Ar. Loganathan

However, he believes architects are at time mistaken to be ‘non listeners’. Ultimately client is the end user, but certain times, he asserts, architects need to explain the ideal use of a space to the client, because the architect would have designed the space from a holistic point of view keeping in mind all the current and future users of the space while all clients may not always be so perceptive. Architects should also be unbiased to clients’ objectivities and be open to amicable solutions. A cordial solutions can always be brought, provided the client’s dilemma are sorted out with an innovation solution that benefits the clients and stays true to the design’s sensibilities.

He is quite optimistic about the globalization of the architectural field, in terms of materials, technology and design management, although doyens of the world have previously ventured into our country to create marvels. With advent of IT sector in current millennium, and the slow trickle of foreign designs into the country, he believes that at one point, we have proceeded to emulate them without thought to its efficiency to our climate.

He goes on to reminisce about an old IT park designed by a senior architect, keeping in mind the humidity and weather of Chennai, which is functioning well to this date with only small portion air-conditioned. Western influences have been slowly seeping into regular design while our erstwhile strong vernacular approach which adopts to our climatic conditions is shaken. Although too much use of glass has become a way of life, with respect to residences too, Ar. Loganathan strongly believes, there is still hope, since many architects have come forward in recent times to revive classical methods which has stood the test of time.

Also, he quotes “the current pandemic situation has given a breather to all architects around the world to step back and revaluate and revive our best approach in consonance with our regions”.

Furthermore Sustainability is the most important thing an architect should bear in mind before he thinks of form or interesting features which provided further appeal.

Ar. Loganathan concedes that in the current competitive era, collaboration is key for the next generation. Additionally, constant upgradation of skills along with enhanced knowledge of structural and MEP is inevitable to be able to handle all the facets of a project.

Illustrating an important experience he learned in Singapore, he elaborates on the importance of the “maintenance cost” factor added to their costing estimate. Considered a crucial factor, since this reflects on the building’s efficiency as well as the efficiency of the architect’s design.

A conscious effort to contribute back to the field, and share the knowledge acquired over the years, led his foray into being an academician only to realize he learnt as much as he gave back and that learning in an “Unending process”. At some point of time, he acknowledges, every architect must get into some academics to share what they know while gaining what they need to in the process.

Ar. Loganathan currently dreams about designing a hospitality project, an all-inclusive resort, similar to the sensibilities of a resort he visited in Cancun islands in Mexico.