Archh.com: India’s first social network platform for desi and global design professionals

This online social platform has already succeeded in attracting over 13,000 members from about 190 countries thus far, which includes the cream of India's architecture and design community, writes Rajesh Kulkarni. 

Launched with the objective of bringing together the global community of architects, interior designers, students, design enthusiasts, building material suppliers, potential clients, AEC and building construction professionals on a common social networking platform, Archh.com, is already making waves among members of the community.

In the short span of time since its launch in April 2013, the network has gathered over 13,000 registered members from across the globe, 70 percent of whom are architects and interior designers. The numbers are significant, given the fact that India has about 45,000 registered architects.

Furthermore, members have uploaded a portfolio of over 3,500 projects and 1,000 products and services on the dedicated website which also aims to enhance communication between the global design community through the sharing and exchange of ideas, knowledge and work profiles between them.

Archh strongly believes that the future lies in niche social networks that will help create web communities with specific interests in mind. It's a view shared by leading design professionals who have registered on the website and are optimistic about its relevance and future potential.

"I personally see a huge potential in this endeavour," opines Ravi Sarangan, Co-Founder, Edifice, a leading Mumbai-based design hub with a track record of over 800 delivered projects spanning Shanghai, Hangzhou, Manila and London.

"A dedicated networking platform for the architecture community was the need of the hour and Archh.com has come in at the right time. Upcoming as well as established professionals and businesses can use this global platform to connect, collaborate and grow", adds Sarangan.

Parind Sarmalkar, director, Dornbracht India Pvt Ltd hold a similar view. Says he, "Archh will become the meeting-point for all things connected to architecture and design. It will help the global community forge a bond by means of sharing knowledge, ideas and inspiration. Seasoned architects and interiors designers also stand to benefit in terms of being able to widen their professional network considerably within the community."

Adding to the website's professional appeal is its versatility. For example, it can create your e-profile, list general projects, share field-related opinions, help connect with fellow professionals and also keep members updated on the latest news and updates from the design and architecture fields.

Not surprisingly the site has already attracted members from over 190 countries including the cream of the Indian architecture and design industry followed by members from the US, UK, Pakistan and the Philippines in that order.

• Exhibit their projects.
• Passively gain visibility which will help gain further business.
• Gain inspiration & stay abreast of latest and emerging trends in design.
• Learn about latest technology and new products in the AEC Industry.
• Gain awareness about current & proposed events/exhibitions/Seminars.
• Take part in competitions/award programs.
• Look out for tenders & new assignments being posted by users.

• Avenue to reach segregated target market of decision makers in AEC industry.
• Platform to display full range of products on a common & relevant forum.
• Opportunity to develop one-to-one relationship with customer & consumer.
• Spread information about technology and news in respective domain.
• Opportunity to sponsor events through the forum.

• Access all material & service providers for designing & building their property.
• Learn about latest happenings in the AEC industry.
• Gain inspiration & stay abreast of latest and emerging trends in design.

• Gain inspiration stay & abreast of latest and emerging trends in design.
• Learn about latest technology and products in the AEC industry.
• Gain awareness about current & proposed events/exhibitions/seminars.
• Look out for new assignments being posted by users/architects/designers.

• Learn about local and global architects and view the projects executed.
• Learn about latest technology and new products in the AEC Industry and connect with the respective companies.
• Display their projects, and generate passive interest among users.
• Update the industry about developments and happenings in their organization and undertake PR activity.