Welcome to Media Matters, Fublis’ interview series dedicated to spotlighting media professionals, including journalists, editors, writers, and others who shape the narratives in our world today. Through these interviews, we delve into the experiences and insights of those at the forefront of media, uncovering the stories behind their impactful work.
In this edition, we interview Rashmi Prasad, an emerging voice in architectural copywriting with a strong focus on sustainable design and Indian heritage architecture. Rashmi shares her journey, beginning with an online course that ignited her passion for architectural writing. She discusses the balance between creating content for architects and making it accessible to a broader audience, and how her current role at D+R Design allows her to champion sustainability and heritage in architecture. Rashmi also addresses common misconceptions about sustainable architecture and explores how writing can shape public awareness about zero-carbon buildings and climate-conscious design. Her thoughtful perspective offers valuable guidance for aspiring architectural writers and architects alike.
Can you share your journey into the architectural copywriting path and how you found your niche in sustainable design and Indian heritage architecture?
Rashmi Prasad: Yes sure. I have started architectural writing this year with the start of course from Rethinking the Future, New Delhi an online course after which it has taken off like a plane.
How do you create content that resonates with architects and the general audience?
Rashmi Prasad: I first create a draft for architects and simplify it for the general public with additional information such political, geographical history to make it more interesting.
In your current role at D+R Design, how do you ensure that architectural narratives effectively communicate the values of sustainability and Indian heritage?
Rashmi Prasad: Yes absolutely, the design which is undertaken by ensures natural lighting and breathing or ventilation of buildings.
What role does architectural writing play in shaping public awareness about sustainable practices and zero-carbon buildings?
Rashmi Prasad: Architectural writing along with design ensures to create awareness to the general public and us as architects. It also helps in understanding our role in shaping human society.
Indian heritage architecture is vast and diverse. How do you approach writing about both the built and unbuilt aspects of this heritage in a way that resonates with modern readers?
Rashmi Prasad: Built heritage is mainly what I have considered for example Dwarka and Aihole are best examples of the same which transits from prehistoric temporary structures to modern built heritage. Unbuilt heritage what I would like explore is how built heritage is inspiring them and vice versa, for example, GI tags given culinary and fashion heritage is what I would like to explore on.
Could you discuss your challenges while promoting responsible tourism practices through architectural writing?
Rashmi Prasad: Yes, for example, Aihole, it is already a known travel destination for the country due to its architectural detailing imitation from prehistoric structures and the kings of that ensured that they leave their creative mark as well. Since, it a popular tourist destination one as tourist must ensure that there zero tolerance against garbage in the place and at the same respect the language, culture and traditions followed in that space.
As a content writer, how do you stay updated with the latest trends in sustainable architecture, and how do you integrate those insights into your work?
Rashmi Prasad: My architectural thesis was on making the general aware on reusing and recycling Construction and demolition waste which in itself is new topic since many people might have thought about don’t know that architects are already reusing Construction and demolition waste in their designs in India example, Collage House in Navi Mumbai and across the world. In this way I keep myself updated with news in sustainability.
In your experience, what are some common misconceptions about sustainable architecture that you aim to address through your content?
Rashmi Prasad: It’s expensive and only for the rich but that is not the only one. Sustainable Architecture is only fancies and doesn’t serve the real purpose and buildings of this kind are not structrally sound.
How do you envision the future of architectural writing, especially in promoting specific topics like climate change, sustainability, etc., in India and globally?
Rashmi Prasad: The future of architecture is on architectural writing as writers we must promote architects who design with minimal, reusable and eco-friendly materials so that the people across all communities adopt to this type architecture that is beneficial for the planet.
Finally, what advice would you give to young writers or architects interested in pursuing a career in architectural copywriting, particularly within sustainability?
Rashmi Prasad: I would like to advice young architects that everything takes time and keep updated with latest information from AI to heritage and use of AI should be limited only in editing your story and not your idea.
