200 PROJECTS LATER...

DPA's co-founder Sonali Bhagwati reflects on on building credibility in architecture

- Interviewed By Hetal Oswal

How did architecture first happen for you? Was it always the plan, or did the journey unfold along the way?

Architecture wasn’t a predetermined path for me. It grew out of a natural curiosity about cities, human behaviour, and the way spaces quietly influence everyday life. Over time, that curiosity deepened into an interest in how the built environment shapes communities and experiences. My time at CEPT was instrumental in giving that curiosity both discipline and direction. It introduced me to the rigour of design thinking and helped me see architecture not just as a profession, but as a lifelong exploration of people, place, and culture.

You've been in the industry for decades now; when you started out, what were the biggest challenges you faced, especially as a woman in architecture?

In the early years, credibility was something you had to earn repeatedly. Architecture was still a largely male-dominated profession, and often you found yourself needing to prove your capability before the conversation could even begin. Confidence and persistence became important companions during that phase. Over time, I realised that consistent work, clarity of thought, and commitment to good design slowly build trust. Once that trust is established, the work begins to speak for itself.

Looking back at your early years in practice, was there a defining project or moment that changed the trajectory of your career?