Architectural Design and Tropical Modernist Homes

Our Approach to Tropical Modernism

Architecture is a dialogue between the site and the elements. My process begins by analyzing how a building can acknowledge the sun path, wind direction, and the existing landscape. Instead of treating a building as a sealed box, I use structural volumes to pull the outdoors inside. This often involves the use of large openings, courtyards, and veranda spaces that function as extensions of the living area.

Materiality and Craft

I rely on materials that age gracefully and retain their integrity over time. Board-formed concrete, for instance, is not just a structural requirement but an aesthetic choice that introduces texture and rhythm to a room. When paired with teak wood joinery and natural stone, it creates a balance between the raw and the refined. I coordinate directly with craftsmen to ensure that these elements are executed with precision, whether it involves the brass inlay of a terrazzo floor or the structural joinery of a slatted ceiling.

Designing for Connection

Projects like the House of Canopies illustrate my focus on creating a unified volume. By employing double or triple-height spaces, I ensure that different levels of a home remain connected. This visual and physical continuity is essential for creating a sense of openness even in urban density. My work in Bengaluru and Mumbai often requires navigating tight sites while still maintaining this feeling of spaciousness through clever master planning and detailed axonometric studies.