Monsoon Collective is an architecture and interior design practice focused on climate-responsive homes and buildings that are practical to build and comfortable to live in. Rooted in the landscapes, climate, and culture of the region, our work responds to rain, light, vegetation, and everyday patterns of use.
We design buildings that work naturally with the climate, remain comfortable without excessive dependence on mechanical systems, and translate clearly from drawings to execution on site. Our projects are shaped by an understanding that good architecture is not only about ideas, but about how those ideas are realised — through clarity, coordination, and attention to detail.
Our approach is simple: start with the site, design for the climate, and carry the intent carefully through design and construction.
Leadership
Monsoon Collective is founded and led by Ar. Manoj Madhu, B.Arch (IIT Roorkee). With professional experience at ITC Limited, Gensler, EHDD, and HundredHands, Manoj brings exposure to large-scale projects, global practices, and context-driven design. He is a certified Green Building professional (IGBC AP, GRIHA CP). He actively engages with academia and the profession as a visiting faculty, juror, contributor to architectural publications, and member of the Indian Institute of Architects.
Our Approach
Every project begins with a careful understanding of the land, local climate, and how people live and build.
We design spaces that:
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Respond naturally to the local climate and rainfall
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Use passive design strategies for comfort and energy efficiency
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Integrate courtyards, verandahs, shaded edges, and cross-ventilation
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Use locally appropriate materials such as brick, terracotta, wood, and stone
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Balance functionality, durability, and refined detailing
Beyond design, we place strong emphasis on how projects are executed. Our drawings, details, and coordination are developed to reduce ambiguity on site and support smoother collaboration between clients, consultants, and contractors.
Sustainability is embedded into our process — through planning, material choices, detailing, and construction logic — not as an added layer, but as a result of disciplined design systems and long-term performance thinking.
Awards / Recognitions
IIA Kerala Chapter 2016 - Gold Leaf Award
IIID Design Excellence Awards 2017 - National Runner Up
IIID Design Excellence Awards 2017 - South India Runner Up
Indian Architect & Builder 2018 - Young Designer
IIA National Young Architects Festival Awards 2021 - Shortlisted
IIID Kerala Regional Chapter Awards 2023 Young Practice of the Year - Commendation
FOAID Architecture Ideas Awards 2023 Residential Villa Bungalow - Shortlisted
Vanitha Veedu Architecture Awards 2023 Residence Interiors - Commendation
IIA Kerala Chapter 2025 - Top 100+ Practices in Kerala.
Publications / Features
Archdaily Brasil - On The Brooks
Archdaily - Finding the Indian in Contemporary Residential Architecture