The third edition of Elev8, one of India’s prestigious architecture and design festival, is all set to welcome the architecture community on February 1 and 2 in Ahmedabad. Organised by The Architect’s Diary, the festival provides platform for the architecture community to come together for exchange of ideas and showcase their creativity. Ahead of the festival, architect Siddharth Bhayani, Founder and Director, The Architect's Diary, talks to The Free Press Journal about Elev8 and architecture.
Excerpts from the interview:
What was the inspiration that led to the birth of Elev8 and how has the festival evolved since its inception?
Elev8 was born out of a desire to create a platform that celebrates architecture and design, fostering meaningful conversations and connections within the community. Inspired by the need to explore how architecture shapes society, the festival debuted with its first theme ‘A Closer Look’, at The Boho Homes, Ahmedabad, focusing on regional creativity. Over the years, it has evolved to attract thousands of attendees and expand its scope from local inspiration to national relevance. The Second edition of Elev8 in 2024 at The Hutheesing Visual Arts Centre emerged with the theme ‘Crafting Tomorrow Today.’ This year, the third edition of Elev8 has evolved into a PAN-INDIAN event with the theme ‘Building a Legacy – A Vision for Generations.’ Each edition has added layers of innovation, from keynotes and panel discussions to masterclasses, curated galleries, and workshops, showcasing both emerging talent and established icons.
In addition to its annual event, Elev8 hosts smaller-scale gatherings such as Elev8 Select, held in Bangalore in 2024, which brings together leading minds in the field. Elev8 Spot is an exclusive event, that enables meaningful connections with influential figures within the design community.
How does the festival reflect current trends in architecture and design?
Elev8, as an annual event, acts as a mirror to current trends by showcasing forward-thinking ideas and sustainable solutions that resonate globally. Through its curated mix of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and installations, the festival emphasizes themes like legacy-building, adaptability, and creativity in the face of environmental and societal challenges. By blending modern technologies, sustainability, and traditional wisdom, it offers a comprehensive view of how architecture is evolving to meet the needs of future generations. Moreover, the festival highlights the importance of urbanism and large-scale spaces in shaping the cities of tomorrow, focusing on how design can foster more livable and resilient environments.
How do you plan to keep the festival relevant and exciting for years to come?
Elev8’s future relevance lies in its ability to adapt, innovate, and engage. Focusing on diversity by featuring voices from varied design disciplines, ensuring inclusivity, and bringing global perspectives to local challenges never goes out of trend. Building interactive formats like engaging sessions and masterclasses helps inspire while keeping the community updated on current trends. The festival also adopts a unique approach to venue selection, choosing iconic, culturally rich spaces like the Mill Owners’ Association Building to foster creativity and conversation. This exclusive yet inclusive approach offers a fresh, inspiring setting that aligns with the festival's mission of building a legacy for future generations.
What’s the story behind The Architect’s Diary creation? How did it all begin?
The Architect’s Diary, established in 2016, envisioned an Indian creative community of architects and interior designers in a digital space, which was then abundant and unexplored. Having started in an era where going digital was a rather hesitant decision for designers to invest in, The Architect’s Diary became the most trusted digital publication media to witness speedy and organic growth. Hence, marking a digital footprint of their practices and a stepping stone to explore a plethora of opportunities. Over time, it grew into a thriving hub for architects, designers, and enthusiasts, dedicated to knowledge sharing and inspiring innovation in the industry.
How does your website differentiate itself from others in the architecture or design space?
The Architect’s Diary stands out for its community-driven approach, blending professional insights with creative storytelling. It highlights both emerging talents and renowned names and celebrates real and regional architecture. By integrating events like Elev8 and IIDA (Indian Interior Design & Architecture Summit) it bridges online and offline engagement, fostering a
celebration of the greatest minds and world-changing thinkers in the Architectural and Interior Design Community. The platform also emphasizes community-oriented content through its other social media content on YouTube like TAD Originals, which focuses on ethical journalism and spotlight key architectural narratives. It creates opportunities for architects and interior designers, particularly from tier 2 and 3 cities, by offering a space for business growth and collaboration.
How do you think online platforms are shaping the global conversation around architecture and urban planning?
Online platforms, indeed are geographical barriers, making information accessible to a broader audience. They enable real-time knowledge sharing, promote collaboration, and amplify the voices of emerging architects. Influencing design philosophies and fostering sustainable practices while engaging in global discussions on urban planning challenges.
As someone deeply involved in architecture and design, how does your personal design philosophy reflect in the website?
The website reflects a philosophy rooted in inclusivity, innovation, and storytelling. It emphasizes holistic design, blending aesthetics with functionality. By showcasing diverse projects and perspectives, The Architect’s Diary believes in architecture’s transformative power to shape lives and communities.
What do you think is the most underappreciated aspect of architecture that your website brings to the fore?
The Architect’s Diary shines a spotlight on the humanistic side of architecture—how spaces impact emotions, behaviors, and community interactions. It also highlights regional and vernacular architecture, celebrating their role in sustainability and cultural preservation, which are often overlooked in favor of contemporary trends.
How do you think Artificial Intelligence and other technological advancements are shaping the architecture and design industry? Do you look at it as a pro or a con?
AI and technological advancements are revolutionizing the industry by streamlining processes, enhancing visualization, and enabling data-driven decision-making. Tools like generative design, digital twins, and automation allow architects to focus more on creativity and innovation. While challenges like over-reliance on technology or ethical concerns exist, these advancements are largely a pro, offering opportunities to address complex design challenges with precision and efficiency.
One advice you would share with aspiring architects?
Stay curious and adaptable. Embrace the evolving nature of architecture while grounding your designs in place. Remember that architecture is not just about creating structures but shaping experiences, communities, and legacies that stand the test of time.