4th Edition of PHDCCI Architectural Excellence Recognitions 2025 Awarded Architectural Pioneers and Innovators
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) successfully organized the 4th Edition of Architecture Excellence Recognition (AER) 2025 at Hotel Lalit, Chandigarh, celebrating innovation, sustainability, and outstanding achievements in the field of architecture and design.
The recognition brought together leading architects, interior designers, industry experts, and academicians to recognize exemplary contributions that are shaping the future of India’s built environment.
Manish Tewari, Hon’ble Member of Parliament from Chandigarh, graced the ceremony as Chief Guest and highlighted Chandigarh’s global reputation as “The City Beautiful”, calling it one of the finest examples of modern urban planning and architecture. Designed by the legendary architect Le Corbusier, Chandigarh, he said, stands as a symbol of independent India’s vision of progress and modernity.
He emphasized that Chandigarh will continue to grow and evolve in the field of architecture without losing the beauty and design envisioned by its creators. Referring to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, he noted that creativity today often takes the form of evolution and innovation rather than being confined to individual imagination.
Guest of Honour on the occasion, H. S. Lucky, President, Congress Committee Chandigarh, extended heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and added that this recognition not only recognizes outstanding contributions but also inspires the next generation, preserves heritage, and sets new benchmarks for excellence.
Madhusudan Vij, Chair, Chandigarh Chapter, PHDCCI, in his welcome address, shared that the fourth edition of AER 2025 has evolved into a celebration of creativity, innovation, and sustainable design shaping the skylines and living spaces of tomorrow.
Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & SG, PHDCCI, emphasized that modern architecture is about people, not just structures. He underlined the importance of creating safe, creative spaces for children, accessible designs for the elderly, eco-friendly materials, and the scientific principles of Vastu. With sustainability at its core, he said, architecture must create inclusive, harmonious, and future-ready spaces.
Ar. Habeeb Khan, Jury Chair and Former President, Council of Architecture (COA), spoke about the unique and dynamic nature of architectural design in the era of rapid technological transformation, particularly the influence of AI on creative processes.
Suvrat Khanna, Co-Chair, Chandigarh Chapter, PHDCCI, proposed the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the Jury, delegates, and participants for making AER 2025 a grand success.
After rigorous evaluations, the Jury collectively announced the winners across 27 distinguished categories and 4 Lifetime Achievement categories. The following were the winners in each category: Architect of the Year 2025 was awarded to Ar. Neeraj Manchanda (New Delhi). Prof. (Ar.) Rajnish Wattas (Educator) – Chandigarh, Ar. (Prof.) Charanjit Singh Shah (Practicing Architect) – New Delhi, Ar. Hem Raj Yadav (Public Service Government Architect) – Panchkula, Haryana. Boundless Achievement as an Architect Ar. Achal Choudry Indore MP. Residential Design & Innovative Residential Design awards were given to distinguished architects including Ar. Milind Mukund Kulkarni (Maharashtra), Ar. Zafar Masud Choudhary (Punjab), Ar. Shraddha Sadamate (Maharashtra), and Ar. Amruta Bajaj (Madhya Pradesh), Commercial Interior Design Awards recognized excellence in office and retail spaces, with notable projects in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Nagpur, Certificates of Merit were awarded in categories such as Healthcare Space Design and Best Residential Interior Design. “PHDCCI AER 2025 Award was presented to Ar. Ishrat Nowshehri from Jammu & Kashmir in recognition of exemplary work.”
The event was graced by eminent Jury members, including Ar. Manmohan Khanna, President, IIA Chandigarh Chapter; Ar. Surinder Bahga, Former President, FSAI; Ar. Puneet Sethi, Former President, IIA Haryana State Chapter; and Ar. Ritu Singh.