In Chennai, architects stand as visionary creators shaping the cityscape with a blend of tradition and modernity. Renowned for their expertise in integrating cultural heritage with contemporary designs, Chennai’s architects navigate the city’s dynamic urban fabric with finesse. From iconic structures that reflect Tamil Nadu’s rich history to innovative residential complexes and sustainable urban planning, architects in Chennai redefine architectural norms. Let’s look at a few architects who have been pushing the envelope.
1. Edifice
Edifice was established by Pramod Balakrishnan in 1987. They focus on how the community, individuals and the group, are supported and nurtured by the built environment. For them, a place’s culture and societal goals are fundamental to architecture. Edifice’s approach to architecture lies in the context; it has a unique style; a finished product more than only brick and mortar. They have been in the news for designing a residential building (Thiruvanmiyur), Chinmaya International Residential School (Coimbatore), and Sai Meditation Centre (Bangalore).
Courtesy – CIRS Chinmaya International Residential School via Facebook
2. FOAID
Ekta Agarwal founded FOAID, an acronym for ‘Fraternity of Architecture & Interior Design,’ in 2007. Together with complete concept and scheme design, they also offer turnkey services and factory-made modular furniture. You may know FOAID for their design brilliance across Chennai, which includes the Virali House, Global Leathers Pvt. Ltd, and Signature Fan Studio.
Courtesy – FOAID
3. Design Squares
Ravi Laddha established Design Squares in 1998. According to their client’s needs, they investigate sustainability, try unconventional concepts, and produce results with a thorough analysis of cost, schedule, and quality. They work in retail, industry, and traditional homes as well as agile workspaces. Design Squares has designed Casa Grande Club House (Bangalore), CTBC Bank (Delhi), and Lord’s Gym (Chennai).
Courtesy – Judtdial
4. Invent Architects
Vivek Kumar founded Invent Architects in 2008. They are a modern design company that offers services for interior design, planning, architecture, and landscaping consultation. A significant number of schools, villas, beach houses, showrooms, apartments, and colleges have been designed and built by the firm. Invent Architects is best known for designing Kriyates Club House (Chennai), Samudhra Bar (Chennai), and FINS (Sriperambudur).
Courtesy – Invent Architects
5. BLD Design Studio
Ramesh Thamilmani founded BLD Design Studio in 2007. They design environments that improve the quality of life through the way it is used and inhabited. Their smart designs take into account lighting, space, environment, colour, materials, and their surroundings. BLD Design Studio has been in the news for designing Snehalayaa Silks, Ram Bhai Mandapam, and Alwarpet Residence in Chennai.
Courtesy – BLD Design Studio
6. Design DNA
Ramana Illam founded Design DNA in 2009. The firm creates beautiful, practical, and imaginative spaces that prioritize the particular needs of each project and the client. Design DNA’s USP are its residential projects, which are designed with a holistic approach to imbue comfort and warmth to the occupant.
7. Ceebros Designworks
Established in 2013 by Sruthi C. Reddy, Ceebros Designworks fuses modern elements with historical significance. Their portfolio spans all project phases, from large-scale to private residential to hospitality, covering material selection, custom furniture design, and sourcing. Ceebros Designworks creates a useful interface between nature and the built environment that promotes a harmonious and environmentally conscious attitude.
Courtesy – Ceebros Designworks
8. Design Realm
Dinesh Selvaraj established Design Realm in 2009. They create spaces to meet the client’s vision, taste, and budget while defining a new vernacular in architectural design practices. The process-oriented approach of Design Realm improves project delivery timelines, quality, and cost efficiency. They also encourage sustainable architectural practices. Design Realm is best known for designing Chennai’s Shriram Properties, Lakhotia Enterprise, and Chitra Enclave.
9. Dwellion
Jerry Meshach J founded Dwellion in 2007. They combine cutting-edge concepts with special collaboration methods to create architectural marvels, which form their ‘design for people’ philosophy that meets long-lasting quality standards. Dwellion provides a comprehensive range of architectural services, including planning, designing, drawing, and constructing. Their designs are frequently influenced by historical architectural wonders and theories suited for conscientious architecture. Dwellion has designed the William Carey Residence, Taiyo Pet Shop, and Madhu Apartments.
Courtesy – Dwellion
10. Hariyalee
Hariyalee was established by Prodyot Bowmick in 1989. A Sanskrit word, it means ‘ greenery.’ With a dedication to creativity, personalization, and superior craftsmanship, Hariyalee is a prominent player in the landscaping sector of India. They offer turnkey project execution, ongoing maintenance, and landscape design across the country.
11. AVM Landscape
Anupam Chavat founded AVM Landscape in 2006. They offer comprehensive planting and landscaping solutions for towns, villages, and municipalities. Complete landscape architecture, planting, paving, brick and stonework, tree and shrubbery trimming, seasonal flowers, plants and soils, retaining walls and hardscapes, and landscaping and gardens are among AVM Landscape’s areas of expertise.
12. Kalpalatha Design Studio
Kalpalatha Design Studio was established in 2016. They create innovative and well-received spaces according to the client’s brief. Boldness, eccentricity, and an innate appreciation of each structure’s functional aspect define the studio’s style. Kalpalatha Design Studio is famous for designing numerous retail, commercial, and residential projects.
Courtesy – Kalpalatha Design Studio
13. Amer and Ani Architects
Amernath and Anithadeel founded Amer and Ani Architects in 2009. They use subtraction and control as a tactic to maintain the essential simplicity of spaces. No matter how big or small, their projects are approached with an artistic sensibility to the “intangibles” of light, space, and form. They design elegant spaces that uplift, energize, and enhance the senses. Amer and Ani Architects have been in the news for designing the Tamil Nadu Agricultural Export Facilitation Centre, CASAGRAND Primera, and Food Court OTS.
Courtesy – Amer and Ani Architects
14. Anutham Architecture Studio
Anutham Architecture Studio was founded by James Amirtharaj and Bala Venkatesh in 2013. Their design principles are firmly rooted in the demands of the modern world by forging a robust connection between traditional concepts in a contemporary way, applying appropriate technology to create an innovative solution that responds to the context with a strong focus on climatic relevance in a sustainable way. Anutham Architecture Studio has designed SV Ram Theatre, Cakes n Berrys, and Heavenly Ministries Church.
Courtesy – Anutham Architects
15. Dot Architecture and Design Studios
Nishanti Panneer Chelvam founded Dot Architecture and Design Studios in 2014. They explore spaces, tailoring them to the client’s requirements. They create a smooth relationship between clients and designs, creating environments that radiate uniqueness by incorporating cutting-edge concepts and creative methods. Dot Architecture and Design Studios give top priority to the development of spatial environments.
16. Izza Architects
Izza Architects was founded in 2015 by Izza Mantasha. They combine the public good with business acumen. They are known for lateral thinking, active listening, commercial acumen, and an understanding of the cultural context. The magnum opus of Izza Architects remains the Perfume Shop (Somalia), Vincent Bedroom (Chennai), and Sandwich Shop (Coimbatore).
Image Courtesy – Viator
