Sohrab Dalal, a visionary architect and co-founder of DPA (Design Plus Architecture), has been instrumental in shaping the firm’s legacy over three decades. Renowned for his innovative, research-driven approach, he continues to pioneer designs that seamlessly blend modernism with environmental responsibility, crafting spaces that are both inspiring and enduring.
Ar. Sohrab Dalal, co-founder and Design Partner at DPA, has played a pivotal role in the firmโs growth since its inception in 1985. With over 35 years of experience, he leads business development and design strategy alongside his partner, Sonali Bhagwati, with a focus on innovative, research-driven design solutions. Sohrab holds a Bachelorโs in Architecture from CEPT, Ahmedabad, and has worked with prominent firms like Spazzio Design, Meldrum Burrows & Partners, and Satish Gujral. His design philosophy, influenced by his education and icons like BV Doshi and Louis Kahn, integrates sustainability, functionality, and artistic expression.
Under his leadership, DPA has delivered iconic projects such as the Taj Vivanta in Bangalore and Thapar Universityโs Learning Laboratory, both internationally recognized for their excellence. Today, DPA stands as a leading design firm with a diverse portfolio spanning residential, hospitality, retail, and mixed-use developments.
Inspiration and Vision
CEPT in the 80s was the architectural mecca of India. Being there under the guidance of stalwarts such as BV Doshi, Anant Raje, Leo Peirera and KB Jain shaped his architectural perception and philosophy. He learnt the principles of architecture through the ages and finally the evolution of modernism through various schools of thoughts. A simultaneous learning of the arts and its relation to the various architectural movements made him understand the close relationship between the two. This reaffirmed the fact that Architecture is the mother of all Arts and its sound knowledge forms the basis for several allied fields such as Interior architecture, graphic design, architectural photography and lighting design.
Design Process
Ar. Sohrab strongly believes that design starts with understanding the client, the geography, the climatic conditions and the socio-economic situation. Developing a space plan (2 dimensional) that works in conjunction with these factors is the first step which is quickly followed by exploration of forms (the third dimension). The process often requires a back and forth before a satisfactory solution emerges. Coming together of these two dimensions is the crux of interesting design. The space plan ensures that all spatial requirements are met and relationships between various spaces are understood and maintained. while the form explores various dimensions of architecture. And finally, itโs the details that eventually make or break a building. Good detailing is as important as good design.
Challenges and Triumphs
According to him, every project is challenging in its own way. The dynamics of every project is unique, this is because ofโฆ
– The human element โ the end user
– The project managers or their absence
– The geographical location and climactic factors
– Socio cultural factors
– The execution and other industry partners
There are learnings from each project due to its diverse nature and thus each project contributes to the learning curve which is a continuous process.
Sustainability and Innovation
For Ar. Sohrab, sustainability is no longer a subject that warrants a discussion. It is a part and parcel of the design process. In fact, it is a part of our life. From space planning to the evolution of form, all design is governed by principles of passive sustainability. The strong and elemental architecture of CEPT was their first lesson in the principles of sustainability. From north light to deep balconies on south side, optimal use of light and reduction of heat gain became ingrained in our thought process. If the design incorporates passive measures for energy conservation, it becomes extremely easy to integrate the active measures. Adobe HQ done by them (DPA) more than 25 years ago remains an example of sustainable yet innovative design. The building consists of 2 wings of 25m by 50m joined by a central core which resulted in an extremely efficient space plan. A north south orientation with a glass faรงade on the north side and punched windows on the south side defined passive energy conservation. The faรงade was a severe monochrome which was punctuated by waves in pixelated primary colours. This defined innovation as it became the identity of Adobe.
Future of Architecture
The next decade must focus on cities and communities. While efforts are being made to design sustainable, human-centered developments, these are often confined to small land parcels. The majority of public spaces, however, remain neglected, lacking proper planning, design, and, crucially, governance. There is a need to better understand the dynamics of communities and to create practical solutions. The role of authorities is to facilitate this process.
