Magazine : 
Transforming Architectural Landscapes with Innovative Facade Systems
Varun Poddar is a seasoned entrepreneur with 13 years of experience. He is an accomplished entrepreneur with a strong background in business leadership, supply chain management, and product innovation. As the CEO of VOX India, he has been instrumental in redefining modern interiors with cutting-edge architectural solutions. Under his leadership, VOX India has emerged as a leading name in sustainable and stylish design products. In addition, as Co-Founder of GOVO.life, he has played a pivotal role in establishing the brand as a major player in India's consumer audio segment, delivering high-quality sound experiences with innovative product offerings. His experience spans across global markets, technology-driven businesses, and operational excellence.
In a recent interaction with Anamika CS, Correspondent at siliconindia, Varun Poddar, CEO, VOX India & Co-Founder, GOVO.life shared his insights on ‘Transforming Architectural Landscapes with Innovative Facade Systems’.
How can interior design become a living ecosystem where AI, sustainable materials, and sensory elements harmonize to create spaces that intuitively adapt, nurture well-being, and redefine the human experience?
The entire interior design space is evolving into an ecosystem where AI is being integrated. Sustainable materials are increasingly being used, and sensory elements are being introduced. Sustainable materials, such as reclaimed wood and living walls, are helping to reconnect people with nature, fostering a more natural living environment. Additionally, sensory elements like soundscaping are being used to mask noise pollution. As high-rise buildings continue to rise and traffic on roads increases, noise often seeps into homes. Soundscaping is playing a crucial role in enhancing the living experience by reducing this noise. Together, these innovations—whether through AI, sustainable materials, or sensory elements—work to create a peaceful, quiet, and relaxing atmosphere in homes, improving the overall experience for residents.
What role do innovative building skins play in achieving net-zero architecture, and how can materials like self-healing concrete or photovoltaic glass redefine energy efficiency while enhancing structural performance?
The net carbon footprint of buildings and communities is a critical topic of discussion today, drawing major attention from both large and small developers leading them to become increasingly aware of its importance. One key innovation contributing to energy efficiency is photovoltaic glass, which helps in enhancing energy performance from the building's facade. This technology allows the building's exterior to adjust its angle based on the amount of sunlight required, allowing optimal light entry while preventing overheating or excessive cooling. As a result, energy efficiency is significantly being improved.
In the past, solar panels were typically flat and fixed at a single angle directed toward the sun, however with advancements brought in through the development of innovative solar panels now rotate following the sun's path. This technology is now also being integrated into building facades, leading to smarter exteriors that enhance energy efficiency and also reduce the overall carbon footprint of commercial structures.
How can architects leverage design to influence human psychology and well-being by using elements like natural light modulation, soundscaping, and dynamic aesthetics?
Architecture and interior design is a unique and fascinating industry that prioritizes human health and well-being, taking both physical and psychological factors into account. Architecture that concerns the formulation of physical structures such as systems or buildings is critically responsible in shaping human psychology and enhancing well-being through designs. The design & layout of a space, including how it allows natural light and ventilation to flow, has a significant effect on human psychology and well-being. Additionally, soundscaping helps with one’s well-being enormously on a psychological level. Art installations and the aesthetic quality of buildings and interior spaces, be it bathrooms or living areas, largely impressions one’s mood, more often on a subconscious level. This is why architecture is a fundamental building block for any city or country. Ultimately, when people are healthy and mentally well, it leads to increased productivity and a better quality of life.
What are the biggest technological breakthroughs driving next-generation building exteriors, including facades, and how can they balance sustainability with cutting-edge functionality?
The focus is on selecting materials based on their life cycles and performance over time. New technologies, like smart glass that adjusts tint and 3D or kinetic facades, are transforming building exteriors. Buildings are becoming dynamic, with adaptable elements, while interior innovations optimize space. The goal is to create sustainable, future-proof buildings that remain functional and maintenance-free for decades.
What strategies can architects adopt to harmonize exterior aesthetics with hyper-functionality, achieving visual impact without compromising thermal, acoustic, or structural integrity?
Exterior aesthetics and building functionality must work together, with performance-driven design optimizing energy efficiency and day lighting. Material innovation plays a key role, balancing beauty and function. From the beginning, both aspects must align, whether it's a showroom requiring controlled lighting or a commercial office space benefiting from natural light. Dynamic, kinetic glass façades are the future, preventing overheating and reducing reliance on air conditioning
In an era of rapid urbanization, how can exterior innovation contribute to resilient cityscapes, helping buildings withstand extreme weather, pollution, and growing population density?
For this,, materials should be chosen carefully and strategically, which can withstand different climate variations. As citizens, this should be our moral and social responsibility, that as we are building more, we should also take care of the greenery in and around us. Otherwise, it becomes prone to more and more of these weather conditions. As a community and a city, if we take care of nature along with the urbanization, that will lead to more sustainable growth.
How can envelope systems be designed as modular, adaptive ecosystems that evolve with changing environmental conditions and seamlessly integrate future technological upgrades?
Modular systems offer a practical solution for creating flexible spaces, such as farmhouses, where temporary structures can be transformed into beautiful homes. These systems allow for quick construction, with spaces ready in just a few months. They can be expanded as needed, starting with a small layout and adding more units as the family grows. Modular designs are easily adaptable, making it simple to sell and relocate. This plug-and-play approach allows buildings to evolve with changing environmental needs, providing a faster, more adaptable construction method.
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