Shridhar Mamidalaa is a visionary architect, computational designer, and educator from Hyderabad, India. Born on January 9, 1988, he has pioneered sustainable architecture by merging traditional artistry with cutting-edge technology. With a strong educational foundation in architecture, Shridhar has led groundbreaking projects, including the world’s first metal auxetic pavilion and India’s first 3D-printed interiors and furniture series. His work is defined by a commitment to environmental responsibility, utilizing recycled materials and innovative design techniques to create eco-friendly structures that are both stylish and functional.
Interviewer: Can you start by telling us a bit about yourself, your background, and what led you to pursue a career in architecture?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: I was born in Hyderabad on January 9, 1988. From a young age, I was fascinated by art and design, which naturally led me to pursue a Diploma in Architecture and later a Bachelor’s in Architecture. My passion for creating environmentally responsible designs drove me to explore computational design and sustainable architecture.
Interviewer: What sparked your interest in computational design and sustainable architecture?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Computational design intrigued me because it allowed for greater creativity and precision in architecture. Coupling that with sustainability was a natural choice, as I believe architecture should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible.
Interviewer: Can you tell us about your early career and the challenges you faced?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: My career began during a time when computational design was still emerging. The biggest challenge was convincing people of the feasibility of creating stylish, high-quality designs that were also sustainable. I started small, using prototypes to build trust and demonstrate what was possible.
Interviewer: Your firm has achieved several significant milestones. Could you highlight some of your proudest achievements?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Certainly! Some of our proudest achievements include creating the world’s first metal auxetic pavilion and India’s first 3D-printed interiors. We also launched India’s first 3D-printed furniture series, which was a significant step in showcasing the potential of 3D printing in sustainable design.
Interviewer: What motivated you to pursue 3D printing technology in your architectural projects?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: I saw 3D printing as a way to push the boundaries of design while maintaining sustainability. It allows for intricate designs using recycled materials, which is both innovative and eco-friendly.
Interviewer: How do you incorporate sustainability into your projects?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: We utilize advanced manufacturing techniques like large-scale robotic 3D printing and Fused Granular Fabrication (FGF) technology. By using 80% recycled plastic and waste materials, we minimize resource exploitation and promote sustainability in architecture.
Interviewer: What was the inspiration behind the world’s first metal auxetic pavilion?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: The metal auxetic pavilion was inspired by the desire to explore new materials and structural possibilities. Auxetics, with their unique properties, provided an opportunity to create something both visually striking and structurally innovative.
Interviewer: Could you tell us about your experience with India’s first 3D-printed interiors?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Designing India’s first 3D-printed interiors was a challenging yet rewarding experience. It was about demonstrating that 3D printing could go beyond prototypes and create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces.
Interviewer: What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in promoting sustainable architecture?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: One of the main challenges is the skepticism surrounding the viability of sustainable practices in high-quality design. Many people initially doubt that sustainability can coexist with style and functionality.
Interviewer: How did you overcome these challenges?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: We took an iterative approach, starting with small projects to build trust and gradually scaling up. This helped to demonstrate that sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on quality or aesthetics.
Interviewer: What role does technology play in your architectural designs?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Technology is integral to our designs. It allows us to explore new materials, create complex structures, and ensure that our designs are both sustainable and innovative.
Interviewer: How do you see the future of sustainable architecture evolving?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: I believe sustainable architecture will become the standard rather than the exception. As awareness grows and technology advances, more architects will embrace eco-conscious design practices.
Interviewer: Can you share your vision for the future of your work?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: My vision is to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable architecture. I want to inspire others to adopt environmentally responsible practices and create designs that are not only beautiful but also sustainable.
Interviewer: How has your work impacted the architectural community?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Our work has shown that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. We’ve inspired a new generation of architects to think differently about materials, design, and the environment.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to aspiring architects?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Stay curious and be willing to push boundaries. Don’t be afraid to explore new technologies and materials, and always keep sustainability at the forefront of your designs.
Interviewer: What role does creativity play in your work?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Creativity is at the core of everything we do. It’s about finding new ways to solve problems, whether it’s through design, materials, or technology.
Interviewer: How do you stay inspired?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: I find inspiration in the world around me—nature, technology, art. Constantly learning and exploring new ideas keeps me motivated and inspired.
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Interviewer: What is your approach to collaboration in your projects?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Collaboration is key. We work closely with engineers, designers, and clients to ensure that every project meets its full potential, balancing creativity with practicality.
Interviewer: How do you balance traditional architectural practices with modern technology?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: It’s about finding the right harmony between the two. While modern technology offers new possibilities, traditional practices bring valuable insights and craftsmanship that should not be overlooked.
Interviewer: What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned in your career?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Perseverance is crucial. Many people give up too soon, but those who keep pushing boundaries and remain committed to their vision often achieve extraordinary results.
Interviewer: Can you discuss the importance of using recycled materials in your work?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Using recycled materials is essential for minimizing waste and reducing our environmental footprint. It’s a practical approach that also sends a strong message about the importance of sustainability.
Interviewer: What are your thoughts on the future of 3D printing in architecture?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: 3D printing has immense potential in architecture. As the technology continues to advance, it will allow for even more complex designs and greater use of sustainable materials.
Interviewer: How do you ensure that your designs are both functional and aesthetically pleasing?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: We start by understanding the needs of the space and the client, and then we use technology and creativity to find solutions that are both functional and beautiful.
Interviewer: What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your work?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Seeing a project come to life, knowing that it not only meets the client’s needs but also contributes to a more sustainable future, is incredibly rewarding.
Interviewer: What initially intrigued you about computational design, and how did it differ from the art you were already creating?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: What intrigued me about computational design was its potential to create something truly unique and unprecedented. While I was already doing great artwork, I realized that much of it was rooted in imitation—replicating forms and ideas that already existed. Computational design, on the other hand, allowed me to explore uncharted territories, where I could push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.
Interviewer: You mentioned that art felt like imitation to you. Can you elaborate on why that realization pushed you towards computational design?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: As an artist, I began to feel that traditional art, no matter how well-executed, was often about reproducing existing concepts or forms. I wasn’t satisfied with that. I wanted to create work that felt out of this world, something that couldn’t be easily categorized or replicated. Computational design offered me that opportunity to break free from conventional norms and explore new possibilities.
Interviewer: How did your dissatisfaction with traditional art lead you to seek out something that felt more rebellious and uncharted?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: My dissatisfaction stemmed from a desire to rebel against the norms and limitations of traditional art. As Osho said, an artist is a rebellion, challenging reality and societal norms. I didn’t want to follow a paved path; I was drawn to the unexplored, the uncharted. Computational design became my way of breaking away from the conventional and creating something truly innovative and out of the ordinary.
Interviewer: How do you handle criticism or setbacks in your projects?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: Criticism is an opportunity to learn and improve. Setbacks are part of the process, and we approach them as challenges to overcome rather than obstacles.
Interviewer: What do you hope to achieve with your upcoming projects?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: I hope to continue innovating and setting new standards in sustainable architecture, inspiring others to follow suit and contribute to a more eco-friendly future.
Interviewer: What message do you want to convey through your work?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: The main message is that sustainability and innovation can coexist beautifully in architecture. We can create structures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible.
Interviewer: Lastly, what is your ultimate goal as an architect?
Shridhar Mamidalaa: My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact on the architectural world by demonstrating that sustainable design is not just a trend but a necessary and exciting future for the industry.
