Today we’d like to introduce you to Shraddha Srivastav Strennen.
Hi Shraddha, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey to architecture was far from linear. I descend from a family of art hobbyists who chosen professions were more secure – like Engineering. Being creative has always been a part of my identity. Whether it was painting, photography, or building furniture there was always an inclination. When applying to college, I completed the Architecture program application but never submitted it. As a first-generation South Asian (Indian) American I was encouraged to choose one of only two career paths, and Architecture wasn’t on the list. I pursued Biology/Medicine. In my final year of college, I realized I did not want to apply to medical school. I completed my degree while I reevaluated the new direction I wanted to chase. Shortly after graduation, a family tragedy had me put my ambitions on hold for seven years. In that time, I worked as an accountant. Certainly, an odd choice for my background, but I am also “math-minded”, so it was an easy place to pause. Alongside my day job, I directed a dance company and was the art director for a theater troupe. As you can see, I sought artistic fulfillment at every turn. I was 28 when I finally began my Masters in Architecture at Georgia Tech. Although my path meandered, it was my personal journey, and very much brought me to where I am.
Since 2006 I have worked at several notable firms in Atlanta and New York City. The breadth of my experience is reflected in projects located mostly across the US and China. In 2011 I began my own practice and freelanced alongside working at these firms. Shortly after the 10-year anniversary of S2-AD in 2020, I decided to pursue projects full-time. Since then, I have designed a multitude of residential and commercial projects in Atlanta and Houston, TX – my hometown.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, the road has been far from smooth. I don’t like to think of each bump, each struggle as a negative turn – but simply a turn. It’s an opportunity to learn, improve, or redefine. For instance, I graduated from Georgia Tech in 2008 – when many architects were unemployed. Thankfully I had begun building my resume while in graduate school, and I had a choice of opportunities upon graduation. Right away though, I learned the importance of making yourself indispensable and creating opportunities for yourself.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
S2-AD (an eponymic abbreviation for Shraddha Srivastav Architecture + Design) is a full-service licensed architecture, design, and development studio with 15+ years of experience in residential and commercial design. My design ethos is holistic with a focus on wellness and quality of life, and attention to true sustainability. I believe life should be lived with the lines between interior and exterior space beautifully blurred. Around the city, and even in Houston, TX, you will see my residential and commercial projects, as well as luxury residences I have developed with my husband.
S2-AD knows that the best projects result from close collaboration with our clients. I listen and discuss the client’s goals as the first steps in the design process. Once I have a full understanding of our client’s stylistic preferences, needs, and financial boundaries I begin drawing and 3D modeling. The use of 3D modeling allows me to produce solutions our clients can understand and better visualize.
My significant experience is also in both construction and project development. I have gained detailed and hands-on experience in all phases of construction which lends to a realistic experience for both clients and contractors. I want all involved in a project to understand the decisions that are being made, the cost implications, and the feasibility.
Our exceptional consideration, attention-to-detail, thoughtful coordination of both interior design and landscape design, and clear communication sets S2-AD apart.
What matters most to you? Why?
Designing enduring architecture that ages well because it is sensitively and thoughtfully designed.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.s2archdesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s2archdesign/
