From being a local friend for advice to now partner in work and life, Sachin Bandukwala didn’t necessarily plan to set up practice with wife Melissa Smith. Today, the American-Gujarati duo manage a family of 4 at home, including their 2 toddlers who are 4 years apart, and a family of 18 in the office in Ahmedabad, handling projects ranging from weekend homes to factories to urban plans.
He’s the people’s person and she is the design police. While they would love to live a nomad’s life, currently they fulfill their travel whims by going on impromptu road trips with friends (how lucky are they!) who are just as crazy as they are! Together, they are building a practice that is changing the face of architecture in the country. Their differences become their strength and their exposure to different environments over years of learning, experiencing and imagining architecture helps them bring to the table the most versatile architecture ideas, manifesting as something beyond the clients’ expectations.
Their work involves research on unique construction methods, both institutionalised and inventive, and built projects that explore the boundaries of material and craft in the context of contemporary Indian construction.
The duo talks about all this and more to the Editor of Architect & Interiors India, SUMISHA GILOTRA
BandukSmith Studio, I believe, is 11 years old. And it’s been quite a journey for you before and after setting up this studio. After studying abroad and lived all over the world, why did you decide to set up your practice in Gujarat?
Denne historien er fra January 2023-utgaven av Architect and Interiors India.
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Denne historien er fra January 2023-utgaven av Architect and Interiors India.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
DESIGN DEBATE NEW IDEAS SET SAIL IN SCENIC GOA
Replete with Portuguese vibes and picturesque sites, the October Edition of the Design Debate held in Goa was an exceptionally intriguing one.
FENESTRATION FOR VILLAS
In contemporary villa architecture, the use of new-age materials in windows and fenestration is driven by the need for durability, sustainability, and sleek design.
BOLD AND ARTISTIC
Bengaluru’s Reservoire introduces a fresh narrative to the city’s social landscape, where art, nature, and architecture converge seamlessly.
CITY LIGHTS
Timeless design shapes contemporary comfort in this Mumbai home designed by Open Atelier.
STANDING TALL
High rises and tall structures are ruling urban landscapes even as they make the case for urban growth, sustainability, and enhancing economic and cultural vitality in cities.
TRANSFORMING COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPES
Deepu Shyam Prakash, Founder of Aedium Design, discusses the future of commercial spaces in India, blending sustainability, technology, and user-centric design.
GATHERING OF ARTISTS IN THE "CITY OF ART"
The 34th edition of Design Debate in the city of Vadodara was a grand success
AN ECHO OF DESIGN AND AESTHETICS IN THE CAPITAL
Design Debate's 33rd edition made quite a splash in Delhi
THE VERSATILITY OF VENEERS
Veneers are taking giant strides as they look beyond floors to be used in wall panels, cabinetry, furniture and even ceiling applications.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
Architects are increasingly opting for integrated lighting systems that offer versatility and precision and lighting companies are getting into the groove as they do this and more.
