RESPONSIBLE LUXURY
Harleen Virk, 46, Principal Architect, Dimensions, Chandigarh
Creating a Balance Chandigarh College of Architecture’s gold medallist Harleen Virk’s practice has evolved over the years but what has remained constant is her effort to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality. “I relish mixing the traditional with the new. Houses that make optimum use of space, natural materials, lighting and landscape are my favourite,” says Virk who has done around 150 projects so far. The fact that architecture has the power to influence lifestyle and society excites her.
Flowing Ideas Young clients seek a more participatory relationship with Virk, wanting to be directly involved in design decisions. “They come with some preconceived notions, majorly influenced by the internet, which they want to be implemented. Usually in about two meetings I am able to add practicality to their fancy ideas.” Virk feels that increased travel around the world has brought about this change as it has exposed people to a variety of ideas.
The New Home Virk thinks that people are quite sceptical about ‘living frugally without modern luxury’. Coming to the future, Virk thinks that spaces will be teeming with “smart” devices that will control and monitor every aspect of its use. “Designers and users will be looking for long-lasting adaptable solutions leading to architecture and interiors being a collaborative venture."