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.
17 diagrams
Illustrates the spatial organization and structural articulation of a single-story building through a sectional perspective.
- Primary volume defined by a continuous roof plane intersected by a central void.
- Secondary volume emerges as a recessed, stepped interior space adjacent to the main mass.
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Vertical circulation is marked by a narrow, linear shaft terminating in a stairwell.
- Emphasizes the contrast between solid enclosure and open, fragmented interior.
- Uses sectioning to reveal the relationship between roof geometry and ground plane.
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy between the primary mass and the recessed interior, where the roof plane acts as a dominant, unbroken form that shelters the void below. The stepped transition between levels suggests a deliberate modulation of spatial experience, guiding movement through a defined vertical axis. The section reveals how structural elements are embedded within the volume, creating a spatial rhythm that balances enclosure with openness. The relationship between the roof’s slope and the ground plane defines the building’s orientation and its interaction with the site. The diagram’s logic prioritizes spatial clarity over ornamentation, using form to articulate function and circulation.
Illustrates the longitudinal section of a building with segmented massing and differentiated floor levels.
- Central core with stepped elevation and vertical circulation
- Flanking wings with uniform wall planes and recessed openings
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Ground-level base with continuous dark band and stepped transitions
- Emphasis on vertical articulation through tiered platforms
- Use of mass division to create spatial thresholds and circulation nodes
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy by elevating the central volume above the flanking wings, creating a visual and spatial anchor. The stepped platforms beneath the central mass suggest a primary circulation route, while the uniform wings imply secondary or service functions. The dark base unifies the structure at ground level, grounding the composition while allowing the upper volumes to appear suspended. The separation of massing implies distinct programmatic zones, with the central core serving as the primary spatial generator. The diagram’s logic prioritizes vertical movement and spatial demarcation over horizontal continuity.
Defines spatial organization through nested enclosure and axial alignment
- Central courtyard as primary void—anchored by vertical elements and grid
- Perimeter circulation paths—defined by stepped transitions and boundary walls
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Secondary interior chambers—arranged asymmetrically along orthogonal axes
- Emphasis on axial hierarchy—established by central axis and radiating corridors
- Contrast between open and enclosed—mediated by threshold treatments and elevation changes
The diagram establishes a clear spatial hierarchy through the central courtyard’s dominance, which is framed by a continuous perimeter wall that modulates into secondary chambers. Movement is directed along orthogonal axes, creating a choreographed path that responds to the central void’s spatial gravity. The stepped transitions between levels articulate transitions in scale and function, reinforcing the axial logic. Enclosure is not uniform—some chambers are fully contained while others open to the periphery, creating differentiated spatial experiences. The vertical elements at the center act as spatial anchors, directing attention inward and reinforcing the diagram’s axial symmetry.
Defines spatial organization through nested and offset rectangular volumes
- Central core with grid pattern and concentric framing
- Peripheral zones defined by irregularly placed corridors and thresholds
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Peripheral zones defined by irregularly placed corridors and thresholds
- Emphasis on axial alignment and hierarchical enclosure
- Use of nested frames to establish spatial depth and transition
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy by centering a defined core within progressively larger, offset rectangles, creating a sense of inward focus. Peripheral spaces are fragmented and asymmetrical, suggesting circulation paths that do not conform to central symmetry. The grid within the core implies a functional or structural anchor, while the outer frames suggest boundary conditions or transitional zones. The spatial logic prioritizes enclosure over openness, with circulation paths appearing as interruptions rather than continuities. The diagram’s structure implies a layered experience, where movement between zones is mediated by thresholds and spatial shifts.
Defines spatial organization through axial and nested volumetric relationships
- Central courtyard as primary spatial anchor—
- Perimeter wings with segmented internal divisions—
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Staircases and service cores as vertical connectors—
- Emphasis on orthogonal alignment and symmetry—
- Use of nested voids to establish hierarchy—
The central courtyard serves as the spatial origin, radiating control over surrounding zones through axial pathways. Perimeter wings are organized into discrete, self-contained modules that maintain visual and functional separation while remaining integrated through shared circulation. Staircases and service cores act as vertical articulation points, reinforcing the building’s structural logic without disrupting spatial flow. The nested voids within the plan create a layered hierarchy, where the core void is both the spatial and symbolic center, and the surrounding volumes subordinate themselves to its presence. This arrangement establishes a clear architectural grammar that prioritizes order, direction, and spatial containment.
Illustrates vertical circulation and spatial articulation within a multi-level structure
- Primary floor plan reveals a linear sequence of rooms and service zones
- Staircase configuration establishes vertical movement and spatial hierarchy
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Structural columns define spatial boundaries and support the upper level
- Emphasizes the interplay between circulation and enclosure
- Uses transparency to reveal spatial relationships without obscuring structure
The diagram presents a clear vertical progression where circulation is anchored by the staircase and defined by the structural grid. Spatial zones are demarcated by column placement and floor slabs, creating distinct yet interconnected volumes. The upper level appears to function as a continuous space, while the lower level accommodates discrete functional units. The relationship between public and private areas is implied through the spatial separation and circulation paths. The diagram’s logic prioritizes structural clarity over decorative detail, allowing spatial intention to emerge from the arrangement of mass and void.
Defines the structural and spatial organization of a multi-level building through axial sectioning
- Ground-level circulation and support columns
- Upper-level interior volume with defined furniture placement
- Vertical circulation shaft with stair access on the right
— Reveals internal spatial hierarchy through layered sectioning — Establishes structural logic by exposing load-bearing elements
The diagram positions the building as a suspended volume, supported by discrete columns that create a clear separation between ground plane and upper space. The axial cut exposes the sequence of interior rooms, allowing spatial relationships to be read through their relative positioning and scale. Vertical circulation is isolated to a narrow, continuous shaft, emphasizing its role as a structural and functional spine. The ground plane remains unoccupied except for the support system, reinforcing the building’s levitation and its separation from the street. The internal volume is defined by a grid that suggests modularity and precise spatial control.
Illustrates vertical circulation and spatial layering through a sectional elevation
- Upper floor assembly with fenestration and interior partitioning
- Ground-level voids supporting structural columns and defining public access
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Vertical circulation core with alternating opaque and perforated elements
- Emphasis on spatial stratification through stacked volumes
- Use of perforated screens to modulate light and define transitional zones
The diagram establishes a clear vertical hierarchy by separating public and private functions across distinct levels. Structural columns anchor the lower volume while allowing spatial flexibility above. The circulation core acts as a vertical spine, interrupting the mass to create moments of transition. Perforated screens introduce controlled light and define thresholds without fully enclosing space. The spatial arrangement prioritizes circulation as a primary axis, organizing the building’s internal logic around movement and visibility.
Defines structural and spatial organization through elevation and plan integration
- Upper volume contains a grid-based plan with recessed zones
- Lower volume is supported by discrete columns and defines a ground-level void
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Roof plane is continuous and punctuated by vertical elements
- Elevational hierarchy is established through stacked volumes
- Structural logic is revealed by exposing support columns and their spatial relationship to the ground
The building’s upper mass is elevated above the ground plane, creating a visual and physical separation that emphasizes its independence. The lower volume, defined by its columnar support, establishes a threshold between interior and exterior space. The grid on the upper floor suggests a modular or functional zoning, while the recessed areas imply spatial differentiation within the main volume. The columns do not merely support the structure—they articulate a spatial frame that defines the building’s footprint and its relationship to the surrounding context. The diagram’s clarity lies in its unambiguous resolution of load-bearing elements and their spatial consequences.
Defines a vertical spatial grid with partial occupation at top
- Upper section contains fragmented, non-contiguous voids
- Middle section presents a continuous, unbroken grid plane
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Lower section remains fully unoccupied and unmarked
- Emphasizes vertical stratification through layered grid interruption
- Suggests a conditional occupation model where only top zones are defined
The diagram establishes a vertical hierarchy by allocating spatial significance only to the upper portion, leaving the remainder as a neutral ground. The interruption of the grid at the top implies a deliberate spatial priority, contrasting with the uniformity below. This creates a binary condition: defined versus undefined, occupied versus potential. The spatial logic is not about volume but about the imposition of order on a vertical axis. The unmarked lower section functions as a passive field, awaiting external definition or activation.
Defines spatial organization through layered enclosure and circulation
- Primary volume defined by continuous boundary and internal partitioning
- Secondary circulation routes emerge from central voids and edge alignments
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Vertical transition marked by stepped intervention and structural support
- Enclosure operates as both container and mediator of spatial sequence
- Interior divisions imply functional zoning without explicit labeling
The diagram establishes a hierarchy where the primary volume anchors spatial definition, while secondary zones derive from its internal articulation. Circulation paths are implied through the spatial voids and the stepped transition, suggesting movement is directed by structural and volumetric logic. The vertical element acts as a mediator between levels, reinforcing the spatial hierarchy through its placement and scale. Enclosure functions not merely as a boundary but as a spatial generator, shaping the internal relationships through its layered composition. The diagram’s logic prioritizes spatial sequence over formal ornamentation, emphasizing how structure and volume dictate use.
Illustrates the structural and spatial organization of a raised rectangular volume.
- Primary living area defined by a central open plan with integrated kitchen and dining.
- Secondary circulation zone marked by a narrow corridor and stair access to upper levels.
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Enclosed private quarters located at the rear, separated by solid partitions.
- Emphasizes vertical hierarchy through column-supported elevation.
- Uses spatial partitioning to distinguish public from private functions.
The building’s raised platform creates a clear separation between ground plane and interior space, establishing a foundational layer that supports the main volume. The interior is organized around a central axis that directs movement and defines primary use zones. Private areas are positioned at the rear, creating a spatial buffer from the public circulation. The stair’s placement at the rear edge reinforces vertical hierarchy while maintaining access to upper levels. The structural columns are evenly spaced, suggesting a modular grid that informs both spatial distribution and material expression.
Organizes spatial allocation within a vertical grid system
- Upper zone defines a primary circulation corridor
- Middle section contains a fragmented service core
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Lower area allocates a consolidated living volume
- Grid overlays impose structural regularity
- Black masses indicate fixed, non-negotiable elements
The diagram establishes a vertical hierarchy through spatial segmentation, where upper and lower zones are defined by distinct programmatic intent. The middle section’s fragmented form suggests a secondary circulation or utility function, interrupting the primary flow. Fixed elements are strategically placed to anchor spatial sequences and reinforce structural logic. The grid acts as a unifying constraint, translating program into measurable relationships while allowing for localized deviations.
Defines spatial organization through axial alignment and threshold demarcation
- Front-facing entrance establishes primary circulation axis
- Interior volume is partitioned by a central structural core
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Service zones are segregated along the rear wall
- Emphasizes linear progression through spatial sequencing
- Uses material contrast to articulate functional boundaries
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy of movement, directing flow from the exterior entry into a defined core before branching into service areas. The central element acts as a spatial pivot, anchoring circulation while separating public and private functions. Material differentiation reinforces functional zoning without explicit signage. The axial arrangement ensures efficient navigation while maintaining spatial clarity. The diagram’s logic prioritizes sequence over enclosure, aligning spatial behavior with structural expression.
Defines vertical circulation and structural framing within a modular grid system
- Left wing contains stacked service cores and vertical access
- Central core acts as a structural spine with dual elevations
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Right wing features recessed service bays and secondary access
- Grid system establishes proportional order and spatial rhythm
- Black massing indicates fixed structural or service elements
The diagram organizes spatial functions through a vertical hierarchy where the central core mediates circulation and structural continuity. Service cores on the left anchor the building’s primary vertical movement, while the right wing’s recessed bays suggest secondary or auxiliary functions. The grid’s uniformity imposes a rational order that governs both spatial distribution and structural logic. Fixed masses interrupt the grid to define thresholds and spatial transitions without disrupting the overall proportional system. The arrangement implies a clear separation between primary circulation, service functions, and spatial voids.
Defines the spatial organization of a commercial interior through axial alignment and circulation control.
- Primary circulation path defines the main flow through the central corridor.
- Service core occupies the rear left quadrant, adjacent to storage and mechanical zones.
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Retail display areas are distributed along the front and right facade for maximum visibility.
- Emphasis on linear sequencing over spatial enclosure.
- Use of contrasting massing to delineate functional zones without physical separation.
The diagram establishes a clear hierarchy where circulation dictates spatial priority, with the central axis serving as the primary conduit for movement. The service core is strategically positioned to support the retail zones without interrupting the visitor path. Display areas are arranged to maximize exposure while maintaining a coherent spatial rhythm. The absence of internal walls suggests a preference for flexible use, reinforced by the modular grid underlying all spatial divisions. The architectural logic prioritizes efficiency and visibility, translating into a layout that balances operational needs with customer experience.
Organizes spatial distribution through a grid-based layout with differentiated zones
- Upper left area defines a private enclosure with minimal adjacencies
- Central vertical corridor establishes circulation and partitions primary zones
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Lower section allocates a linear arrangement of service and reception spaces
- Emphasizes vertical hierarchy via stacked spatial blocks
- Uses negative space to delineate functional boundaries without explicit walls
The diagram establishes a clear vertical stratification where upper zones are reserved for private functions, while the lower levels accommodate public and service activities. A central corridor acts as the primary circulation spine, dictating movement and reinforcing spatial separation. The grid provides a consistent spatial reference, allowing for modular distribution of elements while maintaining structural integrity. The placement of service areas at the base suggests a functional hierarchy prioritizing accessibility and operational efficiency. The diagram’s logic is rooted in a rationalized zoning system that balances privacy, circulation, and utility through spatial sequencing.
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.