In a rapidly evolving design landscape, where speed, scale, and sustainability are redefining architecture, Krishna Kishore, Co-Founder & Principal Architect, K Square Architects & Interiors brings a perspective rooted in exploration and expression. His work traverses a wide spectrum from reflections of contemporary India to bold, modern architectural statements. At the heart of this approach lies a material that enables both imagination and precision: steel. In this conversation with SSMB, Krishna Kishore articulates how steel is not merely a construction material, but a medium of creative freedom, one that dissolves boundaries, enhances efficiency, and redefines the way we build.
“Steel gives us the freedom to imagine without limits.”
How does steel contribute to the design flexibility of your projects?
In one word, I would describe it as ‘freedom’. Steel is such a versatile material that it removes many of the constraints in the way we perceive or envision projects. It introduces a sense of lightness, yet at the same time provides rigidity and robustness to the structure.
This dual quality allows us to expand our boundaries as designers. We are no longer restricted by conventional limitations, whether in terms of form, imagination, or structural feasibility. Steel enables us to think beyond the obvious and translate that vision into reality with far greater ease.
How do you strike the right balance between aesthetics and function when using steel?
From our perspective, steel is not merely a structural component. It is not just the backbone of a project, but an integral part of its expression. We consciously explore steel as a visible and experiential element within our designs, detailing it across columns, frameworks, and support systems. In that sense, it becomes a blend of philosophy and poetry, while still remaining grounded in practicality.
When steel is designed with the intent of showcasing its inherent qualities, it stops being a constraint. Instead, it transforms into a value addition, enhancing both the visual and functional aspects of the project.
“When steel is expressed, not concealed, it elevates architecture from structure to experience.”
In what ways does working with steel align with your sustainability goals?
Steel aligns strongly with our sustainability goals on multiple levels. One of its most significant advantages is that it is 100 per cent recyclable, making it a responsible material choice in the long term.
Additionally, the efficiency of steel construction is a major factor. A large portion of the work is executed off-site in controlled factory environments, which improves precision, reduces waste, and accelerates timelines.
This efficiency in both construction and time directly contributes to sustainability. Faster project completion also means earlier operational use, which further enhances the overall lifecycle efficiency of the building.
What common misconceptions about steel have you come across?
One common misconception is that steel is perceived as an outdated or purely industrial material. In reality, it is highly adaptable and its expression depends entirely on how it is used within a project. When combined with materials like stone, glass, or wood, steel can significantly enhance the spatial experience. It is not about using steel in isolation, but about how it is interpreted and integrated into the design language.
Another misconception is that steel is expensive. However, cost must be evaluated holistically. Steel enables faster construction timelines, which can lead to earlier project completion and quicker revenue generation, especially in commercial developments. From an operational standpoint, this efficiency often offsets the initial cost, making steel a financially viable option over the lifecycle of the project.
How do you coordinate with engineers and fabricators on steel-heavy projects?
In steel-intensive projects, collaboration is fundamental. We do not approach these projects with different stakeholders sitting on opposite sides. Instead, architects, engineers, contractors, and fabricators all align on a shared vision. No single entity dominates the process. Each participant contributes their expertise, and this collective approach enhances the overall outcome.
We learn extensively from engineers and fabricators, and this exchange of knowledge allows us to push beyond individual limitations. The final performance of the project is a result of this seamless integration of ideas and disciplines.
Are there any new steel technologies or fabrication trends that excite you?
Several advancements are shaping the way we work with steel today. Digital fabrication, laser cutting technologies, robotic welding, and modular construction systems are particularly exciting. These innovations have significantly accelerated the pace of construction while simultaneously improving design precision and quality. They allow us to achieve complex geometries and refined detailing with greater efficiency than ever before.
How do you see steel shaping the future of India’s urban infrastructure?
India is evolving at a remarkable pace, and this momentum will only continue to grow. To match this speed, we need materials that can support rapid, scalable, and efficient construction.
Steel stands out as one of the most versatile and advantageous materials in this context. Whether it is modular construction, high-rise development, or large-scale infrastructure, steel offers unmatched potential.
Across all segments, its role is becoming increasingly significant. As urbanisation accelerates and infrastructure demands expand, steel is well positioned to become a primary driver of India’s built environment.
Anecdote: Designing Without Limits
Krishna Kishore reflects on how steel has fundamentally altered his design approach. “There was a time when certain ideas would remain on paper because of structural limitations,” he notes. “With steel, those same ideas can now be executed with confidence. It has changed not just how we build, but how we think.”
Editor’s Note:
Krishna Kishore’s insights capture a pivotal shift in contemporary architecture, where materials are no longer passive components but active enablers of design thinking. His emphasis on steel as a medium of freedom, rather than constraint, resonates strongly with the evolving needs of India’s construction landscape. As cities expand and timelines compress, steel’s role becomes increasingly critical, not just for its strength, but for its ability to unlock creativity, efficiency, and scale. In Kishore’s hands, steel is not just building infrastructure; it is building possibilities.
