Designing for tomorrow: Ice Breaker

“As an architect you design for the present, with an awareness of the past, for a future which is
essentially unknown.” – Norman Foster

Architecture is a field that is extremely fascinating to me. I have the innate desire to explore how it is
possible for science and technology to enhance the overall performance of buildings. Both social and environmental architecture, and how it has introduced the dichotomy of my own personally. Above all, enabling me to engage in both creative and scientific aspects, as well as its aesthetic and functional designs.

Journey as an Architect

Studying architecture abroad and getting equipped with varied designs and techniques gives me
an opportunity to have an exposure while strengthening my abilities. Personally, I believe that it is
quite important to be faced with a stimulus from the environment. Reading books, journals, articles
and blogs have also led me to scrutinizing how different architects may also meet the demands of a
location that continues to develop. Buildings have always fascinated me, how a space can resolve,
create, and compose the experience of a user. With the same interests and thoughts my childhood
was filled with experiences and travel looking to learn more on my interests.

Figure 1: Sundown at the Quayside waterfront. Shot by Nishita Valli Patti Nataraj.

I have always struck a balance between extra-curricular activities and my academics. I have learnt
Bharatanatyam, a traditional form of dance since the age of 3. This has kept me rooted towards the
rich culture of my country. Being an extensive traveller, I have travelled around the globe to countries such as The United Kingdom, Egypt, China, Indonesia, The Netherlands, Belgium to name a few. It helped me understand the rich cultural heritage of architecture around various parts of the world. As an Architect and Industrial Designer I have experienced a wholesome industry experience. Wherein I worked on residential projects which was into designing of unique and custom spaces.

Why Urban Design?

Urban design is important because it influences our communities’ social, physical, and environmental characteristics. Thus, Smart urban planning improves utility, builds a feeling of community and encourages sustainability. It raises standard of living in general. It shapes people’s interactions with their environment, facilitates the operation of effective infrastructure, and designs visually beautiful and culturally appropriate settings. In the end, cities that are more resilient, lively, and livable can result from careful urban planning.

Figure 02: The Arches during winter season. Shot by Nishita Valli Patti Nataraj.