“Architecture gives character and life to a community. It’s the foundation of a city, the flavor and the essence.”
Born in Mumbai, on the west coast of India, Naveen’s family immigrated to San Diego when he was 12 years old. En-route, Naveen and his family lived in Antwerp, Belgium and Houston, Texas for about two years each. During that period, Naveen was sent to boarding school in Ajmer, India at the young influential age of 7-9, where he lived without his parents for 6 months at a time. This exposure to a variety of cultures and places is what he feels shapes him into the person he is. He was introduced to architecture at Mesa College, inspired by realizing the art of bringing something to life from nothing. He went on to attend NewSchool of Architecture and Design, graduating Valedictorian in 1992. He is a registered and licensed California Architect.
He joined Platt/Whitelaw in 1985 as an intern under mentorship of Lee Platt, and later Alison Whitelaw. While going to school, he worked his way up through every role in the firm which allowed him to understand Architecture from the ground up. He has an in-depth, foundational knowledge of building design that few do. He was made Principal in 2010. He now owns and leads the firm along with his business partner, Sandra Gramley.
Naveen’s successful architectural career has spanned 30+ years. He is an award-winning architect who has extensive experience in government and public-sector projects. He is Chair of the Clairemont Community Planning Group (CCPG) and has spent years mentoring young architects through the ACE Mentor program. He was honored in San Diego Metro as one of San Diego County’s 2019 Men of Influence.
He has served as Prime Architect for Platt/Whitelaw, as well as consulting architect for a variety of engineering primes. His attention to fine detail and his comprehensive experience with Public Facilities has created a demand for his specific knowledge and skill set.
He has dedicated his career to sustainable design, improving his home community of Clairemont, and training the next generation of ambitious architectural leaders.
He thinks of himself as a humble servant to the wonderful world we live in.