Sometimes the most inspiring spaces begin with the simplest vision. When architect Apoorva Shroff first visited a neglected patch of trees on Ashoka University's campus in Sonepat, Haryana, she saw possibility where others might have seen emptiness. Her response? Create something extraordinary that would honor nature while bringing people together.

The result is "The Hungry Caterpillar," a whimsical yet sophisticated outdoor food hall that's capturing hearts and turning heads across India's architectural community. Named after Eric Carle's beloved children's book, this 650-square-meter structure wraps itself around existing trees with graceful arching bamboo, creating a shaded canopy that feels both protective and playful.

"The idea was to transform the space into a food street with character, something that went beyond the conventional notion of a campus canteen," Shroff explained to Architectural Digest. "Today, it's not only a place to eat, but also to pause, interact, and reflect."

What makes this project truly special is how sustainability isn't an afterthought—it's woven into every decision. Shroff, who founded Mumbai-based Lyth Design in 2022, attended bamboo school in Bali years ago and developed a profound appreciation for the material. For this project, she selected treated bamboo that helped sequester an impressive 350 tons of carbon dioxide. The woven bamboo design represents "resilience, lightness, and continuity," she notes, "the qualities we see both in nature and in learning."

But the environmental consciousness doesn't stop there. Working with innovative partners, Shroff collaborated with Playcycle to craft chairs and tables from recycled plastic, giving new life to materials that might otherwise pollute our planet. Meanwhile, Micob India helped create modular kitchens using 3D-printed concrete, assembled directly on-site to minimize transportation impact.

The magic of "The Hungry Caterpillar" lies in how it balances bold innovation with warm accessibility. Students don't just grab food and leave—they linger under the bamboo canopy, gathering with friends, studying, and building the connections that make university life memorable. The space has become a true community hub, proving that sustainable design and human-centered spaces aren't just compatible—they enhance each other.

This December, Shroff's vision earned well-deserved recognition when she received the Sustainable Design of the Year award at the Architect and Interiors India Aces of Space Design Awards 2025. Accepting the honor, she described how the project "emerged from a vivid image after my first site visit. I imagined a cocoon nestled within lush canopies, symbolizing safety, growth, and constant evolution."

"The project was envisioned with responsible, conscious design at its core, where sustainability was the foundation," Shroff emphasized. "Beyond its form, the caterpillar represents learning, harmony with nature, and continuous growth."

Her success story offers hope for the future of architecture. As climate concerns grow, designers like Shroff are proving we don't have to choose between beauty and responsibility. We can create spaces that delight the senses, serve communities, and heal the planet—all at once.

"Receiving this award and recognition is deeply gratifying and encourages us to continue pushing boundaries in conscious design," Shroff shared. For students at Ashoka University and architecture enthusiasts worldwide, "The Hungry Caterpillar" stands as a joyful reminder that our built environment can grow, transform, and inspire—just like the creature that inspired its name.