DesignAsia
In a world constantly seeking beauty, functionality, and meaning in its spaces, architecture stands as the silent storyteller of human aspirations. At the crossroads of art, science, and human psychology lies the story of Mr. Arun Pemmasani, a visionary architect whose journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and purpose. As the founder of COMBINATIONS, a Hyderabad-based architecture firm, Arun has built more than just buildings—he has built trust, impact, and inspiration.
A Dream in the Making
“I am a highly ambitious person with big dreams for my future,” Arun begins, reflecting on the origins of his journey. From a young age, he was drawn to architecture—a field that seamlessly blends creativity with technical rigor. For Arun, architecture was not just a profession; it was a calling. “I chose architecture because it allows me to combine my passion for design and my desire to make a difference in the world.”
This desire was deeply rooted in the way he viewed architecture—not just as structures of concrete and steel, but as expressions of people’s lives and dreams. “An architect’s work is not just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about understanding the needs and aspirations of the clients. I feel truly satisfied when I see the smiles and satisfaction on their faces,” he shares.
The Birth of COMBINATIONS
In 2002, Arun turned his passion into purpose by founding COMBINATIONS, a boutique architectural and interior design firm headquartered on Miyapur Main Road, Hyderabad. With a vision to redefine urban living spaces, the firm was built on the pillars of creativity, problem-solving, continuous learning, and social impact.
“The name ‘COMBINATIONS’ reflects our approach—merging function with aesthetics, tradition with modernity, and client vision with architectural integrity,” he explains. From the very beginning, Arun wanted to create a company that not only designed buildings but also contributed to the betterment of society.
Overcoming Challenges
Starting a business is never easy, and Arun’s entrepreneurial path was no exception. “Like many self-made entrepreneurs, I faced challenges in business planning, product development, marketing, accounting, and risk management,” he recalls. With limited resources and no financial backing, each decision carried immense weight.
“There were times when managing talent, keeping the business afloat, and meeting client expectations all felt like walking a tightrope.” But Arun believes that every challenge is a disguised opportunity. “I learned to analyze every situation thoroughly, calculate risks, and most importantly, never ignore any opportunity that comes my way. Each project taught me something new—lessons that no classroom could offer.”
A Philosophy Rooted in Listening
What truly sets Arun apart as an architect is not just his technical proficiency but his deep-rooted belief in listening. “Listening to the client’s requirements carefully, thinking like a client, and delivering exactly what the client wants has been my key strength,” he emphasizes. This philosophy has become a cornerstone of COMBINATIONS’ success.
Each design begins with empathy. Arun and his team invest time to understand the client’s personality, needs, and lifestyle, ensuring that each project is as unique as the individual it is built for. “It’s never just a project for us—it’s someone’s dream, and we treat it with the respect it deserves.”
Signature Style: Modern, Yet Human
COMBINATIONS has built a strong reputation for specializing in modern and contemporary architecture. However, what distinguishes its work is not just the sleek designs or elegant facades, but the thoughtful use of space management.
“Space is a luxury, especially in urban India. Our designs focus on maximizing utility without compromising on aesthetics,” Arun explains. This pragmatic approach has not only garnered the firm loyal clients but also made it a profitable venture over the years.
The Heart Behind Every Project
When asked about a project closest to his heart, Arun finds it difficult to pick just one. “We give our 100 percent to all projects. Every project is like a baby—you nurture it from concept to completion. All of them are close to our hearts.”
This level of personal involvement, paired with a meticulous design process, has helped COMBINATIONS maintain high standards and a strong client base built largely on referrals.
Vision for the Future
COMBINATIONS is currently in a strong and profitable position, and the future looks even brighter. Arun has set his sights on expanding the firm’s operations across South India, with plans to open new branches and diversify into different architectural verticals.
“As urbanization accelerates, there is a growing need for personalized, sustainable, and innovative architectural solutions. We want to be at the forefront of this transformation,” he says.
Sustainability and Traditional Wisdom
Speaking about the current trends in architecture, Arun expresses concern over the neglect of environmental factors in urban planning. “The built form of Indian cities often ignores the environmental impact. We are heading towards a crisis unless we rethink our design philosophy.”
His solution? A return to roots. “We must understand the fundamentals of human settlement and adopt the ancient Indian planning systems like Vedic Shastra. This can help build a harmonious relationship between architecture, nature, and people.” By combining modern technologies with traditional wisdom, Arun believes we can create spaces that are not only sustainable but also spiritually and physically nurturing.
Essentials of Entrepreneurship
Looking back at his journey, Arun believes that the three essentials for starting a business are talent, an office, and manpower. But more than resources, it is mindset that makes or breaks an entrepreneur.
“You have to be ready to wear many hats, stay committed, and most importantly, never stop learning. You also need to be disciplined and focused. At the end of the day, it’s your work that speaks—not your name or title.”
Lessons Learned
Through over two decades of entrepreneurial experience, Arun has gathered a wealth of insights. His biggest takeaway? “Don’t discriminate against any opportunity. Analyze it well, take calculated risks, and always learn from your past. Every mistake is a teacher.”
He also underscores the importance of staying grounded. “Never let success get to your head. The moment you stop listening, you stop growing.”
A Message to Future Architects
To budding architects and designers, Arun offers heartfelt advice: “Be disciplined. Let your work speak for you. Architecture is not about following trends but about creating timeless spaces. You are unique—embrace that uniqueness, and use it to shape a better world.”
Building More Than Structures
Today, COMBINATIONS stands as a symbol of what vision, grit, and values can achieve. Arun Pemmasani’s journey from an ambitious dreamer to a successful entrepreneur is more than a story of professional growth—it’s a blueprint for purposeful living.
In a field often driven by commercial pressures, Arun has shown that architecture can still be a noble profession—one that touches lives, transforms cities, and leaves a legacy not just in stone, but in spirit.
As Hyderabad grows, so too does the quiet influence of COMBINATIONS—one thoughtfully designed space at a time.
