We are a collective dedicated to shaping urban futures through collaborative inquiry and community-rooted action.
Why [Un]built?
Our name reflects our commitment to exploring alternative approaches that prioritize not just buildings and infrastructure, but the very people and ecosystems they impact.
We believe that every place is shaped by the stories of the people and the land that sustain it. These stories deserve to be heard, valued, and amplified.
OUR PEOPLE
Aditi Saksena
Co-founder
Aditi holds a Master’s degree in Urban Planning from Columbia University with expertise in the WASH sector, climate adaptation, and data-driven policy analysis. She has collaborated with global teams on projects involving water accessibility in informal settlements, community development, and urban resilience. Her analytical skills, honed through her research roles complement her leadership in planning and implementing projects at the intersection of data analytics, design and social justice.
Palak Shah
Co-founder
Palak holds a Master’s in Architecture and Urban Design from Columbia University with expertise in sustainable urbanism, climate adaptation and participatory planning. With over four years of design experience, she has worked across Mumbai, Madrid, and New York, collaborating with institutions, civic agencies, and community organizations. She has facilitated public engagement across a range of scales—from institutional buildings to homegrown settlements—translating complex challenges into grounded, human-centered solutions.
We are currently based out of New York City & Mumbai!
CONNECT WITH US
We are always excited to hear from people who share the same passion as us!