What role does steel play in achieving architectural versatility in your projects?
It allows us to create column-free spaces, intricate geometries, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections — essential elements in our tropical architecture approach. Steel’s high strength-to-weight ratio enables us to push design boundaries while maintaining structural integrity.
How do you balance aesthetics and functionality when designing with steel?
Steel allows us to achieve both — it is sleek, modern aesthetic enhances visual appeal, while its durability ensures longevity. In one of our recent projects, we used exposed steel beams to create a striking yet structurally sound framework, seamlessly integrating modernism with tropical design principles.
How does designing with steel support your approach to sustainability and green building practices?
Steel is a highly recyclable material, making it an excellent choice for sustainable architecture. Additionally, steel structures allow for better ventilation and daylight optimisation, key factors in our climate-responsive designs.
What are some misconceptions about designing with steel that you have encountered?
Many people assume that steel structures lack warmth or aesthetic appeal, associating them only with industrial or commercial buildings. Another common misconception is that steel is too expensive or difficult to work with compared to traditional materials. In reality, steel offers immense design flexibility, allowing for elegant, intricate forms while ensuring structural integrity. It can also be highly cost-effective in the long run due to its durability and recyclability.
In your opinion, how does steel compare to other materials when addressing modern architectural challenges?
Steel stands out for its adaptability, making it an ideal material for addressing contemporary architectural challenges. Its ability to create lightweight, high-strength structures enables vertical expansion without excessive foundation loads. Its prefabrication potential allows for faster construction with minimal site disruption. climate-responsive architecture, allowing for open, well-ventilated spaces while maintaining structural efficiency.
What is the most creative or unconventional use of steel you have implemented or admired?
One of our standout projects involved using perforated steel panels for dynamic facade treatments, creating a play of light and shadow while enhancing natural ventilation.
How do you approach collaborations with engineers and fabricators when working on steel-intensive projects?
We prioritise early engagement with structural experts and fabricators to ensure that design intent aligns with technical feasibility. Regular coordination meetings, digital modelling and material prototyping help refine details, optimise costs, and enhance efficiency. These partnerships are crucial in transforming conceptual ideas into structurally sound and visually compelling realities while maintaining project timelines and sustainability goals.
What advice would you give to upcoming architects exploring the potential of steel in their designs?
Steel offers immense design possibilities, but it requires a deep understanding of its structural behaviour. Young architects should experiment with modular steel systems, and explore hybrid material approaches.
Are there any advancements in steel technology or fabrication that you are particularly excited about?
We are particularly excited about advancements in lightweight steel framing, corrosion-resistant alloys, and digital fabrication techniques. The integration of parametric design with steel detailing is also opening new frontiers in complex yet efficient structures.
What role do you think steel will play in redefining urban landscapes and infrastructure in India?
Steel will play a crucial role in redefining India’s urban landscapes and infrastructure by enabling faster, more sustainable, and innovative construction solutions. With rapid urbanisation, steel’s versatility allows for high-rise structures, expansive bridges, and modular construction that optimise space while ensuring durability. Additionally, advancements in prefabrication and lightweight steel structures will accelerate construction timelines, making it a preferred choice for modern cities. As India continues to develop, steel will be instrumental in creating resilient, efficient, and aesthetically striking urban environments.
