--- title: "Material & Craft: Context-Driven Architectural Design by SIAN" description: "Explore our approach to material innovation, from reclaimed wood to vernacular techniques. Discover how we blend heritage with modern design for your home." canonical: https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/material-craft-the-soul-of-our-practice last_updated: 2025-09-16 --- # Material & Craft: The Soul of Our Practice Tribe Verified · Crafting spaces across Delhi NCR since 2018 By [SIAN Architects](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects) · Takes projects across India; Visit studio in Derawal Nagar, Delhi · ₹180 ₹ per sq. ft. of Built-up Area (estimate) Part of [Residential Architecture & Design](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/gallery) We believe every material holds a story. From reclaimed wood to local stone, our practice explores how we can give everyday elements a second life, blending vernacular techniques with modern ingenuity. ## Photos and videos - [Video: A video showing our design process, from digital sketches to construction scaffolding to the final, light-filled interior. It's a journey of collaboration and craftsmanship that turns a vision into reality.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ba9afd3c-9735-4c35-9661-e2a3c49336f8) - ![Waste wood accounts for nearly 35% of material loss in projects. This image of a sculptural bookshelf made from offcuts asks the question: is it truly waste, or untapped potential?](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1f59ef16-e761-4829-a5a4-2ec257921b93) - ![We explore ways to give waste wood a second life. This collage shows how repurposed wood can be used for acoustic paneling in a bar or for outdoor seating, reducing costs and creating purposeful design.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/07962346-6e86-456f-badf-f667cb3d09b1) - ![A material's story doesn't end at the construction site. This image of a serene balcony, built with thoughtfully sourced wood, is accompanied by our philosophy on minimizing waste and maximizing impact.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2868da5e-8d2c-4446-9d61-f046099b9405) - ![Material innovation is at the core of redefining luxury. Here, we repurposed common bumper tiles for a wall elevation, integrating them with bespoke resin lighting to create an extraordinary result from ordinary materials.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7b3c0a9f-c8a0-42a6-ac68-8491720f2884) - ![Embracing both success and failure is integral to our creative journey. This image of a floating staircase shows our commitment to pushing design boundaries through experimentation and refinement.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1f784ce1-f31a-439e-8fdd-6a35a3bef486) - ![Innovation flourishes in an environment of experimentation. This close-up shows handcrafted floral motifs made from a stone-resin composite, a result of our fearless exploration of new materials and techniques.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/379786ea-d808-4211-a642-b9858403a260) - ![A technical drawing showing our design for a synthetic thatch roof. While we value vernacular techniques, we also explore modern alternatives to address challenges like longevity and fire resistance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c5199b89-57bb-47c1-a178-c20ec0e2e9a3) - ![An illustration showing how synthetic thatch can be applied over traditional terracotta tiles. This hybrid approach offers a durable, low-maintenance solution that still respects the spirit of vernacular materials.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a81ffea7-4df5-4a39-b7f1-a38868978ea0) - ![A diagram detailing the components of a synthetic thatch roofing system, from the aluminum rail to the hip and ridge panels. This shows our deep dive into the technical aspects of material innovation.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2db6b336-3fc0-4d23-b891-f686d9156670) - [Video: A collage exploring the future of thatch. While synthetic thatch performs better, the craft of natural thatching holds a deep place in our ethos, and we continue to question how it can be preserved or hybridized.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/dfbb4cb6-1f4d-4660-8a55-ce86ace4c9b0) - ![Custom-designed 'metal shoes' act as protective screens on this facade. Meticulously angled to direct airflow, they serve both an aesthetic and functional purpose, showcasing our focus on engineered craft.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7684ffa0-102f-40da-a0a7-5861087d74b4) - ![The metal screens during construction. After around 20 design iterations and 3D modeling, the angles were optimized to improve ventilation throughout this multi-generational home.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bbc6d621-1f30-4fd8-8223-12736c266a8e) - ![A handmade architectural model in white, showing the initial massing and form-finding stage of our design process. This is where we test ideas and explore spatial relationships.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/998baf28-301e-419b-99fd-d4b64d4ff266) - ![An overhead view of a wooden architectural model, showing the relationship between buildings and a central courtyard with a tree. Models allow us to understand the feel of a space.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/587a5384-a23b-4a65-8cac-02bd497887ec) - ![A detailed sectional model, showing the interior spaces and the facade grid. These handmade models are a playground for experimentation, where concepts are refined through touch and feel.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5379a6f2-cec2-48c1-af65-79ef97833a0a) - ![A conceptual model exploring the use of arches and a vertical grid structure. This hands-on process allows us to explore unexpected forms and material combinations.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e16bc0d8-a0ec-43bc-973f-7c8b9b43dec3) - ![A model of an interior space with dramatic vaulted ceilings. The play of light and shadow in the model helps us understand how the final space will feel and how to shape the experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5d84af75-673c-4045-b408-3d5e7e552906) ## About Material & Craft: The Soul of Our Practice We often get asked about the luxury of our materials. The truth is, we find beauty in what others discard. Take our use of industrial bumper tiles or offcut timber; these are not just cost-saving measures, they are deliberate choices to weave character and narrative into a home. When you visit our studio, you will see that innovation starts with looking closely at the overlooked bits on a construction site. Architecture is not just about the final structure; it is about the process of making. Our practice is built on a simple premise: context sensitivity. We watch how the sun moves, how the wind flows, and what textures belong in a space before we ever draw a line. ### Breathing Life into 'Waste' Nearly 35% of wood in a typical project is discarded. We see this as untapped potential. We repurpose offcuts into sculptural furniture, acoustic paneling, or custom light fixtures. By turning what others call 'waste' into functional art, we lower costs while increasing the emotional depth of a home. ### Vernacular Innovation We respect tradition, but we do not let it trap us. When we use materials like thatch, we innovate. For example, in our recent projects, we have explored synthetic alternatives to natural thatch. This allows us to achieve the aesthetic warmth of traditional roofing while solving for modern realities like fire safety, longevity, and maintenance. It is a hybrid approach, where heritage meets durability. ### The Role of Customization Design should not be off-the-shelf. Whether it is angling metal screens to optimize natural ventilation or using stone-resin composites to create unique floral motifs, we design elements from scratch. This custom approach ensures that your home is not just a building, but a place that fits your life and environment perfectly. We invite you to step into our design process, where models, material samples, and constant collaboration turn abstract ideas into the homes you live in. ## About SIAN Architects We are Surbhi and Deepanshu. We don't just design buildings; we listen to the land and the materials it offers, letting those stories guide every line we draw. If you are looking for a home that feels personal, layered, and deeply thoughtful, we should talk. [See all of SIAN Architects's services](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects) ## More from Residential Architecture & Design by SIAN Architects - [Featured](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/featured) - [The Blooming Garden: A Heritage Restoration](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/the-blooming-garden-a-heritage-restoration) - [Twin Villa: Modern Living, Naturally Connected](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/twin-villa-modern-living-naturally-connected) - [Hikari House: Light & Life in a Compact Footprint](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/hikari-house-light-life-in-a-compact-footprint) - [Urban Oasis: A Fortress of Serenity](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/urban-oasis-a-fortress-of-serenity) - [Portfolio Glimpses: Other Residential Works](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/portfolio-glimpses-other-residential-works) - [A Closer Look: Signature Spaces](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/a-closer-look-signature-spaces) - [Awards & In The Press](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/awards-in-the-press) - [Life at SIAN: The People Behind the Projects](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/residential-architecture-design/life-at-sian-the-people-behind-the-projects) ## More services by SIAN Architects - [Commercial & Hospitality Architecture](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/commercial-hospitality-architecture) - [Urban & Public Realm Design](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/urban-public-realm-design) - [Facade Design & Material Innovation](https://mytribe.in/sianarchitects/facade-design-material-innovation) ## Similar work from other experts - [Materials & Craftsmanship in Ecological Architecture](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/community-led-design-development/the-art-of-building-materials-craftsmanship) by Biome Environmental Solutions · Community-Led Design & Development · Studio in Vidyaranyapura; projects across Bengaluru & India - [The Art of Materiality](https://mytribe.in/collectiveproject/architectural-design/the-art-of-materiality) by CollectiveProject · Architectural Design · Studio in Indiranagar; Projects across Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad & India - [Material Craft: Bamboo, Stone & Upcycled Elements](https://mytribe.in/safedesignstudio/sustainable-architecture-design/material-craft-bamboo-stone-upcycled-elements) by SAFE Design Studio · Sustainable Architecture Design · Takes projects in Shillong, Guwahati & Delhi NCR; Studios in Shillong & New Delhi - [Architecture Defined by Earth, Wood, and Stone](https://mytribe.in/casedesign.in/luxury-residential-architecture-design/a-palette-of-earth-wood-and-stone) by Case Design · Luxury Residential Architecture & Design · Takes projects across India; Visit Design Studio in Saki Naka, Mumbai - [Handcrafted Materials and Architectural Detail](https://mytribe.in/mistryarchitects/interior-design/the-art-of-detail-materials-craftsmanship) by Mistry Architects · Interior Design · Takes interior projects across India; Visit Design Studio in Indiranagar - [The Art of Making: Material and Craft](https://mytribe.in/malik_architecture/design-build-services/the-art-of-making-material-craft) by Malik Architecture · Design & Build Services · Takes projects across India; Visit office at Ballard Estate, Mumbai ## Book To book SIAN Architects, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%20Surbhi%20and%20Deepanshu%2C%20I%20saw%20your%20work%20on%20'Material%20%26%20Craft'%20and%20I%20would%20love%20to%20discuss%20a%20project%20I%20have%20in%20mind.)