FORM AND FUNCTION
Calicut-based architect Tony Joseph walks a fine line between a conventional narrative and contemporary, out-of-the-box aesthetics in his projects across the globe
Marrying a vocabulary that highlights vernacular elements and local art and culture with a style that pleases the modern aesthete is easier said than done. But no architectural firm is better at it than Stapati that was started in 1989 by 57-year-old architect Tony Joseph. He worked in Delhi, Bangalore and Auroville before starting his own firm. Today he has offices in Kochi, Bengaluru and Calicut; his projects range from urban design schemes, master planning, mixed-use developments, premium hospitality projects and commercial complexes to residences, interiors and even product design. His design portfolio includes the Kumarakom Lake Resort in Wayanad (rated as the finest wellness space in the region), the Enchanted Island Resort in
Seychelles, and Kerala’s tallest apartment tower, the 40- storey Choice Paradise in Kochi, to name a few. The architect was in the capital for India Arch Dialogue 2018 ( www. fcdi. co. in) where he shared his design journey.
Why did you become an architect and who were your mentors?
Mathematics was one of my favourite subjects and this pushed me towards architecture. Subsequently I joined MIT, Manipal and pursued my post- graduation from University of Texas, Austin, in the Charles Moore programme. I returned to India and started Stapati. A lot of people have influenced me over the years. From Dr Varkki George, my teacher in the undergraduate years, to Charles Moore ( American architect, educator, writer), to my classmates, to people whom I work with ( architects, masons, carpenters, craftsmen); all have inspired me and are my mentors.
Your first project
My first project was a residence I did in Calicut. At that time I was influenced by Laurie Baker and employed a lot of his techniques and language. The house was designed considering the existing trees and incorporating the slope of the land, which in a way continues even today in our designs. We used techniques like the rat- trap bond ( bricks are placed in vertical position instead of horizontal, thus creating a cavity or hollow space) and filler slabs ( cost- effective roofing system, where part of concrete in bottom of slab is replaced by filler material). We had to train the masons and workers to execute these alternate methods. The client himself was highly interested and involved in the work. I was pleasantly surprised when I met him last year and learned that he had started constructing houses after that for a living, with the same set of masons, following those very cost effective techniques.
Do you have a signature style?
Contextuality is something that defines our work. Our practice has evolved continuously since its inception, constantly exploring new directions. One always has to react to the ever evolving concerns of our built environment and the newer challenges that come up, even though the core philosophy has remained more or less constant. AT www. stapati. com