With an impressive 106 entries, LOCUS 2026 provided a valuable platform for students to present their design ideas, explore innovative concepts, and demonstrate their understanding of architecture. The competition encouraged participants to think beyond conventional approaches, experiment with new ideas, and express their unique design perspectives.

Through this initiative, students had the opportunity to strengthen their design thinking, develop problem-solving skills, and push the boundaries of their creative potential. The competition also highlighted the importance of innovation and independent thinking in architectural education, inspiring students to approach design challenges with confidence and imagination.

At the Faculty of Architecture, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, such initiatives encourage students to explore their talents and develop the skills needed to become innovative future architects. LOCUS 2026 reflected the enthusiasm and creative spirit of the student community while promoting a culture of design excellence.

Congratulations to all the participants for their valuable contributions and enthusiastic involvement in making LOCUS 2026 – Edition 1 a remarkable celebration of creativity, architectural talent, and innovation!

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!

The competition aimed to encourage creativity, innovation, and design excellence among aspiring architects by providing a platform to showcase their ideas, exchange perspectives, and explore new possibilities in architectural design.

A Platform for Young Architectural Talent

LOCUS 2026 offered students an exciting opportunity to demonstrate their architectural vision, creative thinking, and problem-solving abilities. The competition encouraged participants to think beyond conventional approaches and explore innovative design solutions while expressing their individual perspectives.

By bringing together students from different institutions, LOCUS created an environment for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and healthy competition. Participants had the opportunity to engage with diverse ideas, learn from one another, and gain valuable exposure to different approaches to architectural design.

Encouraging Innovation Through Design

Architectural education goes beyond theoretical knowledge; it involves creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to respond to real-world challenges through thoughtful design. LOCUS 2026 reflected these values by encouraging students to experiment with ideas, communicate their concepts, and develop innovative approaches to design.

The competition also highlighted the importance of providing aspiring architects with opportunities to challenge themselves, build confidence, and discover new dimensions of their creative potential.

Inspiring the Future of Architecture

LOCUS 2026 – Edition 1 celebrated the talent, enthusiasm, and passion of emerging architectural designers. The event reinforced the importance of creative exploration and intercollegiate engagement in shaping the next generation of architects.

The Faculty of Architecture, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, continues to encourage students to embrace innovation, exchange ideas, and pursue excellence in architectural education.

LOCUS 2026 – Think beyond boundaries. Design with purpose.

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!

A Platform for Creativity and Design Innovation

LOCUS 2026 encouraged students to think beyond conventional boundaries and develop meaningful design solutions. The competition offered participants an opportunity to demonstrate their architectural vision, creative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and design skills in a competitive and collaborative environment.

By bringing together students from diverse institutions, the event fostered knowledge sharing, healthy competition, and creative interaction among emerging architectural talents. It also encouraged participants to explore new perspectives, challenge their ideas, and express their design concepts with confidence.

The competition reflected the importance of providing young designers with opportunities to apply their knowledge, experiment with innovative concepts, and gain valuable exposure beyond the classroom.

Recognising Excellence at the Valedictory Ceremony

The LOCUS 2026 Valedictory Ceremony marked a proud moment for the participants and winners. Shortlisted participants and winners from both the Inter-Collegiate and Intra-Collegiate competitions were honoured for their efforts, dedication, and creative achievements.

The awards were presented by the Honourable President, Er. A.C.S. Arun Kumar, who recognised the students’ commitment to architectural excellence, innovative thinking, and passion for design.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the prestigious LOCUS Rolling Trophy to the Inter-Collegiate Winner. The trophy celebrated the winning team’s outstanding performance and symbolised the spirit of creativity, excellence, and achievement that LOCUS represents.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Architects

LOCUS 2026 – Edition 1 was more than a design competition; it was a celebration of emerging talent, fresh ideas, and the future of architecture. The event reinforced the value of creative exploration, collaboration, and design-led problem-solving in architectural education.

The Faculty of Architecture extends its heartfelt congratulations to all the participants, shortlisted teams, and winners for their enthusiasm and contributions to making LOCUS 2026 a memorable success.

Through initiatives such as LOCUS, FoA, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, continues to encourage aspiring architects to think creatively, design with purpose, and pursue excellence in their academic and professional journeys.

LOCUS 2026 – Think beyond boundaries. Design with purpose.

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!

The workshop provided students with an opportunity to explore the relationship between creativity, precision, and spatial design. Through carefully planned cuts and innovative folds, students experimented with paper, patterns, shapes, and structures, transforming simple materials into visually interesting creations.

Exploring Creativity Through Paper Art

Kirigami encourages creative thinking, attention to detail, and an understanding of how two-dimensional surfaces can be transformed into three-dimensional forms. During the workshop, students explored different techniques and developed their own interpretations through hands-on experimentation.

The activity also helped students appreciate the importance of precision, geometry, balance, and spatial relationships—concepts that are relevant to both architecture and design.

Connecting Craftsmanship with Design Thinking

Beyond artistic expression, the workshop encouraged students to approach creative challenges with curiosity and problem-solving skills. By testing different cutting patterns and folding techniques, they gained practical experience in exploring ideas, understanding forms, and learning through experimentation.

The Kirigami workshop offered a refreshing learning experience that brought together creativity, craftsmanship, and design thinking.

Through such experiential activities, the Faculty of Architecture continues to encourage students to explore innovative ideas, strengthen their creative abilities, and discover new ways to connect art with architectural design.

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!

The workshop provided students with an opportunity to explore a traditional art form, understand its artistic elements, and express their creativity through hands-on practice. By working with colours, patterns, and intricate details, students experienced the beauty of traditional craftsmanship and its cultural significance.

The session encouraged students to experiment with their artistic ideas and interpret the art form in their own unique ways. It also highlighted the connection between art, culture, patterns, and visual expression—elements that play an important role in architecture and design.

The workshop offered a refreshing creative experience beyond the classroom, allowing students to appreciate India’s artistic heritage while developing their observation skills and creative confidence.

Through such experiential learning initiatives, the Faculty of Architecture continues to encourage students to explore the relationship between art and architecture, celebrate traditional art forms, and draw inspiration from cultural heritage in their creative journeys.

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!

The educational visit provided students with an opportunity to explore the temple’s architectural character, cultural significance, and relationship with the surrounding urban fabric. It helped them understand how historic religious structures contribute to the identity, spatial organisation, and cultural life of a city.

Through on-site observation, students gained valuable insights into the interaction between heritage architecture, streetscapes, public spaces, and the surrounding neighbourhood. The visit also highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage while understanding the evolving needs of urban environments.

The study offered a meaningful learning experience, connecting classroom concepts with real-world urban conditions and strengthening students’ understanding of heritage-sensitive urban design.

The Faculty of Architecture continues to encourage experiential learning through site visits that help students develop practical knowledge, observation skills, and a deeper appreciation of the built environment.

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!
 

She shared valuable insights on urban mobility, multidisciplinary design, and the importance of innovative architectural thinking. She also shared her perspectives on LOCUS, enriching participants’ understanding of contemporary architectural practices and encouraging them to explore creative design solutions.

Her presence added an international perspective to LOCUS 2026, making it a meaningful learning experience for aspiring architects.

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!

The training programme focused on key aspects of furniture production, machine shop practices, and installation techniques, helping students gain valuable insights into industry practices and the technical processes involved in furniture design and manufacturing.

Bridging Design Education and Industry Practices

Practical experience plays an important role in design education, enabling students to translate creative concepts into functional and well-crafted products. Through the FFSC training programme, students were introduced to essential processes involved in furniture production, from working with tools and machinery to understanding installation methods.

The exposure to machine shop practices helped students appreciate the importance of precision, material handling, technical knowledge, and safe working methods in the manufacturing process. The training also highlighted how careful planning and execution contribute to the quality, functionality, and durability of furniture products.

Developing Practical and Professional Skills

The programme offered B.Des students valuable exposure to industry-oriented skills and techniques that complement their academic learning. By understanding the practical aspects of furniture production and installation, students could develop a clearer perspective on the relationship between design concepts, manufacturing processes, and final product outcomes.

Such training opportunities encourage students to strengthen their technical abilities, improve their problem-solving skills, and gain confidence in applying design principles to practical situations. They also help aspiring designers understand the expectations and processes involved in professional design and manufacturing environments.

Preparing Students for Future Design Careers

The FFSC training programme reflects the Faculty of Architecture’s commitment to providing students with practical learning opportunities that support their academic and professional development. Industry-oriented training helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace requirements, preparing students to approach future design challenges with greater technical understanding and confidence.

Through initiatives like this, FOA, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, continues to encourage experiential learning and skill development among its B.Des students, helping them build a strong foundation for future opportunities in furniture design, product development, and related creative industries.

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!

Madras Day is a special occasion that commemorates the history, traditions, architecture, and cultural identity of our beloved city. It provides a wonderful opportunity for students to explore Chennai’s unique character and express their appreciation for its historical significance and evolving urban landscape.

The participation and success of the FoA students reflect their ability to combine creative thinking with an appreciation for the city’s heritage. As architecture and design students, understanding the cultural identity of a place plays an important role in developing a deeper perspective on the built environment, historic landmarks, and the communities that shape urban life.

The competition also offered a platform for students to showcase their talents, share their ideas, and celebrate the spirit of Madras through their creative efforts. Their accomplishment demonstrates the importance of encouraging students to participate in cultural and creative initiatives beyond the classroom.

The Faculty of Architecture extends its heartiest congratulations to all the winning students for their commendable achievement. Their success brings pride to the institution and inspires fellow students to explore their creativity, participate in meaningful activities, and pursue excellence in their chosen fields.

FoA continues to encourage a learning environment that values creativity, cultural awareness, and hands-on experiences, helping students grow into thoughtful designers and responsible professionals.

Congratulations to our talented winners! May this achievement be the beginning of many more milestones ahead as they continue to celebrate creativity, heritage, and the enduring spirit of Madras.

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!

The session focused on encouraging students to prioritise their mental and emotional well-being alongside their academic responsibilities. With the demands of coursework, design projects, presentations, and other academic activities, maintaining a healthy balance is essential for students to learn, grow, and perform effectively.

Through this initiative, students were encouraged to understand the value of mindfulness, develop positive daily habits, and make time for self-care. The session also highlighted how taking a pause from busy schedules can help students reflect, recharge, and approach their academic and personal responsibilities with renewed focus.

At the Faculty of Architecture, student development extends beyond academic learning and creative skills. Supporting a healthy and positive learning environment is equally important in helping students build confidence, resilience, and a balanced approach to life.

The Wellness Session served as a meaningful reminder that well-being is an essential part of personal growth and academic success. By encouraging students to care for their minds and bodies, FoA continues to support their journey towards becoming well-rounded individuals, both personally and professionally.

➤Watch the glimpses on Instagram!