Thoughts, views and Ideas on architecture

Thoughts and views on architecture education and profession, contributed by the community of architects, students, educators and more.

All views expressed in this section are of the respective authors, and does not reflect the position of ArchitectureLive!

Diwan-i-Khas at Fatehpur Sikri. Image by Manfred Sommer

“If the received wisdom of this Western historiography is Eurocentric and subjective, how do we trace the evolution of architectural consciousness in India?”—Jaimini Mehta

The essay is the second of a three-part series of preview essays for Jaimini Mehta’s forthcoming book, Sense of Itihasa; Architecture and History in Modern India. He explores how colonial perspectives distorted Indian architectural history, arguing that indigenous architectural theories existed beyond Eurocentric interpretations, with the mandala symbolizing a deeper conceptual understanding of cosmic and spatial design.

Read More »
Jaimini Mehta - Architecture and History

“Unless you ask these questions, you will not realise that it is not history but the perception of history that needs to be revisited.”—Jaimini Mehta

The essay is the first of a three-part series of preview essays for Jaimini Mehta’s forthcoming book, Sense of Itihasa; Architecture and History in Modern India.
The book analyses the works of several contemporary, post-independence Indian architects to demonstrate that since independence, they have revitalized traditional architectural elements and techniques, drawing inspiration from India’s itihasa.

Read More »
Social Media and Architecture. @ArchitectureLive! (Image is AI generated)

“Social media has pulled back the curtain, democratizing the discourse and, more importantly, the architect’s image.” —Athulya Aby

Athulya Aby writes about how social media has transformed architecture, making it accessible to the masses. While it offers opportunities for inclusivity and innovation, it also poses risks of superficiality and prioritizing aesthetics over function. The future lies in balancing online presence with real-world impact, according to Athulya.

Read More »
Great Expectations by Charles Benninger

Great Expectations: Notes to an Architect, by Christopher Charles Benninger

Christopher Benninger’s new book—Great Expectations: Notes to an Architect—reflects on contemporary architectural practice and its role in improving the human condition. It gives direction to students and practitioners alike as Prof. Benninger notes his encounters with his gurus and the manner in which their personal passion for humanity shaped the lives of others.

Read More »
SPADE by Samira Rathod Design Atelier

“There was a need to bring outside voices to contaminate and corrupt the idealism of the academy and vice-versa.”—Pinkish Shah reviews SPADE India Foundation event by SRDA

Pinkish Shah reviews the SPADE India Foundation event, organised by Samira Rathod Design Atelier (SRDA), critiquing the limitations in format, content, and impact. The article also includes Samira Rathod’s response to Pinkish Shah’s critique. The event held on September 19, 2024, focused on architectural explorations in Mumbai, including the reuse of abandoned buildings.

Read More »

Featured Publications

We Are Hiring