In today’s dynamic urban landscape, the roles of architects and design studios have evolved to design multifunctional residences tailored to individual preferences. By integrating exquisite sculptural forms, rich material palettes, a commitment to reducing carbon footprint, and creatively incorporating vernacular design elements, certain Indian residences surpass mere luxury. Discover the top ten Indian design firms setting benchmarks in residential architecture across the country, honoured at the ID Honours Awards 2024 as winners in the Residential Architecture category. 

1. Roy Antony Architects

Roy Antony Illampallil, the founder of Roy Antony Architects in Kochi, is renowned for his innovative and sustainable designs. Specialising in eco-friendly architecture, he seamlessly blends aesthetics with functionality in projects ranging from residential complexes to commercial spaces. His commitment to sustainability has earned LEED certifications and prestigious accolades for several projects. Roy envisions a future where sustainable design principles are seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the built environment, fostering spaces that inspire while contributing to a healthier planet. Some of the firm’s prestigious projects include the Alankar Residence at Changanassery, Kottayam, and the EPJ Residence at Ernakulam in Kochi. 

2. Stirvi Architects

Architect Jayadev, principal at Kochi-based Stirvi Architects since 2009, has led diverse projects that focus on creating spaces with meticulous material selection, thoughtful light manipulation, and distinct architectural forms. Jayadev’s design approach emphasises the importance of understanding users’ experiences to craft designs that evoke excitement and inspiration. His notable projects include the Jaisen House in Aloor, which reinterprets Kerala’s traditional courtyard houses in a contemporary architectural language, the Pepper House is a retail store and Mezzo is one of the most popular lounge bars in Kochi.

3. Spasm Design Architects

Spasm Design was established in 1995 by principal architects Sanjeev Panjabi and Sangeeta Merchant in Mumbai and the studio specialises in a diverse portfolio of architectural projects ranging from single-family homes to luxury villas and commercial office towers. Their design aesthetics focus on raw elements such as exposed terracotta and the charm of concrete, with each home tailored to tell a unique story, reflecting the location, client, and specific requirements. Noteworthy examples of the firm’s work include the Brick Kiln House near Alibaug, House Cast in Liquid Stone in Khopoli, and Ishtika House in Ahmedabad.

4. Studio Sangath

At Studio Sangath, both Khushnu Panthaki Hoof and Sonke Hoof, principal architects drawing from diverse architectural backgrounds, share a passion for design and collaborative approaches. Khushnu’s inspiration stems from her family lineage, guided by her grandfather and Pritzker prize winner Prof. BV Doshi, while Sonke’s design passion was ignited by exposure to Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe’s work. Their portfolio includes environmentally responsible spaces and innovative projects like Aalloa Hills Resort & Golf Course, Saar Pool & Spa, Sinha Slats in Ahmedabad, and the innovative design of Svaram Campus of Sound in Auroville which is characterised by modulation of light, and emphasis on liminal spaces.

5. Aslam Sham Architects

Aslam Sham Architects prioritise the client’s vision over a signature style, resulting in a diverse range of designs spanning from classic to contemporary. Their approach emphasises minimalism and the use of raw materials, drawing inspiration from architects such as Geoffrey Bawa and Tadao Ando. Meanwhile, Aslam Karadan and Sham Salim, founders of their eponymous practice, merge core principles with client needs, driven by Tropical Modernism. Key projects of the Kozhikode-based practice include the Wabi-Sabi House, the Hidden House and Lilly House in Calicut, and Maaya Riverside Villas and Resorts in Anaikatti, Tamil Nadu. Aslam Sham Architects was also a recipient of the ID Honours Emerging Design Firm 2024.

6. Balan + Nambisan Architects

Balan + Nambisan Architects, led by principal architects Arun Balan, Arjun Nambisan, and Nilanjana Roy, is an established Bangalore-based design firm with a forward-looking approach. BNA’s philosophy focuses on crafting sensitive spaces that inspire and respond, evident in its diverse portfolio defined by quality craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. Some of their award-winning projects include Villa A09, a luxurious villa, and Vaishnavi Rhapsody, a multi-dwelling unit in Bangalore. The firm’s work has been celebrated through multiple awards including the NDTV Design and Architecture Award.

7. Studio ARRAY

At Studio ARRAY, architect Rachit Srivastava, a partner in the firm with over 22 years of experience, oversees studios in New Delhi and Lucknow. He prioritises architecture as a journey of spatial exploration and sensory immersion, focusing on fundamental elements such as construction techniques, material application, and scale. Rachit has been a part of award-winning projects and his work with rehabilitation structures and environment-friendly construction techniques for earthquake-hit areas of Ladakh and Uttarakhand were well recognised. One of his recent projects, Farm8, is an innovative amalgamation of art and regenerative farming in a village close to New Delhi.

8. Wallmakers

Wallmakers, an architecture firm headquartered in Kerala and spearheaded by Principal Architect Vinu Daniel, pioneers sustainable architecture through the utilisation of mud. Drawing inspiration from British architect Laurie Baker’s organic approach to sustainability, Wallmakers revitalises traditional building techniques while prioritising resource efficiency. Their recent project, The Toy Storey, a perforated earthen home in Vadakara, Kerala, creatively incorporates 6200 toys into its design, exemplifying Wallmakers’ innovative approach to sustainable architecture. Some of the other notable projects include Chuzhi, a private residence in Shoolagiri, Tamil Nadu, the Nisarga Art Hub in Ernakulam alongside the Ledge in Peerumedu in Kerala demonstrates Daniel’s architectural vision, rooted in tactile site engagement, reflecting a commitment to ecological preservation and innovative design. Vinu has won the Royal Academy Dorfman Award in 2022 and the Best Earth Builder at the 2023 Wallpaper* Design Awards. 

9. CollectiveProject

Bangalore-based CollectiveProject is an architecture and design studio engaged in a diverse range of projects across South India, including private residences, residential interiors, hospitality, and institutional works. Founded by Cyrus Patell & Eliza Higgins, CollectiveProject’s ethos is grounded in a process-driven approach, integrating spatial narratives, landscape elements, and materials to create designs that are both responsive and purposeful to their context. The studio is deeply invested in institutional projects including the design of a rural school for children of cement factory workers in Andhra Pradesh. Some of the studio’s notable projects include Lake House in Hyderabad and Brick House alongside Block House in Bangalore.

10. Matra Architects and Rurban Planners

Delhi-based Matra Architects & Rurban Planners, led by Principal Architect Verendra Wakhloo, boasts over three decades of experience in diverse design and architectural projects. Inspired by Indian architects like Charles Correa, BV Doshi, and UC Jain, his work focuses on establishing an Indian architectural identity, seeking timeless principles and archetypal forms. Wakhloo’s design ethos centres on seamlessly integrating building types with both built and open landscape areas to foster holistic living, blending art, architecture, and design into the public realm. Notable projects like the Three Mashrabiyas House and Prism House in New Delhi, along with The Lake House in Udaipur, challenge conventional building typologies. 

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