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Empowering Design: KDA Architects’ Impact on Society

Ar. Deepali Meni and Ar. Kunal Meni, co-founders of KDA Architects based in Ahmedabad, have carved a distinguished niche in the realm of architecture and interior design. Their journey, rooted in a passion for creating innovative and sustainable spaces, exemplifies resilience, creativity, and a profound understanding of client needs.

Deepali Meni, the visionary force behind KDA Architects, draws from nearly three decades of experience honed through her tenure at prestigious firms like HCP-DPM and RSP Bangalore. Influenced by luminaries such as Dr. Bimal Patel, Ar. Hasmukh C Patel, and Ar. Gurjit Singh Matharoo, Deepali’s approach blends practical expertise with a deep-seated commitment to timeless design. Her career trajectory reflects a dedication to “Creating Evergreen Masterpieces” that harmoniously integrate individual client personas into every project.

Established in 1998, KDA Architects operates as a partnership firm specializing in residential, corporate, and healthcare architecture. The firm’s ethos revolves around optimizing space and resources while prioritizing user experience and sustainability. Their unique proposition lies in providing comprehensive, client-centered consultancy, ensuring each design reflects a deep understanding of both functional needs and aesthetic aspirations.

As entrepreneurs, Deepali and Kunal navigated challenges, including gender dynamics in a predominantly male-dominated industry. However, they leveraged creativity and resilience as advantages, pushing boundaries to redefine architectural norms. Their journey underscores the importance of continuous learning, setting benchmarks, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.

At the heart of KDA Architects’ philosophy is a commitment to sustainable practices and human-centric design. Their projects aim to foster environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible, contributing to a more harmonious world. This vision is exemplified in ongoing projects like eco-friendly farmhouses designed to promote organic living and energy efficiency.

Deepali emphasizes the significance of understanding client psychology and requirements, viewing these insights as pivotal to successful design outcomes. For aspiring architects and designers, she advocates for building trust-based relationships and fostering collaborative efforts, emphasizing that great design is a collective endeavor.

KDA Architects’ contributions have been recognized with accolades such as the Wade Asia Award and Global Business Reconnect, underscoring their industry acclaim and commitment to excellence. Their journey continues to inspire and influence the architectural landscape, setting benchmarks for sustainable and client-centric design practices.

Ar. Deepali Meni and Ar. Kunal Meni epitomizes the transformative power of architecture to shape environments that are both functional and enriching. Their journey from humble beginnings to industry leaders underscores the value of passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in design. As they continue to innovate and inspire, KDA Architects remains a beacon of creativity and sustainability in the field of architecture.

Something old; something new; something borrowed; something blue

A dialogue on art, design and heritage-

The theme of this royal home sparks a dialogue on art design and heritage. It serves for Contemporary living that holds the chronicle of the past while ageing into heirlooms for the future

Reinterpretation of Heritage-

Think palatial scale – Royal furniture, brass accents, pristine marble flooring and curated enchanting art, everything your mind wanders to when you think of luxury is contained in this 5500sqft luxury apartment at Delhi.  

Silhouettes of colonial furniture reinvented for the modern times; the spaces celebrate the Artisans behind the craft.

We have got to mix it up for the next generation so that our traditions are not lost, but at the same time they can enjoy the best of both the worlds- the grandeur of the past and the luxury of the present.

This dichotomy of time is visible in this project- A smorgasbord of colors, textures, art and conversations. It is rich and whole with the coexistence of the new and the old.

We have been mindful of incorporating some regional craft (mud work, thikri & pichwai) uplifting the communities of artisans whose tacit knowledge imbues art with handcrafted finesse.

Entrance – The entrance draws inspiration from Mughal architecture, adorned with exquisite miniature art, creating a palatial first impression that’s bound to take your breath away.

Intricately carved arches inspired by Mughal architectureLuxurious textiles in rich, vintage jewel tones that modernize traditional Mughal patterns and botanical motifsA sophisticated fusion of Indian royal grandeur and contemporary style, creating a timeless and captivating ambiance

Art story- Royal Indian mughal fusion grandeur of intricately carved arches and adorned with luxurious textile art in rich vintage jewel tones.

A modern interpretation of the classic mughal patterns and botanicals

Living area – The expansive living area has been cleverly partitioned into three distinct spaces—the formal zone, dining zone, and family zone—each with its unique charm, boasting both European sophistication and Indian grandeur.

Drawing & dining areas– In the drawing and dining areas, sophistication meets grandeur in a stunning fusion of European and Indian aesthetics. The space basks in natural light, showcasing a seamless blend of cultural influences, artistic creativity, and rich historical narratives, creating a symphony of beauty that’s sure to delight the senses.

Kitchen- In the centrally located kitchen, function meets style in a carefully planned layout that’s both accessible and private. It harmoniously balances the needs of the family corner, while still maintaining the elegance and charm of the formal areas.

Family corner- This section is cleverly marked off by a linear bar and crockery unit, transforming the space into a comfortable and intimate gathering place. The refurbished L-shaped sofa, with its welcoming arms, invites lively conversation, while a separate nook with a couple’s sofa adds a touch of coziness.

Bedrooms – While the homes character is shaped by curious finds and eclectic furniture, its soul finds expression in the alluring art.

Shared by four adults the home reflects cohesion. But if you see the bedrooms they are radically different resonating deeply with the inherent character personality of the owner.