Ar.BALAKUMARAN

Balakumaran regarded Architecture on his own terms,as a problem-solving embodiment, which comes with their own style of calculations and proportions. Perceiving every project in this manner, he believes brings its own unique set of challenges and solutions.

Recollecting his most challenging endeavor, Ar.Balakumaran reminisces his very first residential project with a client,who has immense self-taught Architectural knowledge, thereby rendering it his most creatively challenging project to exceed the client’s expectations.

Architects like B.V.Doshi, Jaisim,ChitraViswanath has always been his inspiration in providing importance to details in his working style and designing responsible designs. Balakumaranaffirms that “With the world leading into a disastrous zone with natural calamities,climate change and water scarcity, there needs to be a globalized approach to the issue and sustainable living is our only alternative.”

He asserts, Sustainability to be the future of architecture and every other field known to mankind.Sustainable living helps mankind come up with new solutions and new methodologies for healthy living which is a must for architecture in the current climate.

However, he also emphasizes on how the practices be adopted to a local functional aspect and not be universal.The green building concepts that includes energy efficiency optimization, water and other natural resources, less waste generation, healthier spaces for occupants are the features of a responsible design.

Ar.Balakumaranaccentuates that young graduatesshould gain experience working with senior Architects, learn the practicalities and realities of the profession before branching out on their own. He quotes,”Technical details are important in Architecture,every detail is unique and you need to gain the knowledge and experience before you start off on your own.Step out and interact with all personnel involved from people working at the site to clients. Also ‘Networking plays a key role’. Architect’s good in design should expand their network with interactions not only with their fellow Architects but alsowith other stakeholders involved in the design process and clients.Networking and extracurricular are equally important.”

Furthermore, he articulates the importance of listening and good communication. “Only when Architects listen would they be able to get clients to return and expand their horizons.Listening to people is essential; meet up clients expectations as much as rationally possible. While some demands are not practically possible, it should be gently explained to them.”

Ar.Balakumaran currently aims to build a fully sustainable house for himself using completely Indian practices and techniques, a lot of whom are on the brink of extinction. His practice currently focuses on sustainable architecture and planning formore green buildings with certification.