Ar. Petchimuthu Kennedy, the founder of Earthscape Studio, has been redefining sustainable architecture since establishing his practice in 2022. With a core philosophy that bridges nature and human needs, his studio explores the use of raw, earthen materials and self-sustaining geometrical forms to reduce environmental impact.
For Kennedy, architecture is not merely about construction. It is a living dialogue with the earth. Earthscape Studio's approach is grounded in the belief that architecture must be both a research-driven and environmentally-conscious process. Every project becomes an experiment in reducing CO? emissions by minimizing the use of industrial materials and instead working with locally sourced, natural elements in their original forms.
Speaking about his ideology, Kennedy reflects on the way society treats nature. “Some save trees for the future, others cut them for the present,” he says, emphasizing the need to build for what he calls “future-ness.” Earthscape’s goal is not to achieve a perfect balance but to continually move closer to maximum sustainability.
A prime example of this philosophy is the studio’s recent project, Insanitize, a 2,000-square-foot mud building. Initially constructed with 27 m³ of concrete for structural elements, the experience pushed Kennedy to innovate further. In a subsequent design iteration using a technique he calls “folded architecture,” the team reduced concrete usage to just 7 m³ for a similar-sized building.
The method relies on ferrocement structures and eliminates conventional columns and beams by using self-supporting forms inspired by catenary arches and vaults—traditional systems with renewed relevance.
Kennedy draws deeply from the legacy of Indian vernacular architecture. He notes that before the arrival of concrete in the 1940s, India built with wisdom passed down through generations like brick domes, wall-based load-bearing structures, and passive cooling systems. Earthscape Studio aims to revive and evolve these techniques by collaborating with local artisans and craftspeople who embody this knowledge.
His design inspirations include pioneers like Didi Contractor, known for her commitment to earth-based building and using what others might call "scrap" materials. For Kennedy, there’s no such thing as waste. Everything originates from the earth, including cement and even plastic. The key lies in how responsibly these materials are applied.
Aesthetics, in his view, are not imposed but emerge naturally when a design responds authentically to the site and user needs. “Design is about solving problems,” Kennedy believes. “When we respond to the site and the client's requirements, beauty follows.” He emphasizes the importance of understanding how each material reacts to climate, as no soil behaves the same across contexts.
Among Earthscape’s ongoing explorations is a push towards precast mud construction, addressing one of the most pressing challenges in natural building—time. The studio is also experimenting with colorful earthen structures, using natural stone powders to offer aesthetic diversity while staying rooted in ecological integrity.
Ar. Petchimuthu Kennedy’s work is an evolving conversation between tradition and innovation, earth and architecture. Through Earthscape Studio, he continues to demonstrate that responsible, experimental, and emotionally resonant design can emerge from the ground quite literally and inspire the future of sustainable building.
