Viveka Devadas is an International Associate Architect and an Independent Consultant offering Creative Design services in the New England area. She is also an active volunteer for several non-profit organizations across New England and India.

Could you tell us a little about your background?  

I was born and raised in Coonoor, a beautiful hill station with amazing panoramic views located in the Niligiris, South India. My father worked for the Indian Navy and he used to meticulously plan summer vacations for us near the seaport areas in India. My mother comes from a huge family and the joint family occasions were always memorable with lots of good times with a visit to my grandmother’s ancestral home and fields in Coonoor.

My kindergarten and primary schooling were completed at St. Josephs Convent, Coonoor operated by catholic nuns and a British boarding system. My higher secondary schooling was completed at Church Park Convent, Chennai. I have a Bachelors in Architecture and a Master’s degree in Architecture (M.Arch) with a specialization in Digital Design from Anna University, India. I graduated from the University of Kansas with a Master’s degree in Architectural Project Management, with a primary focus on modern green design and construction principles.

Can you tell us about your current position? How did you choose your field of work?  

My keen interest in art, landscape and design led me to pursue my desired career in Architecture. I was interested in drawings, painting, creating sketches and building models right from childhood.I used to create prototypes out of easily available material like bamboo sticks and cardboard.

Currently, as an Associate Architect, I work in several phases of architectural and interior design projects ranging from conceptual design, design development, marketing and communications, building assessment and supervision during the construction stage. My Architectural design projects include intelligent buildings, commercial interiors, digital computation, renovations, zero-energy design, multi-family residences, mixed-used development, mini townships and urban design proposals.

Alternatively, as a Creative Design Consultant, I design and promote advertising and marketing material including brochures, logos, posters, advertisements, product packaging, websites and developing brands for a variety of clients. I work with industry standard design software including Adobe Creative suite and Autodesk software.

How did you get to where you are today?

I felt it was genuinely necessary to follow my passion into a career that I would love. I was strongly determined into pursuing architecture although my family wanted me to become a doctor, since I used to get an A+ on my science record diagrams!

Having started out as an Intern Architect, I worked as a Design Architect for several design based companies and construction firms. I also had the opportunity to teach at universities and educational institutions in India, Kansas and California. Teaching provided a valuable insight into my career and I became a mentor for architecture students. I advanced my education in Architectural Project Management and Digital Design and started my professional practice as an Independent Consultant for creative design. I expanded my network by building connections in the design community. I constantly work on my presentation and communication skills and participate in architectural conferences and competitions.

During  my collaboration with architectural and construction firms, I have had the chance to travel and work on projects in several cities - Paris, Brussels, Charleroi, Luxemburg, Singapore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Los Angeles, Kansas City and currently Boston. Travelling helped me to bridge the cultural gaps, learn new languages and increase my knowledge about various cities both from the architectural and cultural perspective.

What was your first job?

My first job was as an Intern Architect and 3D modeler for a midsized software company. I worked on hand sketches for interiors and landscape design projects and converted them to digital renderings and walkthroughs. It was both a challenging and exciting job responsibility as I was involved in making impromptu presentations and client demos.

What advice would you give to others who want a career like yours?

Understand what creative design and architecture actually involves and make sure it is a subject you genuinely love. After that, persistence is the key. Follow your passion and reach out to peers.  Be willing to take risks and try projects that are challenging. Have a concept for every design project you create. Increase your knowledge about architects, go on city walking tours and participate in conferences. Seek opportunities! There is no ‘stopping’ in creative design!

What has been your greatest professional accomplishment so far?

I am a European commission funded scholar and worked on housing projects sponsored by the (A+D) Architecture + Design, Paris as part of the building partnerships on sustainable built environment (SBE) from Europe and India. It was a valuable experience to work on construction techniques for different weather conditions and economic communities. It also provided an opportunity to travel to Europe, and visit several countries.

How do you manage a balance between your Indian and American Cultures? 

The work culture at American firms I have worked with is definitely much different from what you find in India, as well as in other countries. Although initially it was strange, I learned to adapt because I think even in India you work with people from so many other states and cultures. That experience definitely makes it easier to get acquainted to new environments. At home I always try to bring the ambience I am used to in India, and celebrate festivals with Indian decor, music and cultural attire.

What were the best things your parents did for you as you were growing up? 

In addition to giving me a good education, my parents have always encouraged me in my extracurricular activities. They shared the hardships they faced and told me life will not always be easy, and you will have to be satisfied with what you have. All this helped me to develop my confidence as a young woman and refine my survival skills no matter the environment, people and culture. My father always taught me to fix things, repair furniture, create artwork, etc. almost like a handyman. This has helped me to maintain my home and garden in the U.S. and I’m the ‘handywoman’ in my home!

What is the toughest interview question you have been asked?

You seem to be over qualified for this job, will you leave this job if you find a better one that suits your qualifications?

What do you do in your spare time outside of work?

I enjoy doing acrylic paintings, pencil sketches and gardening.

What is currently in your ipod/smartphone– music?

Peppy French Accordian and AR.Rahman soundtracks

Can you finish this sentence - I believe?

I believe I can make a difference in the lives of others, I can bring a smile and spread happiness around.

What is your Favorite App?

Houzz app - It keeps me in touch with the design community.

Autodesk Sketch App – For doodles on the go.

What advice would you give young people growing up as Indian Americans in the US? 

Bloom wherever you are planted, don’t compare yourself with anyone. Keep trying, work to improve your skills, no matter your age or the time. Never indulge in self-pity, keep your head out of water and keep moving NOW!

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