Lead Designer
BArch, MA, COA
London, UK
Ashwanth Govindaraji

Photograph by Frederic Aranda ©
With a specialisation in mixed-use masterplans and developments, he focuses on residential and hotel towers and façade design, while also contributing to interior design projects. His experience spans all stages of project development, from concept design to construction. He has successfully guided large teams through multiple submissions for large-scale masterplans and construction phases, liaising effectively with consultants and external partners. His strong managerial skills and consistent follow-up ensure seamless project execution, delivering on timelines, budgets, and quality standards. He actively mentors junior architects, sharing his knowledge and experience to help them grow professionally.
Prior to joining ZHA, Ashwanth worked with architectural practices of varying scales in India, China, Germany, and the Netherlands, including MAD Architects in China and UNStudio in Amsterdam, focusing on small-scale residential, towers, and masterplanning projects.


Photograph by Xue Liang 薛亮
Featured Projects
From a mixed-use beachfront development with panoramic views of Dubai’s coast and skyline, to a development with a contemporary reinterpretation of the rich detailing, bold geometries and craftsmanship of the Art Deco period, discover highlights of Ashwanth's notable projects at ZHA.
Ashwanth completed his Bachelor of Architecture from the School of Architecture & Planning at Anna University in India and his Master of Arts in Advanced Architectural Design from Stadelschule Architecture Class in Frankfurt, studying under Ben Van Berkel (UNStudio). He has conducted numerous software workshops, co-tutored design schools, and served as a guest critic at universities across India.
Ashwanth’s exposure to diverse architectural styles and cultural contexts has broadened his understanding of design, allowing him to integrate various influences into his work. As a passionate traveller, he finds inspiration in every city and appreciates the unique aspects of each place.
Projects
Explore a selection of projects Afsoon has contributed to since joining ZHA.

Render by Proloog
Sports
Located within Hangzhou’s Future Science and Technology Cultural District, the sports centre establishes a new riverfront park and public plazas with direct access to Lines 3 and 5 of the city’s expanding metro network.

Courtesy of ZHA, render by Negativ
Masterplans
The masterplan re-establishes and reinforces the links with the Port of Tallinn and the Old Town, as well as the links between the city and the sea; providing connectivity from the ferry and cruise terminals to the city centre, and at the same time creating an integrated new neighbourhood for the people of Tallinn.

Photograph by Jacopo Spilimbergo
Milan Store, September 2013
Retail
The 3,000-square-foot Milan flagship store is a playful dialogue of geometries; creating a rhythm of folds and recesses that have been shaped further by functional and ergonomic considerations. The store’s central display units have been designed to showcase the Stuart Weitman collection and also provide seating.

Render by XUniverse
Hospitality
Residential
The Alba is a new US$1.9 billion mixed-use beachfront development designed by ZHA for Omniyat on the Eastern Crescent of Palm Jumeirah with panoramic views of Dubai’s coast and skyline.

Photograph by Xue Liang 薛亮
Hospitality
Located in the Cotai district of Macau adjacent to the Lotus Bridge crossing with mainland China, the Hollywood-inspired Studio City resort has welcomed guests and visitors to the city since 2015.

Render by Bloomimages
Residential
Mixed Use
Tall Buildings
Located a short distance from Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Design District, Symphony Tower is situated within the new Horizon district of Dubai between the city's Meydan Racecourse and the waters of Ras Al Khor.
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