tHE gRID ARCHITECTS
ABOUT THE FIRM
tHE gRID Architects is an Ahmedabad based firm and believe that designing is a spiritual journey. One in which energies of the universe and the spirits of the elements are as much a part of what we work with as wood, stone, metal and greenery. With a cumulative experience of 15 years in architecture and interior architecture, our founders, Snehal Suthar and Bhadri Suthar, have set a mandate for contextual design, something that is timeless and not stylish. Therefore, our designs are founded in simplicity and clarity, and create structures that are closely connected to the earth. While we strive towards compelling and dynamic spaces, we do so by combining clarity with quiet and thoughtful innovation; we endeavour to achieve the delicate balance of order and invention followed by integrity in work.
The key to designing philosophy is connections
- Earth, sky, water to humans
LEARNINGS AND EXPERIENCE OF THE FIRM
Working with the grid architects was an incredible journey in terms of work, learning, and understanding the functioning of an architectural firm as a whole. It provided me with valuable insights into materials, techniques, details, and the practicality of projects. When designing, it is important to approach it as if designing for oneself, which helps in considering the optimal utilization of space. Service cores, often overlooked in design, are actually crucial, as I realized through working on various projects. I had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects, including residential bungalows, villas, farmhouses, commercial spaces, hospitality establishments, housing schemes, and interior designs. I also worked on different sets of drawings, such as electrical layouts, toilet details, finishing details, C.O.P and staircase details, and working drawing sets, which are essential for project execution. Additionally, I was involved in creating 3D models, mood boards, and material selection. I even attended client meetings for some projects, where I learned how to effectively communicate and convince clients about the design, while considering the principles of Vastu Shastra. Furthermore, I had the opportunity to attend a photoshoot of one of our most recent projects, 'Tarang' meaning waves which is largest terracotta brick tile vault structure in India one of its kind: without beams, reinforcements and any shuttering system. It's purpose is to serve as an immersive exhibition platform where the interiors are transformed into canvases, showcasing the featured products.
I had a truly remarkable experience with the entire team. I am grateful to each and everyone of them for giving me the opportunity to not only collaborate on work but also enjoy moments of celebration, city exploration, food and attending various events.
SITE VISITS
PATHIKASHRAM - A homestay for governor officials with two kinds of restaurants: Gujarati and Multi cuisine, a multipurpose hall and a party lawn for various events.
KARAI FARMHOUSE - A farmhouse which is settled around farmland near Karai Dam with landscape and artefacts and an underground home theatre.
AAVALI FARMHOUSE - It was supposed to be a second home with an outhouse made in ferrocement with play of volumes.
RUSTIC RAYS - A restaurant which had the concept of using toplas of varying sizes and a niche created in G.R.C
RADHE'S BUNGALOW - A 20,000 sq.ft bungalow with puja room placed between lily pond and landscape around and the entry to the house is 24' high.
THE WOOD ELEMENT - A veneer showroom is a supplier to various cities and completely made in natural material with use of wooden logs, live edge, etc.
SHREEJI LANDMARK - A site office for a housing scheme with multiple courtyards, waterbody and landscape around to filter the harsh sunlight coming in with landscape.