A VK Group monthly newsletter

- December 2023 -

Celebrating Victories of VK:a 

We are delighted to announce the outstanding achievements from VK:a in recent architectural competitions.

Season 2: Golden Jump-start Mentorship Program

Celebrating the Journey!

As another year comes to an end, it is the perfect time to reflect on the progress we've made this year. 

Let’s do an experiment together.* Take a 20-second break and think of ONE specific project that you worked on at least one year ago and are still very proud of.

Now answer this: if you were to do the same today, would you do it differently?

Chances are, your answer to the question above is yes. And, you would probably do it better—because of how much you have learnt since that project, and all the things you’ve experimented with, failed at, and learned from in the meantime. 

For example, when I started off with these newsletters more than a year ago, I only had a faint idea of what it was going to be. With feedback and suggestions integrated, this becomes the 16th edition bringing you relevant details about the design and building practices.

This growth curve is a natural, but it’s rarely acknowledged, let alone celebrated. Growth happens sometimes slowly, sometimes all at once, but is rarely seen in the moment; it only becomes evident later, and usually when something forces you to actively compare the current and past versions of yourself. 

It’s so easy to focus on things you are struggling with or haven’t done yet—but  no matter how small it might look, that growth curve is something you should always be aware of. Take a step back, reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’ve upskilled yourself, and celebrate your growth.

*Thanks to contentfolks for the idea!

Reflecting on the Growth Curve

While you can review your personal growth by yourself, the company's growth requires a collective reflection. Company growth is usually measured by revenue or profit margins. At VK Group, we acknowledge that individual/team growth and experience is equally crucial for a motivated workforce. It is important to assimilate these, make sense of it and transfer the knowledge to others so that we can all learn from it.

Celebrating the 50th year of foundation, various initiatives like Mentorship Program, Golden Dialogues and Scholarships have been unique throughout the year. 

Winning government projects and being acknowledged in multiple public project competitions has been a learning experience for VK:a. "With 25 years of experience and doing almost all kinds of projects, Government Tenders was a first time for me!" remarks Prabha Nair from Team Laxmi Bai. They ended up winning the second place in the Jotiba Redevelopment project competition. Bagging the Government Medical College in Sindhudurg after studying and working with experts in the field of healthcare infrastructure, has been one of the most fulfilling for Team Kanhoji. "Development of the Sindhudurg Waterfalls was another uncommon project we worked on this year. Along with Cumilab, we explored the integration of AI for designing public spaces, decks, adventure activities, etc. around the falls" shares Azhar Indikar. While the explorations and designs continue in full force, Sachin Doshi, our Associate Engineer, highlights the challenges in working with government officials and authorities, especially on redevelopment projects.

VK:e has expanded its horizons this year with new specialisations like Life Cycle Assessment for Products and excelling in green building services with IGBC and GRIHA Awards.

VK:u started the year strong with the national win for the IMS Katra Ideas competition by CoA. Ajinkya Kashid notes that the team accumulated international experience with projects in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Malta, focusing on BIM modeling and VR technology for Safira Fabrication Yard in Saudi.

For VK:i, "providing the maximum functionality and usability of the space within a tight timeline has been challenging, but thrilling", says Shilpa Thane, exemplified by the Dr. Agrawal's Dentsee Hospital where smart utilisation of the compact space was done while incorporating all medical requirements as per norms.

However, the youngest unit of the Group, VK:o, has has been the strong backbone for the smooth functioning of its parts. Apoorva Kulkarni reflects on this transformative year, stating, " After navigating 

through various hurdles—technical and emotional—we have realised the formation, documentation, and operational implementation of the VK Group, culminating in the establishment of VK Design & Projects Pvt Ltd. This year marks a new beginning for the Operations Team."

With enthusiasm and determination, VK Group looks forward to a promising 2024!

Sharpen Your Tool

"A craftsman who wishes to do his work well must first sharpen his tools." For a designer, while technology may serve as a valuable asset, the sharpest tool required remains the mind. In our busy schedule, maintaining focus and improving habits can prove challenging, and so New Year resolutions and personal goals end up being just another dream. But AI and technology aren't only for project design, they're also for designing your life. Notion can be  used as your digital ally for all your aspirations, offering free templates that can be used to track expenses, maintain habit trackers and streamline personal goals. With Notion, plan ahead to maximize the potential of 2024, ensuring that your tools, both digital and mental, are finely tuned for success.

99% Invisible by Roman Mars

This newsletter has been edited and compiled by Ar. Athulya Ann Aby, Architectural Writer, VK Group

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