Architecture
that listens —
to the land, to the light,
to life.
Welcome to Dorje Design Lab, a Manali-based architectural practice dedicated to creating spaces that are in harmony with the Himalayan landscape.
We believe in an architecture that is both beautiful and intelligent.
By integrating advanced sustainability principles with thoughtful design, we craft buildings that are not only climate-responsive and energy-efficient but also deeply connected to the places they inhabit.
About Us
Founded with a deep commitment to sustainable and climate-responsive design, our practice integrates green building principles, vernacular construction techniques, and modern performance tools to create spaces that are rooted, resilient, and responsible.
Led by an architect with a Master’s in Sustainable Architecture and certification as an IGBC Accredited Professional, the studio brings expertise in energy modeling, eco-material selection, life cycle assessment, and green building rating systems.
Our design philosophy centers on minimizing environmental impact while honoring local culture and context. Each project is seen as an opportunity to rethink the relationship between people, place, and the planet—delivering solutions that are not only efficient and enduring, but also deeply meaningful.
What we do..
Our work spans two key domains—Architecture Design and Sustainability Consulting—delivered through a deeply integrated approach. By weaving environmental analysis, design intent, and user needs into one cohesive process, we craft spaces that are not only thoughtful and efficient but also responsive to their context and climate.
1. Architectural Design
We provide thoughtful, end-to-end architectural solutions for residential, hospitality, and interior spaces. Each project is approached with a strong sense of context, aesthetics, and user experience. From concept to detail, we aim to create buildings that are both functional and deeply connected to their environment.
Our architectural services include:
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Residential Design
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Hospitality Design
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Site and Contextual Design Integration
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3D Design Visualization and Detailing
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Interior Architecture
2. Sustainability Consulting
Sustainability is at the heart of our practice. We use advanced tools and data-driven methods to help shape buildings that are climate-responsive, resource-efficient, and future-ready. Whether integrated into our own projects or as a consultancy service, our sustainability offerings are tailored to deliver measurable environmental performance.
Our sustainability expertise includes:
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Environmental Analysis
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Solar radiation mapping
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Shadow and daylight analysis
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Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for airflow
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Performance Assessment
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Thermal comfort evaluation
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Energy and water performance modeling
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Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
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Carbon footprint analysis
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ECSBC compliance support and documentation
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Design Strategies
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Passive design optimization (orientation, natural ventilation, thermal mass)
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Active systems integration (HVAC efficiency, renewable energy potential)
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Green building rating guidance (IGBC, GRIHA)
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Featured Projects
A collection of academic and small to medium-scale projects that reflect our journey as a designers. Each project explores spatial clarity, contextual sensitivity, and a growing commitment to sustainable design principles.
Our
Design Process
01
Contextual Inquiry &
Pre-Design Research
02
Conceptual Design Development
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Schematic Design & Performance Testing
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Detailed Design & Technical Documentation
05
Execution with On-Site Sustainability Control
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Client Aspirations Mapping
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Site & Environmental Analysis
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Climate and Bioclimatic Response
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Cultural & Vernacular Study
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Legal & Regulatory Review
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Massing & Orientation Optimization
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Passive Design Strategies
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Material Intuition & Local Craftsmanship
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Programmatic Zoning
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Daylight, Comfort & Energy Simulation
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Envelope Optimization
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Sustainable Systems Schematic
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Early Sustainability Assessment
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Comprehensive Working Drawings
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Material Specifications with Life-Cycle Thinking
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MEP Coordination for Low-Energy Performance
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Waste & Efficiency Planning
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Contractor Orientation & Green Construction Training
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Sustainable Site Practices
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Real-Time Quality Control & Documentation
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System Testing & Commissioning
Founder
Ar. Lobzang Dorje is the founder of Dorje Design Lab, an architect with a deep commitment to sustainability, climate-responsive design, and environmental integrity. With a Master’s in Sustainable Architecture and accreditation as an IGBC AP (Indian Green Building Council Accredited Professional), his work blends technical expertise with a sensitive design approach. Rooted in the belief that architecture must respond to both place and people, his practice focuses on creating meaningful, low-impact spaces that are informed by context, performance, and care for the natural world.
Education
2023-2025
M. Arch
(Sustainable Architecture)
School of Planning and Architecture, Vijayawada (A.P.)
Completed master’s degree with a focus on sustainable architectural practices, climate-responsive design, and environmental performance. Gained hands-on experience with tools like DesignBuilder and Climate Consultant, and developed a thesis on thermal comfort and energy efficiency in cold climates. This program has deepened my understanding of life cycle thinking, green building rating systems (like GRIHA and IGBC), and the integration of traditional wisdom into contemporary sustainable solutions.
2017-2022
B.Arch
School of Architecture, Rajiv Gandhi Govt. Engineering College Kangra at Nagrota Bagwan, (H.P.)
Completed foundational training in architectural design, construction technology, and urban planning. Developed core skills in design communication, technical drawing, and building systems. Participated in design studios focused on contextual architecture and vernacular studies, which sparked my interest in sustainable and community-driven design approaches.