Rules Of Design

40 years of documenting countless structures worldwide, interviewing legendary architects and paying ode to the wonderful built environment they constructed! As we reminisced about our magazine's glorious past, our thoughts meandered towards architecture as a profession and what it meant for design practices to stay relevant in today's day and age. We asked prolific architects and designers to share a rule of design they swore by. Read on to find out how they honed their skills as they share valuable insights from their personal experiences and some really cool advice for young design firms.

SANJAY PURI ARCHITECTS

SANJAY PURI 

Thumb rule of design: Explore new ways of experiencing spaces and be contextual in the responses to the site, it’s location and climate along with the function aspects without trying to follow global trends.

 A piece of advice for budding architects: Experience different kinds of buildings and their spaces, go to various sites to understand how spaces are built and what details are required and garner as much on-site experience as possible, working for at least 10 years prior to starting on one’s own. It is also very important to see and participate in exhibitions and conferences worldwide.

STUDIO-ROOSHAD SHROFF

ROOSHAD SHROFF 

Thumb rule of design: I think for me personally, it has been to champion the cause of craft and see what kind of design journey I end up undertaking as a consequence of pushing its boundaries. India’s artisanry is unparalleled, and handmade, bespoke designery plays a pivotal role in almost every aspect of my work across the spectrum. At the studio, we are constantly seeking to sustain, promote and bring about an evolution in these time-tested traditions.

A piece of advice for budding architects: It’s advice that comes from my father, also an architect. When I was starting out with my private practice, he said to me, “Keep your wants at a minimum, so that you also work for pleasure and not just for money.” And I’ve done my best to keep that in mind over the years.