Article Top 10 Famous Architects from India

1. Charles Correa - Charles Correa is widely regarded as the father of modern Indian architecture. He emphasized designing buildings that responded to India’s climate, social structure, and culture. Born in 1930, Correa's works captured the essence of Indian life in post-independence India. One of his earliest and most celebrated projects is the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Museum in Ahmedabad, which combines minimalist aesthetics with profound symbolism. He also played a pivotal role in urban planning, especially in conceptualizing Navi Mumbai. His works like Jawahar Kala Kendra in Jaipur and the British Council building in Delhi exhibit his mastery in blending Indian traditions with modern functionality. Correa’s vision of inclusive and sustainable urbanism has left a lasting legacy.

2. B.V. Doshi - Balkrishna Vithaldas Doshi, or B.V. Doshi, was a legend in Indian architecture. Born in 1927 and mentored by Le Corbusier, Doshi created a unique design vocabulary that harmonized modernist principles with Indian sensibilities. He was the first Indian to win the prestigious Pritzker Prize in 2018. One of his most recognized works is the Aranya Low-Cost Housing Project in Indore, which provided affordable yet dignified housing to thousands of families. Doshi was also instrumental in shaping educational institutions such as the Indian Institute of Management in Bangalore and the School of Architecture in Ahmedabad (CEPT). His architectural philosophy was deeply rooted in sustainability, community engagement, and timeless aesthetics.

3. Raj Rewal - Raj Rewal’s architecture is known for its bold forms and deep respect for Indian traditions. Born in 1934, Rewal developed a distinct style that merges modern techniques with local cultural and environmental contexts. The now-demolished Hall of Nations, built for the 1972 International Trade Fair in Delhi, remains one of his most iconic and controversial structures.
Rewal also designed the Parliament Library Building and the Asian Games Village in Delhi. His projects are notable for their monumental scale, use of traditional elements like jalis and courtyards, and social responsiveness. Rewal has continuously advocated for architecture that is democratic, context-sensitive, and innovative.

4. Laurie Baker - Laurie Baker, although British-born, made India his home and contributed immensely to sustainable and affordable architecture. Settling in Kerala, he designed homes, schools, hospitals, and churches using cost-effective techniques and local materials. Known as the 'Gandhi of Architecture,' Baker believed in simplicity, frugality, and functionality. He popularized the use of exposed brick, filler slab roofing, and rat-trap bond walls. His architectural language resonated with the common man and offered solutions for India's housing challenges. Baker’s influence goes beyond his buildings—he inspired a whole generation of architects to consider ecological responsibility and social impact in their practice.

5. Hafeez Contractor - If there's a name synonymous with modern high-rise architecture in India, it’s Hafeez Contractor. Known for his flamboyant style and expansive commercial projects, Contractor has reshaped the skyline of cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Gurgaon. Born in 1950, he has designed residential complexes, IT parks, malls, and educational institutions. Notable works include the Imperial Towers in Mumbai, Infosys buildings in Pune, and the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. His firm is among the largest in India, handling massive real estate developments. Though often critiqued for being too commercial, his contribution to modern Indian architecture in terms of scale and reach is undeniable.

6. Sanjay Puri - Sanjay Puri is one of the most celebrated contemporary architects in India. With over 300 international and national awards, his design philosophy revolves around creativity, sustainability, and contextual relevance. His works are known for dynamic forms, bold geometry, and intelligent use of light and materials. Notable projects include the 72 Screens House in Rajasthan, the Hotel Auramah Valley in Himachal, and office buildings in cities like Ahmedabad and Chennai. He consistently represents India at global architecture forums and has been featured in the World Architecture Festival. Puri’s work stands out for its originality and deep connection with Indian climates and cultural settings.

7. Brinda Somaya - Brinda Somaya is a highly respected architect and conservationist who has left a significant mark in both restoration and modern architecture. Born in 1949, she believes that architecture must be a tool for social change. She has worked on restoring several heritage structures including the St. Thomas Cathedral in Mumbai and the Goa Institute of Management campus. Her firm has also designed corporate campuses, educational institutions, and public spaces. Somaya is one of the leading voices advocating for gender inclusivity in architecture and has been a mentor to many young professionals. Her design approach blends aesthetic beauty with social responsibility.

8. Sheila Sri Prakash - Sheila Sri Prakash was the first Indian woman to start and operate her own architectural practice. Her work emphasizes eco-friendly and culturally rooted design. Founder of Shilpa Architects, her portfolio includes residential townships, public institutions, and green buildings. She has been recognized globally for her commitment to sustainability and was invited to be part of the Global Agenda Council of the World Economic Forum. She also pioneered the Reciprocity Wave movement, a student-driven initiative promoting urban sustainability. Her design philosophy balances innovation, tradition, and environmental ethics, making her a role model for architects worldwide.

9. Christopher Charles Benninger - An American by birth, Christopher Benninger has made significant contributions to Indian architecture through urban design and institutional planning. Founder of CCBA Designs in Pune, he has worked extensively on master plans and academic campuses. His design for the Mahindra United World College and the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad stand as exemplary educational environments. He blends minimalist design with functionality and regional relevance. Benninger is also an accomplished writer and educator, influencing architectural discourse in India. His work continues to push boundaries in sustainable urban development and socially responsive design.

10. Anupama Kundoo - Anupama Kundoo is an architect and researcher whose work focuses on material innovation and sustainable architecture. Trained in India and Germany, she has built extensively in Auroville using unconventional and recycled materials. Her notable projects include the Wall House and the Full Fill Home prototype, designed for affordable living. Kundoo’s work has been exhibited at international forums including the Venice Architecture Biennale. She advocates for low-impact architecture that is both economically and environmentally sustainable. Her approach is deeply human-centric, reflecting empathy, innovation, and resilience.