SHILLONG, APR 5: Internationally acclaimed Sri Lankan architect Palinda Kannangara has called upon the architect fraternity to “respect the space” of work while designing structures for various purposes.
Addressing an ongoing conclave of over 175 architects and allied personnel in Shillong on Friday, the eminent architect said architectural designs should be made in such a way that makes minimum changes to the surrounding environment.
“Greater happiness comes from simplicity than with complexity,” Kannagara said quoting Lord Buddha while making a statement about his work of minimalist architecture.
Several other prominent architects from across India shared their ideas and vision at the three-day conclave organised by the Association of Architects, Assam at Courtyard by Marriott, Shillong.
In his address, Bengaluru based architect Sanjay Mohe advocated for integrating nature into the buildings.
Mohe, who designed the iconic Titan building in Bangalore, urged young architects of the North East to learn how to accommodate natural aspects and local cultural elements into their designs.
While West Bengal-based architect Abin Chaudhri spoke of his passion about integrating the spirit of river in his designs, Delhi-based Amritha Ballal expressed concern over “disastrous” urban planning at many places.
Participating at the conclave, a group of architects from Meghalaya expressed that such gathering of architects will definitely create new opportunities for architect fraternity of the state.
“This was a huge opportunity for architects of Meghalaya to build a connection with architects of mainland India,” said Freddie Wallang, president of Meghalaya Architect Forum.
He said the architects of the North East are planning to create a platform for better exchange of ideas and create more opportunities for young architects of the region.
Elaborating on the unique architectural marvels of Meghalaya, MAF adviser Iban S Mawkhroh said, “I wish the eminent architects gathered here visited our living root bridges and further promote Meghalaya’s natural heritage.”
Earlier, Padma Shri awardee architect from Arunachal Pradesh Techi Gubin while inaugurating the AAA Conclave on Friday, advocated for bamboo based architecture with modern technology in the North East.
The central theme of the second edition of AAA Conclave 2026 “Regionalism in Architecture – A New Paradigm” has explored context-sensitive design approaches and evolving architectural identities in the region.
Meanwhile, AAA convenor Pankaj Phukan said, “This is the second edition of the AAA Conclave. The first edition held at Kaziranga was a huge success.
This platform brings architects together, creating opportunities for meaningful interaction, collaboration, and exchange of ideas that contribute to the growth of the profession in the region, he added.
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