In this insightful Media Matters interview on Fublis, we sit down with Mansi Parsana, an architect, writer, and urbanist whose diverse work spans design, content creation, and urban planning. With a background in architecture from Saurashtra University and currently pursuing a Master of Urbanism at the University of Sydney, Mansi’s career reflects a seamless blend of technical expertise and creative expression. Her experiences range from architectural practice to content strategy for design-focused publications, allowing her to narrate stories that reveal the profound impact of architecture on human experiences.
Mansi shares her transition from hands-on architectural roles to storytelling within the design industry, shedding light on her journey from architectural journalism workshops to founding her own design studio, Adhisthana Design. Her approach to balancing multiple freelance projects and adapting her skills across varied projects offers a blueprint for aspiring writers and designers navigating the industry’s evolving landscape. Join us as Mansi explores the value of strong research, the future of architectural content writing, and her dedication to fostering a deeper public appreciation for architecture.
Can you tell us about your educational background and what inspired you to pursue architecture and content writing?
Mansi Parsana: I completed my Bachelor of Architecture from Saurashtra University, India, and am currently pursuing a Master of Urbanism at the University of Sydney. My journey into architecture was sparked by my fascination with spaces that shape human experiences. I found content writing to be a natural extension of my architectural passion, allowing me to explore and express innovative ideas. Workshops on architectural journalism further honed my skills, enabling me to combine my design knowledge with writing. This blend of architecture and content creation has allowed me to share insights on design, planning, and urbanism with a broader audience.
What were some key lessons you learned during your time as an architect at ARPA Design, and how have these influenced your approach to content creation?
Mansi Parsana: During my time as a Junior Architect at ARPA Design, I gained invaluable insights into translating client briefs into functional yet aesthetically compelling designs. One key lesson was the importance of iterative collaboration with clients and stakeholders, ensuring that design solutions were both innovative and responsive to real-world needs. This experience sharpened my ability to approach content creation with a similar mindset—crafting well-researched, audience-driven content that balances creativity with practicality. This design-to-content approach now forms the backbone of my work in architectural writing, allowing me to convey complex ideas in a clear and engaging way.
What motivated you to transition from traditional architectural roles to content writing, particularly for design-focused publications?
Mansi Parsana: My transition from traditional architectural roles to content writing for design-focused publications was motivated by my deep passion for storytelling within architecture. While working as an architect, I realized that every building carries a narrative, and content writing allows me to articulate these stories in a way that inspires others. I found joy in exploring architectural trends, innovations, and sustainability practices, and writing enables me to reach a broader audience. This shift has allowed me to merge my creative instincts with my architectural knowledge, helping to shape the dialogue around design while continuing to learn and grow in the field.
How do you balance simultaneously working on multiple freelance projects, such as with Kadva Corporation, The Design Gesture, and SMART Official?
Mansi Parsana: Balancing multiple freelance projects, such as my work with Kadva Corporation, The Design Gesture, and SMART Official, requires strategic time management, clear communication, and a structured workflow. I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and complexity, ensuring that each project receives the attention it deserves. Using tools like Trello for tracking progress and Slack for communication helps streamline collaboration, while my adaptive work style allows me to pivot between research, writing, and editing without losing focus. This methodical approach ensures I maintain high-quality output across all my engagements while staying agile and efficient.
Can you share your experience of founding Adhisthana Design? What challenges and rewards have you encountered when starting your own venture?
Mansi Parsana: Starting Adhisthana Design was both an exhilarating and challenging journey. As a founder, I was determined to create a design studio that reflects my passion for architecture and sustainability. One of the biggest challenges was building a client base from scratch while managing the financial and operational aspects of a new venture. However, the rewards have been immense, from seeing our projects take shape to the creative freedom that comes with steering your own company. The trust and relationships we’ve built with clients have been invaluable, making every challenge worthwhile.
With a wide range of skills from qualitative and quantitative research to design research and content strategy, how do you prioritize and utilize these skills in your current projects?
Mansi Parsana: In my current projects, I prioritize skills based on the needs and objectives of each task. For instance, I employ qualitative research to gather in-depth insights into user experiences and cultural contexts, which then inform design strategies. On the other hand, quantitative research helps me validate hypotheses and assess project feasibility. Content strategy and design research allow me to craft narratives that align with both the client’s vision and the end-user’s expectations. By balancing these skills, I ensure that each project is data-driven, creatively executed, and tailored to achieve its intended impact.
How important is it for architectural content writers to have strong analytical and research skills? Can you provide an example of a project where these skills were particularly beneficial?
Mansi Parsana: Architectural content writers must possess strong analytical and research skills as these form the backbone of insightful and meaningful content. In a rapidly evolving field like architecture, where every project involves unique challenges and opportunities, thorough research helps writers stay updated on trends, technologies, and methodologies. Analytical skills allow for distilling complex information into engaging and informative narratives. For example, while working on an article about integrating sustainability in urban design, my ability to conduct in-depth research and analyze case studies helped provide readers with well-supported, actionable insights, enhancing both the quality and credibility of the piece.
Currently, you are involved with multiple freelance projects. What are some of the most exciting projects you are working on now?
Mansi Parsana: Currently, I’m working on a range of exciting freelance projects that span both architectural design and urban planning. One of my key projects involves researching and writing about sustainable design practices for a prominent architectural publication. I’m also collaborating on an urban revitalization project that focuses on enhancing walkability and public spaces in rapidly urbanizing areas. Another project I’m passionate about is developing content that explores the intersection of traditional architectural techniques with modern innovations, helping to preserve cultural heritage while promoting contemporary design solutions. Each project allows me to dive deeper into my dual interests in architecture and planning.
How do you see the role of an architectural content writer evolving in the next five years, especially with the rise of digital media and multimedia storytelling?
Mansi Parsana: In the next five years, the role of an architectural content writer is poised for significant evolution. With the rapid rise of digital media, architectural storytelling will increasingly shift toward immersive, multimedia experiences. Writers will need to blend traditional writing with new forms of media, including video, interactive design, and virtual reality. The ability to convey complex architectural ideas through engaging and accessible content will be critical. As more platforms emerge, architectural writers will not only inform but also inspire global audiences, shaping how the public engages with architecture in a digital-first world.
Any advice you would like to give future writers who what to explore the content writing dimensions in the architecture and design industry?
Mansi Parsana: For aspiring writers in the architecture and design industry, my advice is to embrace curiosity and never stop learning. Architecture is a field rich in history, innovation, and creativity. Writing about it requires not only technical knowledge but also the ability to convey stories that inspire and inform. Start by observing the built environment around you, dive deep into research, and always seek out new perspectives. Be clear, concise, and creative with your words. Lastly, keep refining your voice and be patient with your craft—it’s a journey, not a race.
