search
  • TADstories with Ar. Kunal Shah | Kunal Shah Architects

    Ar. Kunal Shah, the founder of Kunal Shah Architects shares his journey of choosing architecture and his curiosity for design.

    Kunal Shah Architects is an architecture firm based in Ahmedabad under the leadership of Kunal Shah. This firm is executing professional projects in the areas of Commercial Architecture and Interior Designing since 2004.

    In this conversation with the founder Ar. Kunal Shah, he reveals his way of practice and design philosophies in architecture and interior design.

    What is the story of your passion for design? 

    Frankly, back in the time when I was in 12th, there was no awareness regarding architecture or design as a career. There was no clarity as to what the course offers as it is today. During those times, it was only engineering and medical which was known by parents. After passing 12th grade, I used to go to universities and colleges with my friends to fill out their entrance exam forms. It was during this time that I discovered about CEPT university and the course of architecture.

    The Hussain Doshi Gufa, now known as Amdavad Ni Gufa, was quite an attraction even during those days. This place intrigued my interest in architecture and this is when I realized that architecture is the foundation of all such structures. Furthermore, I realized how vast architecture is and what impact architecture has on people and society. It was after joining the architecture college that I developed my deep passion for architecture.

    Store Design By Kunal Shah Architects

    What pushed you to commence your own architecture studio?

    Frankly, my family does not have any architecture or civil engineering background. So, I had to take the responsibility of taking forward my career with my own efforts. However, throughout my college days I was intrigued with the works of great architects like Achyut Kanvinde, Karan Grover, and Manoj Patel sir. I was quite keen on working with them and I joined Ar. Manoj Patel’s studio when I was in my 2nd year of graduation for part-time.

    After working for 2 years, I started working with Karan Grover sir for 8 months. I was in complete awe of how two architects with different styles of design, work together and achieve exemplary works. I always focused on what must their ideologies, philosophies and aims be, for them to work together and grow together. Thus, after learning from the legendary architects, I decided what specific field I want to tap into my design studio Kunal Shah Architects, which is commercial architecture.

    Journey of Design Process.

    Could you write in short about the philosophy you go with when designing a certain project?

    My inspiration for developing my design philosophy has evolved from my mentors. My work experience shaped my design philosophy and my firm Kunal Shah Architects. Later, I realized that in order to develop your design philosophy, you need to your back-end study in the right way and you need to look at case studies. My experience with the architects and designers helped me analyze that architects need to counsel the clients.

    Understanding the clients needs and requirements is of utmost importance. We need to understand the context of the project and take design decisions accordingly. So, for me the context and client understanding is of major importance which acts as my philosophy for designing any project.

    Store interior by Kunal Shah Architects

    With years of learning and practice in architecture, how did you evolve your design language?

    My design language is quite flexible. I believe every design is different considering the differences in client requirements, site context, purpose of the design and so many more factors. I do not design with fixed formulas but alter them according to situations. My firm is flexible working with curves, as well as working with linear geometry.

    What values do you prioritize in your life and how do they reflect in your way of work?

    I believe peace and satisfaction of work is the major value which helps me move forward. In today’s world, where the views on your project are more important than the work, says a lot about the kind of unwanted stress we are dealing with these days, as a society. For your work to reach a certain point, you need to have patience. Works of legendary architects like Le Corbusier and Louis Kahn also needed a certain patience for it to reach the right audience. To summarize, patience is quite important in personal as well as professional life.

    A Sneak Peek Into The Projects Done By Kunal Shah Architects

    Looking back at all the design projects you’ve worked on, which is the project that has made an impact on you?

    Currently, we are working on a project in Kolkata near Shantiniketan University named as Sobuj Patro meaning ‘Green Leaf’. This project was quite unique and understanding the culture of Bengalis and understanding their values was interesting. I had to deeply interact and thoroughly understand their culture and values in order to accomplish this design. This project helped me add to set of knowledge and it has created a lasting impact on my life.

    Commercial interior by Kunal Shah Architects

    Considering the quick paced lifestyle of today, how do you use technology to deal with the project challenges?

    I am not quite friendly with the technology or the developments in technology. Rather, I interact with the juniors in my office and try to understand from them what and how they use a certain advanced software. However, I always insist on working with hand drawn sketches prior to using any kind of software, because even to draw a single line on AutoCAD you need to have it on your paper to execute it. I believe architects should never let go of their hand drawn skills while chasing the technology and software.

    Could you share the story of a project which has truly challenged you go beyond your conventional style of approach?

    I believe its the diversity of clients which challenge your conventional style of approach. As I mentioned, the project in Kolkata was quite challenging. Furthermore, there was an interior project in Ahmedabad. The villa was 42,000 sq. feet in area. Unlike, the common situations where you design the interior for a bungalow considering the architecture, this case was different. It was a huge size of villa for four people. This in itself was quite challenging considering the limited number of people in a large space. It was essential for us to maintain the curiosity and interest with the interior within the residents. I had to step out of my conventional way of approach here.

    How do you think your projects can make a change in the way people perceive built spaces?

    I believe it’s not the projects of any one architect, rather it is a collective effort which can make a change. It is in the hands of architects, builder, engineers and everyone related to the AEC industry to bring about a change in the society by building better and choosing better.

    Residential architecture by Kunal Shah Architects

    Beyond Design!

    Apart from architecture, which are other hobbies that inspire you to keep going?

    I am an avid traveler. Travelling and photography are my passion and I try to choose or projects which give me a chance to travel and explore different cities. I have projects going in various parts of India and the reason for choosing these projects is most of times because of exploring the cities.

    What impact has the journey of architecture had on you personally?

    Architecture has given a boost to my confidence. Listening, connecting and talking to the diverse people since getting into architecture college has boosted my confidence to a greater level. Today, I can rightly say that architecture has made me confident in all the ways of life. Also, architecture made me realize that knowledge is more important than information, which I firmly believe.

    Looking ahead in future, what are some of the commitments to yourself to help you grow as an individual?

    There are days when I sometimes feel that I want to something beyond just architecture. Looking ahead in the future, I see myself in connection with the young architecture students. Not directly in a way to educate, but definitely to interact with them and have an exchange of knowledge.

    Beyond professional achievements, what personal legacy do you hope reaches the masses and can make an impact on their lives?

    I won’t really call this a legacy, but I strongly advocate that life is meant to be enjoyed completely. I believe that, we as humans need to stay connected with each other and be of each other’s help when necessary.

    This Zen Home Reflects The Perfect Balance of Memory And Functionality | STOA

    This Zen Home Reflects The Perfect Balance of Memory And Functionality. The residence was designed keeping in mind the unique personality of our client who believes in simple living and high thinking, and wanted an understated and uncluttered space.  The overall design language was based in ‘mindful elegance’ with minimal yet functional elements that strive […]

    Read More

    A Monochrome Theme And Minimalist Interiors Blend Perfectly In This Functional Home | The Concept Lab

    A Monochrome Theme And Minimalist Interiors Blend Perfectly In This Functional Home. “Tranquil Oak” is more than a home—it’s a reflection of our belief that a residence should be a serene, personal sanctuary. Thoughtfully designed with natural oak and fluid, sculptural forms, the space balances modern sophistication with the grounding calm of nature. A Monochrome […]

    Read More

    This Boho House Is A Confluence Of Rich Textures And Earthiness | Altitude Designs

    The client’s desire for a cosy and warm living space led us to explore the boho house theme, which is known for its relaxed, lived-in vibe, rich textures, and an earthy colour palette. To achieve this, we introduced several design elements that promote a soothing, harmonious atmosphere while infusing the space with character and personality. […]

    Read More

    This New York Style Residence Redefines The Client’s Design Aspirations | Concepto Studio

    They were looking to create a canvas that would resonate with the design aspirations of the young son who leans towards a modern and New York style aesthetic, while the parents’ preferences are more refined and polished. This New York Style Residence Redefines The Client’s Design Aspirations | Concepto Studio Living Room The living room […]

    Read More

    Neutral Colors Become The Backdrop To Highlight Timeless Neo-Classical Elements In This Residence | HS Desiigns

    What was once a conventional four-BHK has been gracefully reimagined into a generous three-BHK residence — one that prioritises spatial poetry over excess, character over conformity. This is not merely a redesign; it is a narrative of transformation, where timeless neo-classical elements and neutral colors quietly converse with the ease and openness of contemporary sensibilities. […]

    Read More

    This Heritage Home Gently Unfolds To Showcase A Story Of Materials & Memories | Envisage

    Editors’ Note – There is a quiet elegance in designs that respect heritage while allowing it to unfold like a story across every space. Advaita, designed by the team at Envisage, embodies this philosophy with a home that marries charming minimalism with the richness of Indian tradition. It is a Heritage Home that carries the […]

    Read More

    A Practical Design Blended With Modern Elegance Create This Balanced Home | PiNiK_The Architect’s Design Studio

    This 3BHK Residential Interior project, with a carpet area of 1400 sq. ft., features a meticulously reimagined layout. It enhances both aesthetics and practicality. A harmonious blend of functionality and design is seen in this residential interior project by PiNiK Design Studio. It exemplifies a seamless blend of modern elegance and practical design, creating a […]

    Read More

    Pastel Colors Add A Grounded Calmness In This Mumbai Home | TS Design Works

    The 36th Horizon offers a sweeping view of Mumbai’s ever-evolving skyline from its position as a mindful high-rise retreat perched on the 36th floor. Framing the chaos of the city in soft silence, this home covered in pastel colors strikes a delicate balance where urban energy stays outside, and a warm, grounded calmness thrives within. […]

    Read More

    Soothing Colors And Warm Interiors Stand Out In This Creative Home | Studio Twenty Two

    “Some spaces talk to you the moment you step into them, this space did exactly that. A vision that setup in my mind and I couldn’t shake it off. This, 1800 sq. ft. space is an airy apartment flat located in Baner, Pune. The space feels uplifting as natural light floods it throughout the day. […]

    Read More

    20 Designs For Kitchen Window Over Sink In India Homes

    When it comes to enhancing the kitchen window over the sink, various design ideas are possible to decorate Indian homes. From rooted in tradition to Western-style modular kitchens offer both functionality and attractive aesthetics. Apart from the sleek profile and raised breakfast counter, the kitchen window over sink is another spot to add appeal and […]

    Read More
  • Unveil Avant-Garde Home Interior Inspirations With Canvas by Jotun 2024 Global Color Card

    Milan Design Week 2024: 15 Must Visit Places This Year