Jainika Shah
As an Indian architect with master's degree from Pratt University, her journey for a better tomorrow explores the developing principles of design to produce architectural endeavors.
Her recent projects have received global recognition and appreciation for using sustainable techniques and building materials for construction. "Design for me means a seamless blend between user experience and sustainable innovations," she says. Her innovative sustainable strategies for designing breaks the typical stereotype of building construction by using ecofriendly and biodegradable materials. She has used these design strategies across various architectural typologies from a residential house to a large resort spa.
"As an architectural designer my mission is to create meaningful designs which add value to the existing community while considering the future. I would like my work to be a steppingstone towards sustainable architectural innovations," she says. It is with this belief she wants her design ideas to be more accessible to people and young designers.
Her recently awarded project "Mycelium Maison" is a prototype design promoting the use of a biodegradable material called mycelium. This material is unique as it is a light weight, eco-friendly biodegradable material which is extracted from the roots of mushrooms. Mycelium also has high insulating capabilities without toxicity and high fire resistance. This low-cost material offers a promising step toward an architectural vision that is at one with nature. Makes you wonder if implemented correctly, can replace traditional materials like Steel and concrete on a largescale?
Jainika's work has been published and showcased in magazines and blogs. She is the recipient of numerous prestigious international design awards, including the Gold in Houzee Awards 2024, Silver in the French Design Awards 2024, Silver in the Muse Design Awards 2024, Platinum in Design skills Awards 2024, and have been nominated in many more.
As a zealous architect, her journey is nothing short of spectacular. Building of various projects across India and USA, Jainika strives for innovation in her architectural endeavors. With her ever-growing career and Jainika's commitment to sustainable design, you might see many more architectural marvels across the globe.
