Kushal Samant Architects
Kushal Samant Architects is an evolving practice built on curiosity, resilience, and disciplined action. It brings together architecture, research, writing, teaching, fabrication, and technology into one continuous body of work.
This is not a studio defined by a single label. It is a long-term commitment to thinking clearly, building carefully, and learning publicly. Projects range from built spaces to open-source tools, from cultural venues to research platforms, all guided by one principle: make ideas tangible.
The practice stands for momentum. Even in uncertainty, it works. Even in doubt, it builds. It treats architecture not as a career, but as a method for understanding the world and shaping it with intention.
This is ongoing work. It moves forward every day.
47 diagrams
Reveals internal circulation and structural framing through a longitudinal section
- Primary volume defined by a continuous roof plane with intersecting pitches
- Secondary volume accessed via a stepped entry sequence along the eastern facade
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Interior voids demarcated by vertical partitions and stair risers
- Emphasis on vertical articulation through contrasting materiality
- Spatial hierarchy established by elevation and depth of cut
The diagram establishes a clear vertical progression from ground level to upper plane, mediated by the stair sequence. The roof’s intersecting planes create distinct spatial zones, each defined by its relationship to the structural frame. Material contrast between the opaque mass and the open voids reinforces the spatial hierarchy. The cut reveals how circulation defines the spatial experience rather than merely serving as a transition. The diagram’s logic prioritizes the spatial sequence over formal ornamentation, grounding the design in functional clarity.
Defines the building’s longitudinal section through its structural and spatial organization
- Primary volume enclosed by continuous wall and roof plane
- Secondary volume defined by stepped platform and central stair
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Ground plane differentiated by contrasting mass and elevation
- Emphasis on vertical articulation through stepped transitions
- Spatial hierarchy established by material contrast and scale variation
The diagram establishes a clear progression from the solid base to the open upper levels, where the central stair acts as a vertical anchor. The stepped platform creates a threshold that separates the lower and upper zones while maintaining visual continuity. The roof’s single plane unifies the two volumes despite their differing elevations, reinforcing a cohesive spatial logic. Material differentiation at the base grounds the structure, while the upper sections suggest permeability and access. The spatial relationships are resolved through precise alignment and proportional contrast, eliminating ambiguity in the sequence of movement.
Defines spatial organization through nested volumetric relationships
- Central courtyard enclosed by stepped terraces
- Perimeter circulation defined by continuous wall mass
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Interior rooms arranged in asymmetrically offset clusters
- Emphasizes axial alignment between core and peripheral zones
- Uses void-to-mass ratio to establish spatial hierarchy
The diagram positions the central courtyard as the primary spatial anchor, its stepped terraces creating a vertical sequence that directs movement toward the core. Peripheral rooms are distributed asymmetrically to disrupt uniformity while maintaining access to the central void. The continuous wall mass frames the entire composition, establishing a boundary that contains yet contrasts with the internal fragmentation. Spatial hierarchy emerges from the scale and placement of voids, where the central space dominates through its openness and centrality. The diagram’s logic relies on the interplay between contained volumes and open thresholds to define circulation and enclosure.
Organizes spatial hierarchy through concentric enclosure and peripheral circulation.
- Central square defines primary activity zone—
- Peripheral corridors establish secondary circulation—
- Outer boundary frames the entire spatial envelope—
Diagram explores nested volumes as organizational devices— Diagram implies directional flow through spatial contraction and expansion—
The central square acts as a spatial anchor, drawing circulation inward through progressively narrower corridors that articulate zones of varying intimacy. Peripheral rooms are arranged asymmetrically, suggesting functional differentiation without disrupting the overall square plan. The concentric framing of the core creates a sense of enclosure that contrasts with the open perimeter, reinforcing a hierarchy between public and private realms. Spatial logic is derived from the interplay of nested boundaries, where each layer modifies the experience of movement and presence. The diagram’s structure implies a sequence of spatial thresholds that govern access and perception, establishing a clear architectural grammar through geometric constraint.
Defines spatial organization through axial alignment and nested enclosure
- Central courtyard as primary spatial anchor
- Peripheral corridors establishing secondary circulation
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Enclosed rooms defining tertiary functional zones
- Emphasis on orthogonal hierarchy
- Use of void to articulate spatial priority
The central courtyard acts as the dominant spatial node, drawing circulation through its axial alignment with adjacent corridors. Enclosed rooms are positioned to maintain visual and physical separation while remaining accessible via defined pathways. The diagram suggests a hierarchy where the courtyard’s openness contrasts with the compartmentalized nature of the periphery. Spatial relationships are governed by linear progression rather than radial dispersion, reinforcing a structured, non-random arrangement. The architecture implies a sequence of movement that privileges the central void as the destination or point of orientation.
Reveals vertical circulation and spatial articulation through structural framing
- Primary circulation path defined by stair sequence and vertical voids
- Interior volume organized by grid-based floor plates and columnar supports
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Exterior envelope articulated by vertical fins and continuous glazing
- Structural frame acts as both spatial divider and visual anchor
- Material contrast between opaque mass and transparent plane establishes hierarchy
The diagram exposes how circulation and structure interpenetrate to define spatial sequence — the stair sequence establishes vertical priority while the grid floor plates anchor horizontal logic. Column placement reinforces structural logic without interrupting flow, allowing spatial continuity across levels. The vertical fins introduce rhythm while demarcating private from public zones — their density correlates with spatial intensity. The transparency of the glazing plane permits visual permeability without sacrificing structural integrity — a balance maintained through consistent framing intervals.
Illustrates structural and spatial organization through a cutaway axonometric view
- Ground-level platform supporting primary volume — elevated by columns
- Upper floor with grid-patterned ceiling and defined interior zones
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Vertical circulation tower with staircases and service shafts
- Emphasizes separation of public and private through spatial layering
- Reveals structural logic by exposing load-bearing elements and spatial articulation
The diagram establishes a clear vertical hierarchy, with the ground plane anchoring the structure while the upper volume floats above it. The circulation tower acts as a vertical spine, organizing movement and service functions without interrupting the main plan. Interior spaces are demarcated by structural frames and partitions, suggesting a modular logic that supports both privacy and circulation. The elevation of the main mass creates a visual and physical separation from the ground, reinforcing the building’s identity as a distinct architectural object.
Schematic elevation revealing vertical circulation and spatial articulation
- Upper floor assembly with segmented fenestration and interior partitioning
- Ground-level support structure with columnar voids and shaded ground plane
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Vertical circulation core with stair placement and alternating wall treatments
- Layered spatial hierarchy through elevation segmentation
- Material contrast defining interior versus exterior zones
The diagram establishes a clear vertical progression, with the upper floor’s segmented openings suggesting varied interior functions while the ground plane’s columnar voids create a sense of openness and spatial release. The circulation core, positioned asymmetrically, introduces a vertical rhythm that contrasts with the horizontal plane of the ground floor. The treatment of the facade — alternating solid and perforated sections — implies a modulation of light and privacy, reinforcing the building’s internal zoning. The diagram’s spatial logic prioritizes circulation as a structural and experiential anchor, while the ground plane’s shaded treatment suggests environmental adaptation.
Diagram establishes structural hierarchy through elevation and plan integration
- Upper volume defined by grid-aligned fenestration and recessed roof elements
- Lower podium supports upper mass via discrete columns and open ground plane
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Vertical circulation implied by recessed stairwell and columnar voids
- Framing system exposes structural logic through column grid and load-bearing walls
- Spatial hierarchy prioritizes upper volume as primary enclosure, lower level as transitional support
The diagram articulates a clear separation between the primary habitable mass and its structural base, where the upper volume’s grid defines interior organization while the lower podium acts as a spatial and structural mediator. Column placement creates rhythmic intervals that anchor the building to the ground plane without obscuring the upper volume’s integrity. The recessed stairwell and columnar voids suggest vertical movement while maintaining a coherent massing strategy. The diagram’s logic prioritizes structural clarity over decorative articulation, with spatial relationships dictated by the column grid and the upper volume’s enclosed form.
Defines a vertical spatial boundary with internal grid modulation
- Upper section contains fragmented, stepped planar divisions
- Central region presents uniform grid alignment with consistent spacing
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Lower portion remains unbroken and aligned with the full height boundary
- Introduces a formalized system of spatial partitioning
- Establishes a vertical hierarchy through incremental reduction in grid density
The diagram organizes space through a progressive reduction in planar complexity, beginning with a fragmented upper zone that suggests programmatic differentiation. The central region maintains a uniform grid, implying a standardized functional or structural layer. The lower section’s unbroken continuity suggests a foundational or unaltered spatial condition. The vertical alignment of grid lines reinforces a consistent dimensional logic across all zones. The stepped discontinuity at the top introduces a deliberate spatial interruption, indicating a transition or threshold.
Diagram reveals spatial organization through layered sectional cut and plan integration.
- Primary volume defined by continuous perimeter and internal partitioning.
- Secondary space formed by stepped intervention and elevated platform.
- Tertiary zone established by recessed void and columnar support.
— Diagram employs layered section to expose spatial stratification. — Spatial hierarchy implied through depth, elevation, and partitioning.
The plan’s internal divisions suggest a sequence of uses, each contained by distinct thresholds. The stepped volume introduces a vertical transition that disrupts the horizontal plane without severing circulation. Columnar supports anchor the structure while allowing the upper level to float visually. The recessed void serves as a spatial pause, creating a perceptual shift between adjacent zones. The diagram’s logic relies on the interplay of containment and release, where each spatial element both defines and responds to its neighbor.
Clarifies volumetric organization and circulation through axonometric representation
- Primary volume defined by raised platform and columnar support system
- Interior space partitioned into distinct functional zones with clear circulation paths
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Exterior envelope articulated by vertical slat system and roof edge treatment
- Emphasis on structural expression through exposed supports
- Spatial hierarchy established by elevation and planar segmentation
The diagram establishes a clear separation between the structural base and the habitable volume, with the columnar supports creating a rhythmic grid that anchors the form. The interior divisions suggest a progression from public to private zones, reinforced by the spatial sequencing of circulation. The vertical slat system acts as both a skin and a spatial filter, modulating light and defining the building’s boundary. The elevation of the volume above ground introduces a deliberate spatial threshold, emphasizing the building’s relationship to the surrounding terrain. The diagram’s logic prioritizes clarity of function over ornament, using form to articulate programmatic intent.
Organizes spatial program through a vertical grid system
- Upper zone contains a compact, vertically oriented circulation core
- Middle section defines a sequence of interconnected service and private rooms
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Lower portion allocates a large, open-plan living area with defined furniture zones
- Emphasizes vertical stacking over horizontal expansion
- Uses grid alignment to establish modular spatial relationships
The diagram presents a clear hierarchy of functions, with circulation and service areas concentrated in the upper half, while the lower half accommodates larger, more flexible living spaces. The vertical stacking creates a sense of enclosure and containment for private functions, while the lower zone’s openness suggests social interaction. Spatial transitions are mediated through narrow corridors and threshold zones that define movement between distinct programmatic realms. The grid structure imposes a consistent spatial rhythm, reinforcing the logic of modularity and scalability. The arrangement suggests a deliberate prioritization of vertical efficiency over horizontal sprawl, aligning spatial organization with structural and functional constraints.
Serves as a spatial cross-section revealing internal organization through layered transparency.
- Primary circulation path defined by a central axis.
- Service zone located adjacent to the rear wall.
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Seating area positioned at the far end, oriented toward the entrance.
- Emphasizes separation through material contrast.
- Uses grid overlay to imply modular spatial division.
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy between circulation, service, and public zones through spatial placement and implied material distinction. The entrance anchors the sequence, directing movement toward the rear seating area while maintaining service functions along the periphery. The grid overlay suggests a modular system governing spatial distribution without visual clutter. The transparency of the section allows for the reading of spatial relationships without obscuring structural or functional boundaries. The layout prioritizes flow and accessibility while maintaining defined functional zones through spatial separation.
Defines vertical section through building mass and structural grid
- Left wing with stacked rectangular volumes—suggests service or storage functions
- Central vertical element—acts as structural or circulation spine
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Right wing with two distinct blocks—implies dual programmatic zones
- Grid as primary spatial regulator—defines scale and alignment
- Black massing as contrast—emphasizes volume and void relationships
The diagram establishes a clear vertical hierarchy through the distribution of massing, with the left wing’s stacked forms suggesting a more contained program, while the right wing’s dual blocks imply differentiated use. The central vertical element functions as a structural and spatial pivot, anchoring the composition and facilitating circulation. The grid imposes a consistent spatial rhythm across the entire section, dictating proportions and aligning all components. The black massing selectively interrupts the grid, reinforcing the architectural logic of volume versus void and establishing a visual and spatial hierarchy.
Defines spatial organization through axial alignment and circulation paths
- Primary circulation corridor bisects the plan, anchoring movement between service and display zones
- Central core contains stacked storage units, creating vertical hierarchy and spatial weight
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Peripheral zones are demarcated by wall thickness and grid alignment, establishing functional separation
- Emphasizes linear flow over radial access — circulation dictates spatial priority
- Uses grid-based partitioning to encode spatial logic — scale and repetition reinforce order
The diagram establishes a clear axial hierarchy where the central corridor governs movement, directing users toward the core storage volume. This core acts as a spatial anchor, its vertical stacking creating a visual and functional center. Peripheral zones are defined by wall thickness and grid alignment, reinforcing functional separation without physical barriers. The plan’s logic prioritizes circulation as the primary spatial generator, with all other elements arranged to support or respond to this flow. The grid system underpins the entire spatial structure, encoding a consistent rhythm that governs both scale and proportion.
Organizes spatial distribution through a grid-based system with defined circulation and functional zones.
- Upper-left zone contains compact, isolated units—likely private offices or storage.
- Central vertical corridor serves as primary circulation, connecting upper and lower levels.
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Lower section features a linear arrangement of uniform modules—suggesting reception or service functions.
- Emphasizes vertical hierarchy through segmented floor plates and contrasting massing.
- Uses grid alignment to establish rhythm and proportion across distinct spatial categories.
The diagram delineates a clear vertical hierarchy where circulation functions as a spine, separating private from public zones. Upper zones are fragmented for individual use, while the lower section is consolidated for collective interaction. The grid structure imposes uniformity across the plan, yet the massing of certain elements introduces deliberate contrast. Spatial relationships are defined by adjacency and separation, with circulation acting as both connector and divider. The diagram’s logic prioritizes efficiency through modular organization and controlled access.
Documents the iterative development of a physical model through photographic documentation
- Spatial focus on layered materiality and surface articulation
- Spatial focus on modular assembly and component relationships
- Spatial focus on structural tectonics and volumetric interplay
Diagrammatic ideas include materiality as a primary design generator — Diagrammatic ideas include the model as a record of evolving spatial logic —
The diagram reveals how spatial form emerges from the manipulation of simple planar elements, where each photograph captures a stage in the transition from flat material to articulated volume. The hierarchy of spatial operations is established through the sequence of assembly, where individual components gain significance through their integration into larger structural systems. The relationship between shadow and form becomes a critical spatial variable, guiding the perception of depth and mass. The diagram suggests that architectural logic is embedded in the physical process, not merely in the final configuration, as each stage preserves the trace of its own construction.
Establishes quantitative parameters for site programming under constrained spatial conditions.
- Traffic volume derived from bridge passage rates and visitor percentages.
- Structural volume limits define permissible floor levels under the pylon.
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Floor plate area determines spatial distribution across levels.
- Translates vehicular flow into visitor capacity through temporal assumptions.
- Proposes programmatic typologies aligned with recreational and relaxative functions.
The diagram treats spatial constraints as a mathematical problem, deriving parking and visitor capacity from traffic statistics and structural volume. It establishes a hierarchy where traffic data drives visitor projections, which in turn determine floor area allocation. The programmatic suggestions emerge from the residual space after accounting for parking and services, indicating a logic of spatial optimization. The spatial typologies proposed are not arbitrary but calibrated to the site’s physical and functional thresholds. The diagram’s architecture is one of calculation, where every metric is tethered to a preceding assumption.
Models the spatial transition from public commerce to contemplative repose across a bridge’s structure.
- The market zone initiates spatial complexity through modular stall arrangements.
- The plaza and park sequence establish intermediate thresholds toward serenity.
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The peace deck terminates the journey as a defined, tranquil endpoint.
- The diagram maps emotional states as spatial stages—chaos to peace.
- It correlates programmatic shifts with morphological transformations.
The bridge’s form is choreographed to guide users through a deliberate sequence of spatial intensities, where commercial activity at the beginning is gradually attenuated by the introduction of curated public spaces. The market’s linear grid permits adaptive occupation while preserving structural clarity, allowing for daily variation without compromising the overall path. The park below the bridge’s central axis introduces a vertical dimension to the experience, where light becomes an active architectural element, directing movement and reinforcing the conceptual arc from openness to enclosure. The hierarchy of spaces is not merely physical but psychological, each stage responding to the preceding one to ensure the final destination is perceived as a restorative culmination. The diagram’s logic hinges on the interplay between program and form, where each spatial intervention is calibrated to the emotional progression it seeks to facilitate.
Traces the morphological progression of spatial components through staged geometric transformation
- Initial decks arranged in descending sequence to establish sequential order
- Stepped platforms introduced to generate functional differentiation across zones
- Triangular interstitial planes filled to extend the path and accommodate programmatic use
— Spatial continuity is maintained through ramp connections between adjacent platforms — Programmatic insertion occurs via filled planes that evolve into green walls, roofs, or floors
The diagram articulates a logic where initial linear elements are deliberately fractured and reassembled into complex, multi-scalar forms. Each transformation stage introduces new spatial hierarchies, shifting from ordered descent to fragmented yet connected volumes. The insertion of filled planes serves both structural and programmatic roles, while their interruption of circulation creates intentional visual and spatial thresholds. The final configuration establishes a dynamic relationship between enclosed mass and open views, anchoring the form to its environmental context through deliberate openings. This progression demonstrates how spatial complexity can emerge from controlled geometric operations.
Maps the transition from auditory chaos to tranquility through physical deck morphology.
- The morph form establishes a continuous wave-like progression from chaos to peace.
- Deck levels are positioned to reflect amplitude variations in the sound wave.
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Ramps connect adjacent decks, enabling multi-directional access between levels.
- The diagram translates abstract sound data into tangible spatial structure.
- It uses iterative connection patterns to resolve complexity into a singular endpoint.
The spatial hierarchy is defined by the wave’s amplitude, which dictates deck elevation and connection density. Each connection layer reduces complexity while maintaining navigational continuity, reinforcing the conceptual journey. The final convergence of all paths at peace signifies resolution, not isolation. The diagram’s logic prioritizes experiential clarity over aesthetic ambiguity, ensuring the endpoint is both physically and conceptually accessible.
Traces the transition from beach to bridge through spatial and acoustic mediation
- The beach as a continuous path—uninterrupted by infrastructure—defines initial tranquility.
- The bridge as a structural threshold—introducing verticality and disconnection—marks spatial rupture.
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The access ramps—bridging the two zones—mediate between pedestrian flow and environmental silence.
- The diagram treats sound as a spatial variable—modulating perception through waveforms.
- It visualizes psychological transition—using morphological patterns to map mental states.
The bridge’s spatial logic is not merely physical but acoustic, where the tidal disconnection becomes a condition for silence. The ramps serve as both physical and perceptual thresholds, allowing the transition from beach-bound continuity to bridge-bound stillness. Sound waves, initially sparse, become layered with human presence, forming a morphological pattern that mirrors psychological shift. The diagram posits that tranquility is not an endpoint but a gradient, negotiated through spatial sequence and auditory rhythm. The final question—marked by a blank space—acknowledges the unresolved nature of achieving peace within urban infrastructure.
Suggests spatial strategies for mitigating psychological stress through controlled environmental conditions.
- The bridge as a threshold space generating solitude and perceived privacy.
- The surrounding ground plane as a zone for programmatic containment.
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The vertical void beneath the bridge as a transitional or contemplative volume.
- Spatial isolation as a therapeutic device.
- Programmatic zoning to preserve psychological equilibrium.
The diagram positions the bridge as a locus of quietude, where the act of crossing creates a temporary suspension from urban density. The surrounding land is designated for non-intrusive uses, preserving the bridge’s function as a sanctuary. The void beneath the structure is not merely negative space but a deliberate architectural element that reinforces the sense of separation. Hierarchies are established through spatial exclusion: the bridge is privileged for its psychological function, while adjacent zones are restricted to prevent contamination of its calm. The diagram’s logic hinges on the idea that silence is not absence but a curated condition, and that architecture must actively manage its distribution to serve mental well-being.
The diagram articulates the psychological and temporal dimensions of architectural experience through textual argumentation.
- The spatial focus on the cathedral’s interior as a locus of suspended time.
- The spatial focus on the bridge as a threshold for mental wandering and contemplation.
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The spatial focus on the architectural void between columns as a container for historical memory.
- The idea of architecture as a medium for temporal suspension.
- The idea of daydreaming as a cognitive state that architecture can facilitate.
The diagram positions architecture as an agent that arrests the perception of time, transforming the built environment into a vessel for contemplative stillness. It contrasts the ephemeral nature of modern life with the enduring presence of historical spaces, suggesting that architecture can recalibrate human perception. The bridge is presented not merely as a physical structure but as a psychological pivot point where attention dissolves into imaginative reverie. The diagram implies that spatial design can intentionally foster a state of mental drift, which it equates with enhanced cognitive function. This linkage between spatial form and psychological state is presented as a core architectural responsibility — to mediate between the immediacy of the present and the resonance of the past.
The diagram maps stress vectors within Mumbai’s transit infrastructure and urban fabric.
- Domestic thresholds where silence is a scarce commodity.
- Commuter corridors defined by density and temporal compression.
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Institutional nodes where labor and infrastructure intersect.
- Contrast between regulated and unregulated spatial regimes.
- Stress as a spatial metric tied to mobility and service failure.
The diagram positions stress as a spatial phenomenon emerging from the friction between human need and infrastructural capacity. It reveals how proximity to work and transit hubs generates cumulative pressure through overlapping modalities—pedestrian, vehicular, and rail. The hierarchy of stress is not uniform; it escalates where service failure meets high occupancy, particularly in the transition zones between platforms and streets. The diagram implicitly critiques the spatial logic of urban mobility by showing how physical design and operational constraints compound psychological load. Its structure suggests that stress is not incidental but a consequence of spatial organization that prioritizes throughput over human experience.
Maps illustrate site access and tidal behavior affecting coastal connectivity
- Coastal access routes including chowpatties and roads
- Railway station nodes as primary transit anchors
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Flooded bay extents during low and high tide conditions
- Tidal inundation as a spatial constraint
- Siltation from river mouth as a morphological variable
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy of infrastructure and environmental forces. The railway stations act as fixed nodes of circulation, while the chowpatty’s connection is rendered contingent on tidal fluctuations. The bay’s flood zones—marked by varying extents—demonstrate how water levels dynamically alter usable land. Siltation from the river mouth introduces a secondary variable that modifies the bay’s morphology over time. The spatial logic prioritizes understanding how tides interrupt or enable movement, thereby defining the site’s permeability.
Clarifies structural and spatial organization through layered perspectives
- Primary span defined by two slender pylons anchoring a sweeping deck
- Subordinate deck level visible beneath main span, supported by repeating columns
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Underlying structural grid revealed in sectional view, indicating load distribution
- Emphasizes verticality through tapering pylon forms
- Establishes hierarchy between primary span and secondary deck levels
The diagram articulates a spatial hierarchy where the main span dominates through its elevated position and slender pylons, while the secondary deck is recessed and supported by a regular column grid. The sectional view reinforces this hierarchy by showing the primary span’s structural continuity and the secondary deck’s subordinate placement. The pylon forms project vertically, establishing a clear axis of tension that contrasts with the horizontal spread of the deck. The spatial relationships are mediated by the column grid, which anchors the secondary level and defines its spatial autonomy. The diagram’s logic rests on the interplay between vertical and horizontal elements, where the pylon’s tapering form directs attention upward while the deck’s span anchors the composition horizontally.
Documents spatial conditions for a coastal intervention through layered mapping.
- The built vs. open map delineates existing development and potential voids.
- The traffic and wharf zone map identifies active circulation and maritime activity.
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The landuse map establishes zoning boundaries and existing functional divisions.
- Contrasts between built and open space inform intervention scope.
- Highlights zones of activity to guide spatial prioritization.
The diagram organizes spatial data to reveal the interplay between urban fabric and waterfront use, where traffic and fishing zones define a corridor of high activity adjacent to the landuse boundary. The intervention space is demarcated not as a blank area but as a threshold between established functions, suggesting a recalibration of movement rather than displacement. The section drawings reinforce verticality as a response to the horizontal constraints of the site, indicating that the intervention must negotiate both surface and subsurface conditions. The hierarchy of zones implies a layered strategy, where the most active area is treated as a primary interface, while adjacent zones are secondary or transitional. The diagram’s logic prioritizes the spatial logic of circulation and use over formal design, positioning the intervention as a spatial negotiation rather than a standalone form.
Compares layered urban data with a simplified topographic reference
- Urban fabric density and zoning overlays
- Green space distribution and permeability
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Infrastructure networks and access corridors
- Layered representation of spatial data
- Contrast between analytical and base cartographic forms
The diagram establishes a spatial hierarchy by overlaying complex zoning and land-use data onto a simplified base map, revealing how urban density clusters around specific nodes while green corridors interrupt the grid. The juxtaposition of the detailed, multi-colored site map with the monochrome base map emphasizes the contrast between planned intervention and existing topography. The spatial logic prioritizes the site’s integration into the larger urban fabric, with infrastructure routes and green zones serving as primary connectors. The analytical layering suggests a strategy of incremental adaptation rather than wholesale replacement, where existing conditions inform new development. The diagram’s structure implies that the site’s value lies in its transitional position between high-density zones and open land, allowing for a calibrated response to surrounding conditions.
Maps the urban and infrastructural evolution of Mumbai through spatial and climatic lenses.
- The colonial consolidation of Bombay’s islands into a single landmass.
- The dense, congested street networks of the post-independence middle class.
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The Bandra-Worli Sea Link as a projected solution to land scarcity.
- Contrasts historical land use with contemporary transport bottlenecks.
- Positions climate data as a contextual layer for infrastructure planning.
The diagram’s spatial logic traces a trajectory from historical land reconfiguration to present-day traffic saturation, where the sea link emerges as a strategic intervention. The climatic study grounds the infrastructure proposal in environmental conditions that influence both thermal comfort and urban density. The juxtaposition of dense street life and the proposed elevated roadway reveals a hierarchy of mobility solutions, prioritizing vertical expansion over horizontal sprawl. The coastal edge, shown in both its current state and as a future corridor, functions as a spatial boundary that the city must negotiate between land and sea. The diagram’s architecture of information aligns spatial constraints with climatic thresholds, suggesting that infrastructure must respond to both demographic pressure and environmental rhythm.
Illustrates the dual nature of bridges as both technological achievements and social thresholds.
- The silhouette of observers before a modern span — a threshold of perception and scale.
- A procession across a snowy bridge — a threshold of collective movement and cultural assertion.
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A ruined arch juxtaposed with a photograph — a threshold of memory and erasure.
- The diagram contrasts engineered continuity with imposed division.
- It encodes the bridge as a site of contested meaning rather than neutral passage.
The diagram presents bridges not as inert infrastructure but as charged thresholds where technology meets social consequence. The top image frames the bridge as a monumental object viewed from a distance, establishing its scale as a marker of human aspiration. The middle image transforms the bridge into a stage for protest, where movement becomes political assertion. The bottom image uses the ruin as a counterpoint, suggesting that bridges can also function as markers of rupture. The sequence implies that the bridge’s function is not predetermined but negotiated — as a connector, a divider, or a memorial — depending on the context of its use and the history of its place. The spatial hierarchy is not vertical but temporal, moving from idealized form to contested use to historical residue.
Maps the urban fabric through bridge placement as a system of spatial connectors.
- Urban grid interrupted by linear interventions that define thresholds between districts.
- Riverine corridors where bridges act as vertical anchors and horizontal conduits.
- Elevated pathways that transition between zones of density and open landscape.
Emphasizes the bridge as a symbolic threshold — a liminal space between opposites. Explores the bridge as a temporal anchor — a fixed point in the flow of movement and change.
The diagram presents bridges not merely as conduits but as nodes where spatial discontinuity is resolved. Their placement correlates with the city’s rhythm, aligning with zones of high activity and transitional thresholds. The hierarchy of bridges reflects their scale and function — some serve as primary arteries, others as poetic interruptions. Their presence implies a spatial grammar where movement is mediated by structure, and the act of crossing becomes a ritual. The diagram’s logic lies in how each bridge negotiates its own context — urban, natural, or symbolic — without erasing the tension between origin and destination.
Defines the conceptual framework for the thesis project
- The bridge as a structural and psychological threshold
- The transitional zone between vehicular and pedestrian circulation
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The urban void beneath and adjacent to the bridge structure
- Emphasis on emotional intervention through spatial design
- Reconfiguration of utilitarian space for therapeutic function
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy between infrastructure and human experience, positioning the bridge not merely as a transport element but as a catalyst for emotional recalibration. The spatial focus on the bridge’s edge and its surrounding void suggests a deliberate shift from function to affect. Architectural logic here is derived from the bridge’s inherent tension — its physical necessity contrasts with its potential to mediate psychological states. The diagram implies that the resolution of stress and depression emerges not from added amenities but from the redefinition of spatial thresholds. The project’s ambition is to transform a site of transit into a locus of pause and reflection.
Organizes spatial possibilities through a grid of rendered perspectives
- Interior volumes defined by light and structural clarity
- Exterior terraces and landscaped transitions
- Vertical circulation and spatial thresholds
— Emphasizes spatial sequencing through perspective framing — Reveals architectural logic through repeated formal motifs
The diagram establishes a hierarchy of spatial experience by prioritizing light as a spatial generator. Interior sequences are framed to emphasize axial continuity and depth perception. Exterior spaces are arranged to articulate transitions between built and natural environments. Vertical movement is implied through repeated gestures of elevation and descent. Architectural form is reduced to essential volumes, allowing spatial relationships to emerge through their interplay with light and horizon.
Defines the integration of urban fabric with a riverfront cultural and commercial district
- Urban grid context with defined street patterns and block formations
- Riverfront promenade and landscaped terraces along the water’s edge
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Bridged access points connecting the district to the existing city fabric
- Layered programmatic zoning along a linear axis
- Strategic placement of public gathering spaces adjacent to transit nodes
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy between the dense urban core and the open riverfront, using bridges as transitional nodes that anchor the new development to the existing city. The river acts as a primary spatial divider, with programmatic zones arranged along its banks to maximize views and circulation. The sequence of spaces — from commercial and service functions to cultural and event areas — follows a deliberate progression along the axis. The placement of the subway and forum suggests a dual function: facilitating movement while anchoring civic identity. The diagram’s logic prioritizes accessibility and experiential continuity between the built environment and the natural water feature.
Site plan detailing the integration of public and cultural functions along a riverfront.
- The river edge as a continuous green corridor framing event and forum spaces.
- The bridge entries as conduits directing pedestrian flow into the core program.
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The administrative and retail zones positioned as transitional nodes between urban grid and waterfront.
- Emphasis on axial procession through layered public realms.
- Use of scale and mass to define circulation and activate the waterfront edge.
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy where the riverfront functions as the primary public spine, drawing movement through its linear sequence of event spaces, forums, and decks. The bridge entries serve as gateways that channel foot traffic from the adjacent urban fabric into the curated program, creating a dynamic interplay between the existing city and the new development. The administrative and retail zones are strategically placed to act as buffer and transition zones, softening the transition from the dense urban grid to the more open, landscaped waterfront. The spatial logic prioritizes permeability and flow, using the river as a natural axis to orient the entire complex. The arrangement of covered event space and open decks reinforces a layered experience, allowing for both intimate and expansive public gatherings.
Defines event and exhibition zones adjacent to a historic fortification
- The event space at the intersection of spans accommodates transient public gatherings.
- The fort wall strip provides exhibition venues aligned with the historic structure.
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The moat and its split windows frame a subterranean passage guiding users.
- Light manipulation directs movement through an underground route.
- The fort serves as a contextual backdrop for exhibitions and events.
The diagram establishes a spatial hierarchy where the fort wall strip functions as a continuous exhibition spine, while the event space at the spans acts as a dynamic public plaza. The underground passage introduces a concealed circulation route that uses light as a directional cue, guiding users from the moat toward the fort’s extension. The fort’s presence is not merely structural but contextual, framing exhibitions and reinforcing cultural memory. The spatial logic prioritizes temporal use over permanence, allowing the site to shift between public spectacle and curated display. The diagram’s architecture of movement and display is calibrated to manage crowd flow while preserving the fort’s historical integrity.
Placemaking diagram illustrating social interaction and shopping integration
- Urban fabric density increasing toward the site’s axis
- Waterfront edge as a boundary and transitional zone
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Programmatic zoning defined by shaded overlays and dashed lines
- Boundary dissolution through public programming
- Commercial continuity as a traffic mitigation strategy
The diagram positions social interaction as a spatial generator, anchoring the site’s development along an axial path that intersects existing urban density. This axis functions as a catalyst for communal activity, explicitly designed to counteract tensions by encouraging spontaneous encounters. The waterfront boundary is not merely a passive edge but a zone of negotiation, where the programmatic layer extends into the water’s edge to absorb commercial pressure. Shopping is not an isolated function but a continuation of adjacent commercial logic, strategically deployed to redistribute pedestrian and vehicular flows. The spatial hierarchy is thus defined by the interplay between public activation, commercial continuity, and the physical edge of the water, each reinforcing the others as a unified strategy.
Defines a traffic management system through a moat and bridges to segregate pedestrian and vehicular access.
- The moat encloses the site boundary as a continuous barrier.
- Bridges are positioned at selected intervals to allow pedestrian ingress.
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Stairways along the moat’s perimeter facilitate exit from parking to access points.
- The moat functions as a physical and symbolic demarcation.
- Bridges introduce controlled points of transition between zones.
The moat establishes a clear hierarchy between circulation modes, prioritizing pedestrian movement while restricting vehicle access to a defined corridor. Its placement along the main street curbs traffic congestion and reconfigures the surrounding network. The barrier’s continuity creates a sense of enclosure that protects the site from external pressures, particularly in scenarios of social unrest. The bridge placements are not random but calibrated to manage flow and reinforce the moat’s function as a regulator rather than a mere obstruction. The design logic hinges on the transformation of a defensive element into a civic tool for spatial control.
Defines spatial typology through the interaction of axes and built form
- Urban fabric density varies by proximity to the riverfront
- Semi-open zones emerge where axes intersect the built layout
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River edge defines a transitional boundary between public and private
- Spatial hierarchy is established by the merging of axes and form
- Pure states are preserved where elements do not intersect
The diagram establishes a spatial logic where the built form and axial pathways intersect to generate semi-open functions, while areas of non-intersection retain their inherent character. The river acts as a primary boundary, conditioning the transition between dense urbanism and open water. The spatial hierarchy is not imposed but derived from the resolution of these intersections, creating a typology that balances permeability with enclosure. The diagram’s logic prioritizes the spatial relationship between axes and form over fixed programmatic assignment. This arrangement allows for a flexible spatial grammar that accommodates both continuity and discontinuity within the urban fabric.
Spatial allocation diagram for a fortified urban edge
- Fort wall and moat as primary spatial anchors
- Residential fabric as secondary spatial reference
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Watercourse as tertiary spatial boundary
- Density gradient as spatial organizing principle
- Linear form as behavioral and visual guide
The diagram establishes a spatial hierarchy where built form responds to the density of free space, clustering near the fort wall and moat while tapering toward the residential fabric. The linear alignment of structures follows the site’s topographic contours, creating a visual and physical conduit that directs movement. This axis functions as both a spatial connector and a programmed pathway, enabling curated user experiences through architectural form. The density transition informs programmatic placement, prioritizing interventions that address socio-cultural and economic needs within the site’s existing fabric. The form’s orientation and continuity reinforce a deliberate spatial logic that governs both circulation and social interaction.
Defines spatial strategy through axial organization and open field manipulation
- Urban fabric density contrasts with expansive, low-density zones
- Riverfront alignment establishes a primary directional axis
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Central node acts as a spatial pivot connecting multiple axes
- Emphasis on visual continuity between site and context
- Axis-driven circulation as a generator of experiential space
The diagram establishes a spatial hierarchy where axial paths dominate movement and perception, directing users toward key landmarks while minimizing built obstruction. The river functions as a primary axis, its alignment reinforcing the site’s orientation and anchoring the spatial composition. The central node serves as a transitional space, facilitating the convergence of multiple axes and enabling spatial flexibility. The vast spans of space are deliberately uncluttered to emphasize visual connection, allowing the site to integrate with surrounding features without physical intrusion. The alignment of connectivity patterns generates dual axes, each intended to guide user behavior and encourage the creation of dynamic, experiential environments.
Defines spatial relationships through linear connections between key nodes.
- Urban fabric density gradients from dense core to peripheral zones.
- Riverbank as primary axis of spatial orientation and movement.
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Defined development corridor intersecting existing infrastructure nodes.
- Linear pattern generation as a method of visual connectivity mapping.
- User pathway prediction through parameterized spatial logic.
The diagram establishes a hierarchy of spatial engagement by anchoring movement along a river-defined axis, which in turn frames the transition from dense urban context to planned development. The linear connections between nodes suggest a deliberate choreography of experience, guiding perception through a sequence of spatial thresholds. This approach prioritizes legibility over abstraction, using the river’s edge as both a physical and conceptual boundary. The diagram’s logic emerges from the tension between existing urban grain and the imposition of a new directional pattern. The result is a spatial grammar that anticipates user behavior while embedding the site within a broader topographic narrative.
Maps the spatial influence of surrounding urban nodes on site form and circulation
- Dense residential fabric adjacent to the site’s perimeter
- Commercial activity concentrated at key intersections
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Bus terminus and motor garages positioned at site vertices
- Spatial hierarchy derived from traffic junctions
- Urban fabric organized around functional programmatic anchors
The diagram establishes a clear spatial logic where traffic junctions function as primary determinants of movement and spatial order. The proximity of wholesale markets and residential zones creates a layered context that informs the site’s programmatic response. The site’s form is directly conditioned by the density and activity of surrounding nodes, which act as anchors for spatial organization. These intersections are not merely transitional but structural, dictating the rhythm of circulation and the scale of development. The diagram’s logic is rooted in the urban fabric’s existing hierarchy, where major crossroads become the defining spatial syntax.
Site plan outlining spatial conditions for a proposed urban intervention near Belgaum’s historic fort
- Dense residential fabric adjacent to the fort
- Linear infrastructure corridor along the riverbank
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Existing bus terminus site on the eastern edge
- Contrasting scales between historic core and modern development
- Spatial segregation implied by adjacent community clusters
The diagram establishes a spatial hierarchy where the fort anchors a historic zone, while the riverbank and adjacent residential clusters form distinct zones of activity. The bus terminus site functions as a transitional node between the dense fabric and the open corridor. The spatial arrangement suggests a deliberate separation of uses, yet the proximity of communities implies latent tension. Architectural logic here prioritizes spatial demarcation over integration, using form to manage social friction. The diagram’s logic remains unexpressed through form, instead relying on positional relationships to imply function.
Urban insert design proposes spatial interventions to mediate religious conflict and social disorder.
- Public plaza as a neutral ground for communal gathering.
- Circulation routes that separate and channel conflicting movements.
- Semi-enclosed courtyard for ritual or meditative use.
Diagrammatic ideas include layered spatial programming and symbolic zoning.
— The diagram positions the plaza as the primary node of social negotiation, while circulation paths enforce controlled movement — — Courtyards function as thresholds between public and private, offering psychological and physical respite — — Spatial hierarchy is implied through scale and enclosure, prioritizing safety and mediation over spectacle — — The design’s logic relies on spatial separation to reduce friction, not eliminate it — — Economic and social constraints are embedded in the spatial typologies, shaping behavior through form — — The diagram does not prescribe solutions but reveals the conditions under which resolution might emerge —
About

Kushal Dhananjay Samant is an Architect, based in India.
In 2006, he started this journey as a side-hustle by selling stationery. In 2009, he started designing competition entries with other architects based in Seattle, CDMX, Buenos Aires, Maastricht, Torino, Kaapstad, Tampere, Mumbai, Panjim, Bangalore, Manila, and Sydney.
In 2012, he created his first brochure, magazine (Avalanche Annual Fest Magazine), and prospectus for his Alma Mater, KLS GIT, Belgaum. In 2013, he graduated with a distinction in Bachelors of Architecture from Visvesvaraya Technological University.
Since 2014, he has worked with brands like Thomas Albert Music, The Hive, The Black Canvas, SoundCloud, Scootsy, PhiFilms, OpenDesk, Maker's Asylum, Ketto, funKtion design, EDStudio Architects, de.Sign Architecture Urban Design, Cinemamu, Airbnb, Adidas, &c. In 2015, he started the WikiHouse / BOM chapter of The WikiHouse Project in Bombay.
In 2016, Muzej Za Arhitektiro In Oblikovanje and Future Architecture Platform published his work: GRÜHAM. He takes pride in stopping a country from deporting a friend, back in 2017. Later that year, he became an Airbnb Superhost, a top Medium writer, and The Economic Times of India cited his views on Stand-Up Comedy culture.
In 2018, he made SHLVNG, furniture by OpenDesk, and sold these products on Bumble, Hinge, and Tinder. In 2019, he proofread research papers at SVKM's NMIMS, Mumbai (NMIMS School of Branding && Advertising). Later that year, he taught Architectural Design, Graphics & Drawing Representation, and AutoDesk products as a visiting faculty at Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Architecture, Navi Mumbai.
In 2020, one of his repositories was selected for the Arctic Code Vault of the GitHub Archive Program. In 2021, he started Your Mail Project.
Since 2022, he is listed as an Assistant Professor of Architecture at Dr. D. Y. Patil School of Architecture, Navi Mumbai. He took a sabbatical in 2023.
In 2024, he built a merchandising venture - Geometry and an open-source, offline-first, AI platform for generating photorealistic Q&A content on user defined research themes - ASK: Daily Research. Currently, he is curating this website.
He has been working in the fields of academic research, app development, architecture, art, banking, blogging, bookmaking, book-writing, clothing, construction, content creation, content writing, curation, design, e-commerce, engineering, film making, food delivery, furniture design, garments, graphic design, hospitality, logistics, lyrics writing, mapping, market research, music, merchandising, manufacturing, open-source architecture, operations, photography, podcasts, product design, sound & production, teaching, telemarketing, venture capital, vlogging, and web design.
People
These people taught me things that I could not have learnt otherwise.
A V, Suchendra. + Adams, Vesely. + Agarwal, Bharat. + Aknoji, Anand. + Albert, Thomas. + Allagui, Anis. + Alva, Praveen. + Ansari, Yusuf. + Anvekar, Rohit. + Banejee, Spandan. + Bansal, Amrita. + Barve, Aditya. + Barve, Shalmali Patkar. + Bhangare, Kaustubh. + Cervinkova, Katrina. + Chahal, Dapinder. + Chhabra, Vaibhav. + Chougule, Umesh. + Das, Prasoon G. + Dave, Poulomi. + Desai, Ashutosh. + Desai, Gauri. + Desai, Shirish. + Divos, Erika Jimena Montalvo. + Dodhia, Khyati. + Dolas, Akshay. + Dongare, Praveen. + Drake, Gemma. + D'Souza, Adolf. + D'Souza, Lloyd. + D'Souza, Mark. + D'Souza, Richard. + D'Souza, Winston. + Fernandes, Annie. + Fernando, Thomas. + Fuchs, Carl Justus. + Gabajiwala, Tasneem. + Gupta, HN Srikanth. + Gupta, Nikita. + Hegde, Pawan. + Hernandez, Penelope. + Ingalagi, Nagesh. + Jagger, Prashin. + Jain, Ankit. + Jayarajan, Ashwin. + Jayarajan, Geeta. + Jha, Shashank. + Joshua, Sneha. + Kadabi, Aditya. + Kalra, Sukhda. + Kamath, Deepa. + Kedia, Akshat. + Kenkre, Siddhi. + Khanolkar, Suyash. + Kharsati, Elgiva. + Khemalapure, Shreyank. + Khundrakpam, Sushilkumar. + Knight, Harry. + Konarikova, Michala. + Koutumbeerkar, Prashant. + Kubski, Kathrina. + Maheo, Asoni. + Maheshwari, Sachin. + Mahidharia, Anool. + Martin, Sara. + Masurkar, Jayesh. + Mathew, Abish. + MD, Mushab. + Modak, Balwant. + Moghe, Yash. + Mohandas, Manjusha. + Mohe, Sanjay. + Mohite, Rohit. + Mutkekar, Prasad. + Naik, Surabhi. + Nair, Sudeip. + Nambiar, EPG. + Natverlal, Piyush Prince. + Ortiz, Elian Miroslav Lopez. + Pai, Shivangi. + Patade, Yugandhar. + Patel, Anushree Hiren. + Patkar, Mandar. + Patkar, Pallavi. + Patkar, Sarthak. + Pesswani, Monica. + Pesswani, Nikita. + Philip, Sebastian. + Pinishetti, Srushti. + Poojary, Shivani. + Pradeep, Ankita. + Quimson, Ezra Leih. + Rai, Nitya. + Rana, Pradeep. + Rastogi, Krishna. + Rathod, Shraddha. + Renteria, Eric Gregory Lovell. + Rohida, Sakshi. + Saboji, Sharan. + Sadalage, Vishal. + Sahai, Arjit. + Salvi, Ashwini. + Samant, Dhananjay. + Samant, Kunal. + Samant, Mitalee. + Samant, Neha. + Samant, Nilima. + Samant, Raghunandan. + Samant, Shirish. + Sangolli, Padma. + Sawalkar, Prajakta. + Sethi, Kaushal. + Shah, Prachi. + Sharma, Akash. + Shetty, Chetan. + Shiroshi, Akshay. + Sridhar, Madhusudhan. + Sridharan, Shruti. + Swat, Justyna. + Talreja, Pooja. + Tavargeri, Avani. + Thelekkat, Jayarajan. + Thelekkat, Mohandas. + Timmermans, Thies. + Upasani, Sonali. + Van Gelder, Elke. + Varadkar, Neha. + Varadkar, Ramchandra. + Varadkar, Santosh. + Vora, Shyam. + Wadhwani, Sakshi. + Yalgi, Mohit.
Contact
For professional enquiries, collaborations, academic engagements, or project discussions, please contact Kushal Samant Architects directly.
Telephone: +91 87796 32310.
Email: kushaldsamant@gmail.com.
All correspondence is reviewed personally and responded to in due course.