Group Level - Kumta, India - Panchabhuta Foundation

Description

Role:
Group Level - Senior Architect - (Open also to overseas candidates)


Location:
Kumta, Uttara Kannada, Karnataka, India


About:

In these extraordinary times of a warming planet and climate risks, we are on a mission to redefine the boundaries of Responsible Tourism, offering guest experiences rooted in sustainable construction principles, local community engagement, nature preservation and building for the future.

We work in a very special ecology, the Aghanashini ecosphere. The 48 sq km Aghanashini wetlands have recently secured the 'Ramsar' designation for wetlands of international importance. This ecological significance is pushing us even more to build more sensibly and sensitively.


The Vision and Projects:
Responsible Tourism has a strong connection to Sustainable Architecture.

Over the last 12 years we have been working with world class designers and architects to redefine built habitats in natural environments, pushing the boundaries to create low impact, low energy, bioclimatic structures and furniture with natural materials that are ergonomically correct and aesthetically pleasing.

How to exist in nature as if you did not exist We have been experimenting with fabrics, bamboo, cane, timber, natural stones, bricks etc and have created many contemporary natural structures in our Panchabhuta ecosystem.

We are convinced that Modular and Prefab architecture is the direction to move forward.

Our current development, a 21 key deep ecology experiential boutique retreat at Kirubeli Cove will embrace modular and prefab design and architectural directions.

In the future too, we will be depending on prefab design and architecture. We have numerous projects in the pipeline; both on the coast and within the heart of the Western Ghats. Many great contributions from designers and practitioners have shaped our thought process and design thinking.

As we continue to collaborate with designers and craftsmen from around the world, we wish to firmly define the directions and take charge; an ambition to emerge as a world class prefab business unit catering to the needs of entry level tourism to very high end tourism.

We want the local communities to embrace this design direction not only in their tourism initiatives but also in their day to day lives.

Simplicity is a complex affair - understanding of microenvironment, bioclimatic comfort/functionality, ease of maintenance, operating during the monsoons, seamless integration of services to 'wow' guest experiences will demand exceptional levels of commitment and innovation in design and execution.

The Opportunity:

To redefine the coastal & mountain landscapes with an innovative breed of structures and built habitats that are sensitive to nature and people.

This role offers a unique opportunity for a passionate architect to lead the design and execution of innovative and sustainable tourism projects in a breathtaking natural setting.

Will test your systems thinking and productization ability.

We are seeking a group level 'hands on & articulate' Senior Architect to lead the design and execution of all of the current and upcoming Responsible Tourism ventures that will create a roadmap for setting up a Prefab business venture to not only meet all types of market needs but also set new benchmarks.

In this leadership role, you will collaborate internally and externally to translate the project vision into a comprehensive architectural plan, ensuring the highest standards of design, sustainability, and functionality.

With a keen eye for detail, you'll oversee the technical aspects, guaranteeing adherence to regulations and best practices.

There would be a need for collaborating with regulators and policymakers on setting guidelines and participating in forums to demonstrate the group's thought leadership and commitment to mitigating risks of climate change.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the design and execution of all current and future Responsible Tourism projects under the Panchabhuta Foundation/ Biogen (Group company).

Collaborate actively with the founders to understand our vision for each project/venture.

Translate the project vision into a comprehensive architectural plan that incorporates the principles of responsible tourism such as - Sustainable construction practices, Preservation of the Aghanashini ecosphere, Integration of nature, luxury, and deep sustainability, Memorable guest experiences.

Develop models, prototypes and oversee the architectural design for each project, including prefabricated wooden cabins, service shacks, and any other planned structures.

Ensure the design adheres to the highest standards of architectural aesthetics, functionality, and local building regulations.
Create detailed construction drawings and specifications for each project.
Research and implement sustainable building materials, techniques, and technologies.
Advising on the selection of materials used and other aspects of procurement.
Proactively identify and solve problems that may arise during design and construction.
Collaborate with Masterplanners, Designers, Architectural firms, Landscape Designers, Project Managers, Engineers, Contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure execution.
Collaborate & influence regulators & policymakers on design & architectural guidelines for responsible tourism.

Represent the group in design expos, and architectural forums, publish articles in nature and design magazines to demonstrate thought leadership.

Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in sustainable architecture and prefabricated construction.

Contribute to developing the Panchabhuta Foundation's architectural identity and design IPs and manage the repository of all designs, artifacts, drawings, blueprints, and master plans.

Create architectural & design guidelines, manuals, SOPs, for responsible tourism development in the region.
Maintain a high standard of craftsmanship, maintain high quality control requirements throughout the design and construction phases.
Mentor junior architects and other design team members.


Ideal Candidate:
Minimum of 10 years of hands-on design and execution experience preferably in the Hospitality industry and prefabricated wooden cabins.

Exposure and experience in building, and crafting prefab structures (tent fabrics, bamboo, timber, mud, etc.) in the outdoors and nature.

Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously and with a focus on outcomes and results.

Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software, Sustainable Design Software, Project Management Software, Communication and Collaboration Tools, etc.

Bachelor's degree/Master's in Architecture.
Strong leadership and communication skills, with prior experience in a management or supervisory role.