Postcard Spotlight is an interview series showcasing young leaders and creative minds who are making their mark with their unique talent and drive.
In the spotlight this week we have Suchi Vora, an architect, interior designer and the force behind SVAC- a young design studio with a unique aesthetic. Suchi shares with us her perspective on blending creativity and pragmatism through her design practice to build spaces responsibility. Read on to know her story.
Tell us about your journey – what inspired you to become an architect?
Interestingly, I’ve always known I wanted to be an architect. I grew up thinking I wanted to work in a profession with a positive impact. Having a creative push growing up, I also needed a strong practical aspect. At that time, I thought architecture was the most interesting and sensible combination.
How would you describe your venture, SVAC?
We are a young design workshop. We are young, we are experimental, we are a design practice that operates at the intersection of architecture, landscape, urbanism and art. We think of design as a research vehicle to pose and respond to complex, urgent questions in the built environment, engaging in the wider context and also the climate of a project– social, ecological, or political. What you build needs to be relevant for a long time, and I cannot escape responsibility for what I design.
What do you love the most about your job?
I love that each project is completely different. Every client is unique and with personalities and ideas that define a project in the most unique way. Design is all about people. I love that I can see the world with a new set of eyes with each client and to be able to tell their story with my perspective of design.
What is the biggest challenge of running your own architectural firm and how do you try to overcome it?
I was quite worried about being able to have the right design culture for my firm, but I think I have been able to build a space for our workshop where the culture we are looking for automatically thrives.
What’s your dream project? (It could be one you’ve already worked on, or something that you would love to get the opportunity to design)
Hopefully, a new solution in materiality or planning that can be applicable to more than just one project; something that has a positive. climatic impact.
Which city, would you say, has the best architecture in the world?
I am certain that there are several. Picking one would be unfair since this is like picking out a city for the best food in the world. Having said that, Barcelona is close to my heart.
In the last few years, what are some of the most exciting trends or changes that you’ve experienced in your industry?
I think, live architecture. Live facade essentially is one of the coolest trends that is here to stay.
How do you like to spend your free time?
I try to spend a lot of time learning new adventure sports every chance we get to be out of town. I’m learning paragliding at the moment, and let’s not forget sleeping. I love sleeping.
What’s the first thing you want to do once this pandemic is over?
Throw a party. I think I will host a gig at our studio, I’ve been wanting to do it for a while.
Where can people get in touch with you?
Check us out on Instagram or Facebook, or just drop by our office for chai. We are always looking for interesting conversations on our katta. [email protected]