In the ever-evolving landscape of the creative industries, the boundaries between disciplines are increasingly porous. Architecture, fashion, media, and performing arts are no longer isolated silos; they are interconnected dialects of a universal design language. At Thali (தளி), the ongoing mission is to bridge the gap between the classroom and the industry, exploring how foundational […]
Architecture is often viewed simply as the art of building. But for Nezar AlSayyad, it is a sound argument—a narrative written in stone and social history. As a professor emeritus at UC Berkeley and a pioneering urban historian, AlSayyad has spent four decades reshaping how we see the cities of the Global South. He does
The Architecture of Identity: Nezar AlSayyad on Heritage, Cinema, and the Global South Read More »
As an architecture journalist, I often hear the debate between modern convenience and traditional wisdom. We are constantly sold the idea that newer is stronger, and that “expensive” equates to “beautiful.” However, when you sit down with seasoned practitioners who actually build with their hands in the dirt, a very different, much more grounded reality
Starting an independent architectural practice is no small feat, especially when trying to balance heritage with contemporary client demands. For Architect Gayatri, the founder of the Madurai-based firm “Mutram,” the core philosophy of her practice revolves around integrating traditional architecture in modern design. By adapting the classic central courtyard concept into smaller urban spaces, she
Throughout our childhood, we heard stories about Buddha, who, as a prince named Siddhartha, gave up his wealth, home, and family to discover the meaning of life and become enlightened. As Buddhism spread and gained followers, various types of Buddhist architecture, such as stupas, viharas, and temples, were built. In Tamil Nadu, where we learned
Pallavaneswaram Buddha Vihara at Kaveripoombattinam and Indo-Chinese Connection Read More »
