Design Ashram Consultants (DAC), Calicut

Designation

Partner and Principal architect

Company Name

Design Ashram Consultants (DAC), Calicut

Numerous site visits as a child along with his father and discussions on house design motivated Shyam Sekhar Menon to take up architecture at NIT, Calicut. “The moment you step into the real world of the profession – that’s when the learning curve starts. In architecture, the only way to learn is to do. So I did. Once I was able to handle projects to a certain level of satisfaction, I decided to move to the Middle East,” recalls the 32-year-old architect.

In the Middle East, his focus shifted from pure design to management and technical aspects of projects. “This experience helped me to understand the concepts of organised design development processes, sustainable design practices of developed countries and hardcore project management,” he adds. He has projects that pan across India and Qatar, Syria, Oman and Sudan.

After a few years, Menon moved back home and set up his own firm, Design Ashram Consultants (DAC). “Simplicity is the ultimate goal of my designs. As there is too much clutter in the world of buildings, I prefer buildings that are functionally efficient and visually soothing. I am inspired by Japanese architect Tadao Ando. His simplicity in design, the true spirit of Japanese minimalism, mastery over the use of materials such as exposed concrete to create wonders, is truly magical.”

DAC revolves around the concept of a collective design strategy, where the core strengths of multiple talented individuals come up with a composite design. DAC was born by merging three independent practices. “My most significant project has been the designing of my own residence. In this project, I got to understand the impact of minor details, which have a long-term impact on the functioning of the building,” says Menon. “However, a dream project for me would be to design my own glass house. Ever since I saw Philip Johnson’s Glass House, I had this urge to come up with my own interpretation of it.”

Balance is what Menon concentrates on, in his design. “Innovation in design is the constant attempt to identify and resolve issues related to construction and function of building components. I try to balance between the aesthetics and functions of the elements,” he adds.

Menon has also been actively involved in conducting training/awareness programmes for students and practising professionals in the field of sustainable design and project management.