Ar. Surya Kakani is a distinguished architect and educator known for his environmentally conscious and contextually grounded approach to design. With over 23 years of professional experience, he has built a practice that prioritizes the thoughtful integration of local materials, climate-responsive strategies, and user-centric planning.

Design Philosophy & Expertise

Surya’s work is rooted in a deep understanding of place and community. He advocates for an architecture that draws from regional traditions while adopting contemporary design methods to solve modern challenges. His expertise is particularly noted in:

• Contextual Modernism: Designing structures that respect their physical and cultural surroundings.
• Sustainable Practice: Utilizing climate-responsive strategies and local materials to create ecologically responsible buildings.
• Diverse Typologies: A strong portfolio of educational, cultural, healthcare, and institutional projects across India.

Key Contributions & Projects

• Institutional & Educational Excellence: His portfolio includes a wide range of schools and libraries designed to foster learning through spatial clarity and environmental harmony.
• Healthcare Infrastructure: Leading the design of healthcare buildings that focus on functional efficiency and the well-being of the users.
• Community-Centric Design: Creating spaces that encourage social interaction and reflect the unique identity of the communities they serve.

Academic Leadership & Mentorship

Surya is a prominent figure in architectural academia, bridging the gap between professional practice and education:

• Dean of Architecture: Served as the former Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at CEPT University, Ahmedabad, where he contributed significantly to curriculum development and institutional growth.
• Mentorship: Actively involved in shaping the next generation of architects through teaching, design studios, and professional mentorship.
• Research & Dialogue: Frequently engages in architectural discourse, advocating for a more sensitive and sustainable built environment in India.

Education & Credentials

• M. Arch: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), USA.
• B. Arch: School of Architecture, CEPT University, Ahmedabad.
• Experience: 23+ years of practice in architecture and urban design.
• Professional Focus: Environmentally conscious design and regional architectural traditions.