Design Thinkers & Insights

From urban density to net-zero living, architecture is redefining how we coexist with nature. Discover the House of No Windows by One Bulb + Kolam Architecture, a light-filled oasis amidst a bustling cityscape, and the Aalloa Hills Project by INI Studio, a net-zero marvel that respects its natural surroundings. These projects prove that sustainability and innovation can transform the way we live. Read more about how architecture tackles global challenges with mindful, climate-responsive designs.

The last twelve months saw architecture redefining the intersection of culture, sustainability, and human experience. In IAnD's Global Hop section, these three projects have grabbed the most eyeballs for their demonstration of the transformative power of thoughtful design, merging sustainability, cultural preservation, and innovative functionality. They redefine global design paradigms, setting benchmarks for future projects that aspire to balance tradition and progress. The projects are: Heineken Beverages Head Office, South Africa by Tetris Design + Build, Nanhai Art Centre, Foshan, China by MAD Architects, and Hovey Residence, Quebec, Canada by 1628 Inc.

Nestled on the fringes of Turahalli forest, this nature-rich habitat by Bengaluru-based Design Kacheri has captured hearts and imaginations on our social platforms! Seamlessly blending luxury, sustainability, and a deep connection with its lush surroundings, this home celebrates simplicity, ingenuity, and biophilic design. From stunning stonework to thoughtful Vaastu-inspired layouts, every detail speaks of harmony and innovation. A big shoutout to Shamanth Patil for the breathtaking photography that brings this masterpiece to life, and to our very own Pari Syal, who ensures our features are as inspiring as the designs themselves. Here's to celebrating architecture that inspires! Check out the full feature and discover why it's been the star of the year!

Designing for wellbeing is more than just aesthetics - it's about creating spaces that nurture physical, mental, and emotional comfort. After the COVID-19 pandemic, this approach has gained momentum, becoming a top priority for architects and designers. Team IAnD spotlights a few spaces by MuseLab, andblack Design Studio, and Ara Design that have broken through the mould of convention to prioritise holistic health and happiness.

At IAnD, this year has seen some groundbreaking products that elevate energy efficiency, luxury, and design creativity, reflecting how architecture and lifestyle have evolved in the last twelve months... The top 3 products that exemplify this are by Nacon Games, Impatia, and Kinetic Facades.

Reflecting broader societal shifts and evolving user experiences, the interior design industry is undergoing significant transformation, with its focus expanding beyond aesthetics. While 2024 saw recurring timeless themes like monochrome and minimalism, it also saw the rise of renewed concepts like computational design and interior urbanism. Let's explore more of what defined the year 2024 with Orproject, AB Design, Sthapati Architects and Intrigue Design Lab

The world of architecture is always buzzing with change, and the year 2024 has been no exception. From sustainability becoming an integral part of design rather than a choice, to creating inclusive environments and adopting innovative design languages, the year has marked a significant milestone in diverse design visions. Team IAnD traces the major architectural trends of 2024… with tHE gRID Architects, Jugal Mistri Architects and Beyond Design Architects and Consultants. 

Mountain, this newly designed café by Archirie combines architectural ingenuity with the breathtaking landscapes of one of Korea's most renowned mountains.

Curated by Studio Ikshha, the 2100-square-feet contemporary residence in Vadodara is a perfect mix of candid and classic spirits, reflecting the family's personality, combining functionality with a modest, chic design language. It's a space where thoughtful choices and artful creativity make the house feel not just lived in, but loved.

Alkove Design curates a modern farmhouse in the heart of Pune, harmoniously blending aesthetics and practicality. Reflecting the client's vision of a multifunctional space, this home serves as a workspace, exercise area, dining, relaxation zone, and gathering place. Embracing a modern farmhouse aesthetic, it balances warmth with practicality, promoting an adaptable layout. 

Beyond its role as a statutory body, the Indian Institute of Interior Designers (IIID) Mumbai Regional Chapter fosters an ecosystem where creativity thrives through active knowledge sharing. Team IAnD visits its legacy of 25 years and its forward-thinking approach to championing the transformative power of design.

Ar. Sonali Bhagwati and her team at Design Plus Architecture pegs the design vocabulary of a vast 9500-square-feet home around the breathtaking view of the adjacent golf course, framed by a generous balcony - making the view as the pièce de résistance of the entire design vocabulary. Here is a canvas where aspiration meets realisation, where lifestyle finds its architectural expression!

Designed for a young couple with a deep appreciation for art, culture, and understated luxury, this residence by Aashi Gupta Designs evokes a sense of luxury in every corner, marrying the romantic allure of Parisian apartments with the grandeur of Roman architecture.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bangalore, Auravilla is a residence that transcends conventional notions of a home. Designed by Studio GSA, this haven reflects a narrative that intertwines the ethos of modern living with curated nuances of artisanal Indianness, balancing boldness with serenity to create a juxtaposition of style and harmony.

Balancing aesthetics and functionality, Studio Pree D'fine curates a home a home of versatility and comfort, where every space exudes sophistication.

Turner Road Architecture designs a striking, head-turning piece of architecture with its light-filled contemporary design aesthetic that stands out amidst a beautifully landscaped area in the rural outskirts of Hamilton. This café for the Tamahere Country Club (a luxury retirement village) residents has also become a popular social hub for locals and visitors to the region.

Chestnut Storeys designs an exquisite residence for a Bharatnatyam dancer crafting it with a breathtaking fusion of creativity, culture, and artistic expression. Seeped in vintage elegance, bursts of colour and abundant natural light, here, contemporary sensibilities live harmoniously with rooted ethnicity offering an exquisite blend of luxury and nature. 

The Kansas restaurant by Carla Bechelli Arquitectos stands out for its design seeking to consciously insert the intention of organically connecting with its landscape

Vudafieri-Saverino Partners rejuvenates the palette of the Stendhal Milano restaurant in Rome, with flair and pizzazz, retrofitting it in its signature hue

Vistaar Associates in collaboration with Inspiration Architects chisel an immersive experience, awakening the cultural wealth of Kodungallur, a legendary trade hub on the Malabar Coast, in the refurbishing exercise of the Vedic Village Resort. The design choices realign the relics of the ancient town's maritime legacy and culture, echoing the essence of Muziris while accommodating the comforts of modernity.