The studio

We design buildings that respond to where they are

The studio works at the intersection of climate-responsive design, biophilic principles, and technical rigour — producing residences that are deeply rooted in their landscape and built to last.

Every project begins with a study of site, sun, and wind before a single line is drawn. The result is architecture that manages heat, light, and air through form — not machinery.

Chalet is currently developing BIM-enabled workflows and computational design tools to support a growing portfolio of residential and commercial projects across Pune and Maharashtra.

Design principles
01
Climate before aesthetics
Every design decision begins with the site's climate — solar angles, prevailing winds, humidity, and seasonal variation. The building's form is the first line of environmental control.
02
Biophilic integration
Natural light, cross-ventilation, material texture, and living plants are woven into every plan — not applied as decoration but embedded in the spatial organisation.
03
Honest materials
Exposed concrete, teak, stone, and rammed earth. Materials that age well, require minimal maintenance, and reflect the character of the Deccan plateau.
04
Technical rigour
BIM-enabled documentation, precise construction drawings, and close site supervision. Design intent is protected through every stage of delivery.
05
Long-term thinking
We design with a long-term horizon, perspective beyond immediate needs — not a magazine cover. Spaces that adapt to family life, age gracefully, and remain relevant as needs change.
Sneha Saraf — Founder and Principal Architect Sneha Saraf — portrait
Sneha Saraf
Founder and Principal Architect

Sneha graduated in Architecture in 2019 and spent four years building expertise across residential design, working drawings, and site execution in Pune-based practices. She completed a professional BIM certification in 2022 before founding Chalet Architects in 2024.

Her work is driven by a belief that climate-responsive design is not a specialisation — it is the baseline standard for every building in the Deccan region. She brings together design thinking, construction knowledge, and digital workflows under one roof.

Firm’s timeline
2024
Chalet Architects founded in Pune — design philosophy defined around climate-responsive, biophilic architecture.
2025
First significant residential commission — approvals secured, construction commenced, and initial brand identity developed.
2026
Active construction management and BIM consultancy positioning — laying the ground to grow beyond a solo practice.