Architect Tony Joseph has redefined sustainability in architecture through projects that seamlessly blend design with environmental responsibility. From preserving local ecosystems to using recycled materials, his work sets a benchmark for eco-friendly innovation.

Architect Tony Joseph, founder of Stapati, an award-winning multi-disciplinary practice, has redefined sustainable architecture through his innovative projects that harmonize with nature. Rooted in his Kerala heritage and informed by his global education, Tony’s work showcases how thoughtful design can preserve the environment while delivering aesthetic and functional excellence. His resorts, particularly in Wayanad and Kumarakom, serve as beacons of sustainable practices, offering lessons in how architecture can integrate seamlessly with its surroundings.

One of Tony’s earliest and most impactful sustainable projects was the Vythiri Resort in Wayanad. At the time, Wayanad was not even on Kerala’s tourism map. Tony’s vision helped transform this unexplored area into a prime eco-tourism destination.

“When we started Vythiri Resort, sustainability wasn’t a buzzword. It was a necessity,” Tony recalls. The resort began with just 12 rooms and has since grown to 40. From the outset, it was designed to function with minimal environmental impact. “For 20 years, the resort was not even connected to the power grid. We ran it on a generator that wasn’t needed full-time, and air conditioning was unnecessary,” he adds.

The materials used in the project were entirely local. “We didn’t cut any trees. Instead, we worked around them, preserving the natural forest landscape,” says Tony. The resort relied on cost-effective, eco-friendly building techniques, which aligned with the tight budget constraints.

This project not only introduced sustainable tourism to Wayanad but also set a benchmark for eco-resorts across India. Today, Vythiri Resort remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the region, a testament to Tony’s forward-thinking approach.

Recycling Heritage

In Kumarakom, Tony took sustainability to the next level with the Kumarakom Lake Resort, a property consistently ranked among the top five resorts in India. This project drew heavily from Kerala’s architectural heritage while prioritizing environmental conservation.

“A major part of the resort was constructed using recycled wood,” Tony explains. “We sourced timber from old houses that were being dismantled. These materials, which would have otherwise been burned as firewood, became integral to our design.”

The attention to detail extended to every aspect of the resort. Tony and his team took on roles that today are typically handled by consultants. “We designed everything ourselves—lighting, art, even fabrics,” he says. The result was a cohesive aesthetic deeply rooted in local culture yet modern in its functionality.

The resort also incorporates passive cooling techniques, reducing the need for energy-intensive air conditioning. By preserving traditional craftsmanship and using locally available resources, Tony created a space that is both luxurious and environmentally responsible.

The Philosophy Rooted in Nature

For Tony, sustainability is not about adhering to certifications or labels but about being sincere to the client, the environment, and the craft of architecture. “If you’re true to these principles, you don’t need green certifications,” he says.

This ethos is also reflected in two of his recent standout projects in Wayanad—Saptha Resort and Altitude House.

Nestled in the verdant hills of Wayanad, Saptha Resort is designed to offer guests a tranquil escape into nature. With a focus on preserving the natural ecosystem and blending seamlessly with the surroundings, the resort is an exemplary model of sustainable luxury.

The design of Saptha Resort revolves around minimizing environmental impact. “We wanted the resort to look as if it belonged to the land, not imposed upon it,” says Tony Joseph. The project retained existing trees and natural contours of the land, avoiding excessive excavation or leveling.

Saptha Resort extensively uses local materials such as laterite stone, bamboo, and recycled wood. These materials not only reduce the carbon footprint but also enhance the resort’s rustic charm. The roofs are made of thatched coconut leaves, reflecting traditional Kerala architecture, while providing natural insulation.

A signature element of Tony’s designs is the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. The resort’s open verandahs, large glass walls, and private decks allow guests to connect with nature at all times. Rainwater harvesting systems and natural ventilation further reduce the resort’s dependency on external resources.

A Hilltop Haven

Tony’s other notable project in Wayanad is Altitude House. Perched atop a hill, the private residence combines modern living with sustainable design. Designed to embrace its stunning surroundings, the house offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats while incorporating eco-conscious principles.

Tony Joseph designed Altitude House to follow the natural contours of the site, ensuring minimal disruption to the landscape. Elevated platforms were used to adapt to the sloping terrain, allowing for the preservation of local flora and fauna.

The house features a mix of natural and modern materials, including stone, concrete, and glass. Locally sourced laterite stone adds warmth and texture to the structure, while expansive glass panels maximize natural light and ventilation

Altitude House incorporates several eco-friendly features, including solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and a graywater recycling system. “Sustainability is not just about the materials you use but also about how you design for long-term efficiency,” says Tony.

Despite its eco-conscious design, Altitude House doesn’t compromise on comfort. With luxurious interiors, smart home features, and unobstructed views of the mountains, the residence offers an elevated living experience that is as sustainable as it is sophisticated.

Guiding Principles of Sustainable Design

Tony emphasizes that sustainability is a continuous learning process. According to him, sustainability is not just about materials; it’s about how you approach design holistically.

By prioritizing the needs of the environment, the client, and the end user, he has created projects that stand the test of time. His projects remind us that architecture, when done thoughtfully, has the power to protect and preserve the environment for generations to come.