An Open Mind

Episode at a glance
The conversation with Suneet Paul offers a rich and reflective perspective on architectural writing and journalism in India, addressing its evolution, challenges, and the need for systemic change. Suneet highlights the struggle of architectural writing to gain recognition, citing the dominance of visually appealing but superficial content and the limited understanding of the discipline’s depth. He critiques the undervaluation of critical writing in favor of commercial narratives, urging a shift toward balanced, high-quality writing that resonates with both professional and public audiences.
Reflecting on his extensive editorial experience with Architecture + Design, Suneet underscores the pressures of managing commercial viability while maintaining editorial integrity. He discusses how magazines have adapted over time, often compromising on research-based content to cater to market forces. Despite these challenges, he identifies opportunities in online platforms to broaden the reach and impact of architectural journalism, especially for fostering public engagement and architectural awareness.
Suneet emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, patience, and dedication for aspiring writers, urging them to write for themselves before pursuing professional avenues. He highlights the role of architectural writing as a medium for educating the public, advocating for accessible language and relatable topics that bridge the gap between architects and society. Looking forward, he envisions collective efforts by institutions and professional bodies to elevate architectural media, integrating it as a vital component of design discourse.

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Thematic highlights of the conversation
1. The Evolution of Architectural Writing
Architectural journalism in India has evolved from sparse beginnings to a more visible presence, but it continues to lack depth and systemic support.
2. Challenges of Quality and Recognition
Critical architectural writing remains undervalued, overshadowed by visually driven, commercially motivated narratives.
3. The Role of Online Platforms
Digital media offers a promising avenue for expanding architectural journalism’s reach and engaging broader audiences, particularly students and non-specialists.
4. Balancing Editorial Integrity with Commercial Pressures
Suneet reflects on the challenges of sustaining magazines in a commercial ecosystem, where compromises on content often become inevitable.
5. Importance of Public Engagement
Architectural writing must address societal needs, focusing on relatable issues like public spaces and cultural heritage to foster public understanding and appreciation.
6. Educational Role of Architectural Writing
Writing serves as a critical tool for architects to articulate their designs, with clear documentation and storytelling enhancing communication with clients and the public.
7. Advice for Aspiring Writers
Suneet emphasizes the importance of writing for oneself, developing confidence through practice, and building patience to navigate the challenges of the profession.
8. Systemic Gaps in Architectural Education
Architectural curricula in India lack emphasis on writing and media studies, creating a disconnect between design practice and its communication.
9. Collective Efforts for Media Advocacy
He advocates for collective action by professional bodies to support architectural media, ensuring its integration into broader cultural and professional discourses.
10. Vision for Architectural Media
Suneet envisions a future where architectural media balances aesthetics, research, and inclusivity, fostering critical thinking and societal impact.

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Disclaimer: The views expressed by the guest are contextual responses to the host’s questions, holding immediate relevance within the scope of the conversation; the points discussed are part of a larger, interconnected knowledge network. This summary is provided for the ease of readers and should not be interpreted in isolation. You are encouraged to engage with the full episode on Spotify to gain a comprehensive understanding.

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You can connect with Suneet here: LinkedIn⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

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