From being a local friend for advice to now partner in work and life, Sachin Bandukwala didn’t necessarily plan to set up practice with wife Melissa Smith. Today, the American-Gujarati duo manage a family of 4 at home, including their 2 toddlers who are 4 years apart, and a family of 18 in the office in Ahmedabad, handling projects ranging from weekend homes to factories to urban plans.
He’s the people’s person and she is the design police. While they would love to live a nomad’s life, currently they fulfill their travel whims by going on impromptu road trips with friends (how lucky are they!) who are just as crazy as they are! Together, they are building a practice that is changing the face of architecture in the country. Their differences become their strength and their exposure to different environments over years of learning, experiencing and imagining architecture helps them bring to the table the most versatile architecture ideas, manifesting as something beyond the clients’ expectations.
Their work involves research on unique construction methods, both institutionalised and inventive, and built projects that explore the boundaries of material and craft in the context of contemporary Indian construction.
The duo talks about all this and more to the Editor of Architect & Interiors India, SUMISHA GILOTRA
BandukSmith Studio, I believe, is 11 years old. And it’s been quite a journey for you before and after setting up this studio. After studying abroad and lived all over the world, why did you decide to set up your practice in Gujarat?
This story is from the January 2023 edition of Architect and Interiors India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the January 2023 edition of Architect and Interiors India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Kitchens Made User-Friendly
As one of the spaces that sees the most action in a home, kitchens need to strike the right balance between practicality and aesthetics. Some of the new trends in kitchen design are ensuring this crucial aspect is taken care of.
Domotex Hannover 2024
The Domotex Hannover 2024 floored visitors with its innovation and invited Architect and Interiors India as a guest speaker on sustainability.
Unveiling the Textile Trends of Tomorrow
Heimtextil 2024 was a collage of ideas and innovations in the textile and home furnishing industry.
Get Floored
New-age flooring solutions are making their mark as they strike the balance between form and function.
Ornate Heaven
In the heart of Kalhar Blues and Greens, Ahmedabad, stands The Ornate House, a home that breaks the mould of contemporary straight-line design and stands out with its opulent approach.
The Floodproof House
A resilient oasis anchored in Kerala's flood-prone terrain, The Cantilever House is a fine example of architecture's capability for problem-solving.
An Artistic Odyssey
The Peak House in Hyderabad designed by Anusha Architects is a marvellous symphony of art and architecture.
Between Art and Architecture
Balancing architectural brilliance and artistic inspiration, the CY Corp Office in Mumbai seamlessly intertwines authenticity and aesthetics, crafting a narrative of raw, rustic, and refined design language
Exploring Architectural Visions
Architect Prasanna Parvatikar from Tirupur reveals his architectural journey, design philosophies, and innovative approaches that shape the unique character of his projects.
TRADITIONAL TAPESTRY, MODERN LUXURY
ITC Grand Bharat, located in Manesar, is the greatest marvel of sustainability, luxury, design and cultural magnificence.