In this paper, the author describes and interprets the architectural development of two tree species: Vateria indica (Dipterocarpaceae), an emergent, and Knema attenuata (Myristicaceae), a lower canopy species, which are among the most frequent species of the low elevation moist evergreen forests of the Western Ghats. Both species conformed to Massart's architectural model but exhibited different ways of building up their crown and different strategies of reiteration in response to light availability. K. attenuata reinforces its structure from the very young stage and maintains its growth and its position of a lower canopy tree through its very regular structure until it reaches the canopy, while V. indica establishes its structure once it reaches the canopy.