Graduated from Sir Sir. J. J. College of Architecture, Mumbai in 1986 and soon after completed her Master in Architecture from the University of Illinois, Urbana – Champaign in 1988. She’s known for her designs that seamlessly blend functionality with artistic expression. Her innovative approach to architecture pushes boundaries, creating spaces that inspire and captivate. In addition to her groundbreaking architectural designs, architect Samira Rathod also delves into installation design, crafting pieces that embody her signature style.
Prioritising natural materials like wood, stone, and locally sourced elements into their designs. This creates a connection with the surrounding environment and fosters a sense of tranquillity within the space. Incorporating natural light plays a crucial role, often maximised through strategic window placement and open floor plans, creating seamless connection with the landscape.
Hariharan house:
Situated amidst lush green surroundings in the heart of Karjat, this residence seamlessly blends with its natural environment. Large windows and open spaces allow abundant natural light to flood the interiors, while strategically placed courtyards and greenery further blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.
By emphasising clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on functionality, her designs create a sense of calmness and allows the beauty of the natural materials and architectural elements to shine through. She avoids excessive ornamentation and prioritises purposeful design choices, resulting in timeless and elegant spaces.
Cool house:
This architectural marvel embodies simplicity and sophistication, with clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on functionality. The house seamlessly integrates materials, such as exposed concrete and timber, fostering a serene ambiance.Its spacious interiors feature an effortless flow between rooms, promoting a sense of openness and connectivity. Rathod's meticulous attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the design, from the sleek finishes to the carefully curated furnishings.
Her designs often feature open floor plans and seamless transitions between different areas. This fosters a sense of connection and encourages interaction within the space. In her designs we notice, strategically utilising elements like varying floor levels, strategically placed furniture, and open sightlines to create a sense of flow and visual interest.
School of Dancing Arches:
This innovative design project integrates various spaces within the structure, allowing for a continuous flow of movement and interaction. The building's layout, characterised by interconnected arches and open courtyards, creates a sense of spatial continuity and encourages exploration. By breaking away from traditional compartmentalization, Rathod's design fosters a dynamic environment where users can navigate through the space effortlessly, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor areas.
With a strong emphasis on sustainability, Rathod integrates eco-friendly practices and technologies into her designs, promoting environmental responsibility.This includes using recycled materials, locally sourced materials, and energy-efficient technologies. She strives to minimise the environmental impact of their projects while maintaining high aesthetic and functional standards.
Karjat House
Situated atop a large mound overlooking a man-made lake, the house was meticulously designed to minimise disruption to the natural habitat, particularly for the variety of migratory birds that inhabit the area. By preserving existing trees and designing the spaces around them, the house blends well into its surroundings, ensuring that the birds can continue to thrive without disturbance. This approach not only enhances the ecological integrity of the site but also demonstrates a deep commitment to sustainability by harmonising human habitation with the natural world.
Her designs employ innovative lighting techniques to enhance the ambiance of her spaces, playing with natural and artificial light to create captivating atmospheres. She utilises skylights, strategically placed windows, screens and reflective surfaces to create a sense of openness and depth within the space.
Shadow House:
Nestled amidst the tranquil landscape of Alibaug, Maharashtra, this residence integrates with its surroundings while offering respite from the scorching sun. From its strategic placement between two trees to its careful crafting of shaded spaces, every element is meticulously designed to manipulate light and shadow. The result is a sensory experience that transcends conventional architectural boundaries, inviting inhabitants into a world where light dances and shadows whisper tales of serenity and enchantment.
Her designs not only reflect a deep appreciation for the environment but also strive to create spaces that inspire, comfort and connect with their inhabitants on a profound level. With each project, her studio continues to push boundaries, redefine norms, and leave an indelible mark on the architectural landscape.
