Honouring Excellence: A Journey Through SDCA Udaipur

• September 3, 2024
• By: Syed Md. Ehteshamul Hasan
• EVENTS

The eighth edition of Smart Design Conclave & Awards brought together visionaries, pioneers, and dignitaries from the field of architecture and design, marking a milestone in the evolution of the discipline. Held in the picturesque City of Lakes, Udaipur, the event was a tribute to the city's enduring legacy and its vibrant architectural landscape.

Udaipur: The Perfect Backdrop for a Grand Celebration

Udaipur, a city steeped in tradition and cultural heritage, served as the ideal location for this momentous occasion. Known for its scenic lakes, pleasant mountains, and historical architecture, Udaipur offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. The city's charm extends beyond its physical attributes, with its warm and humble people, delicious cuisine like dal bati churma, and a deep respect for customs and traditions. The region's architecture and design are a testament to its cultural values, making Udaipur a fitting host for an event that celebrates innovation while honoring heritage.

The Curators

The success of the SDCA Udaipur event was made possible by the vision and dedication of two prominent figures in the architectural community: Ar. Ajay Dak and Ar. Venu Gopal. These two stalwarts have long been recognised for their contributions to architecture and design, both locally and globally.

Ar. Ajay Dak, Key Person at IIA Rajasthan, Udaipur Sub-Centre, is renowned for his ability to merge local patterns and narratives into global design trends. His work exemplifies the harmony between tradition and modernity, making him a true ambassador of Udaipur's architectural heritage. His influence has been instrumental in shaping the event's direction, ensuring that it reflects the city's unique identity.

Ar. Venu Gopal, the Chairman of IIID Udaipur, is celebrated for his ability to bring together dynamic entrepreneurs to create innovative architectural and interior projects. His insightful message at the event's inauguration set the tone for a celebration that not only looked back at the rich history of Udaipur's architecture but also looked forward to the future of design in the region. His leadership was crucial in curating an event that resonated with both seasoned professionals and emerging talents in the industry.

The Sponsors

The event was made possible through the generous support of several industry sponsors, whose contributions were vital in creating a platform for knowledge sharing and networking. The sponsors, including Haique, FIMA, KEI, Gujarat Guardian, NewMika, Alstone, VOX, and Vinayak Fenester, showcased their latest products and technologies, offering the attendees a glimpse into the future of architecture and design.

These companies not only supported the event financially but also actively participated in it by presenting their innovative solutions to the audience. Their exhibits demonstrated the potential of new materials and technologies to transform architectural practices, aligning with the event's theme of blending tradition with modernity.

MANTHAN: Debating Subtle Modernisation and Cultural Heritage

One of the highlights of the event was MANTHAN, a meticulously designed debate that brought together six distinguished speakers to discuss the fine balance between subtle modernisation and cultural heritage. This debate was a reflection of the broader theme of the event: the need to innovate without losing sight of the past.

The esteemed panel comprised notable architects who have made significant contributions to the field: Ar. Venu Gopal, Principal, Venu Gopal Architects; Ar. Akash Chawat, Principal, Akash Chawat & Associates; Ar. Abhinav Mantri of B L Mantri & Associates; Ar. Anup Gupte of Sanjeev Gupte Architects; Ar. Anup Murdia, Principal, Design INC; and Ar. Apoorva Ajmera representing Design Alliance. The dynamic group represented versatile architects who brought a fresh perspective to the debate on modernisation and heritage.

Key Insights from MANTHAN

The debate offered valuable insights into how architects can navigate the challenges of modernisation while preserving cultural heritage. The panelists discussed the importance of understanding the historical context of a site before embarking on new projects. They emphasised the need for a thoughtful approach that respects the past while embracing the possibilities of the future.

Ar. Venu Gopal highlighted the significance of using local materials and traditional construction techniques as a way of preserving cultural identity. Ar. Akash Chawat stressed the importance of innovation in design, suggesting that modernisation does not necessarily mean abandoning tradition but rather finding new ways to reinterpret it. Ar. Abhinav Mantri portrayed a deep understanding of architectural history and its relevance to contemporary practice. Ar. Anup Gupte highlighted why respecting cultural heritage is a must. Ar. Anup Murdia echoed integration of modern design principles with traditional aesthetics, whereas Ar. Apoorva Ajmera brought a fresh perspective to the debate on modernisation and heritage. 

The panelists collectively agreed that the future of architecture lies in the ability to strike a balance between the old and the new, ensuring that modernisation does not come at the expense of cultural heritage.

Beyond the Boxes of Byelaws & Regulations: Integrating Art and Economy

Another key discussion at the event was centered around the theme of ‘Architecture Beyond (But In) the Boxes of Byelaws & Regulations with the motive of Integrating Art and Contributing to the Local Economy’. This panel discussion was moderated by Ar. Sunil S Ladha, Principal, Workspace Design Studio and featured a group of distinguished young professionals who are at the forefront of architectural innovation.

The panel included Ar. Kapil Jain Intodia of Kapil Jain Architects; Ar. Priyanka Kothari of PankArch; Pawan Trivedi of Pawan Trivedi Designs; Ar. Amit Gaurav represented My Design Story; Ar. Saumya Luthra from Studio Paper Concepts; and Ar. Harshit Choubisa of Harshit Choubisa Architect. The group had a very insightful discussion on how creating designs that contribute to the local economy.

Insights on Integrating Art and Economy

The discussion explored the challenges and opportunities of working within the constraints of byelaws and regulations while striving to create architecture that is both innovative and economically beneficial. The panelists shared their experiences of navigating the complex regulatory landscape and emphasized the importance of creativity in overcoming these challenges.

Ar. Kapil Jain Intodia spoke about the need to think beyond the conventional frameworks and to use art as a tool for economic development. Ar. Priyanka Kothari discussed the role of sustainability in modern architecture, highlighting how environmentally conscious design can contribute to the local economy. Pawan Trivedi shared his insights on the importance of client collaboration in achieving designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The panel concluded that while byelaws and regulations are necessary for maintaining order and safety in architecture, they should not stifle creativity. Instead, architects should view them as guidelines within which they can innovate and create designs that are not only compliant but also contribute positively to the local economy.

The Keynote: In Conversation with Udaipur

The centerpiece of the event was a keynote presentation titled "In Conversation with Udaipur," delivered by the esteemed Ar. Arun Sharma, Principal of Atrey & Associates. Ar. Sharma, a luminary in the field of architecture, has been a driving force behind some of the most innovative and inspiring designs in Udaipur.

Ar. Arun Sharma's contributions to architecture go beyond mere buildings; he is known for creating spaces that evoke emotions and inspire creativity. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including a spot in the World Architecture Festival and exclusive features in prestigious publications like Forbes and Vogue.

A Dialogue on Architecture & Nature

In his keynote, Ar. Arun Sharma engaged in a thoughtful conversation with Ar. Sunil Ladha, discussing the importance of creating architecture that harmonizes with nature rather than disrupting it. Ar. Sharma shared his philosophy of integrating natural elements into his designs, ensuring that the built environment coexists peacefully with its surroundings.

He emphasised the need for architects to be mindful of the environmental impact of their designs and to adopt sustainable practices that protect the natural beauty of the region. His message was clear: architecture should not be about dominating nature, but about working with it to create spaces that enhance the human experience while preserving the planet for future generations.

Recognising Excellence: Awards and Acknowledgements

The SDCA Udaipur event also served as a platform to recognise the outstanding contributions of architects who have made a significant impact on the field. The award ceremony was a celebration of excellence, creativity, and dedication to the craft of architecture, besides honouring the curators, speakers, panellists and other participants with a token of appreciation in the form of mementos.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Ar. Sanjeev Gupte, Principal, Sanjeev Gupte Architects, a visionary whose work has transformed the architectural landscape of Udaipur and beyond. With over five decades of experience, Ar. Gupte has been a pioneer in the field, known for his innovative designs and his ability to bring his clients' dreams to life.

His contributions to the field have been nothing short of extraordinary, and his work continues to inspire both seasoned professionals and young architects alike. The award was a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy and his tireless efforts to elevate the standards of architecture in the region.

Masterstroke Award 

The Masterstroke Award was given to Ar. Rajendra Mantri, Principal, SRM Architects, a man whose strong design concepts have earned him a reputation for excellence in the industry. With a career spanning 50 years, Ar. Mantri has consistently pushed the boundaries of architecture, creating unique and innovative designs that reflect his deep understanding of site topography and client needs.

His portfolio includes a diverse range of projects, from high-end hospitality and residential spaces to commercial developments. Ar. Mantri's commitment to creativity and integrity has made him a respected figure in the field, and the Masterstroke Award was a well-deserved recognition of his achievements.

Special Mention Award

The Special Mention Award was presented to Ar. Upendra Tater, an architect with over 40 years of experience and a unique design vocabulary. His work is characterized by a collaborative approach and a willingness to explore new ideas and techniques. Ar. Tater's contributions to the field have been significant, and the award recognized his ability to consistently deliver innovative and impactful designs.

Honouring Young Visionaries

The event also recognised the contributions of young architects who have shown exceptional talent and dedication to the field. These rising stars were acknowledged for their hard work, creativity, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of architecture and design. The awards, presented in various categories, served as both encouragement for their continued pursuit of excellence and inspiration for the next generation of architects. The honourees included:

Architecture
Residential: Ar. Saurabh Dosi, New Dimension Architects
Healthcare: Ar. Sanjay Mathur, Sanjay Mathur & Associates
Hospitality: Er. Nirmal Harpavat, N. Harpavat & Associates
Institutional: Ar. Vikram Trivedi, VRA Architects
Landscape: Ar. Divya Sharma & Ar. Shantanu Sharma, Green Ribbon Landscape
Commercial: Er. Raju Ji Sharma, Kartik Constructions

Interiors
Residential: Ar. Ankit Pahuja, Studio Ankit Pahuja
Commercial: ID Surbhi Giri, Aesthetic Workspace
Hospitality in Bars & Lounges: ID Shikha Purohit, Shikha Purohit Designs
Hospitality in Hotels: Ar. Hitesh Soni, Vinayak Consultants

Conclusion

Organised by Building Material Reporter, the SDCA Udaipur event was more than just a celebration of architecture; it was a reflection of the city's rich cultural heritage and its commitment to innovation. Through insightful discussions, inspiring keynote presentations, and well-deserved recognitions, the event highlighted the importance of preserving tradition while embracing the future of design.

As Udaipur continues to evolve as a hub of architectural excellence, events like these serve as a reminder of the city's unique identity and its role in shaping the future of architecture in India. The success of the event is a testament to the vision and dedication of its organisers, participants, and sponsors, all of whom contributed to making it a memorable occasion.