Energy-Efficient buildings not only reduce carbon footprint and minimise resource consumption but also promote a healthier living and working environment for occupants.
Anurag Sonar, our next pathbreaker, Facade Engineer at Eckersley O’Callaghan (London), focuses on façade performance which ensures buildings are functional, compliant and resilient to various environmental challenges, such as weather and climate change.
Anurag talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about being drawn to the challenge of merging aesthetics with engineering and sustainability, leading him to the emerging area of Façade engineering .
For students, the field of architecture is ever evolving, with new technologies and methods emerging regularly. Find what excites you and integrate that into your work.
Anurag, can you share your background with our young readers?
I grew up in Nashik, a semi-urban city renowned for its historical temple architecture and natural beauty, which fostered my appreciation for both history and nature. My father’s background in physics and work as a radio mechanic, along with my mother’s artistic talent, deeply influenced me. As a child, I enjoyed sketching and solving puzzles, which sparked my interest in art and problem-solving.
In school, I participated in regional drawing competitions and was involved in the Boy Scouts, where I developed a love for hands-on activities. I chose to major in Science and Mathematics in college, driven by my fascination with understanding complex systems. My natural curiosity and interest in the intersection of art and technology guided me towards considering architecture or engineering as a career path. The combination of creative visualization and technical skills continues to inspire my professional journey.
During my studies, I became particularly interested in detailed design. I was drawn to the challenge of merging aesthetics with engineering, which is why I eventually transitioned into Façade engineering after post-graduation.
What did you do for graduation/ post-graduation?
I completed my Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) from the University of Mumbai. After gaining some professional experience, I pursued my post-graduation with an MSc in Building Technology from the Technical University of Delft, Netherlands. This program deepened my understanding of advanced building systems and technologies, which played a crucial role in my shift towards façade engineering. Combining architectural design with cutting-edge building technology has allowed me to approach façade projects from both a creative and technical perspective.
What were some of the key influences that led you to such an offbeat, unconventional, and unique career in Facade Design/ Engineering?
From the beginning of my architecture studies, I was fascinated by how buildings could be more than just functional structures—they could also be designed to stand out, express creativity, and yet perform efficiently. I always had a strong interest in how the exterior of a building interacts with the environment while maintaining its aesthetic value. This naturally led me to the field of façade engineering, where I found the perfect balance between architectural design and technical problem-solving.
Another key influence was my desire to work on large-scale, impactful projects. Façades play a critical role in a building’s energy performance, sustainability, and overall look, and being involved in these aspects motivated me to take on the unique challenges that façade engineering offers.
How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted?
During my BArch in India, I had the opportunity to study at both the Laurie Baker Center and the Auroville Earth Institute. These places are known for their focus on sustainable and cost-effective construction, with an emphasis on using locally available materials. Laurie Baker’s philosophy of low-cost, environmentally friendly architecture really appealed to me because it aligned with my early interest in sustainability.
At the Auroville Earth Institute, I learned about earth construction techniques, like compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEB) and vaulted structures. Working with natural materials gave me a hands-on understanding of how to design buildings that have a minimal environmental impact. These experiences exposed me to the importance of material science in architecture and inspired me to think beyond conventional building methods.
The projects I worked on during this time were rooted in vernacular architecture and sustainability, and sparked a broader curiosity about how materials can influence building design. Although my focus wasn’t specifically on façades at that time, this exposure to innovative and sustainable material use was a pivotal moment in my career. It led me to explore the intersection of architecture and technology further, which ultimately pushed me towards my Master’s in Building Technology, where I began focusing on façades, especially with a material science perspective.
Can you tell us how did you decide to specialise on Facades?
After completing my architecture degree, I realised I wanted to specialise in something that combined both design and engineering. Initially, I gained experience by working on projects that had a strong focus on façade design. This helped me understand the practical challenges of implementing complex building envelopes. I then decided to pursue my Master’s in Building technology at TU Delft, which provided me with a solid foundation in advanced construction technologies and materials.
The MSc in Architecture and Building Sciences was structured into four key segments: façade design, sustainable design, computational design, and structural design, with a focus on integrating advanced technologies and materials. The first part of the course provided foundational knowledge, covering essential topics like building physics, structural mechanics, and material science. A standout experience was the hands-on Bucky Lab project, where we built 1:1 scale prototypes, giving us practical exposure to real-world challenges in design and construction.
In the second part, I chose projects that aligned with my interests: Design Informatics, Structural Design for Glass, and Bridge Design. These group projects allowed each member to specialize in a specific role. I particularly enjoyed the collaborative aspect, which gave me an opportunity to focus on my strengths and learn from my peers.
The third part allowed for more specialized focus. I opted for a complex projects course called MEGA, where I took on the role of a façade designer. This was a pivotal moment in my career because I collaborated with professionals in the façade industry and learned the fundamentals of façade design. This experience had a profound impact on my future interests, particularly in façade engineering.
In the fourth part, we engaged in advanced material design using computational tools. I worked on a project called Earthy, which involved designing an automated system for constructing a healthcare center in the Al Zaatari refugee camp. This project showcased how computational design and material science can be applied to solve real-world problems.
Finally, the thesis, which spanned over nine months, allowed me to bring together my interests in sustainability, façade design, and structural glass. My thesis focused on façade product development, incorporating hands-on prototyping and both structural and thermal assessments. This project encapsulated the essence of the master’s program and further solidified my passion for façade engineering.
During my masters, I worked at Yeh Designs, initially as a freelance architect before transitioning to a role as a technology consultant on a research and development project. During this time, I designed a scheme for a carbon-neutral, off-grid tiny home using biobased materials. This project provided me with the opportunity to engage in both research and design within a technology-integrated framework.
I also signed up for a Sustainable Design course which was part of a summer school program I attended after completing my master’s degree. Sponsored by the Dutch embassy in Portugal, this two-week program began at the TU Delft campus and concluded in Covilhã. We were assigned tasks focused on regenerating the urban campuses sustainably, with a specific emphasis on the unique climatic conditions of each location. Given the small scale of both cities, the university campuses had a significant student population, resulting in a substantial share of energy consumption. Our team developed several sustainable strategies that aimed to positively impact the cities, particularly in terms of energy use and efficient waste recycling. This experience further solidified my commitment to sustainable design practices.
After completing my Master’s, I applied my academic knowledge to real-world projects, which helped me refine my skills. Gradually, I took on more challenging projects and responsibilities, ensuring I was always learning and evolving in the field.
I made sure that I worked on projects where I could closely interact with both architects and engineers to understand the intricacies of façade systems. I focused on gaining practical experience by getting involved in the technical aspects of façade design, such as material selection and performance evaluation.
How did you get your first break?
My first break came after I completed my BArch, when I started working at Se-Arch an architectural firm in Mumbai, where I contributed to various hospitality projects. In this role, I faced important challenges related to façade design, which allowed me to work closely with engineers and construction teams. This hands-on experience gave me valuable insights into the technical complexities of façade engineering.
However, my significant break occurred during my master’s at TU Delft, where I developed a strong interest in the application of structural glass in the building industry. It was during this time that I had the opportunity to interact with James O’Callaghan, a founding member of Eckersley O’Callaghan Engineers. This connection proved to be pivotal for my career.
My thesis during my masters focused on the Product development of Hybrid glass blocks, emphasising material science, manufacturing methodologies, and sustainability. I worked hands-on in the TU Delft Glass lab, where I was also employed as a lab assistant. The research I conducted, coupled with my direct experience in product development, showcased my capabilities in façade engineering. This expertise ultimately led me to my current role at Eckersley O’Callaghan, where I’m able to apply my passion for designing intricate façade systems in innovative projects.
What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them?
Challenge 1: Transitioning from architecture to façade engineering was initially challenging. I had to deepen my technical knowledge and adapt to the engineering aspects of façade design. I tackled this by actively seeking mentorship from experienced engineers and participating in relevant workshops and seminars to enhance my skills.
Challenge 2: Working in a highly competitive industry, I faced the pressure of constantly keeping up with evolving technologies, design trends, and the associated standards and codes. Navigating these regulations can be quite complex, especially when working on intricate façade systems. To address this, I made it a priority to engage in continuous learning through online courses and industry conferences, which allowed me to stay updated on the latest standards and best practices. I also sought mentorship from senior engineers to gain insights into effectively implementing these codes in my designs.
Challenge 3: Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams can sometimes lead to miscommunication and differing priorities. I addressed this by improving my communication skills and establishing clear channels for collaboration. I learned to listen actively and articulate my design ideas effectively, ensuring that all stakeholders were on the same page.
Where do you work now? What problems do you solve?
I currently work at Eckersley O’Callaghan Engineers, where I’m involved in façade engineering projects. My role allows me to bridge the gap between architectural design and façade performance. I collaborate with architects, structural engineers, and other consultants to ensure that our façade designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and compliant with industry standards.
As a façade engineer in the UK, I work on multiple projects simultaneously, ranging from RIBA Stage 2 to 5. This involves conducting detailed analyses to assess the performance of our façade systems under various environmental conditions. I also conduct site visits and factory inspections, which help me ensure quality control and compliance with design specifications. Additionally, I play a key role in coordinating with contractors during the construction phase, ensuring that our design intent is realised on site.
What skills are needed for your role? How did you acquire the skills?
To succeed in this role, strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential. I also find that creativity is vital for developing innovative solutions to complex design challenges. What I love most about my job is the dynamic nature of the work; every project brings new challenges and opportunities to learn. The collaborative environment at Eckersley O’Callaghan, where everyone is committed to success, makes my role fulfilling and inspiring. Overall, my work combines creativity with technical expertise, allowing me to contribute to exciting projects that make a real impact in the built environment.
How does your work benefit society?
My work as a façade engineer plays a crucial role in shaping the built environment, which has a direct impact on society. By designing innovative and sustainable façade systems, I contribute to energy-efficient buildings that reduce carbon footprints and minimise resource consumption. These buildings not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of our cities but also promote a healthier living and working environment for occupants.
Additionally, my focus on façade performance ensures that buildings are resilient to various environmental challenges, such as weather and climate change. This contributes to the safety and longevity of structures, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve. A key aspect of my role is ensuring that the comfort of building users is taken into account, which includes factors like thermal comfort, daylighting, and acoustic performance.
Moreover, by collaborating with various stakeholders, I help foster a culture of sustainability and innovation in construction, encouraging future developments that prioritise ecological responsibility and social well-being.
Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you!
As designers, we often say that our best work is always the next one. While I may have only two years of experience in the façade engineering industry, I’ve already had the opportunity to engage in numerous experiences that make my work truly enjoyable. One particularly memorable project was my role as a project architect for Taj Resorts in Darjeeling. Seeing our design come to life as a unique and beautiful structure was incredibly fulfilling.
Additionally, during my master’s at TU Delft, I worked on recycled glass panels in the glass lab as an assistant. This project was showcased at the Futur 21 festival in Germany, and it was an incredible experience to see our work recognized on such a prominent platform.
Both my bachelor’s and master’s theses remain close to my heart, and I often find myself reimagining those projects, reflecting on the knowledge and expertise I’ve gained since then.
In my current role, the project submission periods stand out as significant moments. During these times, our collective efforts culminate in a detailed document that showcases our hard work. It’s rewarding to witness what we achieve together as a team, as these projects are always collaborative endeavours. Additionally, experiencing the manufacturing and placement of façade components for virtual mock-ups is both holistic and inspiring. Going on-site continually motivates me, as there is always something new to learn.
Your advice to students based on your experience?
My advice to students is to embrace continuous learning and stay curious. The field of architecture and façade engineering is ever evolving, with new technologies and methods emerging regularly. Always seek to expand your knowledge-whether through coursework, internships, or self-study.
Networking is equally important; connect with professionals in your field, attend industry events, and participate in workshops. Building relationships can open doors and provide invaluable insights into the industry.
Don’t shy away from challenges. Every obstacle presents an opportunity for growth. Reflect on your experiences, learn from them, and use that knowledge to inform your future decisions.
Lastly, remember to pursue your passions. Whether it’s a particular aspect of design, technology, or sustainability, find what excites you and integrate that into your work. Your enthusiasm will not only enrich your own experience but also inspire those around you.
Future Plans?
Looking ahead, I aim to deepen my expertise in façade engineering, particularly in the area of sustainable design and innovative materials. I’m keen on exploring advancements in technology that can further enhance façade performance and energy efficiency.
Additionally, I want to stay actively involved in research and development, potentially collaborating on projects that focus on integrating recycled and sustainable materials into façade systems. I believe this aligns with the industry’s growing emphasis on sustainability and responsible design.
Ultimately, my goal is to take on more leadership roles in future projects, where I can mentor emerging professionals and contribute to creating impactful and environmentally conscious buildings.
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