Interview with Vamshidhar Reddy of Iki Builds

Vamshidhar Reddy is an Indian architect and the founding principal of Iki Builds, a Hyderabad‑based studio dedicated to eco‑conscious and context‑responsive architecture. Drawing from a core philosophy of earth‑first design, Reddy blends traditional South Indian construction techniques with contemporary ecological innovation to create spaces that honor both people and planet.

Since establishing Iki Builds, Vamshidhar Reddy has become known for pioneering low‑impact projects such as Soil & Soul Studio, a residence built with debris‑wall techniques, Madras roof systems, and lime‐surkhi flooring directly merged with a mature farmhouse landscape. The studio’s work prioritizes circularity—using site‑excavated soil, salvaged demolition waste, organic additives, and repurposed casuarina poles—to craft a building that feels of the earth, not on it.

Under Reddy’s leadership, Iki Builds takes a holistic view of design: each project begins with respectful engagement with context and material legacy, then evolves into a refined expression of environmental harmony. The resulting architecture, featured in sources such as ElleDecor India and Wallpaper*, emphasizes thermal comfort, passive ventilation, and sensory richness—all through forms that emerge seamlessly from place and purpose.

Vamshidhar Reddy’s architectural approach weaves together sustainable innovation and traditional wisdom, offering a powerful vision of architecture that nurtures both the human spirit and natural systems.

What inspires you?

I am profoundly inspired by the inherent intelligence of nature – its resilience, its efficiency, and its intrinsic beauty. The way ecosystems function in perfect balance, the way traditional building practices have evolved in harmony with local climates and materials over centuries, and the potential to innovate in ways that respect and regenerate the environment are constant sources of inspiration. I’m also driven by the challenge of creating spaces that not only shelter but also nurture well-being and foster a deep connection to our surroundings.

What inspired you to become an architect?

My journey into architecture was fueled by a desire to create tangible, positive change. I’ve always been fascinated by the power of built spaces to shape human experience and impact the environment. Witnessing the often-destructive nature of conventional construction, I was inspired to explore and advocate for a more thoughtful, sustainable approach – one that values resourcefulness, respects ecological systems, and prioritizes the well-being of both people and the planet. The idea of crafting sanctuaries that are both beautiful and responsible is what truly drew me to this profession.

How would you describe your design philosophy?

My design philosophy is rooted in contextual sustainability and mindful innovation. It begins with a deep respect for place, which means thoroughly understanding and responding to the unique characteristics of each site—its climate, topography, vegetation, and cultural heritage. This respect extends to material authenticity and circularity, leading me to prioritize natural, local, and salvaged materials that have low embodied energy. My approach seeks to integrate the wisdom of time-tested vernacular building practices with contemporary ecological technologies. Ultimately, this is all in service of a human-centric design that promotes well-being, comfort, and a profound connection with the natural world through elements like open courtyards and generous openings for natural light. I strive to create architecture that is not just built on the land, but of the land, consciously minimizing its environmental footprint for the well-being of its inhabitants and the larger ecosystem.

What is your favorite project?

If I were to be completely honest, I’d have to say that my next project is always my favorite. There’s a unique anticipation and a fresh set of aspirations that come with each new undertaking. It’s an opportunity to explore new ideas, perhaps techniques I haven’t implemented before, or to respond to a completely different context and set of challenges. This constant evolution, the chance to build upon past learnings and to innovate further, is what truly excites me and keeps me driven in this field.

What is your favorite detail?

Arches and vaults are my favorite architectural details because they represent a masterful blend of structural ingenuity and aesthetic elegance. Their importance, for me, lies in how they simultaneously provide strength and create openness. These structures efficiently distribute weight, which allows for expansive, uninterrupted interiors and a sense of spaciousness. This structural prowess is not just functional; it directly shapes the human experience. Arches can beautifully frame views or create inviting entryways, while vaults can imbue a space with a feeling of grandeur, shelter, or reverence. They are a testament to human creativity, turning functional necessity into enduring art that shapes how we experience a space.

Do you have a favorite material?

It’s less about a single favorite material and more about a favorite approach to materiality, which is to use materials that are natural, local, reclaimed, or have inherently low embodied energy. I do have a deep affection for earth and lime. Earth, used in rammed earth or soil walls, and lime are both breathable, naturally regulate humidity, and connect a structure to its geological context in a very fundamental way. My preference for materials that are gentle on the planet and create healthy living environments is truly highlighted by the combination of site‑excavated soil in walls, lime as a stabilizer and in flooring, and the thoughtful use of salvaged materials.

What is your process for starting a new project?

My process always begins with deep listening and observation. First, I focus on understanding the client’s needs, aspirations, and how the space will be used. Then, I immerse myself in the site, spending considerable time observing its natural features like sunlight patterns, wind direction, existing vegetation, and views. This is followed by contextual research into local vernacular traditions and available materials. From this foundation of understanding, I move into conceptual design, often starting with hand sketches to explore how the building can best respond to the site and the program. Simultaneously, I begin developing a material palette focused on locally sourced, reclaimed, and low‑impact options. The design then evolves through an iterative process, which often involves close collaboration with my construction crew, especially when we are exploring innovative techniques.

How do you fuel your creativity?

My creativity is fueled by a few key, interconnected sources. Primarily, I draw inspiration directly from nature; spending time in natural landscapes and observing its intricate patterns and resilience always sparks new ideas. This is complemented by my love for travel and studying vernacular architecture, where I find incredible wisdom in how traditional societies have built in harmony with their environments. To keep my mind agile, I also dedicate time to reading and researching new sustainable technologies and ecological philosophies. Finally, I believe true understanding comes from hands‑on experimentation. Getting my hands dirty, whether by testing earth mixes or developing a new technique like the debris wall for Soil and Soul Studio, is essential to my creative process.

What inspired Soil & Soul Studio?

The inspiration for Soil and Soul Studio was a convergence of several key factors, all aimed at creating a living archetype for sustainable living in a modern context. The process began with the site itself; the verdant farmhouse community and the magnificent 50‑year‑old neem tree demanded a design that would honor and integrate with the existing ecosystem. This was paired with the client’s need for a compact yet spacious sanctuary that facilitated a work‑from‑home lifestyle. Underpinning the entire project was a firm commitment to challenging conventional construction by minimizing the carbon footprint, which led us away from an RCC frame. Instead, I drew from the wisdom of tradition, adapting methods like the Madras roof, while also using the project as a canvas for innovation by developing new ecological solutions like the “debris wall” technique.

How did materiality shape Soil & Soul Studio?

Materiality was not just a finishing touch for Soil and Soul Studio; it was foundational to its very concept and form. The choice to use a load‑bearing structure and the innovative “debris wall”—a mix of salvaged debris, site‑excavated soil, and a minimal amount of cement and lime—had a cascading effect. It fundamentally defined the building’s construction process, drastically reducing our reliance on carbon‑intensive cement and steel. These thick, earthy walls, along with the traditional Madras roof and lime flooring, also give the studio its excellent thermal performance, keeping the interior naturally cool. Aesthetically, the natural textures and warm hues of these materials create a unique, tactile environment that connects the inhabitant to the natural world. The use of the Madras roof grounds the studio in its regional context, while the repurposed casuarina poles for the courtyard roof demonstrate a commitment to material circularity.

What advice would you give to young architects?

First and foremost, I would urge young architects to cultivate a deep and unwavering respect for the Earth. We must never lose sight of the environmental impact of our profession and should always strive to design buildings that are responsible and regenerative. To act on this respect, it is crucial to be relentlessly curious and never stop learning, questioning conventional practices while being open to both ancient traditions and new technologies. A major part of this learning is to understand materials intimately—their origins, their embodied energy, how they perform, and their potential for reuse. Get your hands dirty whenever you can. Finally, it’s vital to remember that architecture is rarely a solo act. Value collaboration with artisans, builders, and other specialists, because the most profound and innovative ideas often emerge from bringing diverse perspectives together.