Mistry Architects (A)

Posted: 10 Jun 2009

See all articles by Amy C. Edmondson

Amy C. Edmondson

Harvard University - Technology & Operations Management Unit

Robert G. Eccles

University of Oxford - Said Business School

Mona Srivastava

Harvard University - Business School (HBS)

Date Written: April 29, 2009

Abstract

Describes an architecture firm founded and run by a husband and wife team, Sharukh and Renu Mistry, that emphasizes "green" building. The firm presents an unusual mix of projects - spanning the spectrum from larger corporate projects to small private homes. The mix also includes more profitable work and projects deliberately selected for social good, including the design of orphanage communities for SOS Childrens International and other non-profit organizations. The mix engages teams of young architects in different kinds of learning opportunities, and allows them to manage these projects with an unusually high level of independence. The firm's founders are dedicated to being both very client-oriented and environmentally responsible. This can lead to some difficult choices and the case illustrates one example. The firm has been commissioned by SOS to design homes for some villages destroyed in the December 24, 2004 tsunami. The preferred design is thatch roofs which is in keeping with the local environment. However, the villagers want a more functional (and more expensive) reinforced cement concrete roof. Sharukh must decide which of his principles is to dominate in this situation. A (B) case presents and explains the decision. A (C) case discusses future plans for the firm.

Suggested Citation

Edmondson, Amy C. and Eccles, Robert G. and Srivastava, Mona, Mistry Architects (A) (April 29, 2009). HBS Case No. 609-044, Harvard Business School Technology & Operations Mgt. Unit, Harvard Business School Organizational Behavior Unit, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1416062

Amy C. Edmondson (Contact Author)

Harvard University - Technology & Operations Management Unit ( email )

Boston, MA 02163
United States

Robert G. Eccles

University of Oxford - Said Business School ( email )

Park End Street
Oxford, OX1 1HP
Great Britain

Mona Srivastava

Harvard University - Business School (HBS) ( email )

Soldiers Field Road
Morgan 270C
Boston, MA 02163
United States

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