P G Patki Architects, established five decades ago, is a prominent architecture and interior design firm with a diverse portfolio that includes luxury hotels, hospitals, retail, malls, corporate, residential, and mixed-use developments. Currently headed by Principals Shekhar P Patki and Viraj Patki, the firm continues to uphold its commitment to innovative and sustainable designs.

For Shekhar Patki, architecture is more than just a career, it is the legacy of his father, Late P G Patki, founder of P G Patki Architects, whose contributions influenced a generation of architects. This inspiration, combined with an inherent passion for design, led Shekhar to his career path.

Growing up in Mumbai during urban transformation, Viraj was drawn to large spaces and saw architecture as a blend of art, design, and engineering, shaping the evolving skyline. The opportunity to merge her passion for design with engineering and make a tangible impact on developing the urban landscape drew her further to pursue architecture as a career.

Shekhar believes that the creative process is intrinsic to good design in architecture. Each project poses unique challenges in terms of functionality that demand innovative solutions. Design must seamlessly integrate functionality with creativity and continuously evolve to adapt to ever-changing technological advancements. For Viraj, understanding the needs and behaviors of the users is fundamental to a functional design. Designs need to be adaptable to different contexts and future changes, to extend their relevance and usability over time. She emphasizes the crucial role of technology in making more efficient, adaptable, and user-friendly environments.

Every project embodies a unique design philosophy. For Shekhar, notable projects such as the ‘Osho Meditation Hall’, ‘The Amar Vilas Oberoi’, and ‘The Altimas’ represent his vision of blending aesthetics with functionality. Viraj values the collaborative nature of architecture, where every creative mind brings a fresh perspective and a different point of view to a project. Currently, she is working on an immersive experience which is close to her heart, that focuses on how people feel within a built space rather than the structure itself.

Technological advancements like AI (Artificial Intelligence) are becoming an integral part of architecture. Shekhar sees AI as a tool that will provide new directions for design evolution, enabling architects to explore and implement previously unimaginable concepts. Viraj believes that while AI offers numerous advantages, it is essential to recognize the crucial role of architects. AI is a tool that augments human creativity and decision-making rather than replacing the nuanced judgment and contextual understanding of the architects. She argues that AI will revolutionize architecture by introducing advanced tools and methodologies that enhance design quality, efficiency, and sustainability.

Architecture has always played a crucial role in defining cultures throughout history. Shekhar hopes the future generations will approach it with passion and dedication and honour its legacy while embracing innovation. Viraj envisions a future where architecture is shaped by technological advancements, sustainability imperatives, and ever-evolving human and social needs. She advises young architects to be adaptive, flexible, globally aware, and culturally sensitive. Collaboration, innovation and passion for design are the prerequisite to achieve excellence.