PK Das, popularly known as the Architect-Activist, founded PKDA Architects (formerly known as PK Das & Associates) in 1980, nurturing it as a forerunner in the world of architectural and social design. Under his leadership as the Principal Architect, along with Samarth Das, the Design Lead, the studio has a diverse portfolio spanning architecture, interiors, urban designs, planning, and environment-related projects.

An ace student, PK Das excelled in art and technology at his school, which led his mother to suggest he pursue studies in architecture, a field that perfectly combined his interests. This, in turn, inspired him to pursue Bachelor’s of Architecture from the Sir JJ School of Architecture. On the other hand, Samarth Das's inspiration stemmed from an early exposure to building design influenced by his father’s professional work. Witnessing the deficiencies in the city’s built environment and wanting to improve the quality of life, he saw architecture as a powerful tool to reshape cities and create a better future. After completing his Bachelor's in Architecture, he pursued a Master's in Urban Design and Architecture from Columbia University.

While designing spaces PK Das is driven by a multitude of influences driven by social, environmental, and shared space considerations. There are constant efforts to sensitise clients and their designs to the local context where they are situated. Globalisation has led to a proliferation of standardised designs, but their design approach is towards more sustainable and responsible practices, rooted in local context and materials.

Most of PKDA’s projects are socio-environmental initiatives often reflecting larger public interests. Their work is targeted towards expanding public spaces, restoration, and re-invigoration of the natural ecology, and integrating buildings with nature. Some of their iconic projects that reflect their vision include waterfront promenades of Bandra Bandstand, Carter Road, the Land’s End Amphitheatre in Bandra, Juhu Beach, and Gateway of India precinct amongst others. These endeavors blur the boundaries between mainstream architecture and socio-environmental activism.

Samarth Das is skeptical about the evolution of AI (Artificial Intelligence) in architecture, acknowledging its potential to disrupt traditional practices. While AI can generate designs with depth and detail, it cannot replace the intuitive and iterative thought processes that a designer can bring to his craft. Despite its growing influence, he believes that AI cannot replace the tactile and intuitive aspects of architectural design.

PK Das emphasizes the need for architects to develop innovative and responsive solutions to the climate crisis – rising temperatures, unpredictable weather, and rising sea levels that are critically affecting the health and well-being of people. Architects now, and in the future, should evolve new ways through architectural engagements and endeavours to mitigate these challenges and contribute to planetary well-being.