TimesTech: Architectural education is undergoing a major shift globally. How do you see technologies like AI, BIM, AR/VR, and parametric tools transforming the traditional studio culture and learning methodologies at VES College of Architecture?f
Anand: Architectural education is evolving rapidly, and at VESCOA we see emerging technologies as catalysts that strengthen—not replace—traditional studio culture. AI, BIM, AR/VR, and parametric tools enable students to move from time-consuming drafting to faster visualization, real-time simulation, and evidence-based design. This helps them test ideas early, understand performance, and make more informed design decisions.
At the same time, the core studio ethos—critical thinking, conceptual clarity, and collaborative learning—remains unchanged. We integrate these technologies through workshops, vertical studios, electives, and research initiatives so students learn to use them intelligently rather than dependently. Ultimately, our focus is to prepare future architects who are technologically fluent yet grounded in design fundamentals, capable of balancing creativity with emerging digital capabilities.
TimesTech: With the industry becoming increasingly data-driven and digitally oriented, how is VESCOA ensuring that students gain hands-on exposure to modern tools—from digital fabrication labs to immersive virtual environments—to keep them future-ready?
Anand: At VESCOA, our approach is to ensure that students don’t just learn tools—they experience them in real design contexts. We have expanded our infrastructure to include digital fabrication facilities, AR/VR-enabled studios, and computational design labs that allow students to prototype, simulate, and visualize their ideas with accuracy.
These facilities are integrated into coursework, not kept as optional add-ons. Students engage with tools like laser cutting, 3D printing, BIM workflows, and immersive virtual walkthroughs through studio projects, electives, and collaborative research exercises. The objective is to ensure our students develop true digital competence, seamlessly integrating technology into their design thinking so they graduate ready to contribute meaningfully to a data-oriented profession.
TimesTech: VESCOA has partnered with organisations like ISRO and Haffle Rat – Lab through Academic Industry Collaboration. How do these collaborations enhance learning outcomes, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary engagement for architecture students?
Anand: Partnerships with organisations like ISRO and Haffle Rat – Lab allow our students to engage with real-world challenges and cross-disciplinary expertise. Through these collaborations, they gain exposure to advanced research, cutting-edge technologies, and industry best practices that go beyond the traditional studio framework.
Students participate in workshops, joint research projects, and live problem-solving exercises, enabling them to apply architectural principles in broader contexts, be it design, technologies, planning, or policy frameworks. These engagements strengthen critical thinking and research-based design, preparing graduates to contribute innovatively to complex, technology-driven projects in the built environment.