Maintaining open and transparent communication with developers to understand their needs, constraints, and expectations is key for the success of any project. Besides this, blending creativity with practicality and sustainability to create functional and inspiring spaces has been our mantra, says Ar. Piyush Solanki, Principal Architect, P R Consultants, in a conversation with Prasenjit Chakraborty.
Can you walk us through your design Process?
As an architect, my design process is a thoughtful and iterative journey that balances creative vision with practical considerations. Here’s a walkthrough of my design process. It starts with understanding the design brief, followed by client and stakeholder meetings to grasp their needs, goals, and aspirations for the project. This is followed by site visits to analyse its conditions, climate, topography, and surrounding context. I then conduct research on local building codes, zoning regulations, and cultural influences.
During the Schematic Design Phase, I develop initial concepts, exploring different design directions and ideas. I create sketches, diagrams, and 3D models to visualize and communicate my ideas. I engage in intensive design sessions, brainstorming and refining my concepts. The design is further refined based on feedback from clients, colleagues, and experts. This stage also includes integrating technical requirements, such as structural systems, mechanical systems, and sustainability features.
The final stage involves the selection of materials that meet the project’s aesthetic, functional, and sustainability goals.
How do you balance creativity and practicality?
Throughout the design process, I balance creativity and practicality by having a detailed understanding of the design brief, embracing constraints, budget limitations, and regulatory requirements as opportunities for creative problem-solving. I work closely with clients, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure that my design meets their needs and expectations. I engage in an iterative design process, refining my ideas and making adjustments based on feedback and new information. I stay up-to-date with the latest building technologies, materials, and best practices to ensure that my designs are both creative and practical.
By embracing this design process and balancing creativity with practicality, I can deliver innovative, functional, and beautiful buildings that meet my clients’ needs and exceed their expectations.
How do you approach sustainability in your design?
As an architect, I believe that sustainability is an integral part of responsible design. I adopt Sustainable Design Principles and aim to design buildings that produce as much energy as they consume, using renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal. I incorporate water-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, and greywater reuse to minimize water consumption.
I choose materials that are sustainable, recyclable, and have low embodied energy, such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, and low-carbon concrete. I design buildings with natural ventilation, air filtration systems, and non-toxic materials to ensure healthy indoor air quality. I aim to minimize waste during construction and occupancy by designing buildings with modular components, minimizing packaging, and incorporating recycling programs.
I optimize building orientation to maximize natural light, ventilation, and passive solar heating and cooling, while incorporating passive strategies like thermal mass, insulation, and shading to minimize reliance on mechanical systems. I add green roofs to enhance insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, and support wildlife habitats. My designs feature natural ventilation and resilience against climate change, with strategies for flood protection, drought-resistant landscaping, and extreme weather mitigation.
Traditional Architecture practice and demand from developers, how do you cope with the situation?
As an architect, I often face challenges in balancing traditional architecture practices with the demands of developers. I maintain open and transparent communication with developers to understand their needs, constraints, and expectations. And conduct market research to stay informed about current trends, market conditions, and consumer preferences.
I work with developers to ensure that the project is financially feasible, considering factors like construction costs, timelines, and return on investment. In our design, I try to respect the cultural, historical, and environmental context of the project site, incorporating traditional elements and materials where appropriate. I explore innovative solutions that meet developer demands while maintaining the integrity of traditional architecture practices and prioritize sustainable design principles, ensuring that the project is environmentally responsible and resilient.
I educate developers about the value of traditional architecture practices, highlighting their benefits in terms of cultural heritage, sustainability, and community engagement.
How do you see the role of architects changing with the advent of technology and AI?
As an architect, I believe that the advent of new technologies and AI will significantly impact our profession, transforming the way we design, collaborate, and deliver projects. I see the role of architects evolving, AI-powered tools will aid architects in exploring new design possibilities, automating repetitive tasks, and enhancing creativity.
AI-driven generative design will enable architects to create multiple design options, optimizing building performance, sustainability, and user experience. Immersive technologies will revolutionize design visualization, communication, and stakeholder engagement. Algorithmic design tools will streamline complex design tasks, such as structural analysis and energy modelling. Also, AI-powered drafting tools will reduce manual labour, increasing efficiency and accuracy. Currently, Cloud platforms are facilitating seamless collaboration among architects, engineers, contractors, and clients. AI-analysed data will inform design decisions, ensuring that projects meet performance, sustainability, and user experience goals.
With regards to new business models and skills, architects will offer data-driven services, such as building performance analysis and optimization. They will provide expertise in design technology, AI, and data analytics to clients and other stakeholders. Architects will need to continually update their skills to stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends.
In summary, the role of architects will evolve to incorporate new technologies, AI, and data-driven design. Architects will need to develop new skills, collaborate more effectively, and prioritize sustainability and resilience in their designs.
How do Alumil Windows help overcome several challenges when designing an upmarket residential building in Chembur, Mumbai?
Designing a residential building in Chembur with a minimalistic elevation concept posed several challenges. The client requested a clean, vertical aesthetic with no weather projections, which meant we had to find alternative solutions for sun shading and protection from rain. The absence of these elements required us to focus on high-performance windows and strategically placed structural frames to enhance both the building’s visual appeal and its functionality, while maintaining structural integrity and comfort for residents.
At P R Consultants, we were tasked with designing a residential building in Chembur, utilizing the windows-as-wall concept. With flat slab, no beam technology, and the absence of traditional weather protection elements, the project presented unique challenges. Our primary goals were to ensure ample natural light and ventilation, while also providing excellent views and thermal comfort. After extensive research and analysis, we identified Alumil as the ideal window solution provider.
Their high-performance aluminium systems offered the perfect balance of durability, thermal efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. The slim-frame design of Alumil windows allowed for maximum glass area, optimizing views and natural light, while ensuring structural integrity without additional support from beams. Moreover, Alumil’s energy-efficient glazing systems were vital in addressing the need for effective insulation, minimizing heat gain from the south and heat loss on the north side.
Alumil’s solutions also addressed weather protection challenges, as their advanced sealing systems and high-quality materials ensured the windows could withstand Chembur’s humid and monsoonal climate, preventing water ingress and ensuring durability. With these technical specifications, Alumil windows met our design requirements and helped realize a functional, visually appealing, and energy-efficient facade for the building, all while enhancing the residents’ living experience.
As an architect, I highly recommend Alumil Windows to fellow developers due to their combination of technical reliability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Alumil’s products are designed with high performance, offering excellent thermal insulation, durability, and aesthetic appeal, all while being value for money. Their time-bound delivery ensures seamless integration into project schedules, keeping timelines on track. Additionally, Alumil’s commitment to sustainability stands out, as they use 80% recycled aluminum in their products, contributing to environmental conservation without compromising quality. This blend of innovation, cost-efficiency, and eco-consciousness makes Alumil an ideal choice for any development.
