Bhumika Chauhan
Architecture is more than just constructing buildings—it’s about shaping communities, fostering growth, and improving quality of life. Few firms embody this philosophy as authentically as Singh and Associates, an architectural consultancy firm with nearly 50 years of experience, now led by Ar. Dhara Thakur.
Founded in 1974 by Sri Anand Singh, the firm began as a small construction-oriented venture. Over the years, it evolved into a comprehensive architectural practice under the guidance of Dhara’s father, Sri Devendra Singh, a respected civil engineer. When Dhara joined at 22, she brought a new dimension—melding modern architectural practices with the family’s deep-rooted values of quality, reliability, and client-first service.
Operating from Haldwani and Moradabad, Singh and Associates today serves clients in four states and boasts an impressive roster of corporate and institutional clients, including Parle Agro, LIC Housing Finance, and major national banks. This diverse portfolio reflects the firm’s ability to handle projects ranging from residential homes to large-scale commercial and institutional developments.
The firm’s impact extends far beyond physical structures. By incorporating green building principles, Singh and Associates promotes sustainable development, ensuring that their projects are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and future-ready. Their approach to urban planning and design contributes to organized, modernized cities that balance functionality with aesthetics.
Singh and Associates addresses critical issues in the construction industry, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. From poor space planning and inefficient designs to regulatory hurdles and lack of visualization tools, they provide solutions that empower clients. Services like 3D walkthroughs allow clients to visualize projects before a single brick is laid, bridging the gap between imagination and reality.
Dhara’s leadership has been transformative. Her calm demeanor and solution-oriented mindset have earned her respect from clients and colleagues alike. She emphasizes communication, understanding each client’s unique needs, and delivering customized solutions that exceed expectations.
Challenges, however, have shaped this journey. Convincing clients of the value of professional design in smaller cities was initially difficult, as was working within budget constraints. Building a skilled team in a small town required investment in training and mentorship. Each challenge strengthened the firm’s foundation, teaching lessons about resilience and adaptability.
Looking ahead, Singh and Associates is poised for growth. Plans include adopting virtual reality tools to revolutionize client presentations, expanding into new markets, and collaborating on public-private infrastructure projects. Their long-term goal is to lead sustainable urban development initiatives, ensuring that progress respects both people and the planet.
Dhara’s message to upcoming entrepreneurs is clear: “Stay persistent, keep learning, and believe in the value you bring. Success follows those who refuse to quit.”
Under her guidance, Singh and Associates continues to build not just structures, but trust, sustainability, and a vision for better living.
