Great Companies: How did you get your idea or concept for the business?
Deepali Pandey: I completed my Bachelor's in Architecture from GCA Lucknow, where my primary focus was designing in harmony with nature. After passing the GATE examination, I pursued a Master’s in Landscape Architecture at the prestigious School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi. During my studies, I worked on several master planning projects at urban, domestic, and regional levels. My hard work was recognized when I was awarded the Gold Medal for the Best Outgoing Student and the Narendra Juneja Gold Medal for the Best Thesis Project in 2011.
After gaining eight years of experience with two of India’s most prominent landscape architecture firms, I decided to start my own firm, A+D Design Studio. This decision was driven by my extensive design experience in hotels, resorts, residential developments, and collaborations with foreign architects and private developers.
Landscape architecture emphasizes the vital relationship between people and the environment. As global populations grow, the strain on resources and the urgency to preserve the environment increases. The discipline addresses critical issues such as climate change, pollution, and the protection of natural resources like wetlands. These challenges inspired me to establish A+D Design Studio. Our projects span from large-scale master planning to small urban interventions, all aimed at promoting social engagement and ecological balance.
Great Companies: What are the various services provided by A+D Design Studio?
Deepali Pandey: At A+D Design Studio, we provide a comprehensive range of landscape architecture services, including:
Landscape Master Planning: Establishing the overall character of large-scale residential or mixed-use developments through illustrative plans, sections, elevations, and sketches.
Landscape Architecture Services: Transforming graphic conceptual visuals into technical documents for site construction.
Additional Services:
Parks and Recreation Planning
Golf Course Landscaping
Exterior Hardscape Design
Water Feature and Pool Planning
Planting and Irrigation Strategies
Landscape Maintenance and Remedial Programming
LEED and Low Impact Development Strategies
Streetscapes and Urban Design
Graphics and Site Modeling
Construction Documents
Bidding and Construction Contract Administration
Physical Planning
Great Companies: What makes A+D Design Studio different from hundreds of other similar service providers?
Deepali Pandey: A+D Design Studio stands out due to our commitment to:
Delivering design excellence in every project aspect.
Procuring high-quality projects with rewarding challenges.
Maintaining a proactive and client-centric approach.
Establishing strong relationships with reputable clients.
Offering competitive and reasonable professional fees.
Paying meticulous attention to detail.
Hiring knowledgeable and trustworthy staff.
Promoting environmentally sustainable design approaches.
Being flexible and unique in our business methods.
Creating a casual yet enjoyable work environment.
Great Companies: What were the struggles and challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
Deepali Pandey: One of the recurring challenges in landscape architecture is defining and communicating its value to both the public and other design professionals. Other difficulties include limited project budgets, economic fluctuations, competition, climate change, and water scarcity.
Despite these obstacles, there is immense optimism within the field. Landscape architecture has a unique opportunity to redefine public spaces. The growing recognition of the importance of parks and innovative open space design presents a chance to set new standards and raise public awareness. By leveraging this momentum, landscape architects can significantly impact the built environment.
Great Companies: How do you plan to grow in the future? What does five years down the line look like for A+D Design Studio?
Deepali Pandey: Over the next five years, my goal is to advance as a landscape architect and expand A+D Design Studio. I aim to take on more responsibilities, gain greater industry awareness, and help the business achieve its goals. By pushing myself and working hard, I hope to realize my vision for the company and make a meaningful difference in the field of landscape architecture.
Great Companies: If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?
Deepali Pandey: Follow the 4 D’s: Desire, Dedication, Determination, and Discipline. Don’t rely on luck; believe in hard work. Success comes to those who are consistent and committed.