Leaders

For centuries, architecture was thought to be the purview of men, as large buildings were created with an eye that frequently ignored the subtleties of interpersonal relationships. However, when women entered the sector, they changed it by bringing empathy, inclusion, and a profound comprehension of human experience into settings. Women architects are creating spaces that honor cultures, convey stories, and establish relationships in addition to making buildings. This revolutionary strategy is personified by Roksana Chehna, the creator of Roksana & Anosh. Her interest in the ways that environments affect human interactions and emotions led her to pursue a career in architecture, despite being qualified in psychology. Her perspective was broadened by studying many architectural ideologies, which inspired her to incorporate cultural influences and accessibility into her work. She was challenged to go beyond traditional design by working with a diverse group of people, which strengthened her conviction that architecture is about more than just building things, it's also about creating environments that influence significant human experiences.

In a personal interview with us, Roksana shared her incredible journey and her plans for the firm.

Could you share some key moments that have shaped your professional journey as an architect?

My professional journey has been shaped by a series of defining moments, each contributing to my growth as an architect and a creative thinker. One pivotal moment was during a research seminar, when I delved into the symbolism of Indian aesthetics. What began as an academic subject soon transformed into a deep-rooted passion, leading me to explore architecture beyond its structural aspects, examining its cultural, historical, and philosophical dimensions. Another significant milestone was establishing Roksana & Anosh, where all my impressions on architecture, human connections, interior psychology, and landscape became an avenue to express my creative beliefs on what architecture should be. Being an active part of community-driven projects and collaborating with artisans have been particularly fulfilling experiences, reinforcing my belief in holistic, sustainable design.

What inspired you to create Roksana & Anosh? Could you share the core vision behind the venture and its primary areas of expertise?

With a deep-rooted childhood interest in psychology and human connections, my journey into architecture was driven by curiosity about how spaces shape experiences. Working with diverse architects across cities enriched my understanding of design, sustainability, and cultural narratives, leading me to embrace a multidisciplinary approach.

Roksana & Anosh was founded to create holistic spaces where architecture, interiors, and landscapes seamlessly blend, fostering human connection, culture, and nature. Projects like Kandavadi and Kapra Lake rehabilitation have reinforced our commitment to community-driven design, working alongside GHMC to transform public spaces.

Our vision is to merge contemporary design with artisanal craftsmanship, ensuring each project tells a unique story, one that is both personal and deeply meaningful. Every project we undertake tells a story, ensuring that design has both soul and purpose.

As the founder of Roksana & Anosh, you take on multiple roles. Could you share how you balance daily operations while staying focused on the company’s core expertise?

As a woman, I wear many hats, including that of a mother, counselor, mentor, and architect, with each role shaping my perspective and approach to design. Beyond architecture, my journey has included supporting mental health through Roshini Helpline, teaching belly dancing, and engaging in community initiatives, all of which have enriched my creative process.

As the founder of Roksana & Anosh, I balance strategy, design, and leadership with structured planning and creative flexibility. My focus is on collaboration within my team, with clients, artisans, and designers, ensuring every project is an evolving dialogue rather than a rigid blueprint. Staying actively involved allows me to seamlessly manage operations while fostering an inclusive, innovative, and purpose-driven work environment.

As a creative professional, what inspires your work? How do you blend aesthetics with functionality in your designs?

I draw inspiration for my work from many different sources. I have a profound awareness of colors, how they mix, interact, and affect spaces, because I love painting. Meeting people, visiting villages, and immersing myself in various cultures, which, in my opinion, cannot be fully comprehended through books alone but rather require experience, are other ways that I get inspiration. My viewpoint is constantly shaped by art, history, nature, and human interactions. Being invited into well-designed houses gives me insightful knowledge about culture and lifestyle, which helps me identify the type of architect I want to become, one who creates for people rather than just businesses. I firmly believe that to create effective and meaningful environments, design should be both poetic and useful, seamlessly integrating aesthetics and functionality.

How do you envision the future of Indian architecture? How is Roksana & Anosh adapting to emerging industry trends?

With an increased emphasis on sustainability, cultural preservation, and adaptive design, the Indian architectural scene is changing quickly. Eco-friendly materials, intelligent technology, and community-focused development are becoming more and more popular as urbanization picks up speed. By incorporating ecological techniques, working with craftspeople, and investigating creative design solutions that achieve a balance between tradition and contemporary, Roksana & Anosh supports these trends. Our ultimate objective is to design environments that are robust, flexible, and profoundly significant.

Reflecting on your journey, what core leadership philosophy has guided you? What is your personal 'success mantra'?

My leadership philosophy revolves around fostering collaboration, continuous learning, and staying true to one’s creative integrity. My success mantra is simple, ‘Design with purpose, build with passion, and stay rooted in authenticity’. Every project is an opportunity to craft narratives that resonate beyond aesthetics, making a lasting impact on the people who experience them. My viewpoint on holistic design was greatly impacted by Geoffrey Bawa, who emphasized the value of fusing modernism with culture. Three main ideas underpin my distinctive style, namely emphasizing artisanal craftsmanship, incorporating cultural themes with modern design, and placing a high priority on sustainability. These principles direct me as I design environments that are lasting and meaningful in addition to being aesthetically pleasing.

Roksana Chehna, Founder, Roksana & Anosh

Roksana Chehna is an architect and the founder of Roksana & Anosh, known for her innovative approach that seamlessly blends psychology, culture, and sustainability. Her work goes beyond structures, creating spaces that foster meaningful human experiences.