Architecture, at its core, exists to create the physical environment in which people live; yet it is more than simply the constructed environment; it is also a component of the rich culture. It represents how the world looks as well as how people perceive the environment.
The recognition that architecture is a field within itself and that it is equally vital for architects to continue to push the boundaries of structures in new ways holds its own beauty. The belief that the designs process has to be continuous, ever-evolving, creative, and should reach its best possibility is rare. One such company that follows this ideology is Mobius Architects.
Mobius is committed to achieving the equilibrium between the project design aspirations and its budget while also focusing on timely delivery. During our endeavour to find the Most Innovative Architectural Firms, we came across Mobius. A firm is full of innovation and ideas with satisfying customer solutions. Read ahead to know about this dynamic firm in detail.
Describe Mobius in detail.
Mobius Architects is a multi-dimensional firm based out of Mumbai, specializing in Architecture, Urban planning, and Interior designing headed by Ar.Megha Harkut Laddha and Ar.Akhil Laddha.
We follow an inventive approach to construction in rhythm with the concept to achieve an elegant end product. To us, ‘Mobius’ represents continuity till the infinite edge. The process has to be continuous, ever-evolving, creative, reaching the extreme unseen point. We believe that each of our clients has a pattern in life. We thrive on getting into the basic geometry of their pattern and reaching the infinite point to create the space that is unique to them—the space, which is a replica of their personality and context.
What made you venture into the field of architecture?
We are passionate about designing and how the sketches turn into reality—exploring forms and learning from the surroundings always excited us. In architectural terms, we are interested in the initial diagram and idea of each project and exploring its potential through the design process. The inspiration for ideas comes from a range of influences, with no fixed or preconceived viewpoint.
What kind of offerings does Mobius provide to your clients?
We do Urban Design, Master Planning, Architecture, Landscape, and Interior designing. We also handle corporation clearance in Navi Mumbai and Vidharbha region.
What kind of challenges has Mobius faced while entering the architecture industry?
I started the firm, and later my husband, Ar. Akhil joined me. As a woman in this male-dominated field, the initial few years were critical to have a firm ground in front of clients, manage the site works and convince the clients about the feasibility of projects for me.
Also, it is a very unorganized sector where one has to overcome language barriers, manage labourers from various backgrounds, and get good quality work done from them.
How was your firm/business affected in these pandemic times? What steps did you take to curb the damages while helping your clients all the while and maintaining the safety of your employees?
The pandemic showed us a really difficult phase in Architecture. There was a shortage of labours and funds. Clients were not ready to pay the approved rates as their business was facing loss. We focused on simplifying the design and going ahead with a minimalistic approach to curb cost and still deliver a good outcome.
What would you like to advise the young generation of entrepreneurs and enthusiasts who want to venture into the field of architecture?
As Zaha Hadid quoted, “If you want an easy life, don’t be an Architect.” So, I would suggest young architects to be hardworking and be always eager to learn.
Where do you envision your firm/business in the long run, and what are your future goals? How do you plan to embrace the changes happening in your industry?
We envision being in the top 10 Architectural firms in Mumbai that are doing amazing designs in architecture. This industry is very volatile as it is dependent on the construction industry, political developments, and economic ups and downs. We plan to focus on projects in developing cities.
The Innovative Leader
Megha has completed her Architecture from Sir.J.J. College of Architecture, Mumbai. Recently, in 2020 she did Executive MBA from IIM (Kolkata). Later she worked for Kadri Consultants Pvt.Ltd and Architect Hafeez Contractor. She focuses on identifying, developing, and satisfying client needs by listening and collaboration.
This allows preconceptions to be challenged in an air of client trust to ensure quality and value for money. Her rational and systematic approach to brief development and concept design is highly sought-after. It is an iterative, collaborative process, which ensures that the client’s objectives are enshrined in the design from the outset and delivered in the completed building.
