Graduated in TKM College of Engineering, Balan moved to Kozhikode, Kerala to work for Stapati Architects under Tony Joseph. He expanded his practice in 2002 in Kozhikode itself. Since the beginning of his career his work has been recognised by the State and honoured with awards. In 2015, while designing his own house, "Chaman" he won a national award from the Indian Institute of architects, which led to a new trend in environmentaly sensitive architecture in Kerala. The firm later on developed many innovative practices under Balan and expanded prcatices throughout India and Middle East.