We’re delighted to speak with "
Swapnil Valvatkar", founder and studio head of
COLLAGE – Architecture Studio, along with architects Adwitha Suvarna and Arunkumar Deivanayagam. Born in 1979 in Goa, he earned his Bachelor of Architecture from GCA-Goa University in 2001. Swapnil strives to simplify complexities in design by responding to the context, site and fundamentals of design. His functional approach often brings up perspectives that are unexplored and encourages a twist for innovation. He has received several prestigious awards, including the IIID Awards 2018 for Excellence, the IIA Awards for Excellence in Architecture 2016, and the CWAB Noteworthy Project Award 2018, reflecting his continued recognition in the field.
Founded in 2009,
Collage Architecture Studio is a multidisciplinary practice driven by collaboration and a shared commitment to design excellence. Led by three visionary architects, the studio has crafted a diverse portfolio spanning residential, commercial, and large-scale housing projects.
Guided by a philosophy of simplicity and contextual relevance, Collage creates spaces that seamlessly integrate nature, balancing aesthetic clarity with environmental responsibility. Every project reflects a meticulous attention to detail, delivering innovative yet practical solutions that resonate with their cultural and physical surroundings.
The studio’s work thoughtfully connects design with its surroundings, creating timeless and efficient spaces.
We're excited to speak with him about his perspective on the field of architecture and his expectations from the participants of the
Tiny Library 2025 Architecture Competition. For the purpose of this interview, he would be referred to as SV in responses, however, Volume Zero is referred to as VZ.
Toy Story by Collage Architecture Studio
VZ- What are some of your favorite projects/projects that you worked on? (What were the most exciting parts about it)
SV- PLAY SCHOOL, designig for children was an exciting experience, as their way of perceiving and interacting with spaces is quite different from that of adults. This made it important to approach the design with creativity and sensitivity. Given the challenging tight context of the project, it was essential to create a space that remained open and functional, while also being playful and engaging to suit the needs and imagination of children.
VZ- What has been your most challenging project? (What were the challenges faced with topography, local climate, structure, clients, people, etc.)
SV- I believe every project comes with its own set of challenges, and it’s how you approach and solve these problems that truly makes a difference. Elements like topography and climate play a key role in shaping the design. The context is also very important, as the built form should respond to and reflect the place it is situated in. Clients or end users are an integral part of the design process. Having open discussions and regular dialogues with them is crucial, as it helps shape the final outcome to better suit their needs. I believe this is one of the most important aspects of design, as it ensures the end product is meaningful and tailored to those who will use it.
Janani House by Collage Architecture Studio
VZ- What would be your word of advice for all the young budding students and architects who are looking to make a mark in this professional world?
SV- Patience, passion, and hard work are key qualities every student should develop. In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by information, but it only becomes truly valuable when we take the time to process and understand it as knowledge. Architecture is a demanding field that requires continuous learning, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to improving with every project. Stay curious, stay focused, and remember that growth takes time — but with dedication, the results are always rewarding.
VZ- What are you expecting from the proposal and the participants for the Tiny Library 2025? Example: Concept, Spatial Design, Site-Selection, Functionality
SV- A strong idea is always the starting point of any good design. It needs to align with the context, material choices, and functionality to guide the process. When these elements come together, they help shape and resolve the design, leading to a solution that is thoughtful, effective, and close to perfect.
RIVERSTONE - Holiday Home by Collage Architecture Studio
VZ- Is there any aspect of the brief that appeals to you the most or do you find it the most challenging? Example: Area restriction, Spatial Adaptability, Functionality, and The overall experience of a Tiny Library.
SV- I feel the most interesting part of the competition is its topic—The Tiny Library. With technology changing the way we access and use information, the traditional concept of a library is being redefined. It will be exciting to see the creative possibilities and solutions that emerge, especially with the challenge of limited space. This opens up opportunities for spatial innovation and a fresh interpretation of what a modern library can be.
VZ- Explain your perspective when designing a Tiny Library in today's day & age. Example: How would you approach this?
SV- I would aim to design a space that encourages and supports the experience of reading, rather than just housing materials for reading. It would make use of technology to create a functional environment that gives back to the community. The space should be flexible, able to transform throughout the day to serve different purposes—such as a quiet reading area at one time and a social gathering hub at another.
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