Contemporary architecture in India is a reflection of the nation’s journey from being a colonial subject to a progressive, independent country. The landmark of such projects has led to the introduction of new materials, planning strategies, and design philosophies, all the while being considerate of India’s climate, culture, and social needs. Mentioned below are ten examples of such projects that have played a huge role in defining the modern architectural identity of the country.

1. The city of Chandigarh – Le Corbusier

Chandigarh is the first modern urban planned city of India and was deliberately designed to manifest a bold and hopeful future after independence. The grid-based, sector-wise division and open space concept of Le Corbusier refreshed the Indian methodology of urban design and established new benchmarks for town planning.

2. Palace of Assembly, Chandigarh – Le Corbusier

The Palace of Assembly, part of the Capitol Complex,  by means of its massive forms and untreated concrete, depicts the values of democracy. The extraordinary roofing and striking interiors exhibit Corbusier’s view that an architect should be both practical and symbolic.

3. Asian Games Village, New Delhi – Raj Rewal

The housing complex destined for the 1982 Asian Games was the first step to the introduction of a different concept in mass housing. With this project, Raj Rewal integrated modern planning with the courtyard, shaded path, and community-friendly design, thus defining the future of urban housing.

4. India International Centre, New Delhi – Joseph Allen Stein

With its being almost in the middle of nature, the Centre is a cultural and intellectual hub that perfectly mixes the modern Architectural design with that of the natural surroundings. Stein designed a calm and human-centered architectural environment by using local materials, having landscaped courtyards, and being strict on minimal ornamentation.

5. Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad – Louis Kahn

IIM Ahmedabad is a very large campus and is recognized not only for its monolithic brutalist but also reddish brick architecture. Kahn’s use of geometry, light, and open corridors created an academic space that is both timeless and climate-responsive.

6. The Lotus Temple, New Delhi – Fariborz Sahba

Inspired by the lotus flower, this globally admired structure symbolizes unity and peace. Its marble-clad petals and symmetrical layout make it one of the most recognized modern religious buildings in the world.

7. Jawahar Kala Kendra, Jaipur – Charles Correa

This multi-arts center merges modern architecture with traditional Indian planning concepts. Designed using Vastu principles, the layout reflects cosmic order while accommodating contemporary cultural activities.

8. St. John’s Cathedral, Tiruvalla – Laurie Baker

The church, besides being Baker’s, also represented the architectural tradition of the region, modern construction technology, and the designer’s ideas of simplicity, sustainability, and human-scale design.

9. Indian Coffee House, Thiruvananthapuram – Laurie Baker

The building, with its spiral shape and jaali walls, is a remarkable and illustrative case of the use of modern architecture with good economy. It also improves air circulation, noise control, and has a novel dining setting.

10. Matrimandir, Puducherry – Roger Anger

Auroville’s Matrimandir is an architectural and spiritual wonder. Its golden geodesic dome and meditative atmospheres are the product of a combination of modern engineering, symbolism, and a deep philosophical concept.