Dimensions by design are deeply embedded in the very reality they create. The universe might not have been created by design. However, our three-dimensional reality compels us to visualize the natural world through the lenses of our minds’ architecture is ingrained in our brain’s operating system via the designs of our sensory stimuli.
The most prominent architects in India, like Rahul Mehta Architects, leverage this designing brainpower of their team–under the leadership of Rahul Mehta, the Founder and Principal Architect–to immerse themselves into the infinite depths of possible dimensions of each project and then bring out the pearls of designs to create timeless vistas of monumental masterpieces.
Again, one might think that it did not happen by design. However, after spending 16 to 17 years in the industry, Rahul and his wife Sonali founded Rahul Mehta Architects in 2021 with the inspiration of bringing universal designs to the masses.
Colouring the Canvas with the Rainbows of Compassion
So, did it happen by chance? No, says Rahul. Since his years in Architecture School at Kamla Raheja Vidyanidhi Institute for Architecture and Environmental Studies, Rahul has always believed that architects are critical contributors to the urban and rural fabric of an ever-advancing societal reality–growth, development, progress, and prosperity.
Over a period, as he gained experience and did his PG learning with Blue Shift, the belief that they can shape skylines, contribute to the creation of better living and working conditions or even shape experiences for different journeys for people, Rahul was sure that he must step into this dynamic ecosystem. “Going through similar experiences in the industry, my wife and I eventually decided that through Rahul Mehta Architects, we would contribute in our own way and help shape a better future, hopefully making landmarks on the way in this journey,” he recalls.
When complimented that his firm has emerged as one of India’s most prominent architectural innovating companies, Rahul says, “I would like to appreciate your kind words.” Sharing the guiding philosophy that propelled their success, he says they believe that their journey has just begun. “And we wish that through every project we can set new benchmarks and keep evolving our skills. We have a very simple philosophy at work – we design, we debate, we agree to disagree, and eventually, we decide on one vision for the project design through a firm design process because every line we draw has a meaning. Every project we do will mean something to its inhabitants.” They must innovate and evolve through this understanding with every project, “Be it through space planning, form, materials, or even technology at our disposal.”
Painting the Horizons with Revolutionary Masterstrokes
According to Rahul, the architectural landscape is continually evolving. Because change is the only constant, and evolution is the only way forward. It’s never a decision till it’s an informed decision. “This mindset allows us to service our clients better and keeps us open to ideas that the project team has while still keeping with our design ideas and design hygiene. We firmly believe that till we do not work as a team, we cannot innovate and convert our vision into reality.”
In simple terms, Rahul says they understand that ‘the profession of architecture has the power to design, to create. But most importantly, architectural design is a service. “Not only to clients but eventually to the people who inhabit the structures built as well, and it is to them both who we must be true to. This, I believe, is our USP.”
Rahul’s inspiring leadership style is often recognized as a driving force behind Rahul Mehta Architects’ achievements. Shedding light on the same, he says that the best way to describe the way he operates is – to be honest, be upfront, put in your best efforts and be true to your design and its ethics while you service your clients and, most importantly, believe in yourself. “This, in my belief, is the only way one can operate.”
Triumphing Together with Leadership’s Team Dynamics
With respect to team building and how they operate within the organization, it is simple – there is no senior or junior, and there is no right or wrong in design. They want to debate ideas that everyone has, and they want everyone to be responsible for the work they take up. “There, we believe that if every time I am the smartest person in the room or my idea is the best idea or way forward, then we are not building the right team. We must build a team where each architect is able to propose and decide a way forward through firm design processes,” explains Rahul.
They believe it is important not to distinguish between ideations by junior/senior/associate or principal architects. They openly discuss and believe in making everyone responsible for their projects. They believe that while there are project allocations, eventually, they must behave as one team. They must all be together in their victories and defeats. “We also believe that the client’s team is an extension of ours, and it is only together that we can succeed. This belief system added to our process of design, I believe, empowers all who work in the team at our office and the clients. I firmly believe ‘My team is my strength, and we can only grow if we all do so together.”
Empowering the World with Powerful Designs
The essence of the architectural niche lies in innovation, disruptions, and enhancing the end-user experience. Thus, it is absolutely crucial to strike a balance between operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Rahul says that a very important side to design consultancies that one generally misses out on always being on top of is ‘the business of architecture.’ “We have a set of processes that we try to follow as we design for operational efficiencies.”
What he believes is that ‘disruption may necessarily not be in the form; innovation may not always be expensive and user experiences are created through understanding our own senses.’
“We also believe that ‘every design we make must not only be a design landmark but also a benchmark for the client’s business model along with being a user’s delight, that would be a truly successful project.”
Digitalization and technological advancements are crucial aspects of the modern architectural ecosystem. To Rahul, it means that along with old-school design, they now have new tools to further explore and push the level of finesse and forms in design and also the level of detail they can achieve. “We are looking at using some of the new tools, be it through drafting/massing software or AI, to expand our horizons. We believe embracing new technologies is critical to sustainable growth,” he adds.
Realizing the Dream Panoramas
When asked to highlight a transformative project, Rahul says that to single out one project would not be fair. “But I would rather say that we have been fortunate to take on projects across project typologies. Today, we are working on assignments in residential, retail, commercial, hospitality, public buildings, and master planning. We are also working in the design verticals of master planning, architectural, interior and landscape design across different cities in the country.”
Some projects that highlight design innovation in different ways are the cruise terminal and experience centre at Bellard Pier for ‘The Bellard Pier’; the mixed-use retail and residential project of JP First Mall, and the Star Life Residential mixed-use project at Mira Road for JP Infra; The planning of the Mall of Madras for SPR construction; some premier residential and residential redevelopments such as “West Shore” for D&A, Joyville projects at Thane & Santacruz, Zenith for Runwal and other well-known developers across the city. “Through some of these projects, we have delved into parametric design, innovation in design through architecture and structural visions from day one as a parameter, large-scale mixed-use planning and luxury through minimalism, to name a few of our initiatives through design in projects,” he reveals.
Conquering the Critical Currents
Facing adversities is inevitable for every successful architectural firm. Rahul says their story is no different. There are several instances, especially during their projects involving redevelopment pitches, where they have faced timeline and design challenges, quick turnaround requirements and multiple changes over a short period, which all eventually culminate into a presentation to the societies. “We take making homes very seriously, and in redevelopment assignments, while we balance our clients’ design requirements and understand their business challenges, we also are very mindful of the output we have to provide to the original members while balancing multiple typologies and needs of the society.”
These initial presentations and, at times, the evolving needs of society versus provability versus the clients’ requirements become very challenging. This is where their way/process of design, the resolve of their team to succeed, and experience in handling situations come to the fore and help them push ahead. “It is during some of these challenges that I truly saluted the team’s abilities and efforts,” shares Rahul proudly.
Designing Dimensions of a Brighter Tomorrow
In his advice to other budding entrepreneurs who aspire to venture into the architectural space, Rahul says: do not be afraid to start your entrepreneurial journey in the architectural design space. There are numerous specializations at play today, and if one has a firm business ideology to proceed, the sky is the limit. “The world is large and open, so much work to do, so many visions to create, so many skylines to paint, so many lives to touch. Let us all come together and push the horizons for a better and brighter tomorrow.”
Divulging his vision, Rahul says that the idea is to keep pushing themselves, to keep improving, and to keep servicing their clients better. “We are launching the new logo for our company soon.” Beyond this, the idea here is that “every project we make must have a certain USP, certain innovation, and an improvement from the last. We are in the business of making benchmarks, and that’s what we will strive to do,” he concludes.
Client Testimonials:
***** “Rahul is a trusted hand in designing projects, especially luxury ones, and a unanimous choice for us for all projects from the inception stage. The best part is the logical conclusion of the design problems at hand and lucidly explaining the same to the client and stakeholders, which makes doing business with him a pleasurable experience.” – Jaydeep Roy, NCC Urban.
***** “With Rahul Mehta Architects, we created Runwal Zenith, an iconic high-rise that will redefine the skyline, showcasing the brilliance of visionary design and the elegance of simplicity. Their unparalleled expertise transforms ideas into architectural masterpieces.” – Saurabh Runwal, Runwal Realty.
***** “Rahul Mehta played an instrumental role in the architectural design of Mall of Madras, a 1.2 million square foot retail development. His expertise in design and planning is evident in every corner of the Mall, but what truly stands out is the stunning civic space he envisioned in the centre. This open area has become the heart of the Mall, fostering personal connections within the community and acting as a central hub for people to gather and bond as they move through the five levels of retail. Rahul’s thoughtful design ensures seamless travel and circulation throughout the Mall, making it a highly functional and enjoyable space for both shoppers and retailers. His technical knowledge and architectural skills have been widely recognized and appreciated by both national and international retailers who occupy our space. We are grateful for the innovative and community-focused design Rahul brought to this project, and I am confident that his talent will continue to shape an outstanding retail environment. RMA, The innovative architect behind the Mall of Madras!” – Ankit Chhabra, Retail Head, Mall of Madras.
***** “Ar. Rahul Mehta is young, energetic and immensely passionate about his work. His designs speak simplicity with elegance. Rahul’s energy is infectious, his passion for work is undeniable, and his style of simplicity and elegance exudes premium design.” -Jignesh Modi, Neela Films.
***** “I have had the pleasure of working with Rahul Mehta & Architects, and I must say that their services have exceeded my expectations. RMA has been able to provide the elusive combination of speed and accuracy without compromising creativity, delivering innovative solutions that meet timelines and budget requirements. Their team’s professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to client satisfaction are truly commendable. From conceptualization to project completion, RMA’s expertise and collaborative approach ensure seamless execution. I highly recommend Rahul Mehta & Architects to anyone seeking exceptional architectural services that blend aesthetics, functionality, and technical excellence.” -Avijit Upadhyay, CEO of Real Estate, Welspun.
***** “The CLUB at Sambalpur, designed by Rahul, has exceeded all expectations, blending creativity, elegance, and functionality in a way that truly sets this project apart. The indoor swimming pool, adorned with chandeliers, adds a luxurious touch, while the restaurants, banquet hall, and gym have been meticulously crafted to offer a seamless experience. Rahul’s ability to integrate sustainable elements with a unique design vision has made ‘The CLUB’ not only a place of recreation but a masterpiece of architecture. I highly recommend Rahul for any high-level design and construction projects.” – Shamsher Singh, JAS GROUP.
