Founded in 1989 by the visionary architect Tony Joseph, Stapati has grown into a multi-disciplinary powerhouse, embodying values of integrity, sustainability, and innovation. Tony’s educational journey, from MIT Manipal to a master’s in design at the University of Texas, Austin, in the Charles Moore program, significantly shaped his unique design philosophy.
Returning to India, Tony established Stapati, a firm that goes beyond conventional architectural practices. Instead, it crafts narratives deeply rooted in regional traditions, seamlessly blending them with a modern twist. The result is an architectural approach that speaks to the essence of each site, making it both timeless and relevant.
Stapati’s acclaim is especially pronounced in its hospitality projects, such as the Kumarakom Lake Resort in Kerala, the Alila Diwa in Goa, and the Enchanted Island Resort in Seychelles. These projects showcase Stapati’s commitment to innovative, regionally inspired designs that have earned international recognition.
Under Tony’s guidance, Stapati consistently receives accolades, securing a place among the Top 100 Most Influential Design Firms in South Asia by Architectural Digest for six consecutive years (2014-2019). The Enchanted Island Resort, a Stapati masterpiece, was honored as Seychelles’ Leading Resort in 2017 by the World Travel Awards.
In 2015, ORO Editions, based in San Francisco, published ‘Timeless Resorts,’ a monograph delving into the evolution of eleven captivating hospitality projects designed by Stapati. This publication stands as a testament to the international recognition of the firm’s contributions to the architectural landscape, notably as one of the few monographs highlighting an Indian architect by ORO.
Beyond architecture, Tony Joseph extends his influence to education. As the Founder Chairman of the Avani Institute of Design in Calicut, he champions a holistic approach to design education, aiming to nurture professionals equipped with sensitivity, empathy, and a diverse set of social and technical skills to address environmental challenges.
Tony’s impact also reaches the art world. As an invited artist at the Kochi-Muziris Biennale in 2016, he played a pivotal role in designing the Biennale Pavilion, showcasing his versatility and commitment to artistic expression.
In the world of architecture, Stapati, under Tony Joseph’s visionary leadership, stands as a beacon where tradition seamlessly meets innovation. The firm’s international acclaim, awards, and dedication to holistic design education solidify Stapati’s place as a trailblazer, leaving an indelible mark on the architectural landscape.
