In recent years, the architecture industry has seen a positive shift toward gender inclusivity and women’s leadership. Women architects are breaking stereotypes and making significant contributions to the field, from sustainable design to technology integration. AaradhanaAiyappa, Founder of Atelier Asraya, is a prominent industry figure who has advanced the use of technology in her architectural practice, while also specializing in interior design and landscape architecture. AaradhanaAiyappa is a passionate and skilled designer who advocates for sustainable practices and excels in various design fields, including residential and commercial construction, computation design, and educational institution design. She has strong interpersonal communication skills and technical knowledge of green building practices. AaradhanaAiyappa engages in an exclusive interaction with the Women Entrepreneur Magazine, let’s hear from her.

Can you describe your educational background and previous industry experience that led you to your current position?

I studied architecture at RV College of Architecture, where I learned the importance of attention to detail, space, and material during my internship at Khosla Associates in Bangalore. My mentorship/internship at Edmund Ng Architects in Singapore exposed me to the local aesthetic flavor in design and provided valuable input on how to chart my future path. I then pursued my M.Arch at the TCAUP, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, which helped me solidify my unique creative expression and technical skills. During my Building Technology internship at SGH, New York, I gained a different perspective on client-consultant coordination. Working at Ennead Architects in NYC after graduation was a significant shift in scale and project scope from my previous experiences. I had the opportunity to work in various areas, such as urban design and computational design, and be part of the team for Princeton University academic building. It allowed me to see how the different aspects, such as urban design, research, and computational design, contribute to the bigger picture of architecture.

"My Success Mantra Is To Stay Dedicated, Persevere Through Tough Times, And Keep Pushing Myself To Learn And Grow"

Tell us about Atelier Asraya, following the underlying idea behind establishing the company and some of its key areas of specialization.

Atelier Asraya is a design studio specializing in architecture, interior design, and computational design, and is a blend of global & local, tradition & future, and research & practice. Our primary focus is on client engagement, and we start building the design to express the client’s requirements and unique personalities through shared conversations. Establishing Atelier Asraya was a dream I always had in mind and I saw the potential in navigating between the old and new systems in the architecture industry and recognized the advantage of having a good grasp of the latest technologies and software. At Atelier Asraya, we participate in architecture competitions to push our skillset and practice &open our minds to new ideas without the limitations of a practical project. We specialize in various projects, including residential, commercial, hospitality, and institutional, where we approach each project with a unique perspective, focusing on the context and the client’s vision.

What are the latest trends in the Indian architecture and design industry that may significantly impact, and what challenges do you face leading Atelier Asraya while focusing on the company’s growth?

As an architect and entrepreneur, I have noticed that the Indian architecture industry is slow in adopting technological advancements, even though they can significantly impact the industry. However, fields like BIM, Computational Design, Generative Design, and Sustainable Design using local environmental metrics will make a strong impact in the future. AI-based tools are being used, from concept design to building data optimization. At Atelier Asraya, we focus on staying ahead of the curve by integrating technology into our practice, constantly updating our skills, and encouraging our team members to learn and grow. We also maintain discipline and promote a healthy work-life balance by engaging in extracurricular activities. By doing so, we can better face the challenges of starting a business from scratch, such as managing finances and cold calls. Our goal is to facilitate the growth of our company by embracing the latest technological advancements and promoting a healthy work culture.

Share your professional milestones, success mantra, and advice for young women aspiring to be leaders/entrepreneurs.

As the founder of Atelier Asraya, I’ve had my fair share of challenges and accomplishments in architecture. One of my most significant milestones was successfully integrating parametric design into my projects. It has been a gratifying experience to have clients trust & entrust me with projects of various scales, programs, and complexities. My success mantra is to stay dedicated, persevere through tough times, and keep pushing myself to learn and grow. My advice to young leaders and entrepreneurs is never to give up, take up every challenge as an opportunity to grow, and be adaptable. Have explicit opinions, be open to change, and focus on the process rather than just the results. Don’t take criticism personally, as it often reflects others’ limitations rather than your own. Set your limitations and always strive to raise the bar higher for yourself.

 Aaradhana Aiyappa, Founder, Atelier Asraya

Aaradhana Aiyappa Is A Dynamic Architect With Work Exposure To Various Firms In Bangalore, Singapore And New York City. Her Focus On Integrating Technology And Sustainability In Her Projects While Encouraging A Healthy Work Culture Has Earned Her A Reputation As A Visionary Leader In The Architecture Industry.

Quick Facts:

• Awards & Recognitions: Cet (Common Entrance Test), Karnataka 3rd Rank

• A Business Leader You Admire: Indra Nooyi