courtesy  :  avontura

The Top 10 Architecture Firms in India

Architecture in India is often perceived through the lens of its most iconic and ancient structures; but to overlook the present would be to ignore the emergence of a new generation of architects working at a time of rapid sociological change and urbanization. More than anything though, at the core of contemporary Indian architecture is not only a respect for the the country’s vast history, culture, and religion, but a deep awareness of ecology and the importance of architecture and sustainability as it connects to its environment.

If you missed our post on The MUST-SEE Architecture in Mumbai, I suggest checking it out as it’s a great place to learn more about some of the country’s biggest architectural movements.

The Top 10 isn’t a ranking; just a collection of what I feel are the best firms in the country based on their perceived reputation and personal opinion. With that said, here are my picks for The Top 10 Architecture Firms in India.

Sangath / Vāstu Shilpā Consultants

Location: Ahmedabad

Vāstu Shilpa Consultants was founded in 1955 by Pritzker Prize winning architect Balkrishna Vithaldas Doshi. The words Vastu Shilpa are Sanskrit words denoting the ‘Art of Built Environment’, and the studio’s work is deeply rooted in the timeless craft of architecture and place making. Some of their most important works include the IIM Bangalore (pictured), IIM Udaipur, and the Aranya Low Cost Housing development which awarded the practice the Aga Khan Award for Architecture.

Studio Mumbai

Location: Mumbai

Studio Mumbai was founded by Bijoy Jain in 2005. Their work is focused on the elements of architecture; its environment, the use of internal and external space, the importance of light and the quality of its materials. Their work is inspired by the relationship between humankind and nature, drawing on both Indian and Western cultures to capture the cultural spirit of a place while embracing the best qualities of modernity.

Anupama Kundoo Architects

Location: Puducherry

Anupama Kundoo’s architecture builds on a profound understanding of craftsmanship and material; an understanding she gains by participating in the construction of her buildings. Her works is always a product of research into tectonics, sustainability and materiality; and at the same time they are a resource for the teaching of coming generations of architects.

Kundoo shows us how architecture is always a product of the time spent on the process: time to reflect, time to teach and research, or time to produce handmade bricks; time must not be saved, but spent. Kundoo’s method makes an important contribution to discussions around circular economy and the reduction of CO₂, and with her practice she takes the concept of ‘site-determined architecture’ to new levels. Some of my favourite work includes the SAWCHU Multipurpose Hall and Wall House (pictured).

Abin Design Studio

Location: Kolkata

Based in Kolkata since 2005, Abin Design Studio is led by the architect and self-described “visual thinker and impulse seller” Abin Chaudhuri. The studio explores the unknown journey of architecture, experimenting with materials and technology, meanwhile engaging with art and culture with the purpose of providing a “soul in the shell”. Some of their best known work includes a waterfront clubhouse in Adisaptagram, and the Gallery House; a beautiful terracotta gallery house in Bansberia (pictured).