Design technology and architectural visualization are at the forefront of modern architecture. They revolutionize how buildings are conceived, designed, and constructed. These fields encompass advanced tools and methodologies that allow architects and engineers to create detailed digital representations of projects, facilitating better decision-making and collaboration. As the complexity of projects increases, the importance of these technologies cannot be overstated. They enable teams to visualize intricate designs, optimize performance, and ensure sustainability throughout the lifecycle of a building.
One that stands out as extraordinary in design technology and architectural visualization is Kunal Chhatlani. He is currently a Design Technology Lead in major infrastructure projects at Hirani Group. He has made significant advancements in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and manages high-profile developments in New York. His portfolio includes pioneering the integration of carbon emission data into the BIM process for a prominent financial client’s headquarters, setting new standards for sustainable design. Kunal excels in historic preservation, as seen in his work on the PennX Tunnels project, where he transforms 1920s tunnel scans into modern BIM models. His coordination of complex systems at JFK Terminal 1 and innovative visualization techniques for the White & Case headquarters further demonstrate his expertise and commitment to advancing the architecture and construction fields.
In this exclusive interview, the brilliant Kunal Chhatlani shares valuable insights from his dynamic career trajectory. He discusses the innovative strategies he employs to bridge the gap between technology and design. His experiences not only highlight the challenges of modern architecture but also inspire a forward-thinking approach to sustainable and intelligent building practices.
Join us in this exclusive interview as Kunal shares his perspectives on the future of architecture and his vision for the next generation of professionals in the field.
New York Art Life: You’re currently leading the BIM team for the PennX Tunnels project. What unique challenges does working with historic infrastructure that spans over a century present?
Kunal Chhatlani: Working with infrastructure that spans over a century requires a delicate balance of preservation and innovation. When converting point cloud scans from tunnels built in the 1920s into modern BIM models, we’re essentially creating a digital time capsule. The $16 billion scope means every decision has massive implications. We’ve implemented structured workflows that respect historical integrity while meeting modern construction standards. It’s fascinating to see how infrastructure elements from different eras interact within our LOD350 models.
The challenge is about creating a bridge between different generations of engineering and construction methodologies. Our team has developed comprehensive issue tracking and resolution systems using Autodesk Construction Cloud, which helps us maintain transparency and accountability throughout the process. This documentation becomes particularly crucial when dealing with historic infrastructure where unexpected conditions are the norm rather than the exception.
New York Art Life: Your work on a large-scale headquarters project at Gensler was groundbreaking in terms of sustainability. How did you approach integrating carbon emission data into the BIM process?
Kunal Chhatlani: The project was a convergence of scale and sustainability, presenting unique challenges and opportunities. Managing a 2.5 million-square-foot building with a goal to be among New York’s largest all-electric structures required innovative data integration methods. We developed custom parameters within our LOD300 BIM models to track carbon metrics across various building systems. Balancing input from six design teams while maintaining data integrity was complex, but it set a new benchmark for sustainable design in large-scale projects.
Beyond the technical side, this project reshaped how we view building performance data. By creating workflows for real-time tracking of sustainability metrics, we empowered the design team to make data-driven decisions about materials and systems. This approach not only helped us achieve ambitious sustainability goals but also laid the foundation for similar frameworks in future projects.
New York Art Life: Can you tell us about your experience managing the JFK Terminal 1 Utilities Project? How does BIM facilitate complex infrastructure coordination?
Kunal Chhatlani: Airport infrastructure is incredibly complex because you’re dealing with multiple systems that can’t fail. At JFK T1, we weren’t just modeling utilities; we were choreographing a dance between new MEP systems and the existing AirTrain infrastructure. The 4D BIM animations we developed became crucial tools for visualizing construction sequencing. Every clash we detected early saved potential millions in construction conflicts. It’s about seeing the invisible and making it visible to everyone involved.
The real innovation came in how we approached system integration. We developed comprehensive coordination protocols that allowed us to track and resolve conflicts in real-time. This meant creating detailed 4D simulations that showed not just where systems intersected, but how they would be constructed over time. This level of detail proved invaluable in preventing costly field conflicts and ensuring smooth integration with existing infrastructure.
New York Art Life: Your work on the White & Case HQ seems to have pushed the boundaries of visualization. How did you approach creating the unique meeting spaces, especially with features like the 270-degree 4K display?
Kunal Chhatlani: Our approach focused on ensuring that our 3D visualizations were not only technically accurate but also effectively translated into the built environment. In high-end legal spaces, precision in design communication is essential. Each visualization served a dual purpose: as a technical guide and a tool for client approval. We emphasized attention to detail and employed an iterative design process, conducting multiple visualization studies for each meeting room to explore various lighting, materials, and technology options.
New York Art Life: How did your experience with large-scale event management, like the World’s Biggest Guestlist Festival, influence your approach to architectural projects?
Kunal Chhatlani: The Guestlist Festival was a masterclass in understanding how large crowds interact with space. Creating visualizations for a 75,000-attendee event required a completely different mindset from typical architectural projects. We had to consider not just the static elements like LED screens and DJ console positioning, but also dynamic factors like crowd flow, emergency evacuation routes, and even pyrotechnic safety zones. The project’s success and subsequent global awards validated our approach to large-scale event planning.
This experience fundamentally changed how I approach spatial planning in architectural projects. When you’ve coordinated with international teams and managed safety considerations for massive events, you develop an intuitive understanding of how spaces need to perform under pressure. The lessons learned from positioning crowd control elements and managing traffic flow for 45,000 people at the Justin Bieber concert in Mumbai directly translate to how I now approach building circulation and public space design in architectural projects.
New York Art Life: In your current role as a lead mentor at Novatr, what key lessons do you emphasize to emerging professionals?
Kunal Chhatlani: The industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and I emphasize the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. While teaching advanced BIM and computational design, I focus on problem-solving methodologies rather than just software proficiency. I’ve structured our curriculum to reflect real-world scenarios, ensuring students understand not just the ‘how’ but the ‘why’ behind technological applications in architecture.
The 100% placement rate we’ve achieved isn’t just about technical skills – it’s about developing professionals who can think critically and adapt to new challenges. Through our webinars and practical exercises, we’re creating a new generation of architects who understand both the technical and human aspects of design. I often incorporate case studies from my projects to demonstrate how theoretical knowledge translates into practical solutions, helping students bridge the gap between education and professional practice.
New York Art Life: In projects like the Akwa Ibom State International Worship Centre, how do you tackle the complexities of geometric design, particularly when it comes to structures like the unique slanting tower?
Kunal Chhatlani: My approach to complex geometric challenges, as exemplified by the Worship Centre project, involves integrating computational design with practical construction requirements. For this project, we modeled the intricate steel frame structure, including the slanting tower, which necessitated a dual perspective as both designers and builders. Utilizing advanced tools like Rhino and Grasshopper enabled us to complete 90% of the roof structural elements in just 40 working days. This required precision at every level, from the overall form to the smallest connection detail. What made this project particularly engaging was our strategy for the 19-acre site and its diverse programmatic needs.
New York Art Life: Your portfolio shows significant experience in workplace design. How has the concept of workplace evolved through your projects?
Kunal Chhatlani: Managing over 10 workplace lobby and marketing center projects has given me a front-row seat to the dramatic evolution of office spaces. Projects ranging from 1,000 to 200,000 square feet each brought unique challenges, but the common thread has been the increasing emphasis on flexibility and technology integration. Weekly consultant coordination meetings became crucial platforms for innovation, where we constantly pushed the boundaries of what workplace design could achieve.
The implementation of clash detection processes using BIM 360 transformed how we approach workplace design coordination. We’ve moved from traditional office layouts to creating adaptive environments that can respond to changing work patterns. This shift required not just technical expertise but also a deep understanding of how people interact with their work environment. Each project has contributed to a growing knowledge base about creating spaces that enhance productivity while maintaining human comfort and connection.
New York Art Life: You’ve implemented several technical innovations throughout your career. How do you approach the balance between innovation and practical implementation?
Kunal Chhatlani: In addressing the balance between innovation and practical implementation, I emphasize several key strategies. For the prominent financial client’s headquarters, I developed custom parameters in our BIM models to effectively track carbon emissions, tackling a specific sustainability challenge. In the JFK Terminal 1 project, I created 4D BIM animations that helped stakeholders visualize complex construction sequences, ensuring clear communication of innovative solutions. During the White & Case headquarters project, I conducted multiple visualization studies for meeting rooms, refining designs based on feedback to achieve a balance between aesthetics and functionality.
I also prioritize training and support. For instance, I organized hands-on sessions for clash detection software in workplace design projects, enabling architects to become proficient and reducing errors. Additionally, I believe in the importance of clear communication, as demonstrated in the PennX Tunnels project, where I held regular check-ins to discuss workflow innovations, ensuring that all team members understood their roles and the impact of new technologies. These approaches collectively enhance project outcomes while fostering a culture of innovation.
New York Art Life: Lastly, how does your work in New York reflect the city’s architectural identity and influence your design philosophy?
Kunal Chhatlani: I think New York’s skyline isn’t just a symbol of ambition—it’s a canvas where design and innovation converge. My work reflects a passion for creating structures that endure and inspire, blending precision with purpose to shape spaces where ideas come to life.
As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of architecture and design technology, Kunal Chhatlani’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of innovation’s transformative impact on our built environment. His insights challenge us to critically examine the vital intersection of sustainability, technology, and historical preservation. Kunal encourages us to envision how these elements can harmonize, creating spaces that are not only functional but also deeply reflective of our shared identity.
In a world where change unfolds at a breakneck speed, Kunal’s focus on adaptability and lifelong learning resonates profoundly. He inspires both emerging professionals and seasoned veterans to reflect on their roles in this dynamic field. His message is not just about pushing the boundaries of design; it’s about committing to a sustainable future in architecture.
As we explore these possibilities together, let us remember that the structures we create today will shape the experiences of generations to come. Kunal’s vision invites us all to be part of this journey, urging us to craft environments that honor our past while embracing the future.
Linkedin – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kunal-chhatlani-328215124/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kunalchhatlani/
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