Material selection is a crucial part of the design process and also depends on the client’s likes and expectations to a large extent. While choosing a material to work with, its intrinsic physical characteristics and experiential qualities are always the best parameters to keep in mind.
One of the materials I often enjoy using is Rectified Concrete. A very durable material, it is perfect for busy open plan areas. The light shade of its finish also makes it perfect for areas with low light. It’s a material that lends itself to precision cuts and seamless finishes enabling a more flawless design deliverable.
Thermally stable wood is another favourite. Its excellent thermal qualities and strength and durability have enabled us to use it in several elevation and interior designs. A truly versatile material, it’s one of our go-to choices.
Calibrated brick is also a favourite. Customizable and available in new and improved finishes, this is a material that we work with quite often.
Treated metals like iron, brass, copper, etc come in infinite variations and finishes are also popular at Urban Zen. By treating them, the end-user gets to benefit from increased surface hardness, temperature resistance, ductility, and improved strength. These advantages can never be understated.
We often work with high performance glass as this material not only provides additional security but also improves window insulation and ensures more efficient heating and cooling in the building. This helps in curtailing unnecessary emissions and minimizes energy wastage.
Rectified Concrete, Thermally Stable Wood, Calibrated Brick, Treated Metals, and High Performance Glass find favour at Urban Zen. An eye for detail and the ability to marry complex materials with intricate craftsmanship defines my design style in many ways. ‘Be true to the materials you use’ is a motto that I have applied and lived throughout my design career.
Architect Mr. Reza Kabul: ARK Reza Kabul Architects
Architecture, as a subject, is always in an ever-evolving cusp of transformation. All factors affecting the built form, such as climate, global trends and technology are in a constant push to adaptation and change, thus influencing the
Ar. Himanshu Patel: 6thdesign studio
As an architect deeply rooted in the ethos of sustainable architecture, I believe that Indian architecture is indeed in a transformative phase, and this transformation is deeply intertwined with our commitment to environmental
Ar. Shruti Dimri, Ar. Madhav Raman, Ar. Vaibhav Dimri: Anagram Architects
In today’s context, the idea of modernity in architecture has shifted towards addressing the pressing needs of society. This includes a strong focus on technology, artificial intelligence (AI), energy efficiency, and the well-being of
Ar. Akshara Verma & Ar. Dinesh Verma: Ace Group Architects
India’s unique advantage lies in its ability to blend modern methodologies with traditional craftsmanship, thus fostering a distinct architectural identity. The convergence of these elements serves as a catalyst for innovation within
Ar. Akshay Selukar: Akshay Selukar
The future of architecture will be driven by innovation and a commitment to creating built environments that are environmentally sustainable, technologically advanced, and responsive to the needs of society
Architect Lalichan Zacharias: Lalichan Zacharias atelier
Yes, Indian architecture is in a transformation phase. Modernisation, Globalization and exposure to International Designs have influenced the Indian architecture to a great extent. Architecture is becoming more and more technology
Ar. (Dr). Harish Tripathi & Jyoti Tripathi: ARHATA
The architecture of any country is deeply rooted in the culture, psyche, economy, and politics, and India’s situation is no different. In addition to this, the advent of new technologies has a profound effect on the thought
Ar. Amey Dahanukar: ARA Designs
In modern India, architects have extensive travel experience, while earlier, travel exposure to different parts of the world used to be somewhat difficult. However, everything is now accessible due to many travel options, and each
Ar. Archana Van Gils: AVG Architects
Being a part of this endlessly mutable field for almost more than a decade, I can attest to the remarkable evolution of the profession in response to global trends and technological advancements, while also adapting to the needs of
Architect Mr. Arpan Johari: AW Design
India has a rich history of building design trends that have cross influenced across borders and have slowly transformed over the centuries. In fact, the transformative phase in Indian Architecture has always been ongoing. Sometimes it