Thakur School of Architecture & Planning (TSAP), nestled in the peaceful suburb of Kandivali in Mumbai—the commercial heart of India—has steadily emerged as one of the most forward-looking and purpose-driven institutions in the country. From its inception, TSAP has been devoted to the nurturing of creative, socially responsible, and professionally competent individuals in the field of architecture. Operating under the affiliation of the prestigious University of Mumbai (NAAC A++ accredited), TSAP has not only kept pace with evolving educational paradigms but has also consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation and excellence.
The institution offers a five-year fulltime Bachelor of Architecture program (120 intake) approved by the Council of Architecture, New Delhi. It holds recognition under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act 1956 and has earned ISO 21001:2018 certification for its academic and administrative excellence. In the year of 2018-19, the institute started the B.Voc – Interior Design (60-intake) degree program affiliated with the University of Mumbai. In 2023, TSAP was accredited with an ‘A’ grade by NAAC in its very first cycle—a testament to its quality-driven approach. TSAP’s journey took a significant leap forward when it was recently conferred with Autonomous Status for the academic years 2025–2034, cementing its position as a pioneer in contemporary architectural education.
TSAP’s teaching methodology is centred around a curriculum that emphasises leadership and contextual understanding. Students are encouraged to engage with their immediate environment, participate in solving real-world challenges, and explore design solutions that are relevant, responsive, and innovative. The pedagogy supports the development of not just architectural expertise but also the emotional intelligence and ethical grounding necessary to make a lasting societal impact.
Leadership Built on Vision and Wisdom
Guided by the visionary leadership of CEO Shri Karan Singhji, TSAP benefits from a rare fusion of academic foresight and real-world experience. With deep international exposure and a long-standing association with the real estate sector, Shri Karan Singhji brings valuable insights that steer the institution toward global relevance. His ability to foresee trends and translate them into actionable strategies has been pivotal in shaping TSAP into a versatile and agile institution. Institutional leadership at TSAP is grounded in collective wisdom. Decision-making is an inclusive process that incorporates the voices of faculty, staff, industry experts, alumni and students alike. This participatory culture fosters a sense of ownership, gratitude, and unity, making TSAP not just a place of learning but a nurturing ecosystem. The “service before self” mindset permeates every level of the institution, forming a culture where respect, responsibility, and resilience are prioritised.
TSAP’s leadership continuously strategises for an international level of academic and operational excellence. The ability to adapt swiftly and efficiently in response to evolving academic or industry landscapes stands as a hallmark of leadership. The proactive approach and readiness to seize emerging opportunities have made TSAP a beacon of progressive education in the field of architecture.
Cultivating Dynamic Campus Culture
TSAP’s commitment to holistic development extends far beyond academic rigor. The institution believes in fostering a lively and engaging campus life, where students are encouraged to develop character, leadership, and life skills through active participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities. At the heart of this vibrant culture is the Student Development & Welfare Association (TSAP-SDWA), a student-powered body that initiates, plans, and executes a variety of programs throughout the academic year.
Students at TSAP are encouraged to engage in everything from cultural and technical festivals to social intervention programs. These include collaborations with NGOs, beach cleaning drives, awareness campaigns, appropriate urban intervention projects, and donation efforts, creating a deep sense of social responsibility. The student council plays a key role in driving these initiatives, fostering leadership skills, and building a strong portfolio that adds immense value during placements and scholarships.
Clubs and student organisations form another vital component of campus life. These include the Sports Club (Titans), Art Club (Spectrum), Culture Club (Souvenir), Photography Club (Synap-sync), and Debate Club (Debatonators). Each club is empowered to operate independently, fostering creativity, interdisciplinary engagement, and student leadership. The presence of a shared campus further amplifies interaction between departments, enabling a vibrant, multidisciplinary educational environment.
Nurturing Values through Practice and Policy
TSAP instills core values that define both its academic framework and professional training. A strong emphasis is placed on sustainability, ethics, and community responsibility. Through mentorship programs, personalised coaching, and direct engagement with industry networks, TSAP equips its students to become environment-conscious changemakers.
The institute’s initiatives, such as the student chapters of the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), Fire Safety Association of India (FSAI), and the Council of Tall Buildings and Urban Habitats (CTBUH), ensure students are immersed in real-world applications of their education. Industry collaborations such as ETHOS-ARCAUSE serve to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and social responsibility. The annual exhibition TATTVA, open year-round, showcases student work and acts as a live portfolio of the institution’s robust curriculum.
Students are encouraged to participate in art installations, workshops, and festivals that combine design with technology. These events are designed to promote innovative thinking, teamwork, and project management skills, preparing students not just to join the workforce, but to lead it. Each activity is a lesson in real-time problem-solving and creative execution.
Recognitions That Reflect Excellence
In its first decade, TSAP has garnered significant accolades that reflect its commitment to quality and innovation. Ranked 8th at the National level and 1st in the Western Region and Maharashtra by the Global Human Resource Development Centre (GHRDC)Times Survey-2025, TSAP has made its mark on the Indian architectural education landscape.
Such recognition is not merely symbolic, it is indicative of the institution’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in both academic delivery and student development. The awards and citations affirm TSAP’s position as a thought leader in education, known for its innovative practices and impactful learning models.
These recognitions serve to reinforce TSAP’s vision and inspire further progress. They validate the strategies adopted by the leadership and act as a magnet for aspiring students and accomplished faculty alike, who are drawn to its culture of excellence.
Innovation Rooted in Hands-On Experience
TSAP stands as a haven for innovation and creativity. The institution’s campus is a high-tech environment equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class labs, and industry-standard software. Such an environment allows students and faculty alike to experiment, research, and innovate with confidence and clarity.
The architecture labs are designed for experimental workshops and interdisciplinary research. A wellstocked library—featuring books, journals, biographies, and other resources—enables students to dive deep into architectural theory and practice. Memberships with organisations such as the Council of Tall Buildings in Urban Habitats (CTBUH) and the Charles Correa Foundation (CCF) further amplify access to cutting-edge knowledge.
Faculty at TSAP are drawn from diverse backgrounds, offering expertise in urban planning, sustainability, landscape design, project management, and other specialised domains. Their active involvement in international conferences, workshops, and peer reviewed journals enhances the academic fabric of the institution. Many have received accolades for their work and have participated in national level faculty training initiatives, such as those conducted in collaboration with the Council of Architecture (COA-TRC) on Sustainable Human Habitats.
Addressing Challenges with Empathy and Agility
Every institution faces challenges, but what sets TSAP apart is its proactive and inclusive response mechanism. One of the key areas of focus has been supporting students who come from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, ensuring they acclimate to Mumbai’s fast-paced academic life. The institute has implemented bridge programs that help new students catch up with their peers while fostering confidence and adaptability.
TSAP’s Advanced and Slow Learners Policy is a unique best practice. Advanced learners are mentored for competitions and advanced academic pursuits, while students facing learning gaps receive targeted support through lectures, special workshops, and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). These inclusive strategies have resulted in several student success stories, reflecting the effectiveness of TSAP’s support ecosystem.
Such strategies not only improve academic performance but also build resilience and a growth mindset—critical attributes for future professionals. TSAP’s adaptive pedagogy and responsive administration ensure that every student, regardless of their starting point, has an equal opportunity to thrive.
Guidance for Future Architects
Choosing the right architecture school is a pivotal decision. TSAP encourages aspiring architects to evaluate institutions based on curriculum relevance, exposure to real-world challenges, and the vibrancy of student life. An ideal program should not only impart technical knowledge but also instill the values and skills needed for a dynamic professional journey.
Located in Mumbai, TSAP offers unparalleled access to real-time architectural projects, industry mentors, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The city itself serves as a living classroom, filled with diverse architectural expressions and opportunities for hands-on learning. This urban advantage, coupled with TSAP’s holistic pedagogy, makes it an ideal choice for architecture aspirants.
TSAP’s emphasis on ethics, sustainability, innovation, and community engagement ensures that students graduate not just with a degree but with the confidence and competence to make a real difference in the world. For those who dream of becoming global change-makers in architecture, TSAP offers the perfect launchpad.
TSAP is launching a program of Master of Architecture (Real Estate Development), a pioneering initiative that covers the nuances of real estate, urban planning, project finance, management, and the overall facets of business acumen. It is an ideal opportunity for graduates in Architecture seeking to establish themselves in the competitive world of real estate development, to upgrade their skills, and find immersion in this segment.
Leading by Values, Evolving with Purpose
Thakur School of Architecture & Planning is more than an institution—it is a movement toward reimagining architectural education. Through its inclusive strategies, forward-thinking leadership, and deep-rooted values, TSAP continues to shape future architects who are not only skilled professionals but also responsible citizens of the world.
With a legacy built in just a decade and a future full of promise, TSAP stands tall as a symbol of visionary education, community engagement, and global relevance.
