1. What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
I always wanted my firm name to reflect an architectural term when I first started my practice. While the city is a simple macro-level concept, spaces are the most fundamental and micro-level term associated with architecture. Thus, the name Cityspace was created collaboratively. I needed to add a numerical value since the title still seemed to be missing something. I picked the year of birth above the year of my firm establishment in order to be seen as experienced and well-established in the field rather than raw and naive. Consequently, the phrase “Cityspace’82” was adopted in its entirety.
2. What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
Fountainhead by Ayn Rand. The book is an excellent example to understand the value of integrity where honest opinions are portrayed in a direct manner. The book is a reflection of our culture, which values mediocrity. It delves extensively into the lives and aspirations of ordinary people and greatly inspired me to build my own perspective on the idea of happiness.
3. In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
I would describe my personality as being extremely clear about what I want, and the same is true for the kind of detailing we put into designing facades and interiors. It is always simple, and I despise complexity. In real life, I pretty much function in a similar manner.
4. What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practice?
I constantly want to create something futuristic, maintenance-free, and questionable to inspire better design. This intrigues me as an intelligent and considerate design detail. I don’t believe in constructing quirky forms that are ephemeral in both form and meaning; instead, I’d rather build on minimalism and elegance that everyone can relate to and appreciate. I’d like to give up something time-consuming and demanding in exchange for becoming more sensitive to the context and creating designs that reflect the context while technically resolving it in the design down to the last detail.
5. Who is your favourite architect?
My favourite architect is Soo K. Chan. How I hoped I could have worked with him, gained more inspiration from his clear, minimalistic, and contemporary design philosophy, and built upon it.
6. Do you have a signature style?
Every designer has a unique personal style that is discernible. Having said that, I have always admired the profession of architecture for allowing designers like us the freedom to always do something versatile in design, whether it be contemporary, classical, or neoclassical. Since our firm is constantly willing to try out new design trends, we create spaces that are distinctive to each type and design language based on the client’s needs.
7. The one design philosophy you swear by?
No matter what I design, the final detail, coupled with the maintenance throughout time in regard to both the exterior and interior surfaces, is something that I consider to be most significant.
8. The one design quote you find timeless?
Less is More.
9. A hobby that sets you apart?
Sports enthrall me far too much. I enjoy playing badminton during the week and cricket on the weekends. In addition to architecture, this is one thing that can draw me in. I don’t think I could do anything else. I’m too enthusiastic about architecture and my work.
10. A message to those few young practicing Architects out there?
I intend to refrain from conveying any message to practicing architects. I would prefer to address potential future practitioners of architecture. I made a big misstep when I started my practice because I had never worked with an architect before and had no experience. Basically, it’s critical to start working with someone who inspires you and who you see as your guru or mentor. One may consider starting their own practice with their own style and interpretations after working with them for around three years.
11. Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
I don’t follow anything specific regularly. However, SCDA’s Instagram feed is what I adore the most, and a few of the projects that I periodically see on ArchDaily truly excite me.