DeDerive is a practice operating within the boundaries of architecture, interior design, master planning and urbanism. The design approach delves beyond problem solving and focuses on creating harmonious spaces that are sustainable, add value and are in sync with surroundings. The practice is rooted in pragmatism and informed by critical reflection. Founded by architect Mehul Patel, formerly the Principal at CnT Architects (Bengaluru, Hyderabad) in collaboration with architect Ruchi. The practice builds on the diverse portfolio of projects (institutional, commercial, industrial, multi-dwelling residential, healthcare, hospitality) that have been accomplished by the two partners in India and abroad.
Mehul Patel
Founding Partner
Architecture embedded in its context that reflects the ethos of time and place has been the focus of Mehul’s architectural practice. As the former Principal of CnT Architects (Bengaluru, Hyderabad) in the last two decades, he was instrumental in designing and executing a varied range of projects including but not limited to boutique and multi-dwelling residences, healthcare facilities, institutions, large- and small-scale industries and Master Planning.
Mehul graduated from CEPT Ahmedabad and spent his formative years honing his skills at craft of architectural design and construction at Bijoy Jain & Associates. Over the years he has won several prestigious design competitions and awards for architecture and is the recipient of the 20th J K Cement Architect of the Year Award in 2010 for the Tata-Dhan Academy, Madurai. His work has been published nationally and internationally.
Mehul also has a keen interest in mentoring young architects and has given several guest lectures, been part of Design Juries and Studios at different academic institutions across India.
Ruchi Patel
Partner
Ruchi is an experienced architect and Partner at DeDerive. Her firm grounding in architecture comes from alma-mater CEPT Ahmedabad and her professional experience working on a wide range of projects in India and abroad. This has led her to pursue a passion into creating optimised designs that are connected to nature while constantly searching for appropriate materials and construction techniques.
In her vast experience of two decades, Ruchi has worked with reputed architects in the industry, like architect Franz Staffelbach in Zurich, Shilpa Sindoor architects Bengaluru and Abhikram Ahmedabad, laying the groundwork for her unique approach to architecture. In her formative years, she explored the use of local materials and traditional craftsmanship in the approach to modern designs, and later she continued her exploration on cost effective designs for an NGO. She expanded her experience at HundredHands, handling a diverse range of projects, which led her to start her own practice Design Coalesce.
Ruchi is also associated with academic institutions as a visiting faculty and design reviewer.