IN CONVERSATION WITH DR BIMAL PATEL

The multiple award-winning architect, urbanist and academician gives insights into his profound and collectivistic approach to his profession

- ANEESHA BHADRI

“I grew up in a modern home designed by my father. When we had visitors (including his prospective clients) and if he wasn’t around, my sister or I would explain the design of our house— something we learned by watching him. I feel doubly privileged. Not only did I grow up in a wonderful house, I also had early training in explaining design!” says Dr Bimal Patel.

The eminent creative’s list of accomplishments is long. He first received a diploma from CEPT’s School of Architecture in 1984 and soon after, joined HCP, his father the late Hasmukh Patel’s namesake practice. He began working on architectural competitions that the firm was invited to participate in but that didn’t keep him from academia.

By 1995, Dr Patel had acquired a Masters in architecture and another in city planning as well as a PhD in city and regional planning from University of California. In 1996, he founded Environmental Planning Collaborative (EPC), a not for profit consultancy, policy research and advocacy organisation. He has also held the position of president of CEPT University since 2012. A role the Padma Shri awardee is intently involved in is that of Chairman and MD of HCP Design, Planning and Management.

When asked about his multifaceted profile as an architect, urbanist as well as academician, his eyes sparkle. “I find it very fulfilling to play different roles. It has enabled me to see the world from different perspectives and enriched my understanding of it,” he divulges.