In the current architectural landscape, there is a notable emphasis on technological advancements in construction, juxtaposed with a revival of traditional building methods that integrate sustainable design principles and vernacular design elements. Within this context, sustainable architecture emerges, seeking to minimise environmental impact while improving quality of life and reshaping architectural norms by blending tradition with innovation. As global environmental concerns heighten, five Indian architectural studios, who are also winners of the ID Honours Awards 2024 in the category of Sustainable Design, lead the charge in pioneering practices, particularly in earth-centric design that prioritises efficient resource usage, promotes renewable energy, and addresses user-environment dynamics.
PMA Madhushala
Established in 2010 by Prasanna Morey, Studio Madhushala is a Pune-based architectural practice renowned for its innovative designs and philosophical depth. Led by Morey and joined by Divya Jyoti in 2010, the studio combines architectural excellence with timeless design principles, emphasising the creation of meaningful spaces in harmony with surrounding landscapes. Through meticulous research, experimentation, and a deep respect for nature, Studio Madhushala seeks to redefine modernism by infusing contemporary design with the essence of a bygone era. Their environmentally-conscious projects, such as Padvi: The Verandah in Baramati, Maharashtra, Breathing Quadrant and S Nine in Pune, Maharashtra, and Anthill in Lonand, Maharashtra, exemplify the studio’s dedication towards sustainable and contextually sensitive architecture. The firm has won the ‘Green Architecture Award’ at the 27th JK AYA Awards in 2018 for the Kondan Retreat Resort in Pune.
Made In Earth Collective
The Auroville Earth Institute served as the initial meeting point for architects Shruthi Ramakrishna, Jérémie Gaudin, and Agnimitra Bachi, where they learned earth-centric design. This led to the establishment of Made In Earth Collective, a Bangalore-based design firm, where the trio emphasises deep material connections and sustainable architecture. Their collaboration with Chenelet Construction in France expanded their knowledge of bio-sourced materials and earth-building techniques, addressing high labour costs. Returning to India, their eagerness took them to Khamir and Hunnarshala in Kutch, Gujarat, fostering community collaboration and planting the seed for their practice. As a studio, they are firm believers in cultivating lasting connections within their ecosystem, committed to creating projects that draw from and give back to nature. Some of their notable projects include the Samvada Baduku College Campus and the Natura Experience Centre in Bangalore, a farmhouse in Nelamangala, Karnataka, and “The Future Will be Sown,” an art installation for Dubai Design Week.
Field Architects
Ahmedabad-based Field Architects, established in 2017 by Faiza Khan and Suril Patel, are deeply rooted in their extensive global experiences and immersion in vernacular cultures. The firm focuses on merging the essence of indigenous architectural styles and traditional craftsmanship. Specialising in architecture, conservation, and landscape design, they have collaborated with Achi Association India to safeguard Himalayan cultural heritage where their diverse portfolio spans Ladakh, showcasing a commitment to passive-solar-heated design. Through a multidisciplinary approach, Field Architects integrate the skills of masons, carpenters, and architects to execute transformative projects like Thinlars in Saboothang and Palay House Conservation in Old Phey, Ladakh which received the Silver Medal at the 9th Edition of the Domus International Prize for Architectural Restoration in 2023 in Italy. Embracing contemporary vernacular architecture, Faiza and Suril continuously explore the adaptability of local materials and the unique aesthetics of the trans-Himalayan region.
Biome Environmental Solutions
Founded in 1990 by Chitra Vishwanath and Vishwanath S., Biome Environmental Solutions is a Bangalore-based design firm specialising in ecological architecture and intelligent water and sanitation designs. Their sustainable approach demonstrates the practicality of ecological design across diverse contexts while balancing aesthetics, functionality, and budget. With over 500 completed projects in their portfolio, including schools, community centres, and residential buildings, their designs prioritise environmental harmony. Focused on urban environments, each project creates innovative solutions rooted in sustainability, experimenting with materials and systems that defy traditional architectural norms. Notable projects like the Swastika Dance School, Buddhi School, Mathru School for the Blind, and Olde Clubhouse in Bangalore serve as a testament to their commitment to shaping a more sustainable future through thoughtful design practices. Biome has earned multiple awards, including the Indian Institute of Architects’ (IIA) National Award for Excellence in Architectural Conservation in 2017, the SPA-BCI Award for Excellence in Conservation, the Charles Correa Gold Medal by the IIA, and the WADE Sustainability Champion of the Year Award in 2023, among others.
Andagere Architects
Andagere Architects, led by principal architect Ajith Andagere, is a Bangalore-based firm specialising in seamlessly integrating homes with natural landscapes using locally sourced materials. Supported by exposure and knowledge gained from extensive travelling, Ajith engages comprehensively in designing and supervising construction at every stage, aiming to foster traditional and contemporary vernacular styles. The firm’s expertise spans architecture, interior, product, and landscape design, blending traditional and contemporary vernacular styles while optimising local building techniques. A recent innovation, the Thatch and Wattle and Daub Prefab Studios in Ramanagara, Karnataka, showcases sustainable design and reduces build time by 1/3 compared to in situ projects. At the HN Science Center in Gauribidanur, Karnataka, Ajith incorporated filler slab construction with hollow clay blocks to enhance thermal comfort. Projects like JALAKARA – a Boutique Villa Hotel in Andaman & Nicobar Islands underscore the firm’s dedication to innovative, eco-conscious design solutions prioritising harmony with surroundings and sustainability.
