Architecture in India is undergoing a profound transformation. Cities are expanding, design practices are evolving, and the built environment is being shaped by a new generation of thinkers and creators. At the centre of this transformation are women who are redefining how architecture and interior design respond to culture, climate, community, and craft.
The twentieth century marked a pivotal shift as women began entering the discipline in larger numbers, gradually moving from participation to leadership. From pioneers who challenged professional barriers decades ago to contemporary architects leading influential studios today, women are shaping every layer of the design ecosystem. Their work spans sustainable architecture, heritage conservation, experimental spatial practices, and refined interior design.
This inaugural Powerlist recognises women redefining architecture and interior design in India today. It is not a ranking but a curated recognition of individuals whose work has influenced design practice, discourse, and the built environment.
Together, they represent the evolving landscape of Indian design.
Celebrating Visionary Women Shaping India’s Built Environment
Trailblazers Who Broke the Blueprint:
The presence of women in architecture today stands on the foundations laid by pioneering architects who entered the profession when opportunities were limited and representation was rare. These women not only built careers but also challenged long-standing perceptions about leadership and authorship in architecture.
Through perseverance, experimentation, and intellectual contribution, they reshaped the discipline and created pathways for future generations. Their work continues to influence architectural thinking in India, spanning modernism, ecological architecture, conservation, and sustainable design practices.
Urmila Eulie Chowdhury
Urmila Eulie Chowdhury was among the first women architects to practice in post-independence India and one of the earliest female professionals associated with the development of Chandigarh. Working during a time when the profession was overwhelmingly male dominated, she played a pioneering role in establishing the presence of women within professional architectural practice while contributing to the evolution of modernist architecture in India.
She worked closely with Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret on the Chandigarh Capital Complex, contributing to projects such as the Government College of Architecture Building, the Home Science College, and elements of the Chandigarh Housing Development Plans. Her work on the Chandigarh project remains an important milestone in Indian architectural history and modernist urban planning. Chowdhury, along with Pierre Jeanneret, is also credited for the creation of the now-iconic Chandigarh chair.
Perin Jamshedji Mistri
Perin Jamshedji Mistri was one of India’s earliest practicing women architects, beginning her career in the mid-twentieth century when the profession offered few opportunities for women. Based in Mumbai, she established herself through work in residential and institutional architecture while participating in the emerging modernist architectural movement in India.
Her projects included residential buildings and institutional structures across Mumbai, including tthe Shengre La building, St. Stephen’s Church, the Khatau mills and several modernist residential apartments in South Mumbai. Beyond her built work, Mistri’s career itself became an important precedent that helped open professional pathways for women architects in India.
Didi Contractor
Didi Contractor was widely known for her pioneering work in sustainable architecture in the Himalayan region. Based in Himachal Pradesh, she developed a practice rooted in ecological sensitivity, vernacular construction methods, and deep respect for local craftsmanship and materials.
Her notable works include th the Mud House Studio in Kangra Valley,Nishta Rural Health, Education and Environment Centre at Dharamshala, Dharmalaya Centre for Compassionate Living at Bir, and Sambhaavnaa Institute of Public Policy and Politics at Kandwari built using mud, bamboo, slate, and recycled materials. Through decades of practice and mentorship, Contractor influenced a generation of architects interested in natural building techniques and climate-responsive construction.
Pravina Mehta
Pravina Mehta was an architect, writer, and activist whose work bridged architecture, culture, and intellectual discourse. Alongside her architectural practice, she contributed extensively to writing and research on urbanism, cultural identity, and design philosophy in modern India.
Her professional work included residential projects and urban housing developments in Mumbai, while her influential writings such as “Architecture and Society in India” and essays on Bombay’s urban transformation helped shape architectural discourse in the country. Through her work, Mehta expanded conversations around architecture beyond buildings to include cultural and social dimensions of the built environment.
Revathi Kamath
Revathi Kamath was a pioneer of ecological architecture in India and one of the earliest architects to explore sustainable construction methods in mainstream architectural practice. Her work was rooted in an understanding of climate, natural materials, and traditional building knowledge.
Her projects include The Weavers’ housing project Maheshwar, the School for weavers’ children at Maheshwar, Museum for Tribal Heritage, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and several mud and bamboo institutional buildings across India. Through these works, Kamath demonstrated how low-energy construction and traditional materials could shape environmentally responsible architecture.
Sheila Sri Prakash - Shilpa Architects
Sheila Sri Prakash is one of India’s most influential architects and the founder of Shilpa Architects, a practice known for its work across architecture, urban design, and planning. Her career spans large-scale institutional developments, infrastructure projects, and sustainable design initiatives across India and internationally.
Her notable projects include the Mahindra World City Development in Chennai, the Infosys Global Education Centre,Mahindra World City, New Chennai, the Madras Art House, Kuchipudi Art Academy in Chennai, and the Paranur railway station. Through her leadership and projects, Sri Prakash has played a key role in advancing sustainable urban development and representing Indian architecture on global platforms.
Brinda Somaya - Somaya and Kalappa Consultants Pvt Ltd
Brinda Somaya is an internationally recognised architect whose work bridges contemporary architecture and heritage conservation. As the founder of Somaya & Kalappa Consultants, she has built a practice known for its work in restoration, institutional architecture, and cultural infrastructure.
Her notable works include the restoration of St. Thomas Cathedral in Mumbai, the Nalanda International School, and the Basant Bahar Residential Complex. Through restoration and contemporary design projects, Somaya has demonstrated how architecture can balance innovation with cultural continuity.
Chitra Vishwanath - BIOME Environment Solutions
Chitra Vishwanath is widely known for her work in environmentally responsive architecture and sustainable urban systems. Based in Bengaluru, she leads Biome Environmental Solutions, a practice that integrates ecological infrastructure directly into architectural design.
Her projects include theWaghoba Ecolodge, Action for Social Advancement Office, Eklavya Office,and Atelier School. These works integrate rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, passive cooling systems, and locally sourced materials.
Shimul Javeri Kadri - SJK Architects
Shimul Javeri Kadri is the principal architect of SJK Architects, a practice known for its refined architectural language and strong engagement with landscape, climate, and materiality. Her work spans cultural institutions, hospitality architecture, and residential projects across India.
Her notable projects include the Hotel at Bodhgaya, the Dasavatara Hotel, and the House at Awas. Kadri’s architecture is characterised by spatial clarity, careful detailing, and a thoughtful relationship between built form and landscape.
Sunita Kohli - K2India
Sunita Kohli is one of India’s most respected interior architects and conservation specialists, with a career spanning several decades. Her work has focused on interior architecture, heritage restoration, and conservation consultancy.
Her notable works include the
K Residence, the Baroda Residence, and the Courtyard
House
. Through these projects, Kohli has played a crucial role in defining defining indian Modernism simultaniosly preserving India’s architectural heritage while elevating the practice of interior architecture.
Design Leaders Dominating the 21st Century
The twenty-first century has seen Indian architecture & design expand beyond national boundaries, engaging with global design conversations while responding to local environmental and cultural contexts. At the forefront of this evolution are architects and designers who are shaping contemporary practice through innovation, research, and experimentation.
These leaders represent diverse approaches from climate-responsive architecture and conservation to bold interior design and multidisciplinary practices. Their work has influenced how cities grow, how buildings perform, and how interiors shape everyday life.
Anupama Kundoo - Anupama Kundoo Architects
Anupama Kundoo is internationally recognised for her research-driven architectural practice that explores material experimentation, sustainability, and socially responsive design. Her work spans projects across India and internationally, where she investigates innovative construction methods, craft-based building techniques, and low-impact materials while engaging deeply with architecture as a research-based discipline.
Her notable works include the Wall House in Auroville, the Full Fill Home (FFH) Housing Prototype, and the Volontariat Homes for Homeless Children in Puducherry. These projects explore alternative construction technologies, handcrafted materials, and cost-efficient building systems that challenge conventional architectural methods.
Abha Narain Lambah - Abha Narain Lambah Associates
Abha Narain Lambah is one of India’s leading conservation architects and the founder of Abha Narain Lambah Associates, a practice dedicated to heritage conservation and restoration. Her work focuses on preserving historically significant structures while integrating conservation into contemporary urban development.
Her notable works include the restoration of the Secretariat, the Royal Opera House in Mumbai, the conservation of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel after the 2008 attacks, and the restoration of the Magen David Synagogue in Kolkata. Through these projects, Lambah has demonstrated how heritage restoration can revive historic structures while preserving cultural identity.
Sangeeta Merchant - Spasm Design Architects
Sangeeta Merchant is a partner at SDM Architects, a practice engaged in residential, institutional, and commercial architecture across India. Her work reflects a strong focus on contextual design responses, thoughtful spatial planning, and contemporary architectural language.
Her notable works include the Sarvasva, Parikrama House, House of Secrets, Shivkunj, and
Ishtika House. These projects demonstrate her approach to balancing functional planning with expressive architectural form.
Phirosa Neterwala and Sunu Aibara - Neterwala & Aibara
Phirosa Neterwala and Sunu Aibara lead Neterwala & Aibara, a practice known for sophisticated interior architecture and refined spatial compositions. Their work focuses on balanced proportions, curated material palettes, and meticulous detailing that results in interiors defined by elegance and quiet sophistication.
Their notable projects include the Lake Villa Pawana, the Breach Candy House, snd the Apartment at Malabar Hill. These projects showcase their ability to create timeless interior environments that combine architectural clarity with refined material expression.
Samira Rathod - Samira Rathod Design Atelier
Samira Rathod leads Samira Rathod Design Atelier, a practice known for sculptural architecture and expressive spatial compositions. Her work explores bold architectural gestures, experimental material use, and unconventional forms that challenge traditional design approaches.
Her notable projects include the One Tree Hill Community Hall, the Cool House, the House of Concrete Experiments, and the School of Dancing Arches. These projects highlight her ability to create dramatic spatial experiences while exploring innovative structural and material strategies.
Sonali Rastogi - Morphogenesis
Sonali Rastogi is a co-founder of Morphogenesis, one of India’s leading architecture and urban design practices. Her work focuses on climate-responsive architecture, sustainable urban development, and large-scale institutional projects that address environmental challenges within rapidly growing cities.
Her notable works include the The Lalit Suri Hospitality Institute, The Lodsi Community Project for Forest Essentials, and the Infosys Campus. These projects demonstrate innovative climate-responsive design strategies and energy-efficient architectural solutions.
Manisha Agarwal - Mobile Offices
Manisha Agarwal is the founder of Mobile Offices, a multidisciplinary design practice working across architecture, interior design, and product design. Her work explores flexible spatial solutions and contemporary design strategies suited to evolving urban lifestyles.
Her notable works include the School of Planning and Architecture at Vijayawada, VJTI Student Housing and K.J. Somaiya Institute of Management Library. These projects explore flexibility, modular spatial planning, and contemporary lifestyle design.
Krupa Zubin - Zubin Zainuddin
Krupa Zubin is known for her refined residential interiors that balance contemporary design with a strong focus on materiality and detail. Her work emphasises subtle colour palettes, layered textures, and carefully curated elements that create elegant yet comfortable living environments. Through thoughtful spatial planning and craftsmanship, Zubin approaches interiors as environments that must respond sensitively to lifestyle, comfort, and architectural context.
Her notable projects include the Maheshwari Residence in Mumbai,Mandhana Penthouse, Pavangiri Residence. These projects highlight her use of neutral palettes, natural materials, and carefully detailed finishes to create interiors that feel timeless, sophisticated, and deeply personal.
Shabnam Gupta - Orange Lane
Shabnam Gupta is the founder of The Orange Lane, a practice recognised for vibrant and expressive interior environments. Her work blends art, colour, craft, and storytelling to create interiors with strong visual identities and distinctive character. Gupta’s design approach often challenges conventional interior aesthetics by introducing bold artistic interventions and eclectic material combinations.
Her notable works include the PeacockLife by The Countryside Karjat, the Slow Life Villa,the Alibaug, Artistic Abode and the Manikarnika Film studios. These projects reflect her signature style of layering art, colour, and craft to create immersive spaces that celebrate individuality and creativity.
Hameeda Amir - Hameeda Design Studio
Hameeda Amir is the founder of Hameeda Design Studio, a practice recognised for creating bespoke interior environments defined by luxury and strong design narratives. Her work spans residential and commercial interiors and is often characterised by rich materials, customised detailing, and carefully composed spatial experiences.
Her notable projects include the Villa 81, Carmona House, The Nest, House in the Clouds, and DSR 1901. These works demonstrate her ability to create immersive interiors where craftsmanship, lighting, and materials shape refined living environments.
Shilpa Gore Shah - S+PS Architects
Shilpa Gore Shah leads S+PS Architects, a practice recognised for environmentally responsive architecture and urban design. Her work focuses on sustainable design strategies, contextual sensitivity, and thoughtful spatial planning across institutional and urban projects.
Her notable projects include the Collage House, The Nest_2/3, Design.I.Y Housing, and The Verandah Clubhouse. These projects demonstrate strong climate-responsive planning and contextual architectural design.
Anita Choudhuri - Spaceart
Anita Choudhuri is the founder of Spaceart, a practice working across architecture and interior design. Her work focuses on crafting experiential spaces that combine strong visual identity with thoughtful spatial planning.
Her notable projects include the Srihari, Farooq College, Calicut, GoodEarth Calicut, and Vykhary. These works explore expressive interiors and carefully composed spatial environments.
Sarah Sham - Essajees Atelier
Sarah Sham leads Essajees Atelier, a design studio known for blending heritage craftsmanship with contemporary interior architecture. Her work often incorporates artisanal materials, layered textures, and cultural references within modern spatial frameworks, creating interiors that reflect both tradition and contemporary design thinking.
Her notable works include the
Isprava Holiday Home, Sea-Facing Sanctuary and the Merlin Residence. These projects highlight her interest in integrating craft traditions and handcrafted materials into modern interior environments.
Shabna Nikhil - Thought Parallels
Shabna Nikhil is a co-founder of Thought Parallels, a multidisciplinary practice working across architecture, interior design, and landscape. Her work focuses on creating immersive spatial experiences through innovative material use, lighting strategies, and layered design narratives.
Her notable works include the The Skew House, Ananda, Traditional Affinity, and the Reflections. These projects emphasise sensory experiences, expressive interiors, and strong architectural storytelling.
Shonan Purie Trehan - Lab Werk
Shonan Purie Trehan leads Lab Werk, a multidisciplinary design practice exploring architecture through research, experimentation, and contextual thinking. Her work engages with adaptive reuse, urban interventions, and innovative spatial strategies.
Her notable works include theHundred Thousand Bricks House, Cosmos House, Kamshet, Courtyards, Baroda, Coconutty House, and The Little Much Farm, Mulshi. These projects demonstrate her focus on creating a dialogue with surroundings through contemporary architectural interventions.
Tarika Asarawala - Neogenesis+Studi0261
Tarika Asarawala works with Neogenesis+Studi0261, where her projects explore contemporary architectural expression through refined detailing and material richness. Her work investigates the relationship between surface, texture, and spatial experience.
Her notable works include theThe Tiny House, Sarpanch House, Jungalow, Nursing College Ashaktashram, Girl’s college & hostel for Model education trust, and the Retreat Home . These projects reflect a strong focus on craftsmanship, lighting design, and layered material compositions.
Reny Lijo - LIJO.RENY.architects
Reny Lijo is a co-founder of LIJO.RENY.architects, a practice known for experimental architecture and bold spatial concepts. Her work explores sculptural forms, innovative materials, and unconventional spatial compositions.
Her notable projects include theThe Hunkered House, The Regimented House, The Walls and Vaults House, The Stoic Wall Residence, and The House That Rains Light. These projects demonstrate her ability to combine expressive architectural forms with contextual sensitivity and craftsmanship.
Bhadri Suthar - tHE gRID Architects
Bhadri Suthar is a principal architect at The Grid Architects, a practice known for climate-responsive design and strong integration of landscape within architecture. Her work focuses on contextual planning, natural ventilation, and environmentally responsive strategies.
Her notable projects include the The Screen House, Pixel House, Tarang Pavilion, BETON BRUT and
Aikyam. These projects explore passive design strategies, perforated façades, and spatial planning that respond to climate and landscape.
Shweta Pandya - Architects at Work
Shweta Pandya leads Architects at Work, a studio engaged in residential, institutional, and hospitality architecture. Her work focuses on spatial clarity, thoughtful planning, and carefully curated material palettes.
Her notable projects include theThe Other Side, The Concrete Tree House, Swapna Residence and Anutham. These works explore modern architectural forms combined with functional spatial design.
Shalini Chandrashekar - Taliesyn
Shalini Chandrashekar is a principal architect at Taliesyn, a practice known for its contemporary architectural language and contextual sensitivity. Her work explores spatial clarity, natural materials, and strong relationships between architecture and landscape.
Her notable works include the Cabin House, Ksaraah, Taliesyn Studio, and Kubos. These projects emphasise minimal architecture, natural light, and strong landscape integration.
Shabna K - Zero Studio
Shabna K leads Zero Studio, where her work explores contemporary architecture and interior design through a minimal yet expressive design language. Her projects focus on clean spatial compositions and curated material palettes.
Her notable works include theHAVEN House, Residence at Edavanna, Screen-The Lantern House, Kadalas Cafe, and Mausam - House of the Seasons. These projects reflect a restrained design approach focused on clarity and simplicity.
Madhumitha - WEBE Design Lab
Madhumitha leads WEBE Design Lab, where her work explores contemporary architecture and interiors through innovative material experimentation and modern spatial strategies.
Her notable projects include the Decibel, TUT House, House Of Slow Reflections, and the National
War Memorial. These projects demonstrate her interest in fluid spatial layouts and modern material palettes.
Simi Sreedharan - Common Ground
Simi Sreedharan is the founder of Common Ground, a practice known for contextual and landscape-sensitive architecture. Her work often responds to climate, terrain, and cultural context.
Her notable works include the Common Ground Studio, Urban Village, Fern Hil, Library House. These projects explore architecture that is deeply connected to its environment.
Eliza Higgins - CollectiveProject
Eliza Higgins leads CollectiveProject, a practice working across architecture, interiors, and urban design. Her work explores collaborative design processes and contemporary spatial experimentation.
Her notable works include the Brick House, Lake House, Talaricheruvu Rural School, Debris Block House. These projects focus on participatory design and socially responsive architecture.
Smruti Kamat - Kamat & Rozario Architecture
Smruti Kamat is a partner at Kamat & Rozario Architecture, a practice engaged in urban architecture and design research. Her work addresses the complexities of contemporary cities through innovative architectural solutions.
Her notable projects include the Weathered House, St Martha Bethany Vidyalaya, Brick Little House, Screen House, Maya. These works explore architecture within broader urban infrastructure systems.
Chiranjivi Lunkad - Studio Infinity
Chiranjivi Lunkad is the founder of Studio Infinity, where her work focuses on contemporary residential architecture and interior design. Her projects explore modern spatial layouts and refined material palettes.
Her notable works include The Book Room, The Curved Wall, The Out School, Swapnalay, The Open Axis. These projects emphasise modern aesthetics and carefully planned living environments.
Vindhya Guduru - Spacefiction Studio
Vindhya Guduru leads Spacefiction Studio, a practice exploring architecture through experimental forms and creative spatial narratives. Her work often challenges conventional design approaches.
Her notable works include the Brick Mask House, Inward House, Jubilee Terraces, and Soul Garden. These projects reflect her focus on innovative spatial storytelling.
Neenu Elizabeth - No Architects
Neenu Elizabeth is the founder of No Architects, a practice known for its minimal and context-sensitive design approach. Her work focuses on clean spatial compositions and thoughtful material use.
Her notable projects include the Cloud House, Manjadi House of The Bead Tree and Worker’s Pavilion. These works emphasise simplicity, climate responsiveness, and material honesty.
Adwitha Suvarna - Collage Architecture Studio
Adwitha Suvarna leads Collage Architecture Studio, where her work explores layered spatial compositions and contemporary architectural language. Her projects balance modern aesthetics with contextual sensitivity.
Her notable works include the Aayi, NOTAN Home, RIVERSTONE - Holiday Home, Janani House, and The Split House. These projects highlight her approach to spatial layering and material expression.
Gayathri Shetty - Gayathri and Namith Architects
Gayathri Shetty is a principal architect at Gayathri and Namith Architects, a practice engaged in residential and institutional architecture. Her work focuses on thoughtful planning and contemporary design language.
Her notable works include the Shetty Courtyard Residence, the Urban Institutional Campus, and the Residential Villa Development Project. These works reflect a balance between functional planning and architectural identity.
Sruthi Bijunath - VSP Architects
Sruthi Bijunath is associated with VSP Architects, where her work explores contemporary architectural and interior design solutions.
Her notable works include the Haven, Meadows House, Kaloor Residence, and Professor's
Residence
. These projects focus on functional design solutions that balance architectural clarity with user-focused planning.
Farah Ahmed - FADD Studio
Farah Ahmed leads FADD Studio, where her work explores contemporary interiors through expressive spatial compositions and layered material palettes. Her projects span residential and hospitality environments and are known for their strong visual identity and design clarity.
Her notable works include the The Shah Residence, The Courtyard House, Villa 009, GAIA. These projects explore bold textures, curated materials, and thoughtful lighting strategies to create interiors that feel modern and visually engaging.
Seema Puri - SEZA
Seema Puri leads SEZA, a design practice focused on creating refined interior environments across residential and hospitality projects. Her work emphasises spatial balance, material richness, and carefully considered detailing that enhances everyday experiences within interior environments.
Her notable projects include the SEZA Luxury Residence Interiors, the Contemporary Hospitality Lounge Project, and the Urban Villa Interior Design. Through these works, Puri explores elegant spatial compositions that combine comfort, functionality, and visual refinement.
Ekta Puri - Red Architects
Ekta Puri is a principal architect at RED Architects, where she works across architecture and interior design. Her projects explore contemporary spatial compositions, strong material identities, and thoughtful planning strategies that merge architecture and interiors seamlessly.
Her notable works include the A Home by the sea, House of Curiosities. These projects demonstrate her ability to integrate architectural structure with refined interior experiences.
Pashmin Shah - Amoeba Design
Pashmin Shah leads Amoeba Design, a practice known for contemporary interior environments that combine creative spatial planning with expressive material palettes. Her work explores bold textures, innovative forms, and distinctive detailing that define visually engaging interiors.
Her notable projects includeThe Stream House, The Bridge, and The Jain House . These projects reflect her experimental approach to spatial design and interior architecture.
Disha Bhavsar and Shivani Ajmera Gaglani - Quirk Studio
Disha Bhavsar and Shivani Ajmera Gaglani are the founders of Quirk Studio, a practice recognised for its playful and experimental approach to interior design. Their work combines bold colours, unconventional materials, and imaginative spatial layouts to create distinctive interiors.
Their notable projects include the The Mill Project, The Mysa Home , Estate de Revessa, and the Hospitality Interior for Café Spaces. These works reflect their vibrant design language and strong emphasis on creativity and storytelling.
Pavitra Rajaram - Pavitra Rajaram Design
Pavitra Rajaram leads Pavitra Rajaram Design, a studio focused on contemporary interiors that blend artistic expression with thoughtful spatial planning. Her work often incorporates craft traditions, natural materials, and refined detailing to create culturally rich interior environments.
Her notable works include the Rajaram Courtyard Residence, the Textile-Inspired Apartment Interiors, and the Heritage Bungalow Restoration Project. These projects highlight her commitment to material authenticity and the celebration of Indian craftsmanship within modern interior design.
Emerging Voices Shaping the Future of Indian Design
A new generation of architects and interior designers is redefining how practices operate and how design responds to contemporary lifestyles. These emerging studios bring fresh perspectives that combine experimentation, sustainability, technology, and interdisciplinary thinking.
Their work reflects a shift toward collaborative practices, contextual design approaches, and more personalised spatial experiences. Together, they represent the next wave of designers who will shape India’s built environment in the decades ahead.
Anagha Patil - Environ Planners
Anagha Patil leads Environ Planners, a practice that works at the intersection of architecture, planning, and sustainable design. Her work focuses on environmentally responsive planning strategies, contextual architecture, and spatial frameworks that address the challenges of growing cities. Through her practice, Patil explores how architecture and planning can integrate ecological sensitivity with contemporary built environments.
Her notable projects include the The Bay House, A Farmhouse At Mahiravani, The Earthen Veil. These projects demonstrate her focus on climate-responsive planning, landscape integration, and architectural strategies that balance built development with environmental sustainability.
Pooja Khairnar - Pk_inception
Pooja Khairnar leads PK_Inception, a practice working across architecture and interior design with a focus on contemporary residential environments. Her work explores refined spatial planning and modern material palettes to create interiors suited to urban living.
Her notable projects include the House of Overlaps, Vista Farmhouse, Hiwali School, Void House, Rural Library . These works reflect her approach to creating homes that combine aesthetic clarity with practical spatial organisation.
Ankita Nand Deshmukh - Andspaces
Ar. Ankita Nand Deshmukh is the Principal Architect and Founder of
Andspaces, a Pune-based luxury architecture and interior design studio established in 2019. Her work focuses on crafting refined residential environments that balance spatial intelligence with understated luxury. With a strong sensitivity to proportion, materiality, and planning, Ankita approaches interiors as an architectural process rather than decorative layering. Through Andspaces, she also explores the intersection of architecture, interiors, vastu principles, and spatial energy to shape environments that feel harmonious, timeless, and deeply personal.
Her notable projects include The Color Carousel,
Solea and The Blush And Breeze Project. Across these works, she explores layered natural materials, sculptural forms, and restrained colour palettes to create residences that feel calm, balanced, and carefully composed around everyday living.
Dolly Pari - DP Dimensions
Dolly Pari is the Principal Designer and Founder of
DP Dimensions, an architecture and interior design consultancy based in Vadodara. She established the firm in 2014, with Pranay Pari later joining as Co-founder. The firm has steadily expanded its presence across multiple cities.With over fifteen years of professional experience, she leads projects across residential, commercial, retail, office, and renovation sectors.
Through DP Dimensions, Dolly Pari focuses on delivering comprehensive, end-to-end design solutions that reflect the lifestyle and aspirations of the people who inhabit them. Her studio is guided by the belief that every space should balance aesthetic appeal with functionality and contextual sensitivity, while also encouraging experimentation with materials and thoughtful detailing. Her notable works featured on Volume Zero include the
Concrete Screen Bungalow and
Majestic Penthouse. Among her other significant projects are the Vadodara Contemporary Residence, the Retail Experience Store Interior, and the DP Dimensions Office Workspace Design, where she explores material experimentation, spatial efficiency, and refined detailing through a thoughtful design approach.
Divya B.T - Archemist Architects
Ar. Divya B.T is a Bangalore-based architect and Co-Founder of
Archemist Architects, a practice known for designing climate-responsive luxury residences. A Gold Medalist in Architecture with a Master’s in Advanced Sustainable Design from the University of Edinburgh, she places sustainability at the centre of her architectural thinking. Her approach integrates passive design strategies, thermal comfort, daylight optimisation, and responsible material selection to create homes that perform as well as they inspire.
Her notable works include the Dr Harsha’s Home and
Avani Residence. These projects demonstrate her commitment to high-performance homes that integrate natural ventilation, shading systems, and energy-efficient materials while maintaining refined contemporary design.
Deepthi Balasubramanian - Concept-D Architects
Deepthi Balasubramanian is the Founder and Chief Architect of
Concept-D Architects, a design practice focused on creating architecture defined by balance, restraint, and permanence. Her work consciously distances itself from trend-driven aesthetics, instead drawing inspiration from climate responsiveness, cultural context, and authentic material expression. Through Concept-D, she approaches architecture as a dialogue between built form and nature.
Her notable projects include the
Project Adya. These projects reflect her preference for earthy palettes, tactile materials, and carefully crafted spatial compositions that prioritise longevity, clarity, and experiential quality.
Lavannya - Studio Alaya
Ar. Lavannya, the founder of
Studio Alaya, works at the intersection of climate-responsive architecture, alternative construction technologies, and sustainable living systems. With over two decades of professional experience, her work integrates passive design strategies, water management systems, renewable energy solutions, and low-impact construction methods into architectural practice.
Her notable projects include the
Nila in Bengaluru, Neralu Residence, and the
Vanantara Community Centre. These works demonstrate her commitment to environmentally responsible architecture that combines traditional building knowledge with contemporary design thinking.
Kayra - Studio KXS
Kayra’s design journey began in Dubai, where exposure to large-scale projects and meticulous attention to material detail shaped her approach to interior environments. She leads
Studio KXS and her work is defined by layered textures, subtle colour palettes, and a sense of understated sophistication. She is drawn to bold ideas executed with restraint, creating interiors that feel immersive and balanced without excess.
Her projects include the
Twofold Cafe, Silver Specialty Coffee and Car Lounge and Washroom
. Across these works, she explores refined materials, sculptural furniture, and thoughtful spatial composition to create interiors that feel timeless, elegant, and experientially rich.
Pranavi - Kru Architecture and Interiors
Pranavi leads
Kru Architecture and Interiors, a design practice focused on creating contemporary residential environments that combine thoughtful spatial planning with refined interior detailing. Her work explores modern architectural forms, curated material palettes, and design strategies that respond to evolving urban lifestyles while maintaining a strong emphasis on comfort and functionality.
Her notable projects include the
Ranthal House, and the Hikari Residence. These works highlight her approach to designing cohesive spaces where architecture and interiors work together to create elegant and practical living environments.
Shamna Stranc - Concept By Sowe
Shamna Stranc leads
Concept By Sowe, a design practice that works across architecture and interior environments with a focus on contemporary spatial expression and thoughtful material selection. Her work often explores clean architectural lines, layered textures, and interiors designed to enhance everyday living experiences.
Her notable projects include the Ugaoo HQ and
Ugaoo Flagship Store. Through these projects, Stranc creates interiors that balance modern aesthetics with carefully considered spatial planning and material expression.
Mounika Kodali - Beyond Spaces Design Studio
Mounika Kodali is the founder of Beyond Spaces Design Studio, a practice focused on contemporary residential architecture and interior design. Her work emphasizes spatial clarity, minimal aesthetics, and thoughtful design planning suited to modern lifestyles.
Her notable projects include the Ekta Villa, Westwinds Villa, The Emerald Home. These works explore simple architectural forms, natural light, and calm interior environments that prioritise comfort and usability.
Rachana Maroli - RGP Design Studio
Rachana Maroli leads RGP Design Studio, where she works across architecture and interior design to create contemporary spatial environments. Her practice explores layered interiors, modern material palettes, and thoughtful detailing.
Her notable projects include theThe Beeri Residence and Mangalore house. These projects highlight her approach to balancing expressive design with practical living environments.
Niharika and Varsha - Naav Studio
Niharika and Varsha lead Naav Studio, a collaborative design practice that works across architecture and interior environments. Their work focuses on spatial clarity, contemporary design language, and thoughtful planning that responds to evolving urban lifestyles.
Their notable works include The Verve The True Black Coffee Bar, Aina Community Restroom and The Dusk. These projects explore modern spatial layouts, material experimentation, and carefully curated interior environments that prioritise comfort and functionality.
Aroty Panyang - Studio Aro
Aroty Panyang leads Studio Aro, where her work explores architecture and interior environments through a contemporary yet context-sensitive design approach. Her practice draws inspiration from regional culture, materials, and climate to create meaningful architectural spaces.
Her notable works include the The Great Hornbill Gate,The Banyan Pavilion and Meditation Gazebo. These projects reflect her focus on natural materials, landscape integration, and climate-responsive design strategies.
Gauri Satam - unTAG Architecture and Interiors
Gauri Satam leads unTAG Architecture and Interiors, a practice focused on contemporary architecture and interior environments that respond to context and lifestyle.
Her projects include Jade, Villa Prakriti, and Flood Affected School at Kelthan Village, where thoughtful planning and contextual design create balanced residential environments.
Shriya Parasrampuria - Blurring Boundaries
Shriya Parasrampuria leads Blurring Boundaries, a practice exploring architecture, interiors, and spatial storytelling through experimental and multidisciplinary design approaches.
Her notable works include the Asmalay and Maativan. These projects explore conceptual spatial narratives and artistic architectural expression.
Rini Singhvi Gandhi - The Brick Tales
Rini Singhvi Gandhi leads The Brick Tales, a design practice exploring residential architecture and interiors through thoughtful spatial narratives and material expression. Her work focuses on crafting environments that balance aesthetic character with everyday usability.
Her notable projects include The Raw Abode and Vidarth Residence, where natural materials, layered interiors, and carefully articulated spatial layouts create warm and inviting environments. These projects reflect her emphasis on creating homes that feel grounded, personal, and comfortable.
Rose Thampy - EDOM Architecture
Rose Thampy leads EDOM Architecture, a practice working across residential and hospitality architecture. Her work focuses on contemporary spatial planning and architectural solutions that respond to climate, context, and user experience.
Her projects include Kutta Estate House, Muttom Residence,Sendhil Studio and Thamarai Residence, where open spatial layouts, large openings, and natural materials shape environments that connect architecture with landscape. Her work reflects a focus on creating calm and responsive living environments.
Naomy Parikh - DORO
Naomy Parikh leads DORO, a design studio exploring architecture and interior environments through layered spatial narratives and material-driven design. Her work focuses on creating immersive interiors that balance contemporary aesthetics with expressive design elements.
Her projects includeApdu ‘Gaam nu Ghar’,and Under The Trees, where sculptural forms, layered textures, and curated lighting create dynamic spatial experiences. These works reflect her interest in crafting interiors that are visually striking yet thoughtfully composed.
Suvrita Bhardwaj - Loop Design Studio
Suvrita Bhardwaj leads Loop Design Studio, where her practice works across architecture and interior design projects. Her work focuses on contemporary planning strategies and creative spatial layouts that respond to modern living patterns.
Her projects include Baba’s Restaurant, The Local House, Playground Restaurant,
Mocha Pune Cafe, Bodega Restaurant, where open spatial planning and carefully selected materials create dynamic yet functional living environments. Her work reflects a balance between expressive design and everyday usability.
Pranvi Jain - The Melange Studio
Pranvi Jain leads The Melange Studio, a design practice working across residential architecture and interior design. Her work explores contemporary lifestyle spaces shaped by thoughtful planning and refined material palettes.
Her projects include The Kanso House, House of Metamorphosis, The Link House, and the Cirque House, where layered interiors, customised furniture, and refined finishes create personalised living environments. Her work focuses on combining elegance with comfort in residential design.
Rajani M - Avani Mudra Design
Rajani M leads Avani Mudra Design, a practice exploring architecture and interior environments through contemporary design language and thoughtful spatial planning. Her work focuses on creating interiors that combine aesthetic clarity with practical functionality.
Her projects include Geleyara Goodu, and Viraam Residence, where clean spatial compositions, modern materials, and functional layouts shape calm and comfortable living spaces.
Anarr Gunjaria - Anarr Gunjaria Interiors
Anarr Gunjaria leads Anarr Gunjaria Interiors, a practice focused on contemporary residential interiors defined by refined detailing and curated material palettes. Her work explores how interior design can shape expressive yet functional living environments.
Her projects include TheHovering House of Parikhs, House of Hope, House in Woods, and The House of Volumes , where rich materials, elegant detailing, and curated interiors create sophisticated environments.
Shreya Daffney - From around here
Shreya Daffney leads From Around Here, a design practice exploring architecture and interiors through contextual and experimental design approaches. Her work focuses on spaces that respond to place, identity, and cultural context.
Her projects include Hanchu Mane, Seascape, Punyaprajna, and Palimpsest where adaptive planning and material experimentation create distinctive architectural environments.
Netra Bafna Majithiya - Terra Firma Architects
Netra Bafna Majithiya leads Terra Firma Architects, a practice exploring architecture through contextual design and sustainable planning strategies. Her work focuses on residential architecture shaped by environmental responsiveness.
Her projects include The Grafted Skin Project, Terra Kota House and The Arched Office , where natural materials, passive cooling strategies, and thoughtful planning create environmentally responsive homes.
Malavika Mahesh - ARK Architecture Studio
Malavika Mahesh leads ARK Architecture Studio, where her work explores contemporary architecture through refined spatial compositions and modern material palettes.
Her projects include Nirupamam, MOZHI- The House Of Conversations, Ekam, Neelambari Residense, where strong architectural forms and simple material palettes create elegant residential environments.
Natasha Kumar - Studio Tilt
Natasha Kumar leads Studio Tilt, where her work explores architecture and interiors through experimental spatial approaches and contemporary design thinking.
Her projects include Balinese Getaway, A Luxury Holiday Villa, The Publisher's Home, and A Slice of Ubud, where expressive forms and creative spatial planning generate distinctive architectural environments.
Gayathri Padmam H. - Aanai Design Studio
Gayathri Padmam H. leads Aanai Design Studio, a practice exploring architecture and interior design through contemporary spatial narratives.
Her projects include The Dhaara Residence, August Rush, Layam, Praana Residence, where material warmth and thoughtful spatial planning shape comfortable homes.
Ragima Ramachandran - Urban Hive
Ragima Ramachandran leads Urban Hive, a design practice exploring architecture and interiors shaped by contemporary urban lifestyles.
Her projects include Tranquil Abode, Tropical Encase, The Linear Loft, where efficient layouts and modern materials respond to dense urban living conditions.
The future of Indian architecture and interior design is being shaped by a generation of women redefining the profession through innovation, leadership, and creativity.
From pioneers who challenged professional barriers decades ago to emerging designers building new forms of practice today, these women are influencing how spaces are imagined and experienced across India.
Together, they represent an evolving landscape of Indian design one that is increasingly diverse, experimental, and inclusive.