In a career spanning decades, architect Sangeet Sharma has made his mark as a versatile architect, author, poet, and TEDx speaker. As a partner at SD Sharma & Associates, his contributions to architecture are as profound as his literary achievements. Known for his unique architectural style, Cubist Modernism, Sangeet seamlessly blends creativity and functionality in his projects. In this interview, he shares his journey, his design philosophy, and his thoughts on the evolving role of technology in architecture.
As an acclaimed author and architect, how do you balance creativity with functionality in your projects as well as in your writing?
Sangeet Sharma: It’s all about time management and recognizing the space each form of art occupies. For me, whether it’s writing, architecture, music, or poetry, they are all expressions of creativity. I treat each art form as its own entity, which allows me to balance them and nurture my creativity. It energizes me to give my best to each discipline, and I truly enjoy every bit of it.
Your architectural style is called “Cubist Modernism.” Could you elaborate on this concept and how it influences your work?
Sangeet Sharma: Absolutely. Cubist Modernism is influenced by the modernist movement and the art of cubism, notably by Pablo Picasso. Le Corbusier, too, was greatly inspired by these ideas, which is evident in the architecture of Chandigarh. Cubism introduced a way of seeing the world through pure, functional lines—cuboids, squares, and geometric forms. Life is about simplicity, and that reflects in my work. Whether it’s architecture or art, we are all striving to create comfortable and functional spaces, and that’s what Cubist Modernism helps achieve. It’s about clean lines and making life easier through design.
You’ve written several books on architecture. What inspired you to explore writing alongside your architectural practice?
Sangeet Sharma: Writing helps me validate my learning and understanding. As my elders used to say, to truly master something, you must document and reflect on it. When I create something in architecture, writing about it convinces me that I’ve understood it fully. Writing also allows me to share this knowledge with others, especially the younger generation. When we were students, we didn’t have access to such resources, so I felt the need to pass on this knowledge. Writing is both an educational and creative outlet that feeds into my life and architecture.
Is there one project that’s especially close to your heart and has influenced your design approach?
Sangeet Sharma: Recently, I completed the Mathematics Building at IIT Roorkee, and it stands out as one of my closest projects. Every project is special, but this one allowed me to explore innovation in design on a new level. As architects, we are constantly evolving, and with changing technologies, products, and MEP services, the potential to create something unique always grows. This project is a testament to that evolution.
You’re a second-generation architect, and now the next generation in your family is also involved in design. How do you see architecture evolving, especially with advancements in technology like AI?
Sangeet Sharma: Architecture evolves through the synergy of technology, products, and services. Technologies like AI are going to shape the future of design. Take dormakaba, for instance; we’ve used their products for generations. Reliable products become the foundation for the next generation of design. The future belongs to innovation and technology, and we must keep pace with it. My father, who is 93 years old, still works in the office and stays updated with technology. That inspires me and my family to stay ahead in this rapidly changing field.