Field survey and documentation
The core of everything we do. A survey team of two to four people visits a building, measures it comprehensively, photographs it systematically, and records everything needed to produce a complete archive record.
A standard survey produces: a full set of measured drawings (plan, section, elevations and key details), a photographic record following a consistent protocol (exterior, approach, sequence through the building, details), field notes recording construction materials, condition and observations, and where possible a recorded oral history with the owner or a person with direct knowledge of the building.
Surveys are conducted with the knowledge and consent of owners. We return to check drawings against the building before publication. We credit every member of the team.
See completed surveys in the archive →The open archive
The permanent public record of our work. Every survey is catalogued with an accession number, indexed by location, building type, period, material and record type, and published online. All records are free to access and reuse with credit.
The archive is the reason for everything else. It is what remains after a building changes or disappears.
Browse the archive →Research and publications
We publish research arising from our survey work: studies of building types, construction systems, material traditions, settlement patterns and historical contexts. Publications include monographs, research papers, field reports and online essays.
We also produce reference materials for practitioners: guides to recording techniques, material identification and archive methodology. Publications are made available online and, for major works, in print.
See published research →Walks and workshops
Guided walks in the places we work. A walk is not a tour. It is a guided encounter with buildings that are usually walked past. Walks are led by members of the survey team, last two to three hours, and focus on a specific street, neighbourhood or building type. Walks are open to the public, free or at minimal cost, and are designed for people with no prior knowledge of architecture or heritage.
We also run hands-on workshops in architectural documentation skills: measured drawing, field photography, oral history recording, archive management. Workshops are aimed at architecture students, young professionals, and anyone interested in learning the craft of recording buildings. We offer internships for students who wish to join a survey team for an extended period.
See upcoming walks →Fellowships and grants
We provide small grants and fellowships to support individuals and institutions undertaking heritage documentation work in India. Priority is given to projects in under-documented regions or building types, and to early-career researchers.
Grant-making is governed by a published policy, with transparent criteria and a public record of decisions.
Write to us about grants →School engagement
We work with schools in the cities and towns where we are active, bringing heritage documentation into the classroom. Students learn to look at and draw buildings in their own neighbourhoods, developing observational skills and a connection to local history.
Get in touch about school programmes →