Dhrumil Kumar is an accomplished architect with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from CSIIT and a Master’s degree in Urban Planning from CEPT University. He began his career in architecture in 2012 and he is the founder and Principal Architect of Alankaar Studios.

The firm has a pan-India presence and specializes in residential and commercial projects. They have also pitched in government projects such as the Chhattisgarh High Court, Warangal Urban Planning, Warangal Mayor’s
office, and Dhirubhai Ambani Home for All.

He was trained under his grandfather and renowned architect and pioneer of modernist and brutalist architecture in India Sri B.V. Doshi, and places great importance on dimensions and proportions in his designs.

Dhrumil is a contemporary and modern architect who believes in the philosophy of “true to material". He advocates for the honest representation of materials in their true form and not disguised in any way.

About the Project:
The office space of Alankaar Studios seamlessly blends natural elements and a fitting colour scheme while adhering to Vastu principles. The planning of the skylight takes proper north light into consideration. Skylight areas and windows are positioned thoughtfully to ensure abundant sunlight and natural air circulation, resulting in well-ventilated and naturally cool spaces. The spaces remain well-lit until sunset, eliminating the need to turn on lights. The colour scheme is inspired by the earth’s elements, with green dominating the eastern side, blue tones prominent in the north, reddish tones in the south and southeast, and yellowish tones in the southwest to west. A subtle grey is employed to accentuate primary colours, and orange is the dominant colour scheme. The Le Corbusier Modulor system is utilized for a balanced and harmonious space. The design’s attention to detail blends elegance and functionality seamlessly. By meticulously using his strengths in Mahavastu, dimensions, and proportions, and applying these fundamental principles of design, Dhrumil has created an office space that truly stands out.

The primary concept driving the elevation and structure’s design was to incorporate as much natural light as possible to minimize electricity usage and promote Sustainability. The architect was able to take advantage of the North and East-facing aspects of the building to create a visually striking balcony design. The exterior window fins were strategically angled to diffuse and direct the wind towards the windows. The choice of colour palette, specifically yellow, green, and red, was deliberate and purposeful.

Positioned in the northeastern corner of the office, a temple serves as a striking centrepiece as soon as one enters. To impart a sense of welcome and guide guests towards the temple, an abstract interpretation of the traditional “Toran" concept was created using a log of woods and installed above.

All furniture pieces in this office are bespoke and custom-made on-site, ensuring a unique and personalized design aesthetic. The yellow tiles on the floor were specifically chosen for their ability to increase the wavelength of light, adding a subtle yet impactful touch to the space. The ceiling above the centre table is crafted from wood and features square blocks with rattan work, mirroring the shape of the yellow floor tiles. The centre table itself holds special significance, as it was the very first table the architect used when starting in the industry, imbuing it with a deep emotional connection. The table has been beautifully refurbished with duco paint and a glass top, showcasing the architect’s past designs and handmade sketches. The tall doors at the entrance create a sense of grandeur and visual height, while a wooden world map piece, carefully nailed and threaded by employees, adds a personal touch to the space. Finally, a semi-transparent rattan partition provides a functional and stylish division, adding depth and interest to the overall design.

The architect’s vision for an open workspace is realized in this office, setting it apart from others where work areas are often hidden from view. A sense of pride in the work being done is evident, with the architect wanting to showcase the office’s open work culture to clients. The work area features blue tiles, a cement ceiling, and furniture and shelves crafted from wood and metal with rattan accents. Grey curtains complement the cement ceiling colour, while profile lights above the work area provide ample illumination when the curtains are drawn.

In the Principal architect’s room, natural light is prioritized with the inclusion of a skylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting even with the curtains drawn. Personal touches are added with a photo frame of Sri B.V. Doshi, the architect’s inspiration, and his grandfather.

The centrepiece of the room is a bespoke table crafted from a large wooden log with sturdy metal legs. The ceiling, made from wood and adorned with Rattan work in a grid style, features square blocks that complement the floor pattern. Against the ivory-coloured wall, a yellow-coloured lacquered glass panel doubles as a note board while reflecting the natural light coming from the window. Rattan elements also decorate the shelves on the side table, adding texture and interest to the space.

The reception table in this space boasts a striking combination of wood, nano-white stone, and metal that infuses the area with a sense of drama, contrasting against the subtler furnishings elsewhere. Drawing inspiration from the design of windows found in Kumbhalgad and Jaipur, the wall behind the reception features intricately crafted jali windows that create a stunning visual effect. Not only are these windows aesthetically pleasing, but they also facilitate strong air circulation through the smaller holes in the jali. A terracotta jali situated behind the reception desk allows ample light to enter the space while further enhancing the airflow. By employing this clever use of jali, the office achieves a harmonious balance of natural light and air, elevating the design to new heights.

The book stand, fashioned from a combination of wood and metal, is a standout piece that commands attention. Rattan is also cleverly incorporated into the design, adorning the bottom shelves and tying the overall aesthetic together.

Architect derives his inspiration and his work style is highly influenced by the Swiss-French architect and designer Le Corbusier. He developed the Corbusier Modulor which is based on the human scale and the golden ratio, and it aims to help architects and designers create buildings and objects that are in proportion to the human body. The Modulor is based on the height of a standing human (appx. 1829 mm) and the height of a seated human (appx. 1173.48 mm).. Le Corbusier believed that using these measurements and ratios would help create designs that feel balanced and harmonious.

The architect has incorporated the principles of proportionality throughout the design of this office, drawing inspiration from Le Corbusier’s iconic model to create a visually pleasing space. For instance, the courtyard is precisely 4572 mm x 4572 mm in size, as it aligns with the golden ratio when calculated, resulting in a well-proportioned and aesthetically pleasing feature.

The pantry area is illuminated with a well-placed lighting scheme, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. In addition, carefully curated art pieces displayed on the walls add an extra layer of interest and character to the space.

A model crafted by the architect is displayed on the wall. The centrepiece of the room is a tabletop made of nano-white stone, resting on yellow-coloured tiles. The Rattan decor on the shelves is in keeping with the office’s theme, and the elements of wood and metal add warmth. A white brick wall serves to brighten up the space.