seen over the decade has changed things forever,” says Utssav when asked about the company’s future approach, “It’s time that the field of architecture to also step up, adapt and evolve for the needs of future India, and

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that’s where we are gearing towards.”

“Creators Architects is making strong statements by fusing innovations into architecture,” he further says, “It is our objective for architecture to serve as a tool of transformation for the people, communities and businesses. As a practice, we have had a keen eye towards emerging needs that we believe architecture must respond towards including climate change and human empathy.”

The seed of ‘Diagnostic Innovation’ in architecture that the company sowed long back has now reaped the fruits for its clients. Staying true to its holistic innovative culture and customer-centric approach, Creators Architects is moving forward with a mission of collaborating innovation and architecture to transform India’s visions into reality.

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rchitecture as a profession dates back to the very civilization of human beings. Essentially, it is the very history of human civilisation. It has evolved over centuries in various cultures and across different landscapes. When we observe the diverse architectural styles in all these cultures, we can’t help but be astonished by the beauty of them all. Have you ever wondered though, what goes behind creating these wonders?

What it takes for an individual to be an ideal architect? In this article, we will explore some of the major traits that make an ideal architect.

Essentials for Being an

Passion for the profession – The first and foremost thing required for being an ideal architect is passion. In fact, for excelling in any field you need to have passion for your profession. Passion is the

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Architecture Insights

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drive that makes any professional excel in their field of work and also keeps the individual on edge to always look for details that will improve their final skill or product. If a person carries the zest to learn, they can overcome any challenge that might surface on their path of achieving the end goal.

Creativity – One of the most important traits that an architect should possess is authentic creativity. An architect should be an artist at heart. Technical and mathematical skills are something that can be learned actively, but creativity is something that is innate. An architect should have exceptional visualization skills that will make the final picture of their architectural project clear. Having imaginative skills is important for an architect to understand the whole process towards building the final structure of their ultimate project.

Commercial awareness – This is one of the less talked about aspects of being an ideal architect. An architect should have thorough knowledge about the market they are dealing in. They should know the latest trends of the market and what works for what type of client in the industry. Having good commercial knowledge makes it easy to gauge what the client might be expecting their project to be like. It also makes it easier for the architect to navigate and negotiate with their client.

Having good commercial awareness gives out a good impression of the architect on the client, it makes them know that the architect has wisdom about their field of work.

An architect who is also a keen observer will always stand out with their architectural projects. For this, an architect should have a life outside of their work. Visiting and observing the architectural marvels that already exist and noting the details of what makes them the marvels that they are, will surely reflect positively in the way the architect designs their future projects. Attention to detail will always make an architect stand out in the lot.

Technical abilities – Technical abilities are something without which one just cannot call themselves an architect. Technical abilities are a must to become an ideal architect. For an architect to bring their vision to life, they have to possess the technical skillset to start the process of building their project.

For formulating the blueprints of their would-be project, an architect must have mathematical skills and they also must know scales well to even begin their project on paper.

Once they have their blueprint in place, then only the actual creation of their architecture starts.

Teamwork – For achieving any big goal, a person must know how to efficiently work in a team.

Teamwork involves a lot of aspects and one of the important points is to know how to effectively communicate your ideas and expectations to your team. Your team must know what your vision is so that it’s easy for them to work towards making that vision come to life. Another important aspect is to understand everyone’s expertise and limitations by listening to them and delegating them responsibilities accordingly.

Adaptability – As essential as it is to assert your vision out in the open, it is also important for an architect to be adaptable. Even though the client doesn’t fully understand the technicalities of the project and how it’s all going to work out, they are the reason why you began the project in the first place. So, when a client demands to have some of their ideas implemented into the project, the architect has to be adaptable to them and listen to their client.

- Trishika Rokade

Keen Observation – This is a very significant trait for an architect to possess. Being a keen observer facilitates the architect’s creativity.

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Zone

D e s i g n e r s

Delivering Desirable Designs Dynamically

I

nterior designing is a field that is boosting powerfully. A field with innovation, art, and designing, which feeds the soul of an artist.

Like any other business, designers are also succeeding in their respective jobs. It was not the case in the past years but now it is.

Designing is not just drawing but it is fulfilling one’s dream by giving the desired outcome. While searching for such different designing firms, we came across D-Zone Designers, an interior designing firm magnifying the interiors of any customers’ buildings into soothing, pleasant, stylish, and positively warm environment for the people using the space.

D-Zone Designers tries to understand the morals of wellestablished true lasting relationships with its customers and embrace the opportunities it has in creating their dream homes. D-Zone Designers is in Pune near Deccan. It is providing all interior design related services from past six years.

The team of CIO Look India had the opportunity to interview Mr. Dinesh Kirve, the Owner of D Zone.

Following are the highlights of the interview:

Please brief our audience about your company, its values, vision, and mission.

• Mastery: Our experience, services and our products enrich values, provide economical solutions, and create new opportunities for the customer.

We are clear with communication and guide our clients through entire process of conceptualization, design, and realization to desirable solutions with innovation.

• Quality: We work in more organized manner with welldefined process and procedures along with latest technology. We continuously monitor all our work, evaluate, and improve ourselves holistically.

• Commitment: We respect and understand our customers requirement and we believe in providing solutions to all their issues in responsive and effective manner. We own responsibility for what we do and for a constructive dialogue that develops long-lasting relationships with our customers, suppliers, and employees.

• Vison: Our vision is to be respectable, sustainable, desirable, and durable interior

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design firm providing innovative and aesthetic designs. We will consistently deliver design services, which will bring complete satisfaction to our customers and their requirements.

• Mission: Our Mission is to influence the lives of all the customers and leave a longlasting impression on their minds, hearts, and imagination.

Our long-term goal is to provide customer service by taking one step further then other designers and stay aligned to our core values and embrace it.

Brief us about the featured person and their journey in the architecture space.

I am Dinesh Kirve, owner of D-Zone Designers. I am an interior designer graduated from MMSID (Marathwada Mitramandal’s School of Interior Design) in the year 2012.

My journey began with an internship, which I did for six months and then I worked in two firms as an interior design associate.

I gained good knowledge, experience, got to learn the knowhows of interior design firm, the ways of working, handling dealers, vendors, etc.

The 7 Influential Leaders in Architect 2021

”

Our designs should inspire the souls of those who see it

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”

designers claiming themselves to be best in market. This is really an immense feeling and as a customer you always want to give your house in safe hands, which are thrived to deliver you a home that is beautiful, alluring, and inviting, which will make you comfortable, relax and keep the outside world away from your space.

I believe in myself, and I always take new projects as a story with different perspective of delivering creativity, innovation, and maintenance of free designs. Design and services provided are usually inclined towards classy, modern, or contemporary designs based on customer requirements.

After a gap of two-three months, I started my own firm named D-Zone Designers and started working on consultancy projects and turnkey projects. I learnt a lot as turnkey projects developer and understood the thin line between designing and execution of the projects.

I came across several setbacks, hurdles, and issues. Also, there were situations where the project was about to turn out with some unexpected results and the real challenge was to make sure that I take it positively and deliver what is promised and visualized.

What sets you apart from the rest of your competitors?

We all know that when there is time to hire a designer for your house, you have hundreds and thousands of

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We strongly believe that ‘Simplicity never dies’ and it can be seen in most of the projects that inhibits natural finishing with immortal colors, which will make any project a strong contender in race of time.

Being an artist, my major strength is having an artistic view for any project I work on, which allows me to play with different colors with comfortable ambience, use of overhead, and free lights in appropriate percentage. It allows me to draw attention to utilities placed on walls, interior decorations to make the space more appealing and establish simplistic views What or who motivates/inspires you to be in the architecture space?

Interior Design in the architecture space has huge influence on people’s feeling and their behavior. What we

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choose in design has a direct proportional relationship with what we deliver in terms of space, comfort, and decorum, etc.

For instance, consider a home with moderate passage entrance and passage area, a design with correct articulation of lights, colors and usage of design can provide an illusion to person of having huge passage and this feeling and execution excites me. This is an actual inspiration for me to be in this field.

I am from art field and a watercolor artist, so this is again the major reason for me to be in this

profession. I get an opportunity to play with different colors, orientation, approach, designs, and face challenges and overcome them.

This also provides me chance to enhance my communication skills.

Coming up with unique, pleasant, and aesthetic design is another reason I aspire to be in field and grow to success that one would always dream of.

What were the challenges you came across when you started a business in the architecture space?

Of the many challenges I faced, I can describe the very first challenge I came across for the very first project of my firm. The design delivered was up to the mark and as expected.

However, me being a beginner in my field could not understand the entire budget the customer would have to pay.

The budget quoted to client and actual cost had huge gap, but I could not go back to customer and ask to pay for difference in amount as that would falsify my values of duediligence approach in work. The difference in cost was settled from my pocket. My

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first project didn’t give me any income in terms of money, but I have learnt important lessons of how to work in this field.

Post this project, I somehow lost my confidence in taking turnkey projects, I started providing designs and consultancy services to customers. I had more clear vision on how to work with this turnkey project, slowly I gained my confidence again and started working in turnkey project and they were delivered successfully with my desired percentage in terms of income.

Apart from this, we do come across many issues related to space fitting and illusions, plumbing, electrification, material quality, and dealing with dependency of workers. We come across people, vendors, suppliers, customers of different mindset, mentality, and understanding and we need to understand them, clarify our points, and get the plan executed as designed by aligning all these people with one understanding. And believe me it is a difficult task.

How the adaptation of new technology in architecture has helped transforming your company’s operations and what more could be expected in the future?

We use AutoCAD as basic software to create detailed work, 3D-Max, Archi-CAD, and Google Sketch UP to create 3D designs. In last seven years we have seen huge transformation in this software and how they evolved in terms of creating the designs with great user experience, easy to use, and manage.

These software have helped us to create a design that are more realistic, have it rendered so that it can be shared with customer to make them have the look and feel of the space with designers’ perspective.

Instead of the evolution these software have come across, they still have long way to go, an upgrade is really required in minimizing the time in creating the design. Bringing in more flexible drag and drop facility in software, improving the graphics, making it more user friendly, aiming more on user experience, and last but not the least having the rendering time improved phenomenally.

How has the ongoing pandemic affected the operations of your company? How are you driving your firm to sustain its operations and ensuring safety of your employees at the same time?

The pandemic has really affected our personal and professional work in terms of mental peace, calmness, focus, daily-routines, and certain limitations in getting new ideas due to restrictions.

Well, sustaining this time is difficult but certainly possible with positive attitude, few changes in habits, and getting normalized with new routines. Pandemic brought in the strict lock-down, which restricted us from going on-site and completing the work. Projects were delayed due to unavailability of workers, materials, and several different things.

Following the norms provided by government, social distancing, wearing masks compulsorily, making-sure all your assistants are

following the same, helps me and my co-workers remain safe.

What would be your advice to budding entrepreneurs who aspire to venture into the architecture space?

It is always a blessing to have a mentor who have already achieved their goals and is very much successful in their career. Getting a Guru will always help you in finding the correct path and guidance at every stage of growth in your business.

It may happen that we are not able to find our mentor but still you can learn it yourself by following few of the below tips which I personally did embrace.

Take risks, challenge yourself, keep a business mindset, envision, find and keep good people around, fight with your fears, be action oriented, be disciplined, be punctual, build an amazing team, and last but not the least keep the positive vibes maintained throughout.

Where do you envision yourself and your company to be in the long run and what are your future goals?

We envision to be a prominent, outstanding, and topmost interior design firm. We are eager to deliver unique and sustainable designs and service excellence to a wide range of customers in Pune and other cities.

We really aspire to add values to living spaces of customer with elegant, lavish, appealing, and pleasing designs.

We are continuously working hard to provide budget friendly and quality solutions to meet the expectation of every house owner, who dreams of having well designed

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house where he can spend his quality time with utmost prestige and pride.

I, as a designer and owner of this firm have always provided timely and required solution to every customer approaching me and build a trusting relationship. It’s our goal to follow all the visions and mission statement we have defined for our firm.

What is the current scenario of the architecture space in India?

As per one of the reports it is known that the market for home interiors and renovation in India is estimated to be between USD 20 Billion to USD 30 Billion. This number will increase in coming years, which gives us wonderful opportunity to grow our business.

As the real estate market grows, the interior design market is likely to grow in proportionate with it. Rise in income level and upgrade in living standard of people is equally responsible to bring that positive surge in the market growth.

People now a days are choosing theme-based designs for their residential spaces. Social Media usage have also increased the influence on people to go with interior design solutions. Virtual reality has made visualizing and experimenting process easy for both client and designers.