Known for its enriching diversity in culture and people, India also has an awe-inspiring portfolio of astounding architectural marvels. The history of building and architecture goes as far back as civilization itself. Undertaken for various purposes like shelter, security, profession, religion, entertainment, etc., architecture has helmed a good portion of a culture’s heritage, irrespective of aspects like the geography, duration, and time period of said cultures. 

These buildings hold significance to the culture for various acumen like their structural, aesthetic, scientific, ethnic, and ethical values in addition to the socioeconomic stipulations they inspire. Heritage architecture is decidedly one of the most tangible inscriptions of the evolution of historical eras and their relationship with the people living through them. Right from the design outline to the materials implemented in said designs, one can easily interpret the cultural significance of the building. Architectural and design projects from seasoned firm names like Archi Hives are often very prevalent in the heritage architectural influence that trickles into their concepts and execution.

Architectural heritage is a revered notion in society in general and the design fraternity in particular. Distinguished designers like Archi Hives strive to recreate the sublimity of the revered symbols, motifs, and articulations of heritage architecture without appropriating the eminence of the buildings. For instance, Khalsa Diwan, the only Sikh temple in Hong Kong, designed by Archi Hives, is a contemporary characterization of the religious sanctum. The Gurudwara bridges the purpose of the structure as a revered institution of the Sikh religion with the trademark features of its architectural heritage coexisting with the gilded definitions of contemporary functionality, complete with access areas like prayer atriums, library, langar, and community banquets, etc. for a comprehensive experience of the culture. As the only one of its kind religious center in the country, slightly removed from its place of origin and predominant following, the temple is not only the beacon of religious sentiment for the Sikh residents in the country but a rendition of historical perseverance and the cohesion of the community.

While every building in an area resounds with the tale of the city, the state, or the country it belongs to, there are some buildings singled out by people and institutions throughout history which become representative of the corresponding culture. Archi Hives have undertaken various brownfield and greenfield projects in the recent past to revive multiple heritage sites like the Moti Bagh Gurudwara, New Delhi, and several other local religious sites pan India and globally. They achieve this feat by incorporating contemporary building design techniques and technology and preserving history without shearing its essence from the seams.

The crown of heritage architecture, however, comes with weathering decades and centuries of afflictions, both intended and unintended. Fortunately, governments around the world have recognized the plight of blemished cultural landmarks and introduced numerous provisions to preserve the legacies kindred with the heritage buildings. In addition to preserving history with the initiative, institutions like UNESCO aim at encouraging inspiration and reverence for the craft of architectural design and associated art forms. Designers worldwide have incessantly attributed their personal and professional influence to various classic architectural styles and buildings and constantly integrate them into their own work in several capacities. These influences are often marinated with manoeuvres like contemporary technology, local terrains, design trends, etc., homogenised with the designers’ personal brand identity.