After studying architecture at the Centre for Environment and Planning (CEPT), Ahmedabad (1984-90), and getting a Masters in Appropriate Technology from Flensburg University, Germany (1992-94), Ar. Mona Doctor Pingel set up Studio Naqshbandi in Auroville in 1995. Rooted in the essence and philosophy of Auroville, Studio Naqshbandi strives to achieve immersive sensorial experiences in each project. The studio believes in doing research to find the right solution – considering factors such as climate, culture, requirements and budget; while also understanding and incorporating locally available materials and craftsmanship, and aspirations of the endusers. Here, we feature two projects – an institutional building in Surat, and a garden around the Matrimandir in Auroville.

Under founder and principal architect Mona Doctor-Pingel, Studio Naqshbandi aims to find the right balance between Man, Nature, and Economy through a holistic approach of biologically enhancing and environmentally friendly building technologies rooted in local context, climate, and culture. The boutique set up of this studio within the city of Auroville allows the architect to expend adequate time for research, development, and experimental design processes for all projects.

Naqshbandi’s portfolio of projects is combination of remarkable and customized design solutions, ranging from small residential renovations to large scale institutional projects – each client is a new opportunity to be explored, new set of problems to be solved and promises to be fulfilled.

Studio Naqshbandi’s essence has been beautifully summed up in their own tagline: "We aspire to bring simplicity and beauty without being austere; rich in details without being ostentatious; sensorial without being overpowering.”

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