Architect & Partner @ Shanmugam Associates | Passionate about tropical timeless architecture | GSAPP, Columbia University | 18+ years of experience
At Shanmugam Associates, our architectural approach is focused around what we call the 3 C's: Climate, Context, and Concept. These principles are the foundation of our design philosophy, guiding every project from start to finish: 1. Climate – Ensures our buildings harmonize with their environment, optimizing natural ventilation, daylight, and energy efficiency, and maintaining comfortable ambient temperatures without the need for mechanical ventilation. 2. Context – Respects the cultural, historical, and physical surroundings, creating designs that resonate deeply with their locale. 3. Concept – Drives our overall vision. It helps us to decide on how to design spaces and what the building should look like. We create entirely new concepts for each project, by considering Climate and Context and addressing both in unique ways. Our recently completed Phase 1 of Vidhyashram International School at Jodhpur exemplifies this approach. Designed by myself, Raja Krishnan, Ramya Raman and Ajithkumar Ayyappan, the project reflects our commitment to these principles. A) Drawing inspiration from Jodhpur's narrow, shaded streets, we crafted internal spaces that naturally maintain cooler temperatures. B) The exterior massing pays homage to the region's iconic step wells, while locally sourced sandstone cladding grounds the building firmly in its context. This integration of regional influences with design principles has resulted in a school that is not just functionally effective but also culturally rich. We look forward to sharing more insights from our design journey in the future. #architecturalapproach #climate #context #concept
Ajit Seshadri
3mo
Congrats Sir ! Progress well
Ramya Raman
3mo
It was a wonderful collaboration with the local architects, artisans and the Vidhyashram team. To work on such extreme climate along with the abundance of natural stones brought out a lot of potential to maximize our design ideas! Thanks to gaurav jain for connecting the dots!
Transforming Public Spaces with Art | Empowering Growth through Resilience | Creative Connector and Purpose-Driven Mentor.
3moBeautifully put! The 3 C's—Climate, Context, and Concept—are such a strong foundation for thoughtful architecture. What I love most is how you balance the region’s identity with innovative design. Your approach isn't just about creating structures; it's about creating meaningful spaces that respect both the environment and the local culture. The nod to Jodhpur’s step wells and the use of local sandstone show that great design is always a conversation between the past and the future. Perhaps integrating a subtle art installation inspired by the vibrant hues of Jodhpur’s blue city could add another layer of connection to the space. Sculptural seating in blue stone or ceramic, inspired by step wells, could offer both function and art. Additionally, blue-hued accent lighting on the facade could beautifully reflect the city's colors at dusk. Bravo to your team for making that connection so seamless. #architecturalapproach #climate #context #concept #publicart #artinarchitecture #bluelighting #sculpturaldesign #stepwellinspired