10 Rising Urban Architects in India Set to Tweak Compact City Living

3. Roy Antony Illampallil: Founder & Principal, Roy Antony Architects

Roy Antony Illampallil is a rising architect based in Kochi, Kerala. He leads Roy Antony Architects, a firm known for blending sustainability with strong design ideas. His work focuses on how to enhance city life while reducing environmental impact. Roy has become known for buildings that feel rooted in India’s traditions yet look fresh and modern.

Roy studied architecture and later ran his own studio. He learned early that the best spaces are ones that respond to climate and culture. His firm uses local, natural materials and design techniques that keep interiors cool. This reduces the need for energy-heavy systems like air conditioning. His work shows how thoughtful design can make city homes both comfortable and eco‑friendly.

Roy’s notable projects include residential clusters and community spaces designed with nature at the center. His approach to urban design blends calm outdoor areas with compact indoor living. He often designs buildings that feel connected to the surrounding landscape. This helps cities feel less crowded and more breathable.

His vision also includes community engagement. Before a project starts, Roy meets with future users to understand their needs. Then he creates plans that fit local lifestyles. This makes his architecture both smart and human-centered. His ideas help shape smarter and greener city living for the future.

4. Jayadev — Principal Architect, Stirvi Architects

Jayadev leads Stirvi Architects in Kochi. He is known for deep thinking about space and how people use it. His firm mixes traditional Indian ideas with modern design. This creates places that feel open, personal, and well suited to compact city living.

Jayadev studied architecture and later focused on community and environmental needs. He believes buildings should help people feel calm and connected. His projects often use natural light, shade, and open courtyards to make small spaces feel larger. He has designed houses that respond to local weather and culture. Residents say these designs make daily life more joyful.

His work also includes public gathering areas that bring neighbors together. These spaces help reduce isolation in big cities. Jayadev often focuses on how to make cities feel human-sized, even when they are dense and busy. He also emphasizes the importance of material choice and sustainable methods.

People admire his ability to blend functional design with quiet beauty. This makes him stand out among other India urban architecture firms working on compact city living. Many now see Jayadev as a key voice among urban design and planning experts in India. As cities grow, his work offers ideas for living well in small urban spaces.

5. Sonali Rastogi — Founding Partner, Morphogenesis

Sonali Rastogi is a co‑founder of Morphogenesis, one of the most dynamic and forward‑thinking firms among India urban architecture firms. Her practice focuses on design that is both modern and rooted in local context. She pushes boundaries in sustainable city design in India demands today.

Sonali’s journey began with strong academic training in architecture. She then chose to build a firm that works deeply with environment and culture. Her firm’s projects include city‑wide planning, campus design, and housing schemes that help people live better in tight urban settings. Her work shows how smart design can reduce energy use and make daily life smoother for residents in dense cities.

She believes in designing with local knowledge. She studies how wind, shade, and rain work on a site. Then she makes plans that use these elements to make buildings that stay cool. Her firm’s projects range from schools to towers to public spaces. Each design tries to keep the human need first. Her philosophy is about both efficiency and beauty.

Sonali’s work has won awards and world recognition. She often speaks about sustainable city futures and human‑scale design. She also trains and leads young architects who care about urban life that is fair, green, and liveable. Her ideas influence how people think about housing in cities where space is tight.

In 2026, her work will continue to shape urban design and planning India needs. Her focus on climate, people, and culture makes her a defining voice in India’s cities.

Also Read: Top 10 Indian Interior Designers You Should Know