Empowering Future Architects: Process of Design (POD)

As part of an academic initiative to guide future architects in navigating their most significant design endeavor, the Lead Architect conducted a session titled “POD – Process of Design” for 4th and 5th-year Bachelor of Architecture students from Bhanuben Nanavati College of Architecture (BNCA), Pune, and Padmabhushan Vasantdada Patil College of Architecture (PVP), Pune.

The session explored the architectural thesis journey through the detailed presentation of a thesis proposal for a Bench High Court in Ladakh, conceived in the context of the region's evolving administrative and judicial landscape following the abrogation of Article 370. Using this project as a case study, students were guided through the complete design process—from identifying a relevant and impactful subject, establishing a strong research framework, and understanding the socio-political context, to developing a design vision and translating it into a comprehensive architectural proposal.

A key focus of the discussion was the importance of selecting thesis topics that address real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to society. The proposed High Court project demonstrated how architecture can respond to issues of governance, accessibility, regional identity, and public infrastructure while remaining sensitive to local climate, culture, and context.

Through the Process of Design (POD) framework, the session emphasized the value of critical thinking, civic responsibility, and contextual design. Students were encouraged to view their thesis not merely as an academic exercise, but as an opportunity to develop solutions with tangible social relevance and lasting impact. Drawing from professional experience and project-based learning, the session provided valuable insights into approaching architectural thesis projects with clarity, rigor, and a strong sense of purpose.