50 PATHFINDERS

Minds behind the best workspaces in India

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Twelve years ago, Commercial Design set out on a mission: to chronicle the evolution of India's workplaces and celebrate the minds shaping them. Today, as we mark our 12th anniversary, that mission feels more vital than ever. Over more than a decade, the magazine has witnessed a transformation in how offices, commercial spaces, and urban work ecosystems are imagined, designed, and executed. What began as a focus on aesthetics and functionality has grown into a celebration of holistic, human-centric, and sustainable workplaces — spaces that reflect culture, drive productivity, and inspire innovation.

This anniversary issue is a tribute to the 50 professionals whose vision, expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence have defined the industry. From architects and interior designers to facility managers, project leaders, and real estate developers, each profile highlights a commitment to creativity, resilience, and the foresight to anticipate the future of work. These are the individuals who challenge conventions, embrace technology, and champion sustainability — often simultaneously balancing client aspirations, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility.

As we feature their journeys, we also reflect on the broader narrative of India's commercial spaces: the shift from rigid, one-size-fits-all offices to agile, experiential, and inclusive environments; the integration of wellness, biophilic design, and smart technologies; and the rise of conscious, purpose-driven leadership that sees real estate as a platform for culture and community.