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India’s architectural landscape is a blend of old charm and modern innovation. From ancient temples to sleek skyscrapers, every corner tells a story — and behind these stories stand brilliant minds who’ve shaped the nation’s skyline.
The architects featured in this list are not just designers — they are visionaries who’ve changed how we think about space, culture, and sustainability. Here’s a look at the Top 10 Famous Indian Architects who’ve redefined modern design and continue to inspire future generations.
1. B.V. Doshi – The Father of Modern Indian Architecture
Balkrishna Vithaldas Doshi, or B.V. Doshi, is one of the greatest architects India has ever produced. Known for his human-centered approach, Doshi designed spaces that felt alive — blending modern design with India’s traditional essence. In 2018, he became the first Indian to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize, often called the “Nobel Prize of Architecture.”
Notable Works:
- Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Bangalore
- Aranya Low-Cost Housing, Indore
- CEPT University, Ahmedabad
Design Philosophy:
Doshi believed architecture should serve people, not just aesthetics. His designs were rooted in sustainability, community, and cultural identity — emphasizing natural light, ventilation, and affordability.
2. Charles Correa – The Visionary of Post-Independence Design
Charles Correa was a pioneer who gave India its modern architectural language after independence. He designed spaces that connected people, environment, and tradition. His buildings captured the Indian spirit while embracing modern design principles.
Notable Works:
- Jawahar Kala Kendra, Jaipur
- Gandhi Ashram, Ahmedabad
- Kanchenjunga Apartments, Mumbai
Design Philosophy:
Correa believed that architecture should reflect a nation’s culture. His designs focused on open spaces, light, and ventilation — creating harmony between urban living and Indian lifestyles.
3. Hafeez Contractor – The Man Who Shaped Urban India
When you look at India’s skyline today, there’s a good chance Hafeez Contractor had a role in shaping it. Known for his bold and practical designs, he has transformed the look of modern Indian cities. With hundreds of residential and commercial projects under his name, Contractor’s work symbolizes India’s urban growth.
Notable Works:
- Imperial Towers, Mumbai
- DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
- Infosys Campus, Pune
Design Philosophy:
Hafeez Contractor focuses on functionality, scale, and aesthetics. He believes architecture should respond to the needs of people while keeping pace with economic and technological growth.
4. Raj Rewal – The Master of Structural Harmony
Raj Rewal is celebrated for his ability to merge art, culture, and structure. His designs are known for their balance — between tradition and innovation, light and shadow, material and space.
Notable Works:
- Hall of Nations, New Delhi
- Parliament Library Building, New Delhi
- Asian Games Village, New Delhi
Design Philosophy:
Rewal’s architecture draws heavily from India’s history, using courtyards, terraces, and natural light to create meaningful human experiences. His structures always feel connected to both culture and climate.
5. Brinda Somaya – The Voice of Sustainable and Social Design
Brinda Somaya stands as one of India’s most respected women architects. For over four decades, she has blended conservation, social design, and architecture into her work. Her projects often revive heritage structures while embracing modern needs.
Notable Works:
- St. Thomas’ Cathedral Restoration, Mumbai
- Nalanda University Campus, Bihar
- Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Banyan Park, Mumbai
Design Philosophy:
Somaya believes architecture is an act of service. Her focus lies in building for communities — creating spaces that are inclusive, eco-friendly, and sensitive to local culture.
6. Sanjay Puri – The Innovator of Contemporary Indian Architecture
Sanjay Puri is a name synonymous with creative, futuristic design. His firm, Sanjay Puri Architects, has gained global recognition for innovative and sustainable projects that break away from conventional forms.
Notable Works:
- Bombay Arts Society, Mumbai
- The Street Hotel, Mathura
- Courtyard House, Rajasthan
Design Philosophy:
Puri’s architecture focuses on sustainability through design innovation. He plays with geometry, materials, and natural light to create buildings that are functional yet artistic.
7. Manit Rastogi – The Sustainability Trailblazer
Manit Rastogi, co-founder of Morphogenesis, is one of India’s leading green architects. His work merges modern technology with ecological sensitivity. Under his leadership, Morphogenesis became the first Indian firm to be featured in the World Architecture Top 100 list.
Notable Works:
- Pearl Academy, Jaipur
- Infosys Campus, Nagpur
- ITC Green Centre, Gurgaon
Design Philosophy:
Rastogi believes architecture should work with nature, not against it. His focus is on designing climate-responsive buildings that reduce energy use while enhancing comfort and aesthetics.
8. Anupama Kundoo – The Architect of Resourceful Design
Anupama Kundoo is known for her hands-on approach and her use of local materials. Her architecture emphasizes experimentation, affordability, and community involvement. She blends science, craft, and art to create spaces that are both functional and beautiful.
Notable Works:
- Wall House, Auroville
- Creativity Complex, Auroville
- Mitra Youth Hostel, Auroville
Design Philosophy:
Kundoo believes that sustainable architecture starts with local wisdom. Her designs minimize waste and energy while maximizing human comfort and material efficiency.
9. Sheila Sri Prakash – The Cultural Design Visionary
Sheila Sri Prakash is one of India’s first female architects to run her own practice, Shilpa Architects, founded in Chennai. Her work integrates art, culture, and sustainability, making her a key voice in urban design and planning.
Notable Works:
- Mahindra World City, Chennai
- Golden Jubilee Museum for Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam
- Shilpa Residential Complexes, Chennai
Design Philosophy:
Sheila Sri Prakash believes architecture should enrich the human experience. She designs spaces that respect the environment and reflect India’s artistic traditions while being practical for modern living.
10. Laurie Baker – The Gandhi of Architecture
Though British-born, Laurie Baker made India his home and transformed the way people think about low-cost, sustainable housing. Nicknamed the “Gandhi of Architecture,” his philosophy of simplicity and sustainability continues to guide architects even today.
Notable Works:
- Centre for Development Studies, Thiruvananthapuram
- Indian Coffee House, Kerala
- Laurie Baker Centre for Habitat Studies
Design Philosophy:
Baker believed in “doing more with less.” He used local materials, natural ventilation, and cost-effective designs to create environmentally responsible and affordable buildings for common people.
Comparison Table: Top 10 Architects in India (2025 Edition)
| Architect | Notable Projects | Specialization |
|---|---|---|
| B.V. Doshi | IIM Bangalore, Aranya Housing | Sustainable Human-Centric Design |
| Charles Correa | Jawahar Kala Kendra, Gandhi Ashram | Modernism with Indian Roots |
| Hafeez Contractor | Imperial Towers, DY Patil Stadium | Urban Architecture |
| Raj Rewal | Hall of Nations, Parliament Library | Structural Harmony |
| Brinda Somaya | Nalanda University, St. Thomas’ Cathedral | Heritage & Social Design |
| Sanjay Puri | The Street Hotel, Bombay Arts Society | Contemporary Innovation |
| Manit Rastogi | Pearl Academy, ITC Green Centre | Green Architecture |
| Anupama Kundoo | Wall House, Auroville Projects | Resourceful Sustainable Design |
| Sheila Sri Prakash | Mahindra World City, Cultural Spaces | Cultural & Urban Design |
| Laurie Baker | Indian Coffee House, CDS Kerala | Low-Cost, Eco-Friendly Design |
FAQ – (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Who is the most famous architect in India?
B.V. Doshi is widely recognized as India’s most influential architect for his contributions to sustainable and community-focused design.
2. Who is known as the “Gandhi of Architecture”?
Laurie Baker earned the title for his work in affordable, sustainable, and people-oriented architecture.
3. Which architect designed the Imperial Towers in Mumbai?
The Imperial Towers were designed by Hafeez Contractor, one of India’s best-known urban architects.
4. Who are some of India’s top female architects?
Brinda Somaya, Sheila Sri Prakash, and Anupama Kundoo are among the most celebrated women architects in the country.
5. What are the major trends in Indian architecture today?
Modern Indian architecture focuses on sustainability, cultural preservation, and smart urban design using eco-friendly materials and technology.
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Conclusion:
The architects on this list are much more than designers — they are visionaries who’ve helped shape how India builds, lives, and dreams. From B.V. Doshi’s human-centric approach to Laurie Baker’s sustainable simplicity, each has left a lasting mark on India’s architectural identity.
As India continues to grow and innovate, these architects remind us that true design isn’t about luxury — it’s about purpose, people, and harmony with nature.
