+
The evolution of the architect
Real Estate

An ode to the architect on World Architecture Day

The evolution of the architect

The role played by an architect is multi-layered and a clear representation of the society and culture of that period of time. Infinitti Design Studio Principal Architect & Co-founder Saawant Kaul says, “Architects traditionally have been visionaries who have helped shape the urban landscape and provide a breeding ground for an evolved society.”

Looking back

Architecture, as a profession, flourished globally only after the Renaissance. It was a late bloomer even in India. In the pre-independence era, there were only two architecture colleges in India, and currently there are more than 400.

Cityspace ‘82 Architects Founder & Principal Architect Sumit Dhawan speaks of the evolution of this profession. “Industrialisation and globalisation have played a significant role in the blossoming of high-rise and monumental structures. Apart from that, rapid urbanisation spearheaded innovative community requirements and accommodation strategies,” he says.

Materials and finishes also became increasingly versatile and accessible, making complex interior and exterior attributes feasible, he added.


Tech edge

The use of technology has played a critical role in the evolution of the role of the architect. Along with aiding in the creation of improved design, technology also helped accelerate processes. Ayan Sen, Owner, Ayan Sen Architects Urban Designers and Planners says, “It (architecture) has evolved in phases. The first phase had a lot of public buildings and socialist architecture. The emphasis was more on restoration of colonial buildings. With globalisation and the tech age, things definitely catapulted in the 90s.”


Pandemic blues

As with others professionals, the pandemic brought about notable changes in the manner in which architects have been functioning. DSP Design Associates Founder & Principal Ar.Yatin Patel says, “The role of architects in these extraordinary times has defied all stereotypes associated to the profession. As architects it took time for us to look beyond the horizon and examine the potential of “design thinking” in not only iconising skylines, but driving social change with spaces capable of being catalysts of transformation for far more human-adaptive environs while being green-sensitive”.

Continuous evolution

Over the years – read decades –the role of architects has greatly evolved, be it in India or overseas. Infinitti Design Studio Principal Architect & Co-founder Santa Gaur speaks of the critical and symbolic role of this profession. “Architecture is the pulse of society. One can understand various parameters like prosperity, maturity, education and degree of evolution of a civilization by simply looking at the prevailing architecture at that point in time. This is because architects are the translators of the combined vision of a society, and reflect the aspirations of the people.”

This last point is further emphasised by Mr Sen when he says, “It is very important to make the building based on the physical context (surroundings). It has to be designed as being a part of that place.”

It can be seen that an architect’s role has, over time, extended from being only functional to functional, innovative, aesthetical, and constantly evolving over time.

This article has inputs from winners of the CONSTRUCTION WORLD Architect and Builder (CWAB) Awards.

The role played by an architect is multi-layered and a clear representation of the society and culture of that period of time. Infinitti Design Studio Principal Architect & Co-founder Saawant Kaul says, “Architects traditionally have been visionaries who have helped shape the urban landscape and provide a breeding ground for an evolved society.”Looking backArchitecture, as a profession, flourished globally only after the Renaissance. It was a late bloomer even in India. In the pre-independence era, there were only two architecture colleges in India, and currently there are more than 400.Cityspace ‘82 Architects Founder & Principal Architect Sumit Dhawan speaks of the evolution of this profession. “Industrialisation and globalisation have played a significant role in the blossoming of high-rise and monumental structures. Apart from that, rapid urbanisation spearheaded innovative community requirements and accommodation strategies,” he says.Materials and finishes also became increasingly versatile and accessible, making complex interior and exterior attributes feasible, he added.Tech edgeThe use of technology has played a critical role in the evolution of the role of the architect. Along with aiding in the creation of improved design, technology also helped accelerate processes. Ayan Sen, Owner, Ayan Sen Architects Urban Designers and Planners says, “It (architecture) has evolved in phases. The first phase had a lot of public buildings and socialist architecture. The emphasis was more on restoration of colonial buildings. With globalisation and the tech age, things definitely catapulted in the 90s.”Pandemic bluesAs with others professionals, the pandemic brought about notable changes in the manner in which architects have been functioning. DSP Design Associates Founder & Principal Ar.Yatin Patel says, “The role of architects in these extraordinary times has defied all stereotypes associated to the profession. As architects it took time for us to look beyond the horizon and examine the potential of “design thinking” in not only iconising skylines, but driving social change with spaces capable of being catalysts of transformation for far more human-adaptive environs while being green-sensitive”.Continuous evolutionOver the years – read decades –the role of architects has greatly evolved, be it in India or overseas. Infinitti Design Studio Principal Architect & Co-founder Santa Gaur speaks of the critical and symbolic role of this profession. “Architecture is the pulse of society. One can understand various parameters like prosperity, maturity, education and degree of evolution of a civilization by simply looking at the prevailing architecture at that point in time. This is because architects are the translators of the combined vision of a society, and reflect the aspirations of the people.”This last point is further emphasised by Mr Sen when he says, “It is very important to make the building based on the physical context (surroundings). It has to be designed as being a part of that place.”It can be seen that an architect’s role has, over time, extended from being only functional to functional, innovative, aesthetical, and constantly evolving over time.This article has inputs from winners of the CONSTRUCTION WORLD Architect and Builder (CWAB) Awards.

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Budget Proposal Aims to Boost Investments

The recent budget proposal has introduced measures designed to promote investments and generate job opportunities across various industries, as reported by the Economic Times. This initiative seeks to stimulate economic activity and strengthen the country's growth trajectory by encouraging both domestic and foreign investments. Key aspects of the proposal include targeted incentives for sectors poised for expansion, such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and technology. The government aims to create a more favorable investment climate by offering tax benefits, subsidies, and streamlined reg..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Indian Financial System Resilient Amidst Challenges

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor M. Rajeshwar Rao has emphasized the robust nature of the Indian financial system despite global economic headwinds, according to Economic Times. Rao?s comments reflect confidence in the stability and resilience of India's financial sector amidst a backdrop of international economic uncertainties and financial volatility. Rao highlighted that India?s financial system is well-equipped to handle external shocks due to its solid regulatory framework and prudent risk management practices. The country?s banking sector has demonstrated resilience throug..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

SC Allows State Tax on Mines, Minerals

Opposition leaders have welcomed the Supreme Court's recent decision permitting states to levy taxes on mines and mineral-bearing lands, as reported. The ruling is seen as a significant victory for state governments seeking greater control and revenue from natural resource extraction within their jurisdictions. The Supreme Court?s decision empowers states to impose taxes on mining operations and mineral-rich lands, which could enhance their revenue streams and enable better management of local resources. This move is particularly important for states with substantial mineral resources, as it a..

Talk to us?