Materials and Craft in Architectural Design

Selecting materials involves a rigorous analysis of climate, maintenance cycles, and local availability. We prioritize elements that age with dignity—like basalt stone or treated timber—ensuring that every surface choice reduces long-term operational costs while reinforcing the building’s connection to its landscape.

Architecture is an exercise in tactile permanence. Our approach to materials starts long before construction, rooted in the belief that a building should reflect its geography.

Materiality as Context

When we worked on the Lake Pawana Resort, we utilized cyclopean masonry. By using large, irregularly shaped stones fitted together, we created a texture that allows the structure to emerge naturally from the rugged terrain. This is not decoration; it is structural honesty. Similarly, our work on the Otters Club facade demonstrates how stone can be manipulated to play with light and shadow, creating a dynamic surface that has stood for decades.

Bridging Craft and Function

We look for opportunities to integrate traditional craft into modern functions. This is evident in our use of mosaic seating at Yashraj Studios, where ceramic tiles transform functional furniture into an artistic, durable installation. In our eco-lodge designs, such as those near Kanha, material selection is driven by the need for a minimal footprint. We test wood finishes and stains to ensure they complement the forest environment while meeting the rigorous demands of forest-facing structures.

The Process of Specification

Every material choice undergoes a feasibility check. We consider:

• Lifecycle Costing: Selecting finishes that minimize maintenance bills over the building’s life.
• Climate Engineering: Using materials that provide passive thermal regulation, such as stone for heat mass or timber for insulation.
• Local Articulation: Drawing inspiration from regional architectural history, such as the Ainmane wood-carving styles we studied for our resort projects in Coorg.