1. What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
Instilling fascination, elevating the human spirit, and initiating conversation are the cornerstones of Urban Zen’s design narrative. The name – Urban Zen seeks inspiration from our goal of defining the urban landscape with peace and serenity.
2. What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
Inception is one of the most inspiring movies of all time. The movie revolves around the potential of ideation and design. I found its visualisation in the pursuit of achieving an imagined reality aspirational as a designer. The film splendidly portrays the beauty of creation, inspires us to imagine wild, and insists that the physicality of design sees no boundaries.
3. In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
I am perpetually ambitious, taking persistent efforts to achieve big, and I feel these qualities are reflected in my designs that deliver dramatic differences time and again.
4. What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practice?
I always believe in the power of thought and consider no challenge is too big or too small. Be it planning a city or designing a door, the level of attention to detail and engagement with the design process goes with equal enthusiasm. I will stay committed, now and always, to designing and delivering living environments that are experiential and on the leading edge of design innovation.
5. Who is your favourite architect?
Norman Foster is my inspirational icon in architecture and design, and I admire him for his unique eye for design & his aspirational high-tech architecture.
6. Do you have a signature style?
No, I do not follow a specific style, I am but a function of my clients. We, as a firm, always have a single vision – to bring designs that are unique and that appeal to the client through flawless execution. I feel that the best projects in my career have been the result of clients having the same vision and spirit.
7. The one design philosophy you swear by?
I always design on my intuition and I believe it has led to UrbanZen’s dramatically different outlook on design and execution. Today, Urban Zen has become known for unique designs that deliver a strong message.
8. The one design quote you find timeless?
“Recognizing the need is the primary condition for design” by Charles Eames.
9. A hobby that sets you apart?
Music and singing. As the lead singer for a rock band, it’s both a hobby and my most effective destressing mechanism. I am now a founding member and the lead vocalist of the band SIRIUS. Sirius is a group of like-minded people with a passion for good music and for sharing it with others.
10. A message to those few young practising Architects out there?
In architecture, success has a long lead time even in this world of instant gratification. So, aspiring architects should have the hunger to excel and be patient, consistent, and work hard until they succeed.
11. Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
Archdaily is my go-to design blog which I follow avidly.