1. What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
Our firm, Geeta Vaibhav Architects, was a joint venture which I started with my husband in 2006. The name is reminiscent of our individual strengths as professionals culminating in a comprehensive execution of ingenious design reflections.
2. What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
‘The Fountainhead’ by Ayn Rand is one of the most important pieces of literature for the architectural and design community. It inspires me to reinvent myself as a creator to challenge myself, pushing the bounds of my potential constantly.
3. In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
I have been brought up to love creating things, irrespective of the mode and medium since childhood. If I have to single out the personality trait that reflects in my design it would be my passion to explore uncharted waters with conviction which leads me to connect an assortment of creative channels and executive interpretations in my designs and emerge as a curator of exalted spaces.
4. What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practice?
My day-to-day architectural rendezvous is influenced by my drive to create and curate spaces that belong to people. I’m always fascinated by my craft. Every day I get to help realize someone’s dream space, which is the biggest reward my passion and profession give me.
5. Who is your favourite architect?
I am an avid admirer of Zaha Hadid. Her contributions to the design community are nothing short of commendable.
6. Do you have a signature style?
I would say my signature style is to create atmospheres with my designs. Harnessing the entire structure to work as one with the wholesome assortment of materials, shapes, colour schemes, and textures.
7. The one design philosophy you swear by?
I’ve always revered designing as more than a profession. It is a means for me to create sublime spaces. My design philosophy is the belief that my creative efforts translate into something incredibly meaningful, which in turn, perpetually keeps me motivated.
8. The one design quote you find timeless?
A very simple yet profound quote by Norman Foster says, “As an architect, you design for the present with an awareness of the past for a future which is essentially unknown.”
9. A hobby that sets you apart?
As a creative professional, one hardly ever gets bored of their craft. My primary hobby is sculpting which is an extension of my profession, and it brings me as much joy as erecting multi-storeyed buildings does. Whenever I’m sculpting, I have the opportunity to be as close to my work as I can be and realize the physical manifestation of the art I create beneath my hands.
10. A message to those few young practising Architects out there?
For the recent and coming generation of practising Architects, I would say that you always learn by sharing. This includes the ingenious ideas you might have about implementing design elements in your designs or simply discussing with your team whether certain combinations work well with an atmosphere. And the most important suggestion, listen to what the client wants you to do with their space- you are accorded the responsibility to build it for them; it’s their world.
11. Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
I enjoy reading the Domus every now and then.