A strong advocate of user-centric design, Ar. JP Agarwal, Principal at Agarwal & Agarwal, brings a wealth of practical wisdom to the jury panel of VOX Architecture Ideas 2024. Known for shaping large-scale public and private projects across India, he is a name synonymous with clarity, discipline, and design that serves a purpose beyond aesthetics.
As a VOX jury member, Ar. Agarwal shares a compelling reminder:
“Design isn’t for your fascination — it’s for the user.”
Understanding the User is Everything
In his VOX Jury Insight, Ar. Agarwal emphasizes that good design starts with empathy. Every space—whether public or private—must prioritize user experience over personal expression. “Architecture should reflect the needs, aspirations, and lifestyle of the people it’s meant for,” he states.
This means thinking beyond the drawing board and considering how people will interact with the space daily. What do they expect? What will comfort them? How can design improve that interaction?
More Than Creativity — It’s About Balance
For VOX entries, creativity is essential—but not enough. Ar. Agarwal looks for balanced designs that marry bold ideas with practical execution. He encourages architects to be expressive, but always grounded in functionality, feasibility, and material intelligence.
He also cautions young designers not to be driven entirely by software or visual effects. “Tools should support your process—not dictate it.”
What He Looks for in a Winning Project
✅ Clear understanding of the user and their context
✅ Sustainable, well-thought-out material use
✅ Strong design intent, communicated effectively
✅ Creativity that serves a real purpose
✅ Practical use of digital tools—not overuse
A Final Word to VOX Participants
Ar. Agarwal’s message to participants is simple yet powerful: Design with the end user in mind. Stay grounded. Think clearly. And communicate your idea with honesty.
As VOX Architecture Ideas 2025 opens its doors for submissions, this is the kind of advice that can elevate a good entry into a winning one.
Have a built project that’s driven by clarity and purpose?
Submit it to VOX Architecture Ideas 2025, an initiative by FOAID, and present your work to top architects and design leaders across India.
