1. What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
I decided to name the design firm after myself because I believe that most design firms in the world, including architects and fashion designers, have done so. In design, it’s often the personality of the architect or designer that shines through in their work, so I wanted to take responsibility for my own designs. By putting my name out there, I am letting people know that I am personally invested in the success of the firm and that the buck stops with me. It’s a way for me to put my reputation on the line and show that I am committed to producing high-quality work.
2. What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
When I was in college, I came across a series of design journals or magazines called GA (Global Architecture). I’m not sure if they are still being published, but at the time, they were Japanese publications with around 20 to 30 pages, filled with mostly images and very little writing. However, I found that they perfectly covered architectural projects, both in black-and-white and colour pictures.
The books were large, A3 size long, and each one would focus on one project. I learned a lot about architecture from these books. Whether it was Farnsworth House, Tadao Ando’s work, or Ron Champ, I found that I could learn about them all in these GA books. Even more contemporary architects were featured in the publications.
I am not sure if the GA books are still being published or if they have an online version now, but I would love to get my hands on the entire series if I could. I would buy them to add to my collection and continue learning about architecture.
3. In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
I believe that my architectural designs are both a compliment and a contrast to my personality. As a person, I tend to be very peripatetic, staccato, easily anxious, and easily excited. In a way, I’m like the rough sea.
However, my designs are often the complete opposite of that. They are simple, elegant, and serene, like a calm beach. Some people may say that they are too white and sterile, but for me, they are exactly what I need to balance out my high level of neuroticism.
I think that my designs are a refreshing contrast to my flamboyant and outgoing personality. They provide me with the kind of environment that I need to find peace and tranquilly. In fact, when I look for a life partner, I would look for someone who has a similar personality to my architectural designs, not someone who is exactly like me.
Overall, I think that my designs are a counterpart to my personality. They offer me a sense of calm and tranquilly that I might not otherwise find in my everyday life.
4. What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practise?
Every time I sit down to design a project, I strive for excellence. I aim to create a masterpiece that bears my signature. As an architect, I’m inspired by the idea of changing the face of the earth through my designs. I believe that a building should last for at least 100 years and be visible from afar, even on a satellite photo.
My goal is to create buildings that are easy on the eye, pleasing to look at, and evoke a sense of beauty and goodness, much like a beautiful landscape or a work of art. My inspiration lies in creating designs that will stand the test of time and bring joy to those who see them.
5. Who is your favourite architect?
When I started practicing architecture, my favorite architect was probably Mies van der Rohe. However, over time, my preference shifted to Le Corbusier. But as I have grown older, I have come to appreciate classical architecture and its principles found in different cultures and regions, such as Greece, Hampi, Japan, Damascus, and Grenada. These principles are universal and enduring, and they continue to inspire me in my work.
When it comes to my favourite architect, I have to say that I am drawn to classical architecture and the principles that are universal and enduring. While I admire the work of individual architects like Bernini, the designer of the Vatican colonnade, the architect of the Parthenon, and the genius behind the Taj Mahal, I believe that the archetypes and best features of these architects coming together would form a virtual architect that represents my ideal. It’s the combination of these architectural styles and techniques that continues to inspire me in my work today.
6. Do you have a signature style?
Yes, I definitely have a signature style that I’ve been developing since my third year in architecture college, and it hasn’t changed much since then. It’s characterized by white surfaces and the interplay between male and female, rough and smooth, and simplicity and elegance, all while following classical principles like rhythm, harmony, and scale proportions.
Whether it’s incorporating the golden mean or square proportions, or using classical elements like grand staircases, colonnades, or pedestals, my signature style is instantly recognisable as my own. While some may see it as predictable, I believe that’s true for any accomplished architect.
Just like you can easily identify a Zaha Hadid or Charles Correa building, anyone who sees a Thomas Abraham’s building will know it’s mine. And while I do follow the classical philosophy of form follows function, I believe it’s slightly incomplete.
7. The one design philosophy you swear by?
The design philosophy of “form follows function follows feeling follows philosophy” is one that I am deeply passionate about and have spoken extensively about. It builds upon the work of great architects such as Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright, who incorporated unspoken yet essential elements into their designs to create a sense of completeness.
In my approach, I have taken this philosophy a step further, placing emphasis not only on function but also on the emotional response that a design evokes. I believe that form and function are critical components of design, but they must be complemented by a consideration of the feelings that a space elicits in its users. Ultimately, this all ties back to the underlying philosophy behind a design, as every design decision should be informed by a deeper set of values and beliefs.
By following this philosophy, I believe that we can create designs that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also emotionally resonant and meaningful. It is an approach that allows us to create spaces that are truly holistic in nature, addressing the needs of both the mind and the body.
8. The one design quote you find timeless?
“Form follows function follows feeling follows philosophy” – this design philosophy is one that I am passionate about and believe is essential for creating truly holistic and meaningful spaces. By considering the function, form, and emotional response of a design, we can create spaces that not only look good but also feel good and serve a deeper purpose. Ultimately, every design decision should be informed by a deeper set of values and beliefs, making the philosophy of “form follows function follows feeling follows philosophy” an important guiding principle for architects and designers alike.
9. A hobby that sets you apart?
As someone who spends a significant amount of time writing, both fiction and non-fiction, I consider it to be my primary hobby and preoccupation. It’s something that sets me apart from others, and I believe it’s what I would like to be remembered for.
I spend almost every day, until the early hours of the morning, working on my writing projects. It’s a passion that I have had since before I even pursued a career, and it continues to be something that brings me joy and fulfilment.
To my fellow youngsters out there, I encourage you to pursue your own hobbies and passions outside of your career. It’s important to have something that you can immerse yourself in outside of your work that brings you joy and a sense of purpose. Whether it’s writing, travelling, or something entirely else, don’t be afraid to explore and embrace your preoccupations. Who knows? It may even lead to a new career path or opportunity in the future.
10. A message to those few young practising architects out there?
Set out to change the world – to design a better world. Because we can make a difference by contributing to something which I believe is transcendental, which is beauty. Beauty is not anything lesser than truth, virtue, goodness or righteousness, it is an important aspect of human existence. Across history, people considered Sundaram or beauty as part of godliness itself. As an architect, I am proud of the fact that I contribute to the third leg of the transcendentals, which is beauty itself. Just as a doctor does his job or teachers lead us to our jobs, my job as an architect is very important because I contribute to the beauty of the world.
Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
While I absolutely love reading Architectural Digest as an architect, there are a few other design blogs and social media handles that I also follow avidly.
One of my favourite Instagram accounts is @designmilk. They feature a wide variety of modern and innovative designs, from furniture and lighting to architecture and technology. I love that they showcase both established and emerging designers, so there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
Another blog that I enjoy reading is Dezeen. They cover a wide range of topics, including architecture, design, and technology, and they’re always on top of the latest news and trends in the industry. Their articles are well-researched and informative, and I appreciate the global perspective that they bring to their coverage
And of course, I can’t forget about ArchDaily. It’s one of the most comprehensive architecture and design websites out there, with a seemingly endless supply of articles, projects, and interviews to explore. I especially love their focus on sustainable design and the ways in which architects are using their skills to address social and environmental issues.
All of these blogs and handles are great resources for architects and design professionals, and I’m grateful to have them at my fingertips. Whether I’m looking for inspiration, knowledge, or just a fun way to unwind, they always deliver.