Tropical Architecture Bureau (TAB)

Tropical Architecture Bureau (TAB) was founded by Chief Architect Uvais Subu, an alumnus of Calicut University. Uvais gained experience working with Philip Werraratne Architects in Sri Lanka, a firm that had collaborated with Geoffrey Bawa, and Urbana in Bangladesh, both of which emphasized “tropical architecture.” His design approach integrates modernism with tropical themes, creating a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. Over the years, TAB has garnered several prestigious awards for its outstanding contributions to the field of architecture, a testament to the firm’s excellence in practice. TAB is renowned for its “experiential architecture,” which is characterized by simplicity and contextual sensitivity. The firm is widely recognized for its experimental use of materials and minimalist design ethos, which embodies its core philosophy. At TAB, architecture is seen as an empathetic expression, inspired by real-life conditions and the complex relationships that define each project. The firm strives to create spaces that foster dialogue and interaction, remaining intuitive in its design approach. By experimenting with design elements, TAB employs a contemporary design language to explore innovative ways of creating sustainable, green architecture. At the same time, it preserves the essence of Indian architectural expression. This philosophy is reflected in the firm’s projects, which are marked by crisp material detailing, locally sourced skills and labor, and a keen focus on light and climate-responsive solutions. Despite over a decade of practice, TAB remains small and personalized, maintaining strong collaborations with peers while ensuring innovation and originality in every project.