Hardik Shah

I just followed my internal drive into this after schooling. I have no such background though.

After working at various architectural studios across the country, I was faced with an internal struggle—to work as I was, or to realize my own vision of a well-managed architectural practice. I chose the latter, and Studio Lagom came into being. Our practice exists to challenge the Indian architectural landscape that is still quite unorganized, where ‘layers of materials’ have ruled over ‘purity of materials’. We believe in architecture that gives importance to the beauty of each material, by creating the right balance between less and more. We believe in creating form that not only follows function, but creates spaces for lifestyles and cultures. At our studio, caring is the culture. We believe that each building demands care, because each building is unique by way of its users, setting, function, and more. Every process needs to be followed through rigorously, in order to create something that is in harmony with nature. We like to infuse natural elements into spaces. Our process is rooted in eye for detail. Detailing out each element of the plan first, we move to on-site execution. At times, as the site progresses, new perspectives may demand a further round of detailing, which would lead to new solutions. We believe that without this kind of time spent on detail, we cannot do proper justice to the project at hand. Our studio is an ever-evolving space. The seed that was sown in 2011 has now grown from a sapling to a tree. Years of dedicated work, and a nature to curate beautiful art has resulted in a space that is soothing and inspiring at the same time. Ideas can be conceived here easily because the space enables one to think—after all, that is the function. Today, our practice is involved in creating beautiful residences, compelling retail spaces, sustainable furniture, experiential restaurants, inspiring institutional spaces, and more. If you have a vision in mind, and would like to discuss about it, please get in touch . As we struggle through the unknown, we only see the beautiful future that is not less than nature itself, and not more. We are Studio Lagom.

Design for me is a medium to inspire, enhance and create spaces for different lifestyles and cultures. It is an expression, a functional art. An expression that strikes a balance between less and more. And to supplement a living or an activity precisely, every tiniest of the details ranging from door handle, to chair anthropometry, to materials, everything should be thought of. That makes a complete design.

The Skewed House, Because making of this house to me represents the firming up of several convictions: that each building is unique by way of its users, setting, function, and more; that you will deliver quality if you care enough; that there is no substitute for nature; and that architecture can leverage the innate beauty of every material, by creating the right balance between less and more. It is a tropical luxury house, where the relaxed ambiance accrue to nature and not technology.

We believe in architecture that gives importance to the beauty of each material, by creating the right balance between less and more. Consequently , we use materials in an exposed format and techniques in their pure method, with minimal cladding only if required. However to state, one of our favourite material palette is exposed concrete , and white plastered walls with black stone - granite or limestone flooring, wooden door and windows, overlaid by wooden furniture and bright coloured soft furnishings. However, we like to explore different materials and techniques like ferro-cement walls, ferro-crete roof, exposed local stone walls, etc.

At our studio, caring is the culture. We believe that each building demands care, because each building is unique by way of its users, setting, function, and more. Every process needs to be followed through rigorously, in order to create something that is in harmony with nature. We like to infuse natural elements into spaces. Connection to nature is always the most important aspect, and an inherent focus comes by default. Our process is rooted in eye for detail. Detailing out each element of the plan first, we move to on-site execution. At times, as the site progresses, new perspectives may demand a further round of detailing, which would lead to new solutions. We believe that without this kind of time spent on detail, we cannot do proper justice to the project at hand.

Designing as a process itself is the most pleasurable aspect of my life. However, it is most exciting when the ideas land on site, i.e. the phase when execution starts or is about to start. It is then, when the real feasibility, minute issues, material, etc. is discovered. It gives me immense pleasure in solving those details, as they teach me something new every time.

I feel highly obliged to have opportunity and ability of creating spaces for lifestyles and cultures. Creating something that guides somebody's daily routine, and molding people's life towards natural elements, which are often neglected in our fast-paced modern world, feels like bliss. Sense of satisfaction from the client feels like success.

A design can be successful in various aspects. The most important of which is "a satisfied client". As he is the one who is going to use it for life. Along with catering to client's requirements effectively, if a design teaches a client newer perspectives and improvises and simplifies their way of living in terms of use of technology or connections to nature, etc. that marks a project successful. Other aspects vary as per individual design. Being environmentally responsible in terms of materials, or green-scape, etc. or socially responsible in terms of connectivity to surroundings, etc and innovative approaches to such can mark the success of a project in certain ways.

Functionality and detailing to improve efficiency is something I look forward to in any design. And the inherent aspect of design - aesthetics, always remains. With any number of complications, or any amount of good vision, it is always important for a designer to maintain proportions and aesthetic value.

Being socially and ecologically responsible is something that should stand at the core of every designer. Designs inspire and influence lifestyles and cultures, and hence, it is highly important to understand the implied responsibility. What we endorse as designers is adpoted as a way of life. It replicates and makes our world a good or bad place to live. Just like us, our designs should not be in isolation. They should live in harmony with the surroundings. Being environment friendly in terms of material usage, reusing of material, incorporating nature in terms of green scape, and bringing in ecological harmony by providing niches that invite birds or animals are some of the environmental responsibilities. Designers produce or reprodue cultures, hence being sensitive to use of artworks and sculptures, establishing appropriate linkages and respecting the context, are some social responsibilities. Also, as a designer one should often work on social cause projects like rural schools, or anything that is in your surroundings , with an aim of improving the quality of life at the lowest level. Design should be determined by sensitivity and not affordability.

The design field is evolving very exponentially. The parameters of designing has widened enormously in the past decade. Design is not just limited to architecture or fashion anymore. Graphics, miniatures, products, sounds, music, everything is designed with a different level of detail today. Templates have been substituted by newer details and techniques which owes to greater level of customization happening around us. Which means we are becoming highly sensitive towards the uniqueness of individual beings and their aspirations. From furniture, pens, bag to movies and songs, there is stuff available for all kinds of people - modern or traditional, rich or poor, an attempt to cater to everybody is there. Future of design is great if people follow their individual imagination and strive to make it happen.

Our last exhibition was at Alliance Francis de Delhi in January 2018. It was the annual exhibition of 20 under 35, Design X Design.

My inspiration is rooted in my beliefs. Being in harmony with nature and surroundings, and creating something which is in harmony with nature is what drives me. Having met certain people with similar perspectives and seeing works of legends like, Bedmar and Shi, Bijoy Jain , Anjaledran, and others inspire me to keep working in this direction. Our studio feeds our creativity. It is an ever-evolving space. The seed that was sown in 2011 has now grown from a sapling to a tree. Years of dedicated work, and a nature to curate beautiful art has resulted in a space that is soothing and inspiring at the same time. Ideas can be conceived here easily because the space enables one to think—after all, that is the function.

We would never like to be stereotyped into one category. However, if required we would describe our style as modern tropical minimalism. The main characteristics of which are 1. A modern form in terms of geometry 2. Connections to nature 3. Purity of materials i.e. more exposed surfaces, and minimal cladding. 4. A touch of bright colours in form of paintings & soft furnishings that enlivens the space. An essence of life that comes with the presence of nature and colours made us explore this style. And of course Architectue should speak of its time and not be out-dated, therefore being modern is must.

I live in India. India has survived a turbulent history, and yet retains a sense of originality and cultural identity that is enriched by diverse influences that it has absorbed. Similarly, as Indian architecture goes through this phase of modernism, we are trying both - absorbing the modernism & attempting to retain our culture by developing designs that supplements our way of living with elements like otta ,hichko, courtyards, magnificent pooja spaces, etc. Also by incorporating artworks we try to conserve the diverse arts forms our country possess. Our architectural heritage is rich ranging from courtyard houses of Rajasthan and Kerala, to ornamented wooden houses, ornamented Mughal buildings, and many more. Being in India makes our designs more colourful, detailed and lively.

Companies or clients should select a good designer by considering their creative talent and efforts. Also, a good designer is not always enough. An appropriate choice according to the kind of task or project is necessary. Hence they need to be clear about the type of design like tropical, contemporary, etc., research on the same and then appoint somebody whose work is in alignment with their inclination.

Our process is rooted in eye for detail. Detailing out each element of the plan first, we move to on-site execution. At times, as the site progresses, new perspectives may demand a further round of detailing, which would lead to new solutions. We believe that without this kind of time spent on detail, we cannot do proper justice to the project at hand. Every process needs to be followed through rigorously, in order to create something that is in harmony with nature. We like to infuse natural elements into spaces. We believe in creating form that not only follows function, but creates spaces for lifestyles and cultures.

Chair , Lamps, Wall paintings and murals, Staircase and Indoor Plants.

Our studio is an ever-evolving space. The seed that was sown in 2011 has now grown from a sapling to a tree. Years of dedicated work, and a nature to curate beautiful art has resulted in a space that is soothing and inspiring at the same time. Ideas can be conceived here easily because the space enables one to think—after all, that is the function. This is where we start our work day - taking care of our studio. A bit of cleaning, gardening and a good morning coffee. After which I list down my day's task, or see if something is already on the list. Check mails and some articles and you are good to go for the day. During a boring day, I often do changes to the studio. There are so many plants and artifacts, additions, subtractions or new permutation combinations of the same, makes our space dynamic and stops it from slipping into the boring category. The studio inspires us.

Young designers!! I believe i am quite young yet :) However, for freshers, for those who have just stepped in this world, I would like to say, believe in what you do, because design is not business, that you shut down your computer and it is over. It is a part of your life, it is in harmony with you! What you design will reflect your beliefs and life philosophies. A good training under a mentor that provides a clear perspective of life and design and gives you a kick is a must. Rest, keep working hard and stay in the field by constantly updating yourself with what's new but in a limit such that it does not repress your original ideas . Here comes the most important point, while in the process of browsing stuffs around you , there's a thin line between inspiration and plagiarism. Find your own technique to ensure you do not cross the line and join the herds.

Design makes you more sensitive about things around you and that is the biggest benefit that enriches our life in terms of beliefs, responsibilities, social and environmental awareness, and our lifestyle. Also having opportunity and ability of creating spaces for lifestyles and cultures. Creating something that guides somebody's daily routine, and molding people's life towards natural elements, which are often neglected in our fast-paced modern world, feels like bliss. Negatives are hard to mention. Just that it consumes a lot of your time :D

Striking a balance between less and more and infusing natural elements into spaces.

Drawings are our tools to convey our thoughts. Hence a basic ability to make and read drawings is a must. Rest, sketching, 3Ds etc if improvised, can act as a boon to a designer. Second, an ability to visualize things and spaces, is an important skill. It is developed in people with experience.

While designing i usually sketch first. Talking about the tools and techniques throughout the process, we use both softwares and conventional methods. We believe certain things are best understood while you make physical mock models, as you realise the whole process, you get more aware about every junction and how it can be solved. At the same time aesthetics, colour, etc are best tested in computer aided renderings, giving it a real like touch and helping us to visualize better. Our process involves working on different mediums in parallel, like sections and model when going side by side, both can be help each other and help us attain a higher level of clarity. We have a huge library, which is referred to every now and then and it inspires us to work in detail for each and every aspect of a design.

Management is one thing every designer should grasp and learn, otherwise things can be really messy. At our office, various systems like - Daily muster filling helps schedule our tasks for a day, and ensures no upcoming task is missed or forgotten , A detailed list of drawings to be produced, and other working systems, keep us organized, and ensures that we deliver on time.

This is a very subjective question and would vary as per the specifications of different objects or projects.

"Is it really possible to make this?" is a question often tossed by my clients and staff members.

I feel very fortunate to have worked with Mathew and Ghosh Architects during my internship. The journey there, has formed the base of my practice. It helped me realise how a systematic approach to things can help realise dreams better.

Our clients are different kind of people - businessmen, builders, IAS officers, CA professionals and others.

Conservation. Because it helps in discovering a lot about the history - past technologies, culture , etc.

As we struggle through the unknown, we only see the beautiful future that is not less than nature itself, and not more. As we keep giving our best to projects and any other things that come our way.

We work as a team. And our designs constantly evolve for better. Therefore everyone involved in its process helps make it better at different stages.

There are various projects going on residences, farm houses, retail outlets, etc. We are exploring many things.

Always been keen to learn and give my best to designing meaningful spaces, has drived my process since the beginning. I feel very fortunate to have worked with Mathew and Ghosh Architects during my internship. The journey there, has formed the base of my practice. It helped me realise how a systematic approach to things can help realize dreams better. After working at various architectural studios across the country, I was faced with an internal struggle—to work as I was, or to realize my own vision of a well-managed architectural practice. I chose the latter, and Studio Lagom came into being in 2011. Having made my debut with the Skewed house, it taught me a lot. This house represents the firming up of several convictions: that each building is unique by way of its users, setting, function, and more; that you will deliver quality if you care enough; that there is no substitute for nature; and that architecture can leverage the innate beauty of every material, by creating the right balance between less and more. Since then , its 9 years now, and we have constantly worked to create meaningful architecture and spaces that are sensitive to its users and nature. Today, our practice is involved in creating beautiful residences, compelling retail spaces, sustainable furniture, experiential restaurants, inspiring institutional spaces, and more. If you have a vision in mind, and would like to discuss about it, please get in touch . As we struggle through the unknown, we only see the beautiful future that is not less than nature itself, and not more.

I just followed my internal drive while opting for a field after schooling and then everything followed. I feel highly obliged to have opportunity and ability of creating spaces for lifestyles and cultures.

At our studio, caring is the culture. We believe that each building demands care, because each building is unique by way of its users, setting, function, and more. Every process needs to be followed through rigorously, in order to create something that is in harmony with nature. We like to infuse natural elements into spaces. Our process is rooted in eye for detail. Detailing out each element of the plan first, we move to on-site execution. At times, as the site progresses, new perspectives may demand a further round of detailing, which would lead to new solutions. We believe that without this kind of time spent on detail, we cannot do proper justice to the project at hand. Talking about the tools and techniques, keeping in pace with the world, of course we use digital tools. However we believe certain things are best understood while you make physical mock models, as you realise the whole process, you get more aware about every junction and how it can be solved. At the same time aesthetics, colour, etc are best tested in computer aided renderings, giving it a real like touch and helping us to visualize better. Our process involves working on different mediums parallely, like sections and model when going side by side, both can be help each other and help us attain a higher level of clarity.

Designing as a process itself is the most pleasurable aspect of my life. However, it is most exciting when the ideas land on site, i.e. the phase when execution starts or is about to start. It is then, when the real feasibility, minute issues, material, etc. is discovered. It gives me immense pleasure in solving those details, as they teach me something new every time. I feel highly obliged to have opportunity and ability of creating spaces for lifestyles and cultures. Creating something that guides somebody's daily routine, and molding people's life towards natural elements, which are often neglected in our fast-paced modern world, feels like bliss.

My personal nature of trying to be accurate and organized about everything, be it how things are placed around me and being aware about my surroundings, nature, light , food, air, animals, etc. and caring for them has shaped me a lot as a designer. It helps because when you are fully aware about your surroundings, what amount of water a plant needs, to dust will spoil my appliances ,what brings good vibes and motivation , and what works better for me, you come to know how should a space be designed for somebody. I believe your routine will shape you a lot as a designer. The more you care and become aware, the more you are sensitive as a designer.

As we struggle through the unknown, we only see a beautiful future ahead. As we keep giving our best to projects and any other things that come our way.

Young designers!! I believe i am quite young yet :) However, for freshers, for those who have just stepped in this world, I would like to say, believe in what you do, because design is not business, that you shut down your pc and it is over. It is a part of your life, it is in harmony with you! What you design will reflect your beliefs and life philosophies. A good training under a mentor that provides a clear perspective of life and design and gives you a kick is a must. Rest, keep working hard and stay in the field by constantly updating yourself with what's new but in a limit such that it does not repress your original ideas . Here comes the most important point, while in the process of browsing stuffs around you , there's a thin line between inspiration and plagiarism. Find your own technique to ensure you do not cross the line and join the herds.

Being successful is a state of mind and satisfaction that comes from within. Work so hard that you can never be unsuccessful and dissatisfied at heart. I would suggest designers to be more sensitive about nature as well as your client's life and design accordingly. Do not get swayed away by internet images, as each one of us have a different mind. Also I would suggest designers to stick to the roots of our design process to a certain level, for example - making physical models and hand drawings, because it does greater good and helps attain clarity which does not come from computer graphics. And go in details of every element, it is a must thing that one should do. Because 10mm can change how your furniture looks and 100mm can change how your space feels. Designing something new feels good, but at the same time being a part of designing fraternity, it feels good to see new works, different ideologies and extra ordinary designs from other designers. I would like to thank all designers working in the direction of trying to make this world beautiful.

Our studio is an ever-evolving space. The seed that was sown in 2011 has now grown from a sapling to a tree. Years of dedicated work, and a nature to curate beautiful art has resulted in a space that is soothing and inspiring at the same time. Ideas can be conceived here easily because the space enables one to think—after all, that is the function. This is where we start our work day - taking care of our studio. A bit of cleaning, gardening and a good morning coffee. After which I list down my day's task, or see if something is already on the list. Check mails and some articles and you are good to go for the day. During a boring day, I often do changes to the studio. There are so many plants and artifacts, additions, subtractions or new permutation combinations of the same, makes our space dynamic and stops it from slipping into the boring category. What makes us happy is the studio itself.

It is always important to be aware about what is going on and at the same time it is also important to be rooted to certain principles. Just like Frank O Gehry says “Architecture should speak of its time and place, but yearn for timelessness.” We do follow design trends through magazines, sites and competitions, and anything that is different and rooted would inspire a designer. Yet what mainly inspires us is the purity, serenity and respect for nature. We believe in architecture that gives importance to the beauty of each material and is created in harmony with nature, by creating the right balance between less and more.

Functionality and detailing to improve efficiency is something I look forward to in any design. And the inherent aspect of design - aesthetics, always remains. With any number of complications, or any amount of good vision, it is always important for a designer to maintain proportions and aesthetic value.

A design is never ready, because the moment you are satisfied , you deprive yourself from creating something better. There is always a scope for improvement. As stated " Our process is rooted in eye for detail. Detailing out each element of the plan first, we move to on-site execution. At times, as the site progresses, new perspectives may demand a further round of detailing, which would lead to new solutions. We believe that without this kind of time spent on detail, we cannot do proper justice to the project at hand." We know a project is a success when we can see that the client is satisfied and smiling.

There isn't one. Many legends working in the direction of tropical architecture inspire me. Some of them are - Bedmar & Shi, Geoffrey Bawa, Anjalendran, Hyla Architects, Anjalendran & Matthew and Gosh.

Undoubtedly, A design is always effected by culture and vice-versa. The g-local culture of today's world has exposed people to various lifestyles, trends, etc in one click. And a good design is necessary for advancement of society, because just the way people look up to internet for trends in clothes and politics, they do the same in terms of designs. So whether or not designers incorporate nature, materials, cultural arts, graphics, comfort , lesiure, etc. in their design will determine how people look at all these aspects and form a culture in long run. And hence a good design is very important. This exposure to web has made some people from different places approach me for designing their adobes or workplaces. It feels fortunate, as it exposes me to a different culture and lifestyle. Talking about my personal influence, Being in Surat, Gujarat the hard working nature of people, houses in old city area, and the culture all influence me. At the same time my travel, has exposed me to various cultures and experiences that adds on to who I am. Kochi is a city that I adore. Sri Lanka, Jaipur, Bangalore and Jaisalmer are some other places I love. And of course, music is an all time companion. Jagjit Singh songs are something I can hear all day.

At our studio, caring is the culture. We believe that each building demands care, because each building is unique by way of its users, setting, function, and more. Every process needs to be followed through rigorously, in order to create something that is in harmony with nature. We like to infuse natural elements into spaces.We believe in creating form that not only follows function, but creates spaces for lifestyles and cultures. It is always easy to work with a person who has a vision in mind, and is willing to learn and explore.

I believe my work is my contribution. Two major elements of my work that make me feel like I am contrubuting to good are as follows: 1. Incorporation of nature : As our globe goes through climate change, an increased sensitivity towards infusing nature in work, and orienting colleagues, clients towards being equally sensitive and caring for plants and animals feels like spreading good. Needless to mention, this infusion of nature moulds the micro climate of the buildings we design , reducing their dependency on artificial elements. 2. Incorporation of Art : India has survived a turbulent hisory, and yet retains a sense of originality and cultural identity that is enriched by diverse influences that it has absorbed.Similarly, as Indian architecture goes through this phase of mordernism, we are trying both - absorbing the mordernism & attempting to retain our culture through artworks. Because , “Art is not entertainment. Art is not luxury goods. Art is culture. It is you and me.” - Paige Bradley Also, Lately I have been involved with architecture colleges in Surat as a juror and helping shape the future of design.

Such platforms always opens up an individual to a wider platform, new perspectives, and new people. It is motivating and helps us reach more people with similar inclinations and desires.

I just followed my internal drive into this after schooling. I have no such design background though. I did my Bachelor's of Architecture from Sarvajanik College of Engineering and Technology(S.C.E.T.), based in Surat itself. With the right atmosphere and my keen interest in designing meaningful spaces, has driven my process since then. I feel very fortunate to have worked with Mathew and Ghosh Architects during my internship. The journey there, has formed the base of my practice. It helped me realize how a systematic approach to things can help realize dreams better.

I feel highly obliged to have opportunity and ability of creating spaces for lifestyles and cultures.

Our practice is involved in creating beautiful residences, compelling retail spaces, sustainable furniture, experiential restaurants, inspiring institutional spaces, and more. I wish to design public spaces like crematoriums or resorts more often.

Young designers!! I believe i am quite young yet :) However, for freshers, for those who have just stepped in this world, I would like to say, believe in what you do, because design is not business, that you shut down your pc and it is over. It is a part of your life, it is in harmony with you! What you design will reflect your beliefs and life philosophies.

A good designer makes a perfect building in terms of aesthetics, functionality, etc. But, a great designer goes beyond, something that influences lifestyles and culture.

Detailing is what makes a good design a really good design. Functionality and detailing to improve efficiency is something I look while evaluating a design. And the inherent aspect of design - aesthetics, always remains. With any number of complications, or any amount of good vision, it is always important for a designer to maintain proportions and aesthetic value.

A good design inspires and influences lifestyles and cultures. The g-local culture of today's world has exposed people to various lifestyles, trends, etc in one click. And a good design is necessary for advancement of society, because just the way people look up to internet for trends in clothes and politics, they do the same in terms of designs. So whether or not designers incorporate nature, materials, cultural arts, graphics, comfort , leisure, etc. in their design will determine how people look at all these aspects. And hence investing in and promoting a good design is very important. Also, from the view point of laymen, they should invest in good design because it simplifies and improvises their lifestyle and activities.

I would design for public. Public buildings like crematoriums and resorts interest me.

Frankly, there's no such dream project. We design projects as they come to us and strive to make the best out of it.

The most important, not so secret ingredient is nature. Nothing more , nothing less.

To name a few - Bedmar and Shi, Geoffrey Bawa, Anjalendran, Bijoy Jain, Matthew and Ghosh.

There isn't one. Many tropical designs by Bedmar and Shi , Geoffrey Bawa, Anjalendran are my favorites. To specify, The Belmont House, by Bedmar and Shi is one such project.

I admire the skewed house a lot. The incorporation of artwork that speaks of culture, the control on lavish scale and newer ways of bringing in nature like outlining of glass , a more than serene double-heighted pooja space, distinct the design from other modern contemporary residences. Most importantly the relaxed ambience of the Skewed House can be attributed to its substantial green-scape and not technology !! I think that makes it a good design. Being my debut project, this house to me represents the firming up of several convictions: that each building is unique by way of its users, setting, function, and more; that you will deliver quality if you care enough; that there is no substitute for nature; and that architecture can leverage the innate beauty of every material, by creating the right balance between less and more.

A caring nature for everything around shaped me to be a better designer. Because the more you care and become aware, the more you become sensitive as a designer. Second most important thing every designer should learn is management. If you are not good at time management, or are not organized, things can be really messy.

Design for me is a medium to inspire, enhance and create spaces for different lifestyles and cultures. It is an expression, a functional art. An expression that strikes a balance between less and more. And to supplement a living or an activity precisely, every tiniest of the details ranging from door handle, to chair anthropometry, to materials, everything should be thought of. That makes a complete design.