In the realm of architecture and urban planning, women have been increasingly instrumental in shaping modern infrastructure. Historically underrepresented in these fields, women are now making significant strides, bringing fresh perspectives, innovative designs, and inclusive approaches to the built environment.
One notable aspect of women’s contribution to modern infrastructure lies in their emphasis on sustainability and resilience. With climate change posing unprecedented challenges, female architects and urban planners are championing eco-friendly practices and resilient design solutions. From green building techniques to urban green spaces, their efforts are geared towards creating more sustainable and livable cities.
Shaon Sengupta, Director & Head – North, Edifice Consultants
Shaon Sengupta, Director & Head – North, Edifice Consultants said “I firmly believe that the key to success in the field of architecture lies in knowledge, perseverance, and determination, which surpasses gender. While it is true that the industry has traditionally been male-dominated, clients are primarily focused on the architect’s expertise to deliver high-quality designs.”
“At Edifice, we recognize that collaboration and teamwork are essential to achieving our design goals. We understand that every team member’s contribution is vital, regardless of gender. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive and succeed,” Sengupta added.
Sengupta also mentioned “as we continue to push the boundaries to explore innovative design ideas and sustainable building strategies, we have come to realize the importance of resilience and patience in the face of adversity. I am grateful to be part of a growing community of architects who are breaking down barriers and making a positive impact on the built environment. I urge all aspiring architects, regardless of their gender, to embrac e their passion for design and re -draw their boundaries to create architecture that is the need of the hour and lifeline for the future.”
Mitu Mathur, Director, GPM Architects and Planners
Mitu Mathur, Director, GPM Architects and Planners said “women architects and urban planners profoundly impact modern infrastructure today by bringing sensitivity and inclusivity into designs. Their approach is holistic, respecting cultural integration and catering to diverse needs while emphasising a high level of detail, ensuring that the infrastructure is functional and aesthetic-oriented.”
“Women have a unique ability to visualise the bigger picture at both the macro and micro levels, considering the implications while attending to minute details. They priori tise a sustainable and contextually sensitive approach, incorporating elements of nature and promoting local solutions to enhance social equity. Moreover, they engage with various stakeholders from different regions, advocating for economic equity and ensu ring that infrastructure projects benefit all members of society. Women architects and planners are thus instrumental in shaping infrastructure that is not only visually pleasing but also socially and economically beneficial,” Mathur added.
Women architects and planners are playing a crucial role in fostering inclusivity and diversity within urban spaces. They are challenging traditional notions of design by prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity for all members of society, including marginalized communities. Through thoughtful urban planning, they are striving to create environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also socially equitable.
Vipul B Varshneya, Founder STHAPATI
Vipul B Varshneya, Founder STHAPATI said “women architects, designers, and infrastructure experts contribute significantly to India’s infrastructure in various ways. Women in architecture have made significant strides in previously male-dominated industries-showcasing their talent, perseverance, and leadership. There have been tremendous success stories, with many women leading their own firms nationwide. We bring a different perspective that is just as valuable and respected as our male counterparts. Architecture allows us to pursue artistic fr eedom and personal expression with tangible results, bringing a unique design perspective by incorporating social and environmental consciousness.”
“Women are passionate about reinterpreting modern architecture’s traditional values and construction practic es, preserving India’s neglected monuments and significant buildings. Women designers often utilise local arts, culture, and heritage as inspiration for their designs, creating spaces that reflect the essence of India. This approach to developing architect ural ideas emphasises using indigenous natural resources, both actively and passively, promoting sustainability in their projects,” Varshneya added.
Varshneya also mentioned “women architects are also coming together to address issues such as equity, diversity, and inclusiveness in their profession. We need to support, celebrate and connect our fellow practitioners in the design industry through intersectional and cross-disciplinary approaches that support leadership, mentorship and networking opportunities in architecture. We must empower women in architecture to pursue their passions and contribute to one of the greatest professions.”
“Over the years, many women architects have been recognised with awards for their innovative design solutions in urban India. They bring unique qualities to the built environment, offering out-of-the-box design solutions that enhance the quality of life in cities and communities nationwide. Overall, women architects and urban planners significantly contribute to modern infrastructure by prioritising sustainability, resilience, and well-being in their designs. Their innovative ideas and creative solutions shape a more sustainable and livable future for cities worldwide,” she furthrer added.
Shimul Javeri Kadri, Founding Partner, SJK Architects
Shimul Javeri Kadri, Founding Partner, SJK Architects said “environmental sustainability has always been a part of our DNA at SJK Architects, we see nature as ou r biggest collaborator and work with the sun and the wind to create environments that are beautiful, comfortable, and sustainable. But to me, social and cultural sustainability are equally important parameters that we focus on, especially working in a coun try like India. How can we explore meaningful engagement with various cultural practices through architecture? How can we make space for the local communities to participate in the architectural process? Every time we intervene in a new city, how can we co ntribute positively? These are a few questions our work engages with, expanding the scope of sustainable architecture.”
“We open up the process of discussion, negotiation and resolution to everyone involved in the orchestrated act of building, emphasising t heir role as active participants who can both create and receive empowerment. The Hotel in Bodh Gaya, for instance, features a sloping roof topped with clay tiles handcrafted by 26 local potter families, allowing us to support the local economy while cre ating a contextual, climate -responsive design. And at the JSW Sanjeevani Multispecialty Hospital, the environmentally and socially sustainable design has created employment for over 235 locals and transformed a barren, slag -filled site into a green oasis f or healing and recovery,” she further added.
Women are bringing a fresh perspective to architectural design, incorporating elements of wellness and well-being into the built environment. Concepts such as biophilic design, which integrates nature into architectural spaces, are gaining traction, thanks in part to the efforts of female architects. By prioritizing human-centric design principles, they are creating spaces that promote mental and physical health, enhancing the quality of life for urban dwellers.
In addition to their design contributions, women architects and urban planners are also making significant strides in leadership roles within the industry. Breaking through the glass ceiling, they are assuming positions of authority and influence, driving positive change within their respective fields. Their leadership is inspiring future generations of women to pursue careers in architecture and urban planning, further diversifying the profession.
Sonali Rastogi, Founding Partner, Morphogenesis
Sonali Rastogi, Founding Partner, Morphogenesis said “architects and urban planners, regardless of their gender, are equally responsible for shaping the physical landscapes of India’s cities while transforming the way people interact with and experience them. In the dynamic landscape of architecture and urban planning, however, more and more women are carving out a significant niche, driving innovation and reshaping the built environment with a focus on sustainability, resilience, and well-being. Today, in India, this transformation is particularly evident as most architecture colleges boast over 50 percent female enrolment, setting the stage for women architects to have an equal stake in nation building and urbanization in the coming years. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between people and their surroundings, women architects and urban planners are championing a paradigm shift in the modern infrastructure. Emphasizing sustainability, these visionary professionals integrate eco -friendly materials, renewable energy sources, and efficient waste management systems into their designs, fostering environments that thrive in harmony with nature. Moreover, they inject a renewed emphasis on wellness and well-being into architectural design by infusing spaces with elements that promote physical, mental, and emotional health. From incorporating green spaces and natural light to prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity, their designs prioritize the holistic well-being of individuals and communities.”
Women architects and urban planners are reshaping modern infrastructure by bringing a unique blend of creativity, sustainability, inclusivity, and leadership to the table. Their contributions are not only transforming the physical landscape of our cities but also fostering more resilient, equitable, and vibrant communities for generations to come. As we continue to navigate the complexities of urbanization and climate change, the role of women in shaping the built environment will only become increasingly vital.