Exactly 25 years ago, architect Dominic Dube of French Canadian descent decided to make India his home – first in Ahmedabad (1993), followed by Auroville (1996) and finally Bengaluru (2003) where he set up DDIR Architecture Studio with Inge Reick. It has been a remarkable journey for him, with opportunities to work closely with the greats such as Pritzker winner BV Doshi (Sangath) and Roger Anger (Auroville). At his studio, the architect with strong philosophical inclinations has pursued architecture and design from the lens of art, technology, life and culture.
We speak to the architect about his 25 years of practice in the country and how it has moulded him as a person as well as an architect.
In his own words…
“25 YEARS
in India on 25 01 2019
Thanks and Love to
BV Doshi & Sangath
Roger Anger & Auroville
All great editors of all the great Magazines and Books
My colleagues architects
My partners and employees during all these years
My clients
My friends”
What inspired you to establish a life in India?
Dominic Dubé: I discovered, while visiting the foundation Le Corbusier in Paris, the work of B V Doshi. That was the very first inspiration to come to India. Joined him and from this moment on it is just about getting inspired /impressed by India.
How has working as an architect in India enriched you, professionally and personally?
Dubé: To find the balance in this chaotic/moving country was and still is what is the most important gain for me and this attitude continues to enrich me in my everyday creative life. This had happened in my career even before India but never as deep as it is happening here. To find the balance in everything of life and in architecture too.
In these 25 years, you’ve seen the country evolve. From your perspective, what are some of the most significant transformations the profession itself has seen over these years?
Dubé: I have seen the country changing yes like the world is changing but else than the superficial and the speed of life procured by these modern tools such as computer and social medias Indian Architecture remains a country in search of its roots/identity in this fast moving and diverse world…
A word to a young architect…
From an old mentor of mine “Travel see and learn from the world in permanence”.
Empathy will be the guide for everything you do.
Empathy for the people and empathy for the world.
Then beauty will manifest itself.