Architects Work From Home: Ar. Kapil Mehta explores the new normal
“To my surprise, the work-from-home policy has led to in-depth discussions and better ideas. Also, our productivity is at its peak and it is now easier to monitor individual performance.”
– Ar. Kapil Mehta, Principal Architect, Kapil Mehta and Associates
The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the architecture and design industry and has resulted in a delay in ongoing and future projects. No sourcing of materials, no physical inspection and missed project deadlines in many cases have incurred huge losses. Therefore, we present to you a series of well-known architects who have shared their insights on the challenges of working from home amidst the health crisis. Today, our spokesperson is Ar. Kapil Mehta, Principal Architect, Kapil Mehta and Associates, New Delhi. He believes that
Adopting a work-from-policy was a challenge at the time of the lockdown, but is the only solution to the third-degree outbreak. Thankfully, we had started a work-from-home policy a day before the official lockdown announced by the Delhi government, and later, the Central Government. To my surprise, the work-from-home policy has been quite efficient for us due to in-depth discussions and better ideas. Our productivity is at its peak and it is now easier to monitor individual performance, which could be because of the extra time available due to the absence of client meetings.
Technology has provided advanced tools such as Zoom, where we hold virtual meetings, share tools and making instant connections with everyone for discussions. As I’m usually involved in client meetings and analyzing site progress, Ar. Sanchit Mehta, our Concept Head, supervises the work done. We have used tools for a long time but now promote hand-sketching. I send the instructions to my staff through hand sketches and similarly receive them, after which it is perfected with drafting and 3D tools. I believe that the work-from-home policy is a boon to us, where employees can work with a free mind without the stress of reaching office on time. Thus, their performance is on point.
Looking at the bright side of the situation, I would like to incorporate a work-from-culture in the future. Also, this system reduces carbon footprint and saves commute time for everyone as well.
