“We were both born and brought up in Chennai. This city has always been home in every sense of the word. We studied architecture together at SRM Kattankulathur and later went our separate ways to learn more about the world. I went to Barcelona. Kavya went to Milan. Different cities, different design cultures, but the same pull to come back home.
When we returned to Chennai, we worked with established firms, learned the ropes, and slowly started thinking about building something of our own. Studio One by Zero began in an 8×8 room, less than 100 square feet. That tiny space was our first office, our meeting room, and sometimes even our stress room. Our first independent project was the renovation of a 28-year-old apartment in Mylapore. That one project gave us belief. Today, we work out of a boutique office in Shenoy Nagar, but those early days still keep us grounded.
One of the most defining phases of our journey came when I had to undergo two major leg surgeries within three years. The second one was especially tough and happened when the studio was at its busiest, with nearly ten sites running at the same time. Recovery was long, but work did not stop. Site visits resumed as soon as possible, even if it meant slowly climbing up to inspect concreting. During this time, Kavya held everything together, managing the home, the office, the team, consultants, and clients. That phase showed us a strength we did not know we had, as individuals and as partners. Even with one of us down, the studio never missed a beat.
Chennai has shaped how we design and how we think. This city gave us our first opportunity and continues to be our primary canvas. While we work in other cities too, Madras remains at the heart of Studio One by Zero. Our projects range from 2,000 to 20,000 square feet, but the philosophy stays the same. We believe in modern design that respects traditional South Indian living. Natural light, cross-ventilation, courtyards, and thoughtful spatial planning are non-negotiables for us. Every space should feel breathable, calm, and positive.
As we near five years of Studio One by Zero, with a close-knit team of 7–10 people and projects featured in Architectural Digest and other leading publications, we still see ourselves as learners. This city continues to teach us every day. And we are grateful that we get to build, grow, and design from the place we call home.”