Firm/Studio Name
Jagrut Shah Architect and Associates (JSA)
What determined your passion for design? Tell us about the moment when you decided this is the way to go.
My father was a civil engineer, so during my childhood, I always observed him at the construction sites giving instructions as per the design. That got me curious about who was the real creator/ master behind the building/structure that my father constructed. This curiosity is what led me to architecture and design, my father helped give physical form to the design but I wanted to be the person who actually created it. This authority and power over space/ structure are what led to what I am today.
What kind of projects were you doing when you first started as a designer?
Our first project was a residence for a farmer. In the beginning, we mostly did residential projects.
What field of design are you most interested in?
I personally like residential and hospitality projects most because these spaces allow me to be as creative as possible with minimal restrictions.
What is your favourite book/magazine on design? How about your favourite site?
The websites I visit most often are:
1. Architizer
2. Dezeen
3. Architecture hunter
All of these websites display projects/ designs from across the world of different architects who are experimenting in their own ways.
What is your Signature Style?
We still consider ourselves a young firm and are developing our style in addition to adapting as per clients. Something that is common in our projects is- we experiment a lot, however, I believe all designers need to do that in order to call themselves designers. Furthermore, we try doing new things in our projects whether they’re large elements such as swimming pools, windows, exploring technology, material, or minuscule elements like door handles, furniture handles, lights, staircase edges, curtains, ceiling mobiles, etc. The end result is that we are futuristic in our designs, while designing we don’t design only thinking of the present but rather what will also work 5 years down the line.
What inspires you to thrive in this industry? Which piece of architecture inspires you the most.
The best aspect of architecture and interior design is that we are able to see our creations come to life in front of us. Our creations take a physical form which a few months or years back were just sketched on a piece of paper. The satisfaction of the final outcome is what pushes us to continue working in this industry.
The Jewish Museum at Berlin by Daniel Libeskind is a structure that I am most fond of and gives me inspiration. The way he plays with the form throughout the building as well as the use of light inside is what takes to my liking.
From your point of view, is design an art or a science?
For me, Design is definitely a form of science. I believe that a design never works if there isn’t logic and functionality to it.
If you had no limits (money, resources), what would you create?
If we weren’t bound by any limitations including science and laws I would like to create a structure/ building that has zero ground cover. I personally don’t like the fact that our structures cover a ground area that never lets us enjoy mother earth. Hopefully, in the future, our structure can float to allow the ground beneath to be enjoyed
What advice do you have for young designers or architects reading this interview?
One needs to understand that only creativity will not lead to a successful design, technology and science are definitely involved. Only this combination will bring your design to life. Technical knowledge of the industry is necessary. Additionally, visualization of your design, as well as client interaction and satisfaction is the backbone of surviving in this industry.
