“MAATRA” as a name itself signifies measure, balance, and proportion, and this philosophy forms the very foundation of MAATRA Architects. The firm believes that meaningful architecture is born from an understanding of proportion—never less, never more. For MAATRA, design is not merely about creating visually appealing structures, but about shaping spaces that respond sensitively to function, context, emotion, and human experience. Every project is approached as a unified whole where architecture, interiors, landscape, and services merge seamlessly to create environments that feel coherent, timeless, and alive.
Established in 2009, MAATRA Architects is a young yet well-established design practice headed by Architect Nirav Khant and Urban Planner Khushbu Khant. With over a decade of professional experience, the firm has built a strong presence across Gujarat and Rajasthan, working on a diverse range of projects that include architecture, interior design, landscaping, urban design, housing developments, and hospitality projects. Their work reflects a deep commitment to thoughtful planning, contextual sensitivity, and design excellence, making each project a unique response to its own reality.
Architect Nirav Khant, the founder and principal architect, began his professional journey after completing his Bachelor of Architecture and gaining experience with reputed architectural firms. Driven by a desire to practice architecture in a holistic manner, he established MAATRA Architects with the belief that a project achieves its true potential when handled in its entirety. He strongly advocates taking responsibility not only as an architect, but also as an interior designer, landscape designer, and at times even as a developer, to ensure complete justice to the design intent. This comprehensive involvement allows for the creation of unbiased, harmonious designs where all elements breathe as one. Over the years, he has successfully executed numerous projects for renowned builders, particularly in Rajkot, and is a lifetime member of professional bodies such as the Council of Architecture, RMC, and RUDA.
Equally instrumental in shaping the firm’s identity is Architect and Urban Planner Khushbu Khant. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Architecture in 2008, securing university first rank, and later pursued her post-graduation in Urban and Regional Planning. During her master’s training, she gained international exposure at Atkins in Dubai, where she worked on large-scale master planning projects such as Duqm City in Oman and Al Raha Beach Residency in Abu Dhabi. Her inclination towards academics led her to join IPSA Architectural College in 2011, where she taught skill-based subjects including architectural graphics, basics of design, design studio, and building materials and construction. Alongside her academic involvement, she has been actively engaged in professional practice with MAATRA Architects since 2009. Her strengths lie in housing planning, landscape design, digital presentations, model making, and systematic documentation, bringing clarity and precision to the firm’s design and execution process.
At MAATRA Architects, design and realization teams work closely from concept to completion. Planning objectives are clearly defined, internalized, and consistently adhered to, enabling clients to rely on timely project delivery without compromising on quality. The firm emphasizes the importance of understanding building services such as electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems as integral components of architecture. This integrated approach ensures that projects are not only visually compelling but also technically robust and functionally efficient.
A defining characteristic of MAATRA’s work is its emotional dimension. The firm believes that architecture should touch the user, appeal to the senses, and create spaces in which people feel comfortable and connected. Their buildings strive to achieve a long life cycle, not only through durable construction but through designs that remain relevant and meaningful over time. Innovative conceptual thinking, supported by strong technical expertise and hands-on experience, allows the team to translate ideas into built form with confidence and precision.
The firm’s consistent dedication to excellence has been recognized through numerous awards and accolades, including Best Architectural Design Award from CNBC News Channel for Affordable Housing in the High-Rise category, along with recognition from Architect’s Diary, Global Icon Awards, Gujarat Real Estate Awards, IIWA Awards, Naide Awards, Interio Global Publication, Design Awards 2021, and Begin Up 30 Under 50 – Best Architect 2020, among others. These honors stand as a testament to MAATRA’s commitment to quality, innovation, and responsible design.
Looking ahead, Nirav Khant and Khushbu Khant aspire to expand their practice and explore new project typologies while keeping design at the core of their work. By adopting new strategies that enhance efficiency and optimize time, they aim to strengthen their ability to deliver thoughtful, well-crafted architecture across broader geographies. Rooted in proportion and guided by purpose, MAATRA Architects continues its journey of creating spaces that are balanced, contextual, and deeply human.
