What unique strengths do each of you bring to your architectural practice – Renascent Consultants?
We met in the office and instantly clicked, forming a natural and effortless connection. Our shared passion for architecture and complementary skills quickly brought us together as collaborators, laying the foundation for our 23-year-long partnership.

My strengths lie in creative vision and attention to detail. I have a strong ability to conceptualize innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs, ensuring each project stands out. My meticulous nature guarantees that every element of the design is well thought out and executed perfectly.

Varun’s strengths are in his technical expertise. He has a deep understanding of the technical aspects of architecture, including structural integrity, building codes, and engineering principles. He excels at project management and problem-solving. Additionally, he has a talent for understanding client needs and translating their vision into reality, fostering strong relationships and ensuring client satisfaction.

Together, we offer a holistic approach that combines creative vision and technical excellence. This synergy drives us to push the boundaries of our field, creating innovative and meaningful architectural solutions.

What strategies do you use to maintain a balance between your personal and professional lives?
Managing the dynamics of being both spouses and professional partners can be complex but also highly rewarding. Here are some key strategies we use:

1. Clearly Define Roles and Responsibilities: To avoid overlap and confusion, we ensure that each of us has specific areas of focus and accountability within our practice.
2. Establish Boundaries: We create designated times and spaces for work-related discussions to prevent them from spilling over into personal time.
3. Maintain Open Dialogue: We prioritize open and honest communication, regularly discussing our projects, expectations, and any concerns to stay on the same page.
4. Conflict Resolution: We develop strategies for resolving conflicts constructively, focusing on finding solutions rather than assigning blame.
5. Respect Each Other’s Strengths: We acknowledge and appreciate each other’s strengths and contributions, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

By implementing these strategies, we effectively manage the dynamics of being both spouses and professional partners, creating a balanced and successful collaboration in both our personal and professional lives.

When approaching a new project, how do you divide the responsibilities and tasks between the two of you?
Approaching a new project involves effectively dividing responsibilities to capitalize on each partner’s strengths and ensure a well-coordinated effort. We assign responsibilities based on our respective strengths and expertise, as mentioned earlier. This approach consistently proves effective across all our projects.

How do you handle creative differences when they arise?
By approaching creative differences with respect, open communication, and a focus on project success, one can effectively manage disagreements while harnessing the strengths of our partnership to deliver successful architectural solutions.

How does your design approach differ when working on commercial spaces compared to residential ones?
Designing residential and commercial spaces involves different considerations and priorities. In residential design, the focus is on personalization that reflects the lifestyle and preferences of homeowners. There is an emotional connection, and emphasis is placed on comfort and individual choice.

In contrast, commercial design prioritizes functionality, operational efficiency, and brand representation. Understanding these differences allows us to tailor our design approach and strategies effectively to meet the specific needs of each type of space.

What trends do you see emerging in commercial architecture, and how do you incorporate these trends into your designs while maintaining your unique style?
Several current trends emerging in commercial architecture include sustainability, biophilic design, flexibility, and adaptability. Buildings are increasingly required to be smart, driven by technological innovation, environmental consciousness, and evolving societal expectations.

We integrate these elements into our designs to create functional, innovative, and resilient spaces that meet the needs of businesses, communities, and the environment.

In terms of sustainability and green design, how do you ensure that your commercial projects meet or exceed industry standards?
Ensuring commercial designs meet green standards involves key strategies: using energy-efficient systems and appliances, choosing eco-friendly materials with low VOC emissions, implementing water-efficient fixtures, and enhancing indoor air quality.

For example, integrating natural daylighting through large windows and skylights reduces reliance on artificial lighting. Effective building orientation and shading devices further decrease the need for mechanical systems.

How do you incorporate client feedback into your projects, especially when working on commercial spaces that need to appeal to a broader audience?
In commercial designs, incorporating client feedback is crucial for delivering successful projects. By actively involving clients in the design process and addressing their feedback at each stage, architects can create commercial spaces that not only meet functional and operational needs but also reflect the client’s brand identity and enhance the user experience.

Are there any particular types of projects or design challenges you are excited to tackle together in the future?
We have clear goals that drive our motivation. Our aims include designing and delivering projects that achieve the highest levels of sustainability certification. We also seek to explore new opportunities and expand our portfolio, while actively pursuing more design awards. Embracing technological advancements and digital tools is another priority to enhance our project delivery capabilities.