Before taking up designing, we do a recce of the area in terms of the architecture, construction styles and technologies, construction details, permutations and combinations of various materials used. We look at our observations in the physical, social and political context of the place before drawing conclusions and inspirations for our design.

While working with natural materials that are inspired by vernacular architecture, it often becomes necessary to unlearn certain high-design principles that are taught in architecture schools. As we believe, the true teachers are the villagers. And only after learning from the right source, can we adapt the technologies to cater to our specific function.

Architecture, just like the flora and fauna of a place has to spring from the place itself. It has to belong to that particular habitat and be one with nature and people of the area. While making all decisions, big or small - right from the planning and zoning, material selection to small details in finishing, the main factor to consider is always the context and the relationship of our intervention with that context.

We believe in use of natural materials and avoiding use of artificial and toxic chemicals. Building with natural materials and using passive cooling, we ensure that the building itself breathes and is, like the user, healthy and respectful of the environment

While using natural materials, one has to bear in mind the environmental and social impact of using that material. A 'cradle to cradle ' approach is adapted to do this analysis; focusing on the embodied energy of a material.

Embodied energy entails the energy that is spent in production, manufacturing, processing, transport, installation, demolition and decomposition of a material. Non- quantifiable aspects such as impact of the manufacture, processing, use and/or decomposition of a material on the socio-politico-economic structure of the region, its recyclability are also considered.

Architectural materials must be as natural as possible, involving least processing. So, processing that is done locally, by the villagers is always encouraged, being mindful of promoting local economy. Also, the construction technology is inspired from the vernacular architecture, making it not only eco-friendly but also culture-sensitive.

We do not have any fixed team of contractors / masons / carpenters. Before starting a project, an effort is made to understand the local skills and technologies. The design is completed bearing in mind that the project has to be completed by the locals only. Thus, the local economy is boosted and this gives the villagers a sense of belonging towards the architecture.

While solving any design problem, merely a technological solution is not the complete solution. Technology is but an aid and a means to express one's approach and philosophy. By treating technology itself as the approach and therefore the solution, many times the root of the problem remains unsolved. Thus, problem solving in designing is a question of philosophy, not technology.

While designing, an architect encounters numerous choices; right from planning, material selection to various stages of execution of the project.

For instance, what may be a difficult span for timber may well be the standard span for an RCC member. However, by limiting ourselves and committing to the natural material wood, we make sure to control our structural grids accordingly. The approach of an architect must consider these limits that are intrinsic to not just the properties of materials, but also the locality, site, function and various other aspects of the project.

We believe that an architect's work only begins with the completion and handover of the concept, design and the technical drawings. We do not employ a site contractor but work directly with the local masons and carpenters. This does not only economize the building cost, but also makes sure that the project is completed in the right technique and the right spirit; with the architect playing a key role.