Shaping the Future of Design Through Innovation & Strateg
With over 18 years of expertise in project management and design execution, Naseera Razak has played a pivotal role in redefining architectural excellence at Gensler, a global leader in design and architecture. For more than 16 years, she has spearheaded high-profile projects across corporate campuses, workplaces, and retail spaces, blending innovation, sustainability, and cultural authenticity.
In an exclusive conversation with Women Entrepreneurs Review Magazine, Naseera delves into Gensler’s cutting-edge approach to architectural design—focusing on AI integration, sustainable solutions, and cultural adaptation to shape spaces that resonate with people, brands, and the environment.
AI & Automation: The Future of Architectural Design
How is Gensler leveraging AI and automation in workspace innovation?
Gensler has always been a pioneer in design technology. As India’s first design firm to adopt Revit and BIM while the market still relied on CAD, Gensler continues to stay ahead by integrating AI-driven tools like G-Fusion—an innovative AI-powered platform that enhances efficiency by generating iterative design solutions.
🚀 Efficiency Boost: Tasks that once took eight hours can now be completed in three, allowing designers to focus on creativity and strategy.
🎨 AI as an Assistant, Not a Replacement: While AI streamlines repetitive processes, human creativity remains irreplaceable in crafting unique, experiential designs.
📊 Data-Driven Decision Making: AI enables architects to analyze multiple scenarios swiftly, optimizing design choices for functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability.
“AI will never replace human ingenuity. It’s here to enhance creativity, not eliminate it.” – Naseera Razak
Sustainability & User Well-Being in Large-Scale Projects
How does Gensler balance environmental sustainability with long-term user well-being?
🌍 Commitment to Net-Zero by 2030: Gensler’s sustainability vision extends beyond design—guiding clients toward eco-conscious choices with proven ROI benefits.
💡 G-Planet & G-Spec Technologies: These patented tools provide real-time weather, solar, comfort, and energy analysis, making sustainability data-driven and cost-efficient.
🏡 Locally Sourced Materials: Prioritizing regional craftsmanship over imports, reducing carbon footprints while embracing cultural authenticity.
🏢 Post-Pandemic Workspaces:
- Wellness-driven designs that emphasize natural light, fresh air, and active movement.
- Ergonomic layouts that support mental and physical well-being.
- Refuge balconies & adaptable terraces to encourage outdoor breaks.
“Sustainability isn’t just about the environment—it’s about people, health, and the way we experience spaces.” – Naseera Razak
Cultural Integration: Merging Global Standards with Local Identity
How does Gensler incorporate cultural elements while maintaining global design excellence?
At Gensler Bangalore, the philosophy is simple: “We can’t be global until we are local.”
🏢 80-20 Design Approach:
✅ 80% Global Brand Identity – Maintaining consistency for multinational companies.
✅ 20% Local Integration – Thoughtful cultural nuances in materials, layouts, and user experiences.
🏡 Authentic Cultural Infusion:
✔ Channapatna furniture from Karnataka for vibrant workspaces.
✔ Locally woven textiles for upholstery, blinds, and wall panels—turning décor into conversation starters.
✔ Community-driven café spaces – Embracing India’s tradition of “lunch gangs” to foster collaboration.
“Culture isn’t about murals or bright colors—it’s about designing meaningful, authentic experiences.” – Naseera Razak
Adaptability & Scalability: The Future of Workplace Design
How does Gensler future-proof spaces for evolving business needs?
🔍 Research-Driven Design:
- 18% of Gensler’s annual profit is reinvested into research, ensuring projects align with emerging industry trends.
- Global Design Forecasts guide strategy, shaping the next era of workspaces.
🏢 Flexibility as a Core Principle:
- Post-COVID realities demand dynamic office layouts that adapt to varying attendance levels (from 20% to full capacity).
- Scalable, multi-functional spaces accommodate rapid business growth without disrupting operations.
“Understanding people is key to designing spaces that stand the test of time.” – Naseera Razak
Brand Identity & Workplace Design
How do Gensler’s projects seamlessly reflect brand identity?
🏢 Workspaces as a Canvas for Corporate Culture
- Mission-driven design – Embedding a company’s vision, values, and purpose into the physical workspace.
- Environmental graphics – Reinforcing brand identity beyond logos, integrating messaging into the employee journey.
- Cultural storytelling – Subtle yet impactful branding, like 7-Eleven’s India office, where design elements mirror its global convenience store appeal.
“A well-designed workspace does more than house employees—it inspires, connects, and reinforces a brand’s story every day.” – Naseera Razak
Final Thoughts: Designing for Impact
At Gensler, design is more than aesthetics—it’s a powerful tool for shaping experiences, communities, and the future.
🔹 AI & automation enhance efficiency without replacing creativity.
🔹 Sustainability & well-being are non-negotiable for future-ready designs.
🔹 Cultural integration ensures global relevance with local authenticity.
🔹 Adaptability & scalability future-proof workspaces for generations to come.
🚀 “Design has the power to create a better world. Let’s harness it every day.” – Naseera Razak
🔎 Looking for Expert-Led, Sustainable, and Culturally-Infused Design Solutions?
📩 Connect with Gensler Today!
