Raju Chacko Philip and Ashok Prabhu founded DWP Interics Pvt. Ltd. in 1984 in Dubai. Over the past 40 years, the firm has grown in terms of professional expertise and business volumes to become one of the premier interior design firms in India. Today the firm has over 150 employees in 5 offices across India, works with 700 corporate brands, and has 10 international collaborations.

Philip’s journey into architecture and design was shaped by his family influence, his brother being an architect, and his father having worked in drafting and design for the armed forces. After finishing his studies in Pune, he moved to Dubai in 1979, where he worked for a British firm and transitioned from architecture to corporate interiors. Philip and Ashok co-founded DWP in Dubai almost four decades ago, thereafter expanding their presence across major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Pune, and Chennai. Their shared vision has propelled their firm into one of the leading names in architecture and interior design.

Growing up in Bangalore, Asha was deeply influenced by the city’s colonial architecture and the natural beauty of Coorg. Her inclination towards music, art, and her college experience fueled her passion and channeled her energies into studying architecture.

Starting with small interior design projects, the firm has grown exponentially, doing large projects, handling million square-foot projects with efficiency and innovation, including office campuses for banks and IT companies. The partners recognize how their journey has been shaped by working with diverse clients, many of whom have inspired their personal and professional growth.

For the trio, understanding clients’ needs and requirements forms the foundation of any project. They ensure there is a balance between creativity, technology, and the requirements of our clients. They uphold the principle of ‘form follows function’, ensuring that no space is wasted while maintaining a balance between aesthetics and technicality. Longevity in design is important, with the use of sustainable materials, especially in a fast-evolving technological landscape.

AI is an exciting tool that has percolated into all fields of design. It is a resourceful tool that enhances technical knowledge, making the design process more efficient. The implementation of AI in their processes has significantly improved precision by detecting and correcting mistakes. AI enhances the imagination of designers to produce their designs and works in a much better format. However, they remain a strong advocate for the human brain’s unique ability to conceptualize and deliver original designs, believing AI should complement rather than replace human creativity.

Looking ahead, the future of architecture is poised to be more climate-friendly, sustainable, and technology-driven. As technology evolves, architects must integrate it into their designs while staying true to their artistic vision. Their collective advice to young architects is to embrace sustainability, stay adaptable, and walk the talk in creating impactful designs.