The Rising Scope of Architecture in India

By Prof. Himani Singh

The architects today need to position themselves as partners to this industry and not mere service providers. Scroll down to read more on the role, responsibilities and future scope of architects in India.

Whenever we think of architecture, the first thing that comes to mind is the beautifully designed structures that adorn our living and commercial spaces. But architecture has come a long way from just designing the structure of a building. We, Indians, have always held a certain stature in the matter of designing and building structures as we are famous the world over for our monuments and historical palaces which have unsurpassable right from the very beginning. Our beautiful monuments have always been living examples of our prowess in the coveted field of design and architecture.

What does this mean for all the architects in the making?

According to running estimates, all these initiatives would require a task force of skilled individuals in the real estate and infrastructure sectors in staggering numbers. Keeping this in mind, the role of the architect has never been so highlighted or heightened. However, this also means a heightened responsibility will be placed on the shoulders of the new wave of architects.

Get high on responsibility

The architects of the future can no longer afford to hide behind their designs and desks. It is now of utmost importance that architects take up the responsibility of making our cities not only smart but also sustainable. They need to integrate technology with effective planning in bringing about “smart” developments. The use of effective construction technology is going to be of prime importance, which will lead to the accomplishment of many upcoming projects, both in the private and the public sectors.

The future architects have the opportunity to shape the future of development of the country. It is hence important that they learn in order to be a part of this big picture. Job prospects are plenty for qualified professionals, especially for those who are creative. With the rise of capitalism, this industry has had a great and unexpected push. But it has also brought with it awareness towards green construction technology. A career in architecture is not always about the money but it is for those who want a creative career in this field. An architect needs to keep in mind the requirements of the target audience and mould each idea into constructive reality.

Give importance to practical creativity

Creativity mingled with effective practical implementation is the reason for structural wonders the world over. Architectural marvels like the Burj-al-Arab in Dubai, Taipei 101 in Taiwan, and our very own Cybertecture Egg in Mumbai are all wonders of the creativity of architects that have worked together with effective implementation.

Job prospects for architects

At the onset of your career as an architect, you will be ideally required to understand all the practical aspects of being on the job and strike the right balance between understanding client requirements and coming out with a design, which is creative and practically correct. Options are available with construction companies, builders, private consultancies, and many more. For those who want to build a career in shaping the country’s future infrastructure, jobs are available in the public sector in departments such as National Institute of Urban Affairs, National Building Organization, Public Works Department, Housing and Urban Development Corporation, Ministry of Defence, Departments of Railways, Post and Telegraphs, Public Sector Undertakings, National Building Construction Corporation Ltd., Town and Country Planning Organization, etc.

About the author

Prof. Himani Singh

Having lived, worked and studied in different parts of the world, the experience of different cultures and contexts has been very instrumental in Prof. Himani Singh's educational, professional and personal development. Singh has studied and worked in India, Dubai (U.A.E), and The Netherlands. She graduated from School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi in 1994 and subsequently worked with Prof K.T Ravindran, (then) Head of Urban Design at School of Planning & Architecture, New Delhi. Himani then moved to Dubai in 1995 where she worked with an architectural firm, DUBARCH for 7 years. In 2002 Prof. Himani moved to The Netherlands where her inclination towards academics culminated in publications and a Masters degree in Architecture, Building and Planning from Technical University, Eindhoven. She moved back to India in 2013 and have been associated with teaching, mentoring & curriculum development since then.