PAIR OF ACES

Anupam Bansal and Rajesh Dongre, founding partners, ABRD, have been designing institutional projects that are complex in size and scale

- JAYASHREE KINI MENDES

Their passion for architecture and design is evi-dent. They have been working together for more than two decades, but even today a new project, better when it’s highly challenging, continues to excite them. Anupam Bansal and Rajesh Dongre, founding partners, ABRD, are the keystone architects who have designed structures with remarkable efficacy that leave a lasting impression.

Interestingly, at a time when some architects have adopted cookie-cutter design, the team of ABRD ventured out with gusto into what was then unfamiliar territory. They ventured to compete for institutional projects. The long gestation period was not a deterrent. Nor was the fact that they would be dealing with numerous stakeholders that would infringe on their creativity. It was the challenge of executing a complex and multidisciplinary project beyond what they have done that stimulated them.

Besides, it is a friendship that goes back to their college days that helps them work together easily.

The double-height lounges provided on all floors along the staircase allows the Asmara Apparels team to connect.

NO SET FORMULA

The starting point in life is always the toughest. Proving one’s mettle to the world is necessary so others can believe. Bansal says, “Though we did have some work experience behind us, when we started out on our own, we began taking on any projects that came our way. It was a one-step-at-a-time journey. In those days, competitions for projects were largely universal and it was an opportunity for a young firm like ours.”