Indrajit: In today’s evolving world, the concept of a ‘godown’ needs to ‘go down’ to move upward. Therefore, if suppliers wish to thrive, they must embrace the idea of immersive experience centers. Adaptation and innovation are imperative for success in India. Displaying products in an experience centre makes it easier for architects to persuade clients to use them.Indrajit: Initially, as a practicing architect, I felt no pressure, particularly because I was based in an area where my parents had established themselves as reputable architects. However, when I moved to Bangalore and co-founded KAF with my wife, the dynamics shifted. Bangalore, being a Tier I city, initially brought about a level of nervousness and skepticism regarding our prospects. Fortunately, luck was on our side. Our first project came from a client based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, who had learned about one of our projects through a magazine.
What inspired your decision to pursue architecture as a career?
Indrajit: Ideally I wanted to be a diplomat but I eventually did realize that diplomacy is a small part of architecture which you require all the time. The fact that I come from a family of architects did help me in choosing it as a career. Along the way architecture offered me a breathing space to expand into many more areas. Much of it became possible because akin to politics architecture blends science, creativity, economics, cultural responsibility, social responsibility as also religious beliefs.
Architecture first struck my consciousness when I visited the office space designed by my parents in Hubli. I was mesmerized by what they had created, it was simply beautiful! I realized that architecture gives you a chance to make life beautiful for oneself and others. The main quest for many is wealth, power and fame, what I probably relate to at the end is how to make life beautiful is most important. In this quest of beauty, I think you find everything else. And beauty has peace because there cannot be beauty without peace.
When you started your own firm, did you find it easy?
Indrajit: Initially, as a practicing architect, I felt no pressure, particularly because I was based in an area where my parents had established themselves as reputable architects. However, when I moved to Bangalore and co-founded KAF with my wife, the dynamics shifted. Bangalore, being a Tier I city, initially brought about a level of nervousness and skepticism regarding our prospects. Fortunately, luck was on our side. Our first project came from a client based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, who had learned about one of our projects through a magazine.
Do you believe architects who specialize are currently in demand? Also, could you mention some of the completed projects?
Indrajit: We’ve been involved in a diverse array of projects recently. These include airports, hospitality, industries, real estate etc.We don’t specialize in only residences or hospitality, we’ve undertaken numerous other projects spanning from private homes to large-scale housing developments, office complexes, industrial facilities, hospitals, hospitality institutions, government buildings, public structures, airports, railway stations, and bus terminals. We have designed a jail as well. Though specialization has its merits, it also poses a risk to the diversity of design, for e.g. look at the shopping malls, in every other city they look similar. The uniqueness of each city’s character is evident when comparing shopping experiences in iconic areas like Connaught Place in Delhi and Colaba in Mumbai. However, this individuality is not mirrored in the uniform appearance of shopping malls found in both locations.
What challenges do practicing architects have to deal with in the contemporary scene?
Indrajit: It is easy to begin an architectural practice but as work grows you need a team in place. Initially an architect charges less because it’s a one many show or a couple at work. Once you have a team in place the operating expenses increase however the architect is unable to raise his fees. The clients expect him to keep the show running at the initial price, owing to which at times quality takes a hit. The presence of multiple architectural firms also adds to the competition. There are only a handful of Indian architects who are in a position today to command a price which they truly deserve. We also need to consider the influence of international architects in the market, who often demand significantly higher fees. Consequently, Indian architects are typically expected to deliver their services at just 10 percent of the rate charged by international counterparts. Despite this pay parity, Indian architects consistently produce world-class designs which match up to global standards. They can stand up to the best in the world owing to sheer effort and dedication.
How strongly do you believe that the work of an architect influences people’s lives?
Nita & Indrajit: Architects are the creators of the built environment, from ancient times we have believed that Vaastu impacts people; Vaastu to a certain degree is nothing but built environment in current times. In our culture we don’t call homes as an object of brick, mud and stone, we refer to it as a living being thereby invoking a spiritual connection with the abode. To simplify, we influence the space and the space also influences us. Hence as architects I like to believe we do have a conscious or an unconscious role in shaping a certain dimension of people’s lives. An architect’s work not only involves designing buildings but also contributing to the overall beauty and efficiency of cities. This, in turn, increases the value of the city as a whole, benefiting businesses and residents alike. By prioritizing the long-term impact of our designs on the cityscape and townscape, rather than just focusing on short-term gains, we can create environments that are both efficient and aesthetically pleasing. Our contribution goes beyond individual structures; it influences the entire fabric of the city, making it more livable and enjoyable for everyone. I can cite Dubai as a prime example of how passion, vision, and dedication can transform a place. Despite its desert origins and lack of natural resources, strategic investments and visionary leadership have turned it into a world-renowned tourist destination. This success highlights the potential for innovative urban planning and architectural excellence to create vibrant cities, even without traditional advantages like oil wealth. Similar transformations can be seen in places like Singapore, showcasing the transformative power of visionary design and planning.
You mentioned Vaastu, but many architects tend to debunk the theories of Vaastu as also Fengshui, what is your take?
Nita & Indrajit: Feng Shui and Vaastu were designed to respond to climatology. Feng Shui which originated in China is popular even in countries like Japan. It seeks to identify regions where the earth’s plates are vulnerable. In such areas an earthquake can have a major impact. When it comes to Vaastu, it is easier to abide by the rules of Vaastu when the property in question is an individual property being built on a plot of land. In the contemporary mode, when townships and apartments are a norm, it is not easy to stick to all the rules of Vaastu but attempts are made. As architects even in apartments we design, we try to fall in line with the rules of Vaastu that we can abide by. I have to add a lot of Vaastu that has become operational today has much to do with the client’s peace of mind than anything else.
What is your take on the future of business of design?
Nita & Indrajit: In the business of design, besides architects and designers, AI has emerged as a third entrant. As it grows our professional and business life cycles will shrink unless we as architects and designers choose to evolve. Technology too is evolving. For instance, 3D printing can create a concrete wall of the desired thickness, potentially replacing the need for conventional methods. While some may argue that such technologies will take time to evolve and become widespread in the architecture and design community, their accessibility might come sooner than expected. We as architects and designers have to think beyond what technology can do and deliver.
How has your background in painting influenced the integration of artistry with sustainability and cultural sensitivity in your work?
Nita: Art allows one to appreciate history, culture and tradition in more profound manner and the same reflects in our designs at Kembhavi Architecture Foundation. We often collaborate with artisans and incorporate traditional craftsmanship into modern designs, thereby emulating our heritage while creating unique and contextually relevant structures. This artistic perspective also fosters innovative thinking, emphasizing a consciousness of nature and a commitment to sustainability. By creatively integrating green technologies and sustainable materials into our projects, we blend functionality with aesthetics seamlessly.
How do you balance your shared passion for design with the practical aspects of running a large and successful architecture firm?
Nita: Balancing our passion for design with the practicalities of running a large firm has been a collaborative and dynamic process. Indrajit and I complement each other well, bringing different strengths to the table. Our shared passion for design keeps us constantly inspired and innovative, while we rely on strong operational frameworks to manage the day-to-day business aspects. We have built a talented team that supports us in various administrative and logistical functions, allowing us to focus on creative and strategic directions.
What drives the firms high rate of repeat clients, and how do you maintain these relationships?
Nita: The high rate of repeat clientele is a testament to the trust and satisfaction we have cultivated over the years. We attribute this loyalty to several key factors like client-centricapproach, where we prioritize understanding our clients’ needs, aspirations, and constraints. This personalized approach ensures that each project is tailored to their specific requirements, fostering a sense of partnership and trust. Delivering quality designs and executions has built our reputation. These practices, combined with our passion for design and innovation, help us build and maintain strong, lasting relationships with our clients.
So, when you’re doing a particular project for the first time, what kind of preparation is required?
Nita & Indrajit: In every project and especially in ones we are doing for the first time, research becomes paramount. The essence lies in understanding that just because you’ve excelled in one domain, doesn’t mean you can’t tackle another. It’s all about thorough research, understanding, and having the right tools. For instance, when we undertook our first airport project, we immersed ourselves in airport culture. We visited airports, studied their layouts, and scrutinized plans from different cities. We also consulted the work of architects who have designed airports. As a result, when we executed the airport project, there were no loopholes. Today a wealth of information is available. It can be found online or in libraries. Hence before starting a project, a first of its kind, it is necessary to engage in discussions with architects, it is essential to physically visit the buildings as also garner valuable insights from consultants involved in their construction.
Often project timelines get stretched, how do you ensure timely delivery of your projects?
Nita & Indrajit: The efficiency with which we execute projects is remarkable. Even for projects as significant as a INR 4000-5000 crore venture, with its complexities, our process, from initial research to client presentation and approval, takes less than two weeks. It’s undoubtedly a Herculean task, but the speed at which my team operates is exceptional. It all boils down to research and expertise. When you have a comprehensive understanding of a subject, executing and progressing with it becomes faster. For instance, one of my juniors here can attest to this. Her team has managed to complete approximately a crore and a half square feet of work in a month’s time.
Should suppliers focus more on creating experience centers or operate from a warehouse?
Indrajit: In today’s evolving world, the concept of a ‘godown’ needs to ‘go down’ to move upward. Therefore, if suppliers wish to thrive, they must embrace the idea of immersive experience centers. Adaptation and innovation are imperative for success in India. Displaying products in an experience centre makes it easier for architects to persuade clients to use them.
In India, many say there are issues with workmanship and skilled workers?
Indrajit: You see, here, there’s a higher regard for materials than for services. In the West, booking a self driven car is cheaper than a taxi because the driver costs more than the car. However, in India, the material cost outweighs the labor cost. Once labor is properly recognized and compensated, workmanship will improve.
As an architect, do you prefer to see a multi-brand store or a single-brand store?
Indrajit: Standalone stores are struggling to survive as consumers seek multi-dimensional shopping experiences. Malls are thriving because they offer a variety of options, allowing customers to explore different products and make additional purchases. With limited time, customers prefer to cover as much ground as possible during their shopping trips
Can you tell us about your ongoing projects?
Indrajit: Currently, we’re engaged in several intriguing projects. One particularly captivating endeavor is the design of a transit terminal for the new Cochin International Airport. Additionally, we’re involved in the development of a highly experiential retail mall there. We’re also working on various institutional projects in addition to townships across India; each township is distinguished by its creativity and uniqueness. These townships which amalgamate retail and housing components entail numerous complexities. T hey involve more than just providing living spaces; they encompass creating vibrant living environments and fostering communities. It’s not only about offering a dwelling space but also about shaping lifestyles and cultivating a sense of belonging among residents.
What advice do you have for young architects?
Indrajit: I often tell young architects it is not just about focusing on the end result; you must also pay attention to the process. Firstly, prioritize learning and acquiring knowledge. When you engage with clients, vendors, or anyone in the industry, aim to possess more knowledge than them. This garners respect and makes people turn to listen to you. Therefore, building a strong knowledge foundation is essential. Nowadays, many people frequently change jobs for marginal financial gains, losing sight of the bigger picture over time. Therefore, my primary advice is to cultivate patience, establish a robust knowledge base, and strive to improve your skills daily, aiming to be better than you were yesterday.