We recently connected with Minal Yellewar and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Minal thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
Sustainability and resilience have been the core principles shaping my work as an architect and urban planner. Among the diverse projects I have engaged with, my thesis research, Green Urban Development: Creating Green Cities Through Sustainable Energy Planning, holds special significance. This project transcended academia—it was a manifestation of my deep-seated commitment to embedding sustainability into urban design, confronting climate challenges, and fostering communities that harmonize with their environment.
My inspiration for this work traces back to my trip to Switzerland. Traveling through the breathtaking landscapes, from the towering Alps to the serene lakes, I was struck by how harmoniously the country blends innovation with nature. Switzerland’s public transportation network was particularly impressive—trains efficiently connected even the most remote mountain villages, while cable cars and funiculars provided access to higher elevations with minimal environmental impact. One striking example was the photovoltaic system installed on the roof of the Männlichen mountain station, demonstrating a commitment to renewable energy even in alpine regions.
When I was in Zurich, I observed how sustainability was deeply embedded in the city’s design and daily life. The public transportation system was convenient and accessible, with trains and buses operating seamlessly, reducing car traffic and making urban mobility both efficient and environmentally friendly. Shaping the way people interacted with their surroundings, fostering a pedestrian-friendly culture.
As I walked through the city, I noticed how the streets were shaded by lush tree canopies, creating a naturally cooled environment that made strolling comfortable even on warmer days. Open seating areas were integrated along sidewalks, inviting people to engage with their surroundings. Water fountains scattered throughout the streets provided visual and auditory relief but also reinforced the city’s commitment to sustainability by encouraging the use of reusable bottles over disposable plastic.
Experiencing Zurich in this way made me realize that sustainability is not just about isolated technological solutions—it is about designing urban spaces that prioritize human well-being while respecting the environment. Witnessing these elements firsthand reinforced my belief that cities can be both vibrant and ecologically responsible, inspiring me to explore similar strategies in my work.
Myrtle Avenue became the focus of my study because of its deep connection to my daily life during graduate school. Located in Brooklyn, New York, it was a place I visited regularly—whether for lunch, picking up art supplies, or attending routine hospital checkups. Over time, it became more than just a convenient spot; it was a space where I spent significant time, observed daily interactions, and experienced the rhythm of the community. This familiarity made it a natural choice for my study, as I could engage with its environment and understand its evolving dynamics in a meaningful way.
The project explored practical strategies for sustainable energy integration from global exemplars across continents like Singapore, Stockholm, Lancaster, and London—cities that have pioneered innovative green urban development. One of the key proposals in my study was the installation of photovoltaic panels on bus stop shelters, and the implementation of kinetic energy solutions, where pathways generate power through movement, a small intervention that could provide renewable energy for public infrastructure. Additionally, I explored the implementation of solar-powered ground lights for pedestrian pathways and, the adoption of smart waste management solutions, such as solar-powered compactors, to enhance energy efficiency and urban cleanliness. Beyond renewable energy, the design prioritized livability with open green seating areas, tree-planting initiatives for urban cooling, and a dedicated bicycle lane built with permeable surfaces to manage stormwater while promoting active transportation.
The study also underscored the importance of community engagement – sustainability should not just be an environmental goal but a lifestyle embedded in the urban fabric. Cities must create environments where green practices are convenient and desirable, rather than an afterthought. The future of sustainable cities does not lie in futuristic, alien-like urban experiments but in pragmatic, localized solutions that respect the existing urban context. Sustainability should feel familiar and accessible, not forced or experimental. My research reinforced the idea that we need to create sustainable neighborhoods that people genuinely want to live in, rather than merely designing eco-friendly infrastructure that lacks human-centered integration.
This project was more than a research endeavor—it was a personal mission to advocate for practical, impactful, and scalable green urban solutions. The lessons from my thesis continue to inform my professional practice, reminding me that every city, no matter how dense or developed, holds the potential to become greener, more livable, and more sustainable.
The missing link in many sustainability initiatives is accessibility – if we want people to adopt green solutions, we must make them attractive and convenient. This belief continues to drive my work, as I strive to create urban spaces that not only respect the environment but also enrich the lives of those who inhabit them. As I move forward in my career, I remain dedicated to transforming cities into thriving ecosystems where sustainability is not just an option, but a way of life.
Minal, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Architecture is the synthesis of aesthetics and functionality—a discipline where the rhythm of form meets the pragmatic needs of human existence. It is a dialogue between imagination and utility, where the abstract sketches of an idea evolve into spaces that inspire, sustain, and endure. My journey into this intricate craft is deeply personal and profoundly shaped by my father, whose creative brilliance transcended the bounds of his profession.
Although my father is a businessman, managing a jewelry enterprise which has been in my family for three generations, he has always been an architect at heart. From an early age, I was captivated by his innate ability to envision and bring ideas to life. When our family began constructing a new home during my second grade, he became completely invested in the process—poring over architectural and design magazines with meticulous detail. Despite his formal education in electronic engineering and business, he immersed himself in every aspect of the design, actively collaborating with the architect and interior designer, contributing insights and solutions that reflected his deep passion for architecture.
He would spend hours sketching furniture layouts, drafting spatial plans, and calculating precise dimensions. Each piece of furniture in our home bore his mark of ingenuity, seamlessly blending function with artistic expression. What fascinated me most was how someone without a formal architectural background could possess such a keen understanding of spatial relationships, materiality, and scale. His creativity and vision were a source of endless inspiration, sparking in me a desire to explore the world of architecture and contribute to shaping the built environment.
I pursued a Bachelor of Architecture from BVDU College of Architecture, India, and during those transformative five years, a study trip to Chandigarh truly expanded my perspective. Chandigarh, a city envisioned by the legendary Swiss-French architect and urban planner Le Corbusier, is a testament to the fusion of visionary urbanism and architectural ingenuity. Designed with a modernist approach, the city embodies a remarkable balance between function and form. Its self-sufficient sectors, organized with meticulous precision, mirror the human body—each sector functioning as a vital organ, interconnected yet autonomous. Green corridors act as the city’s lungs, wide boulevards ensure seamless movement and civic buildings command an iconic presence. This city instilled in me a conviction that urban planning is integral to fostering communities and creating resilient cities. This realization led me to pursue a Master’s in Urban and Community Planning at the Pratt Institute School of Architecture.
In my professional practice, I blend architectural precision with urban-scale thinking. From designing energy-efficient residential projects to reimagining the urban fabric, my work reflects a commitment to creating spaces that are environmentally conscious and contextually relevant. I employ vernacular materials, passive design strategies, and biophilic principles to craft spaces that are both functional and regenerative.
Architecture and urban planning are an interconnected discipline shaping the way we live and interact with the world. Design is a dialogue – a language through which we connect history, culture, and aspirations. It is an opportunity to create spaces that transcend the ordinary, leaving a lasting imprint on communities and their environments. My father’s creative legacy continues to inspire me. For potential collaborators, clients, or followers, my work offers more than just technical expertise; it represents a commitment to pushing the boundaries of design while staying anchored in sustainability and humanity.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
As an architect and urban planner, my journey across two vastly different design landscapes—India and the United States—has reshaped my perspective on design principles. I had to unlearn the notion that architectural guidelines are universally applicable, realizing instead that they must be deeply rooted in regional geography and cultural sensibilities.
Early in my career, while working as a Junior Architect at Vastushilp Consultants in India, I was introduced to Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian architectural doctrine deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy. Vastu Shastra, derived from Sanskrit, means “the science of architecture,” and integrates cosmic principles with spatial planning to harmonize the built environment with natural energies. Its principles are based on directional alignments and the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and space), aiming to enhance energy flow, well-being, and prosperity by aligning structures with natural forces. For instance, a house’s main entrance is ideally oriented toward the north or east to welcome positive energy, while the master bedroom is best placed in the southwest to enhance health and stability. Initially, I viewed these guidelines as rigid constraints, but over time, I realized they serve as a framework that many Indian clients deeply value. Some adhered to them with unwavering faith, while others sought a synthesis between traditional wisdom and contemporary functionality. This experience illuminated an essential truth: architecture design is not merely about aesthetics and function—it is about honoring cultural continuity and personal narratives.
Moving to the United States as an Architecture Intern was a stark shift. The design philosophy here leaned largely on performance-driven solutions rather than predefined spatial rules. One immediate challenge was transitioning from the metric system to the imperial system—a seemingly small change that affected every aspect of my design thinking, from drafting construction documents to calculating material specifications. Beyond measurement conversions, I had to understand an entirely new set of construction techniques and material applications. In India, concrete and brick dominate residential construction due to their durability and thermal mass, which help mitigate extreme heat. In contrast, the U.S. employs wood-framed structures in residential architecture, not just for their affordability but for their ability to withstand seismic activity and provide natural insulation against cold climates. This realization reinforced that sustainability is not a fixed formula but a practice that must respond dynamically to local environments and available resources.
This cross-continental experience underscored a fundamental truth: architecture is a continuous dialogue between historical wisdom and evolving environmental needs. The most impactful architects are those who remain perpetual learners, refining their craft to create spaces that are both structurally resilient and culturally resonant. Unlearning rigidity and embracing adaptability—it is the essence of meaningful design.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Bringing a vision to life is an unparalleled experience. There is a profound sense of fulfillment when an idea, initially just a fleeting thought or a concept sketch, materializes into a tangible structure that interacts with the world. The act of giving form and function to an abstract concept is an extraordinary experience—one that demands creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of human needs and environmental responsibility.
My approach to architecture and urban planning is deeply rooted in creating spaces that foster community growth, respect the environment, and achieve a delicate balance between the environmental, social, and economic aspects of development. This philosophy has been the driving force behind my work, particularly in projects such as my thesis on the Fashion Museum, Pune, India and my urban planning research for The Point CDC in the Bronx, New York.
The Fashion Museum was envisioned as a cultural landmark that celebrates the evolution of clothing, acknowledges the artisans who have shaped fashion, and provides a platform for emerging designers. The architectural concept was inspired by the essence of fashion itself—structured and expressive. Conceptual drawing from elements such as the precision of textile weaving, the facade was designed as a layered, perforated metal mesh, mirroring the interplay of fabric textures.
One of the most defining moments in its creation was the challenge of designing a glass diamond-shaped exhibition space, a structure that would carry a live load of 200 people per floor. My thesis advisor was not in favor of the concept, deeming it impractical and unrealistic. While I respected their perspective, I was convinced that this structure was essential to the museum’s identity—it was the embodiment of fashion’s dynamism and transformation. I knew that integrating such an ambitious element would require perseverance and collaboration. Rather than abandoning my vision, I reached out to a civil engineer, presenting my ideas with clarity and openness to technical input. Through continuous dialogue and problem-solving, we explored ways to align the structural feasibility with the architectural intent. It was a humbling experience—one that demanded adaptability and reinforced the importance of bridging the gap between conceptual ambition and practical execution. Seeing the structure come to life was a testament to the power of determined teamwork and the willingness to embrace complexity in pursuit of innovation.
The museum is approached through a French landscape garden, a deliberate design choice that reinforces the connection between history and contemporary architecture. As visitors traverse this verdant entryway, they symbolically journey through fashion’s evolution from its origins to its modern expression before stepping into the structured elegance of the museum itself. The landscape integrates organic pathways and manicured green spaces, evoking the harmony between form and function, much like the craftsmanship inherent in fashion. The building itself is not just a static exhibition space but an interactive experience, with spaces designed to engage visitors through immersive displays, a dedicated ramp show area, and a wonder space that merges technology with fashion storytelling. The museum was designed to not only preserve history but also invigorate the present fashion industry by promoting rural artisans and contemporary designers alike.
Urban planning research for The Point CDC in Bronx Community District 2, specifically focusing on the recommendation centered on implementing sustainable strategies to expand the open space system in an area where only 5% of the land is dedicated to parkland—far below the NYC average. The proposal aimed to repurpose vacant lots and underutilized industrial spaces into green infrastructure that not only mitigates environmental challenges but also enhances community well-being. Raised garden beds were designed to provide fresh produce while reinforcing neighborhood food security. Flood-resilient infrastructure, including permeable pavements and bioswales, was incorporated to manage stormwater efficiently. Pedestrian pathways lined with native vegetation were introduced to create inviting, shaded routes that encourage walkability. These spaces were envisioned not just as ecological buffers but as active social hubs where public life could thrive, fostering interaction and resilience through intentional, responsive design.
Seeing these projects take shape—whether through 3D architectural models or direct collaboration with stakeholders—has reaffirmed my belief that design is a powerful tool for societal change. It is not merely about aesthetics or functionality; it is about crafting spaces that reflect cultural narratives, foster inclusivity, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient urban fabric.
Architecture and urban planning require a deep commitment to shaping environments that influence daily life. A well-designed structure or a thoughtfully planned urban intervention has the power to define communities, guide interactions, and respond to the evolving needs of society. The realization of an idea into a built form is a testament to the foresight and precision embedded in the design process, a moment of tangible fulfillment that marks the culmination of well-considered and responsible planning.
Contact Info:
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/minal-yellewar/
- Other: Gmail account – [email protected]
