An interview with Ar. Sumit Dhawan, Founder and Principal Architect at Cityspaceโ82 Architects, known for designing celebrity homes
In this exclusive interview, Ar. Sumit Dhawan, Founder and Principal Architect at Cityspaceโ82 Architects, shares insights from his two-decade career, which includes designing celebrity homes for Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir.
Known for blending luxury with sustainability, Sumit has earned prestigious accolades like the International Asia Pacific Award.
Today, heโs pioneering modular urban housing, revolutionizing design to make high-end living more accessible and user-focused.
What inspired you to become an architect, and how did you start your career in this field?
Ar. Sumit Dhawan: Growing up in an architectural household, particularly watching my father, Ar. Satish Dhawan, at work, inspired me to become an architect. I grew up exploring his work and being surrounded by models and buildings, I was captivated by the amount of thought process it takes to design a structure.
Over the years, my approach to architecture evolved, and I started my career after completing my formal education. While honing my internship in Auroville, my design thinking was elevated in profound ways.
One principle that has stayed with me through my initial days is the idea of creating architecture that is in harmony with the environment, respecting natural materials, while using innovative techniques.
Can you elaborate on your philosophy of integrating sustainable luxury with user-centric design?ย
Ar. Sumit Dhawan: I include sustainability in all facets of my projects today, whether via using materials those are obtained locally, energy-efficient systems, or passive design strategies that lessen a structureโs environmental impact.
I think it is critical to produce ideas that satisfy the growing demand for sustainable architecture while simultaneously enlightening and motivating people to adopt sustainable lifestyles.
For me, sustainable design is about striking a balance between long-term environmental responsibility and aesthetic appeal.
What elements of your projects, such as The Illuminati and The Centaurus, do you believe contributed to their recognition and awards?
Ar. Sumit Dhawan: The designs of both these projects have unique architectural features, which garnered a spotlight in the industry. The design of The Centaurus is a low-maintenance design with a moderate yet soothing ambience.
The design assures privacy with elements like certain setbacks on three sides along with a bold facade with a palette of wood, stone, and perforated aluminium screens. With the idea of a strip courtyard and spatial zoning, the design stands out from the conventional style.
In the project, The Illuminati reflects minimalism at its absolute best while converging with the sky. The notion of a house with robust attributes and voluminous light-filled living spaces including comfortable reading nooks and unique indoor/outdoor seating areas.
The iconic facade captures the attention with openings and punctures which allow natural light to touch every corner of the house.
A terrace in the form of a cantilever renders a floating powder-coated aluminium web, which forms the most dramatic feature. These features in projects contributed to being accoladed in the industry while creating a signature style.
What trends in architecture do you find most exciting right now, and how are you incorporating them into your work?ย
Ar. Sumit Dhawan: Currently, I find the trend toward sustainable architecture particularly exciting, as it emphasises eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs that respond to climate challenges.
Additionally, the rise of biophilic design, which integrates natural elements into built environments, fosters a deeper connection between occupants and nature.
I am incorporating these trends into my work by utilising reclaimed materials, maximising natural light through expansive windows, and integrating green roofs or living walls in my designs.
What advice would you give to young architects looking to make their mark in the industry?ย
Ar. Sumit Dhawan: I would advise young architects who want to succeed in this very competitive industry to never stop learning and to keep an open mind. Curiosity and ongoing research are the cornerstones of successful design.
It is critical to maintain a solid foundation in design while remaining flexible in response to shifting customer demands, technological advancements, and trends.
Developing a solid network and looking for guidance can also be quite beneficial. Above all, have patience with your approach!
As Ar. Sumit Dhawan continues to push the boundaries of architecture, his innovative approach to modular housing and luxury residential designs is reshaping the industry.
With his focus on sustainability, user-centric philosophy, and celebrity clientele, Sumit is undoubtedly leaving an indelible mark on modern architecture, setting new standards for both functionality and style.
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