#OnTheCover Sumit Dhawan embodies a commitment to keep pushing forward with a sense of purpose and depth

Metal pirouettes against gravity, reaching upwards, setting the tone for our rendezvous at architect Sumit Dhawan’s architectural sanctuary in Gurugram. A striking sculpture, twisting in perpetual motion draws the eyes to the top—a metaphorical statement that perfectly sums up its creator’s philosophy. Standing beside it in characteristic black attire, Sumit gestures toward the kinetic form that seems to chase infinity, “Like this endless spiral, there’s no end to evolution,” he says, his voice carrying the same measured certainty that defines his designs. Above, a parametric facade of rhythmic metal frames encapsulate his office building spanning four floors, its strong vertical lines echoing the sculpture’s upward journey—an ode to constant elevation, both in design and spirit.

The facade isn’t merely aesthetic; it’s an earnest attempt at functional artistry. Engineering itself to brave Delhi’s mercurial weather—from bitter winters to scorching summers—it stands as a silent guardian, much like Sumit’s approach to architectural challenges. “Every element must have purpose,” he asserts, “or it doesn’t belong in the design.” This philosophy extends to his choice of materials—the cotton steel sculpture, currently wearing a warm brown patina, will gradually transform through the years, eventually settling into a deep black tint. “I believe in creating spaces that evolve but don’t demand,” he explains, “architecture that can thrive on its own, without constant intervention.”

Descending into his basement studio is akin to entering an architectural haiku—where every element is precisely placed, yet the overall effect is one of effortless harmony. The space unfolds in a symphony of whites, punctuated by calculated bursts of colour that serve as visual rhythm markers. At its heart lies a courtyard-inspired collaborative space, anchored by a solitary tree—nature’s presence in this carefully orchestrated environment.

Sumit’s personal office emerges as a study in contrasts: dressed in commanding black yet softened by a living green column that hosts a vertical garden of bamboo and foliage. The juxtaposition is intentional, much like the architect himself—understated in demeanour yet formidable in vision. “I believe in creating spaces that breathe,” he explains, gesturing to the expansive ceiling that defies the basement setting, “because creativity needs room to flourish.”

Growing up in an architectural household, Sumit was captivated by the meticulous process of design. His father, Satish Dhawan, an architect himself, would work tirelessly on drawings, sparking Sumit’s own fascination with architecture. Watching his father handle technical equipment and draft complex drawings became the foundation of a lifelong passion. However, it wasn’t until his time in Auroville, during an internship under the renowned architect Suhasini Ayer, that Sumit’s vision for his career truly began to take shape.

His predilection for monochrome isn’t just a fashion choice; it’s a design philosophy that manifests in both his wardrobe and workspace. This intentional restraint creates a canvas where ideas can flow unencumbered by visual noise. Even in the midst of managing multiple projects, he maintains an almost meditative composure—suggesting that chaos, when properly channeled, can birth order.

“Authenticity is non-negotiable,” he states, a principle evident in everything from his selective social media presence to his thoughtful stances during the photoshoot. In his world, every design decision must ring true—a philosophy that has shaped not just his architecture, but his entire approach to life. His projects are a reflection of commitment to authenticity and longevity—each element carefully chosen for its ability to age gracefully, each structure designed with the flexibility to be dismantled and reassembled, speaking to both sustainability and practicality.

As the kinetic sculpture continues its endless dance at the entrance, it becomes clear: here is an architect who has mastered not just the art of building spaces, but of creating environments that grow more beautiful with time, always reaching higher, always moving forward, yet requiring little more than the passage of time to fulfill their purpose. Join us as we unravel the layers of his architectural philosophy, peek into his creative process, and discover how he’s shaping the future of Indian cityscapes, one innovative facade at a time.

Kashish Kaushal (KK): Your journey into architecture started in your childhood, observing your father Ar. Satish Dhawan is at work. How did growing up in an architectural household shape your approach to architecture, and how has your philosophy evolved over the years?

Sumit Dhawan (SD): Growing up in an architectural household, particularly watching my father, Ar. Satish Dhawan, at work, had a deep influence on me. It wasn’t just about buildings or blueprints; it was about understanding spaces, how people interact with them, and the deeper emotional connection to design. My father’s commitment and passion for work instilled in me the importance of creating designs that are functional yet aesthetically pleasing.

Over the years, my approach to architecture has evolved, embracing sustainability, local context, and modern techniques, alongside the core values of respecting the space and the user engagement with the space. I now see architecture more so as a dialogue between the past, present, and future, always evolving but rooted in purpose.

KK: You had the opportunity to intern at Auroville, which exposed you to various international architects like Dominic Dube, Anupama Kundoo, Piero Gloria Cicionesi, Satprem Maini, etc. How did this experience influence your design thinking, and are there any specific principles you still apply today? Tell us about your all-time favorite architect.

SD: Interning at Auroville was an eye-opening experience that shaped my design thinking in profound ways. Working with international architects like Dominic Dube, Anupama Kundoo, Piero and Gloria Cicionesi, and Satprem Maini undoubtedly exposed me to diverse design philosophies and sustainable practices that were strongly created as a response and part of the local context. One principle that has stayed with me is the idea of creating architecture that is in harmony with the environment, respecting natural materials, and using innovative techniques that reduce impact, something still that is strongly reflected in every project I design.
As for my all-time favourite architect, it’s always been Norman Foster. His work is a perfect balance of cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and enduring design. His ability to create iconic structures that are functional and visually impressive continues to inspire me. His approach to integrating architecture with the surrounding environment while maintaining a strong design language resonates deeply with my philosophy.

KK: Starting your practice with a sustainable residence in Gurugram was a notable project. How do you incorporate sustainability into your projects today, especially as the demands for eco-friendly architecture grow?

SD: Starting my practice with a sustainable residence in Gurugram was a key project for me, as it set my foundation
for eco-friendly architecture. Today, I continue to integrate sustainability into every aspect of my designs, whether it’s through the use of locally sourced materials, energy-efficient systems, or passive design techniques that reduce the environmental footprint of a structure. As the demand for sustainable architecture grows, I believe it’s essential to create designs that meet these expectations while also educating and inspiring others to embrace sustainable living. For me, it’s about finding that balance between aesthetic beauty and long-term environmental responsibility.

KK: Starting your own practice Cityspace’82 Architects in 2005 must have been both exciting and challenging. Can you walk us through the early days of building your firm? What were some of the biggest challenges you faced, and what do you find most rewarding about running your own practice today?

SD: My initial days with my own practice were exciting and challenging at the same time. As a fresher in the industry, it was difficult for us to approach new projects and explore new design styles. I often struggled to build a client base and establish credibility in design. Managing vendors and coordinating with site engineers added to the complexity, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills. Despite the hurdles, the most rewarding aspect was watching the designs come to life. Seeing a vision evolve from sketches to tangible structures brought immense satisfaction, turning the trials into triumphs.

KK: You’ve worked with several high-profile clients, including cricketers like Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir. What is your approach when designing celebrity homes? How do you balance client expectations with your creative vision?

SD: Designing homes for high-profile clients like Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir has been an exciting challenge, as each project comes with unique expectations and personal tastes. My approach to celebrity homes is to start by understanding their lifestyle, preferences, and aspirations. It’s about creating a space that feels personal and reflective of who they are. Balancing their vision with my creative input requires open communication and a collaborative process. While I ensure that the design meets their desires, I also make sure it has my signature touch of functionality, elegance, and timeless appeal. Ultimately, the goal is to create a home that feels like a sanctuary, tailored to their needs, while also pushing the boundaries of design creativity.

KK: Your work is known for its eclectic facade style. What is it about facades that fascinate you, and how do you approach designing them to make a statement?

SD: Facades have always fascinated me because they are the first impression a building makes—they communicate its identity even before you step inside. I approach facade design intending to create a dialogue between the building and its surroundings. It’s about finding a balance between making a bold statement and harmoniously integrating with the context. I love playing with textures, materials, and patterns to create something eclectic and visually engaging while ensuring it complements the overall design narrative. Each facade tells a unique story and sets the tone for what’s to come inside!

KK: You believe in balancing functionality and form. Can you walk us through your design process and how you achieve this balance?

SD: Balancing functionality and form is central to my design philosophy. My process begins with understanding the
client’s needs and how they intend to use the space—this dictates the functional core of the design. Once the functionality is clear, I focus on how form can enhance the experience without compromising the aspect of usability.
For me, it’s not about choosing between aesthetics and utility but about finding a synergy between the two. I sketch, experiment with layouts, and consider how light, materials, and flow of space can create a seamless blend together. This holistic approach ensures that every element of the design is purposeful, yet visually captivating.

KK: Can you share details about a recent project that holds a special place in your heart? We’d love to hear about everything—from the initial discussions and vision to the challenges you faced along the way, and how you ultimately brought it to life.

SD: A recent project that holds a special place in my heart is “The Luminara” due to its exceptional design process and the amount of brainstorming involved. The design was a fusion of modern architectural innovation with a touch of warmth and livability. Characterised by sleek, flowing lines and a bold, geometric structure, the structure was a result of to-and-fro discussions. While designing we faced various challenges like coordinating with structural engineers for a unique design and procuring the right materials while aligning with the ethos of sustainability. The result was an asymmetrical, curvilinear form of the structure clad in aluminium, evoking a dynamic essence, with large glass windows allowing natural light to flood the interiors.

KK: You’ve mentioned that a building should speak for itself through its concept. How do you ensure that your projects communicate this self-expressive quality, and what are the key elements you focus on during design?

SD: A building should certainly speak for itself through its concept, and I ensure that each project communicates its
identity effectively. I achieve this by focusing on the core idea behind the design—whether it’s the relationship with nature, cultural influences, or the narrative of the client’s story. By carefully selecting materials, playing with proportions, and using light I try to bring this concept to life. The key elements that stay in focus for me are coherence and authenticity—where every design decision, from the structure to the smallest detail, must align with the overall concept. This approach ensures that the desired space building is meaningful, allowing it to express its own unique voice.

KK: As an advisory board member for design platforms and a speaker at various events, what changes or advancements do you believe the design industry should embrace to stay relevant and innovative in the future?

SD: As an advisory board member and speaker, I believe the design industry needs to embrace three key advancements to stay relevant and innovative: sustainability, technology integration, and cultural sensitivity. With climate change becoming a pressing issue, sustainability must be at the heart of every design decision. Architects should also leverage advancements in technology—whether through smart building systems, AI, or new construction materials—to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Finally, as we work in an increasingly globalized world, cultural sensitivity and inclusivity should play a larger role in design, ensuring that our work respects and reflects diverse communities and traditions. By integrating these elements, the industry can evolve while staying true to its core values.

INSTANT INSIGHTS
One word that describes your design style?
-Functional Minimalist

A project you wish you could have designed?
-Lord’s Cricket Stadium / Melbourne Cricket Ground

Your favorite architectural landmark in the world?
-Lyon Satolas Airport Railway Station-Santiago Calatrava

Favorite building material?
Alternate Engineered Materials-Sublimated Metal, Porcelain

Sketch or computer: which do you prefer for initial designs?
-Sketching

Dream project location?
-Dubai

If not an architect, what would you be?
-Cricketer / Pilot

Most used item in your workspace?
-Sketching Tools

Biggest architectural pet peeve?
-Soon the whole world will be a concrete jungle

A design trend you think should go away?
-Fusion

Coffee or tea to fuel your creative process?
-None, my music playlist is the fuel to my creative process.

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Portraits: Arya Arora