As I reflect on my journey as an architect, one that spans decades and is deeply intertwined with my family legacy, it becomes evident how the path I have followed is as much a result of my personal drive as it is a continuation of something greater that began long before me. I am Kunal Kuwadeker, the principal architect of Naren Kuwadekar and Associates, a firm established by my father in 1975 in Mumbai. The firm is well-regarded within India for its vast body of work, having designed more than 150 million square feet of space across the country. Over time, it has become a symbol of architectural excellence, blending innovation, sustainability, and a deep understanding of the cultural fabric of the places we work in.
I graduated in 2000 from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), UK, and upon returning to India, it seemed only natural to join my father’s firm. My entry into architecture and the family business was part of a natural progression. While architecture was in my blood, the journey was not one without its own discoveries and challenges. Initially, I gained experience by working in different cities across the world, a move that broadened my horizons and exposed me to various architectural practices and philosophies. This global exposure became a vital part of my personal and professional growth, allowing me to return to India with a fresh perspective.
When I joined Naren Kuwadekar and Associates, my initial focus was on interior design, which later evolved into leading large-scale architectural projects. With a passion for creating spaces that speak both visually and functionally, I transitioned into leading the architectural side of the firm, which today handles a wide variety of projects. From multi-story residential complexes to urban rejuvenation projects and township developments, our firm has contributed to reshaping the skyline of Indian cities, particularly Mumbai, while making significant strides in other states as well.
Our firm operates across various sectors including residential, commercial, and educational institutions. Currently, much of our focus is on redevelopment projects, particularly in Mumbai, where aging societies and outdated infrastructure call for rejuvenation. We work closely with the government on several initiatives, one of which involves the reconstruction and rehabilitation of government staff quarters and institutional buildings. These projects are especially significant as they impact not only the city’s landscape but also the lives of the people who reside in these buildings. We understand the weight of this responsibility and are committed to delivering projects that not only meet modern-day requirements but also enrich the lives of those who interact with these spaces.
Among the iconic projects we have completed are Taj Lands End in Mumbai, Kingdom of Dreams in Delhi, Jamnabai Narsee School, and GIFT City in Gujarat. Each of these projects has its own unique challenges and triumphs, and they all reflect our firm’s versatility and expertise. We handle projects on both macro and micro scales, from large-scale township developments to high-end luxury hotels, always with a focus on sustainability, regulatory compliance, and client satisfaction.
One of the biggest challenges we face as architects is the balancing act between creating visually striking structures and ensuring their functionality in the context of the social and economic fabric of the city. Architecture, after all, is not just about creating beautiful buildings; it is about creating spaces that people can live and work in comfortably, efficiently, and sustainably. Our projects are more than just physical structures; they are a part of the city’s lifeblood, influencing everything from the local economy to the environment. And because buildings often outlive their creators, the responsibility we carry is immense.
Sustainability is a key focus of our practice. As architects, we are increasingly aware of the need to reduce the carbon footprint of the structures we create. There is growing awareness among clients and the general public about the importance of energy efficiency, carbon neutrality, and the use of sustainable materials. We are constantly exploring new ways to incorporate these elements into our designs without compromising on aesthetics or functionality. This is where innovation plays a crucial role, and we believe that technology will continue to drive the architectural industry forward in ways we have yet to fully understand.
Urban rejuvenation is another area where we see immense potential. As cities grow and evolve, there is a need to rethink existing spaces, particularly in densely populated urban centers like Mumbai. Many of the city’s older buildings and communities are in dire need of redevelopment, and this presents both a challenge and an opportunity for architects like myself. Our firm is deeply involved in such projects, where the goal is not just to replace old structures with new ones but to create spaces that are more sustainable, more functional, and more attuned to the needs of today’s urban dwellers.
Looking ahead, I believe the future of architecture in India is bright. The country is on the cusp of significant growth, with increasing attention being paid to tier-two and tier-three cities. As more international markets focus on India, we expect to see continued expansion in the construction and real estate sectors. The demand for well-designed, sustainable, and functional spaces will only increase in the years to come. Our firm is well-positioned to take advantage of this growth, thanks to our extensive experience and our ability to work across a wide range of sectors and project types.
Our work is not without its challenges, of course. As an entrepreneur, I face a number of struggles on a daily basis, from navigating complex regulatory requirements to ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget. Quality control is another critical issue that requires constant attention. Fortunately, I have been able to surround myself with a team of talented professionals—architects, designers, engineers, and project managers—who share my commitment to excellence and are integral to the success of the firm. We have also built strong relationships with our clients, who trust us to deliver projects that not only meet but exceed their expectations.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been the opportunity to learn and grow from each project. Every building we design, every challenge we face, teaches us something new. Whether it’s a technical issue that requires an innovative solution or a design challenge that forces us to think outside the box, there is always something to be learned. This continuous learning process is what keeps me passionate about architecture and motivated to keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
On a personal level, architecture is more than just a profession for me—it is a calling, one that has been passed down through my family. My father, Naren Kuwadekar, was a Fellow of the Indian Institute of Architects, and my maternal uncle, Achyut Kanvinde, was one of the pioneers of modern Indian architecture. Growing up in such an environment, it was almost inevitable that I would follow in their footsteps. However, it is my own passion for the craft that drives me forward. Architecture is about much more than just creating buildings; it is about shaping the way people live and interact with the world around them.
The legacy of my family plays a large role in how I approach my work. While I am proud to carry on the tradition started by my father, I am also constantly looking for ways to innovate and push the firm forward. This dual focus on tradition and innovation is what sets us apart from many other architectural firms. We understand the importance of honoring the past, but we also know that the future demands new ideas, new approaches, and new solutions.
As I look toward the future, I am excited by the possibilities that lie ahead. The field of architecture is constantly evolving, and I believe that we are entering a period of great change. With advances in technology, growing awareness of sustainability, and increasing demand for innovative, functional spaces, there are endless opportunities for architects to make a positive impact on society. I see our firm continuing to grow, expanding into new markets and taking on even more ambitious projects. At the same time, we will remain committed to our core values—excellence in design, a focus on sustainability, and a dedication to improving the quality of life for the people who live and work in the spaces we create.
