A conversation between filmmaker Aradhana Seth and Ar. Rajeev Vishwasrao, the architect responsible for the construction of some of the finest education campuses throughout the country. They discuss how he was initiated into a professional career in design, as well as his insights into materiality and the way future of architecture.
[03:00]
I used to make a lot of paintings, and I won many awards doing so. I thought this was what it meant to be a designer. Only later I understood that Architecture was a combination of art and science.
[05:35]
I realised there was a gap between government policies and design. This is what my thesis addressed. Charles Correa was one of the jury members on my thesis, and he really liked my radical ideas. He offered me an apprenticeship with him, and since I had no other plans of my own, I took it up very willingly.
[09:45]
You need to have technological expertise before you actively start using science and technology to execute projects on site.
[11:50]
Architects must experience, understand, digest and evaluate new technology before they recommend it for use of any kind.
[12:40]
Vitrified and ceramic tiles are the only viable alternatives to natural stones today.
[15:10]
We must find a way to reach the general society, and show them how much architecture is worth.
[16:50]
Our buildings are always designed so that they do not require artificial light. We always take care of natural light and ventilation in our architectural designs, as we believe these are some of the fundamentals of design.
[18:25]
No matter the scale of the project – whether it is an institution or a 1BHK building, put your heart into it. Make sure the details are perfect – each door and window should be finished to perfection. Whatever you are doing, do it sincerely and with an open mind.
[19:02]
The architects’ decisions make a big difference to those who use the spaces.
[19:35]
Architecture is common sense with design perception.
[24:30]
Green Architecture needs to be a part of the design, it cannot be retrofitted once the design has been made.
[29:30]
As architects, the most enjoyable part is to be able to visualize buildings, and then bring it to life. Today we have 3D software and tools which aid us in this process, but we still need to conceive, build and put our buildings to actual use. That is the biggest joy.
[IN]SIDE Talks are a series of conversations between Filmmaker Aradhana Seth with various reputed architects and designers around the country, support by Outlook, in association with H & R Johnson (India). Each conversation does aims to investigate the deep connections architects have with their crafts, and give an insight into their lives as people, creators, learners and masters.
