Buildings 2.0
In this episode of Buildings 2.0, Jose speaks with Harshad Pillai, Director of Fogarty Finger. Harshad explores his journey from Mumbai to becoming a leader in urban architecture. He shares insights on defining successful architectural projects, emphasizing client satisfaction and alignment with design intent.
Harshad discusses the role of AI in the future of architecture and the importance of integrating sustainable practices into urban development. He also touches on the impact mentors have had on his career and why experienced architects should support newer professionals in the field.
Topics discussed:
- Metrics for successful architectural projects, including client satisfaction and ensuring the built project aligns with the original design intent.
- The impact of mentors on Harshad's career and the importance of supporting young professionals in the architecture field.
- Integrating sustainable practices into urban development and moving beyond buzzwords to practical solutions.
- How artificial intelligence is shaping the future of architectural design and the profession's adaptation to new technologies.
- Balancing classicism, modernism, and formalism with a focus on performance and sustainability in architectural projects.
- The benefits of cross-pollinating staff and leadership between housing and commercial markets in architectural practice.
- Tips for young architects on navigating their career, focusing on continuous learning and prioritizing meaningful work.
- Managing diverse aspects of architectural projects, from zoning laws and air rights to detailed construction elements like brick forcing and curtain walls.
- Insights on what will remain constant in architecture despite macroeconomic challenges and rapid technological advancements.
Guest Quotes:
#1.)
“I grew up with a lot of art and music in the house. And my dad frequently spoke about architecture as a profession. And so that intrigued me because really, there was no back. There was no architects in the family. And so as a student, as a high school student, I started, you know, reading up on as much of as much architecture as I could find, you know, get my hands on and magazines.” (0:54-1:21)
#2.)
“We're very familiar because, as a practice, we straddle both the housing and the commercial markets, and we design for both and we cross pollinate our staffs and our leadership.” (13:49-14:04)
#3.)
“I think it has to move past being a buzzword into just, like, a daily reality. Like, I mean, the good thing about New York City is that, like, there's we're not at, we're not leading the way in terms of sustainability. We aren't. But what's happening right now is that we are recognizing that and we're playing catch up aggressively.” (23:04-23:32)
#4.)
“Yeah, I mean, this is going to sound really trite, but like human relationships, like, we're going to still going to have clients, I'm still going to meet people. They're still going to have their anxieties about their performers. They might have better tools to process their math and their feasibilities and will have better tools to process and analyze and then design better buildings.” (35:07-35:36)
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