Home Review Huynh

Picture This: MODERN BRISBANE

vol 16 issue 03

march 2017

Specialist: PEELI DORI

total pages 140

MY SPACE: LIJO RENY ArCHITECTS

RS 100 HOME-REVIEW.COM

A SPEAKEASY WITH FLAIR

BY MINNIE BHATT DESIGN A ROOM WITH A VIEW ZZ ARCHITECTS

A TEXTURAL NARRATIVE understated elegance by Tejal Mathur

HOME DÉCOR AND SURFACES MATERIALS AND UNIQUE FINISHES THAT MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT

Photo: Cyrus Dalal

T

ejal Mathur is no stranger to transforming the commonplace into uber chic havens. This time she has a go at reorganising a medium sized flat into one which advocates larger than life proportions.

By resetting partitions she manages to manipulate volumes and amalgamate spaces, creating a program that responds more appropriately to the needs of the owners.

Using a material palette largely of stone and teak wood, peppered with carefully selected pieces of Italian furniture, she infuses the home with a character of understated elegance. This home is a mélange of the rough with the smooth; of modest tones with interjecting burst of bright colour that set a contrast. It’s a story Tejal manages to tell wonderfully well by combining restraint with measured doses of oomph!

Minnie Bhat’s on-going run sheet of designing restobars continues unabated. This time it’s the turn of Myx, a bar that serves finger food and small nibbles from cuisines around the world. The décor of this hangout is an assemblage of many things. Here, tin tiles, solid teak wood flooring, walls finished in IPS, partly painted and partly polished furniture are complemented by antique cameras, retro hip flasks, vintage frames and ad posters.

It’s a tale of many interesting elements woven into a narrative of diversity and travel. Minnie Bhat’s design response not only adds the required seasoning to the décor but also pairs wonderfully with the different world cuisines that congregate in this imaginative diner.

Anish Bajaj, Editor anish@marvelinfomedia.com

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emails + feedback To the Comforts of Life

Breath-taking Interiors

The February issue of Home Review with a complete feature on Home Automation answers all possible queries on the prospect of home automation.

The article detailing the breath-taking interiors of the Ahmedabad bungalow by Flamingo Interiors has mesmerised me with its concept of spacing, clever detailing and their ability to create a charming interior.

By Email Sachin Waghmare

Let us know what you love and hate about this issue. Mail us at letters@marvelinfomedia.com

6 Home Review March 2017

By Email Ashish Awasthi

Comprehending Place and Context

Beautiful Brisbane

I congratulate Home Review for the amazing manifestation of a brilliant understanding of place and context in the Mandvi House in Gujarat.

The wonderful feature on the historical city of Brisbane in Kunal Bhatia’s ‘Historical Brisbane’ has revived my memories from my visit to the city in December 2014.

By Email Vihaan Khanna

By Email Roshni Sinha

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Lijo reny architects LIJO.RENY.architects in their 12 year practice so far, have always believed in pushing the envelope and have made an indelible mark in the field of architecture

Apart from traditional structures, Brisbane has also kept its date with modern design in the form of architecture, art and contemporary urban interventions

20 Cover Story Tejal Mathur has imparted the feel of a bungalow to this apartment in Mumbai, with a skylight enhancing the perception

36

DADA Partners have designed this Delhi villa employing a minimalistic aesthetic. A centre court invites natural light into interior spaces even as it connects them and creates opportunities for interaction

48

march

Envisioned as a tapas bar serving nibbles from around the world, the concept of travel plays a major role in the design scheme of the restaurant Myx

56 art

form

Japanese artist, Kosogawa Runa creates beautiful and delicate floral glass sculptures reflective of an aesthetic that transcends the temporality of life

62 68 A spectacular view of Mumbai’s famed Queen’s Necklace, makes an elliptical living room the star of this apartment designed by ZZ Architects

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By Esha Nagar

The Surface Special catalogues some of the best high performance finishes that grab your attention.

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100

76

Desert Palm is one of Dubai’s better kept secrets perfectly echoing Per Aquum’s philosophy based on principles of realism, sustainability and responsibility

Kavan Shah Design Studio’s Grey Box is a seamless display of art and textures in a minimalist setting

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111

BOGOTA A DESIGN DESTINATION

product

designer

march

Take a moment to pause and admire the fragile, origami-inspired creations of designer Mitsue Kido

120

115 GREEN PROJECT

THE MARKETPLACE

Astonishingly exotic and utterly compelling, Vietnam is a country of breath-taking natural beauty, with a unique heritage where travel quickly becomes addictive

Landscapes

128 The Konkan Farmhouse designed by Kishore D. Pradhan, symbolising rustic luxury in its entirety, displays a perfect example of his modus operandi

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Eclectic styles, varied themes, upcoming trends come together in our newly launched segment!

Get your hands on the latest products to hit the market

Peacock Life is a store that clearly defies conventions. Its best feature is probably the fact that it is so atypical!

Kunal Bhatia Architect and Photographer Kunal Bhatia is an architect, photographer and travel writer based in Mumbai. He finds inspiration in cities around the world, the people that he meets and fleeting encounters. To experience more of his work visit kunalbhatia.net.

Editor & Publisher Anish Bajaj Creative Director Natalie Pedder-Bajaj Features Editor Mala Bajaj Assistant Editor Shweta Salvi Contributing Writers Chryselle D’Silva Dias Devyani Jayakar Dhanishta Shah Himali Kothari K Parvathy Menon Kanupriya Pachisia Ramya Srinivasan Shruti Nambiar Designers Asif Shayannawar Darshan Palav Pooja Modak Snigdha Hodarkar

Priyanka Menon Writer Priyanka Menon is a copywriter, lecturer in advertising and English literature, poet, and author for HarperCollins and Juggernaut.

When she isn’t busy with any of these roles, she can be seen at Starbucks, sipping on white-chocolate mocha, scribbling in her diary. She lives in Pune.

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Editorial & Marketing Mumbai Mr. Ganesh Gurav, Mr. Vivek Jadhav, B-62, Cotton Exchange bldg., Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033 T 022 23736133 / 23736131 / 23743069 E response@marvelinfomedia.com Chennai Mr. S. Venkataraaman Flat No. 2, 3rd Flr, E-Block, Hansa Garden, 30 Madampakkam Main Rd, Rajakilpakkam, Chennai 600 073 Tel 044 22281180 / 09444021128 Email: svenkat@marvelinfomedia.com Kolkata Mr. Subrata Mazumder 2, Nabapalli (Bidhanpalli).

Kolkata 700084 Tel 033 2410 4296 Mob 9831131395 Telefax 033 2410 7605 Email: subrata22@rediffmail.com Publishing Director Mr. R.I. Bajaj Distributed in India by India Book House Pvt. Ltd. 412, Tulsiani Chambers, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021.

Tejal Mathur A Textural Narrative, Page 24.

Tejal Mathur, an interior designer by profession established her design practice, Team Design in 1998.

Her work is a cumulative outcome of the visual stimulation that she assimilates from her travels, or simply from mundane everyday activities. Her firm also has an esoteric line of furniture, accessories and linen by the name of Ironworks.

ZZ Architects A Room With A View, Page 62.

ZZ Architects is known for their unique approach to architecture and interior design, which is a bespoke and intimate process of discovering each client’s personal style. Architects Zubin Zainuddin and Krupa Zubin are founding partners of ZZ Architects.

They lead a team of 65 Architects and Designers who are dedicated to creating unique projects of various scales and complexities.

This issue has a total of 140 pages comprising of a 4 page cover and 136 inside pages.

We welcome unsolicited material but do not take responsibility for the same. Letters are welcome but subject to editing. All rights reserved.

Nothing may beprinted in whole or part without written permission of the publisher. The editors do their best to verify the information published but do not take responsibility for the absolute accuracy of the information.

All objections, disputes, differences, claims and proceedings are subject to Mumbai Jurisdiction.

Editor Mr. Anish Bajaj. Published and Printed by Mr. Anish Bajaj on behalf of the owner Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd, B-62, Cotton Exchange bldg, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033.

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Minie Bhatt A Speakeasy With Flair, Page 48.

Principal architect of Minnie Bhatt Design,a seven year old firm, Minnie Bhatt designs spaces which are tasteful and timeless with an emphasis on authenticity. Her design style is eclectic and contemporary and she endeavours to steer clear of doing repetitive work.

PAST & FUTURE

E V E N T S 7 11 FEB TO

Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair, Sweden

As the world’s largest meeting place for Scandinavian design, this week long fair drew buyers, architects, designers and journalists from more than 60 countries. The theme for this year was Contrast as such it highlighted contrast not merely in materials and furniture but several other surprising combinations as well.

The exhibition presented a wide selection of inventive architecture in wood and discussed various aspects of wooden architecture and design. The Guest of Honour for this year was the esteemed Spanish artist and designer Jaime Hayon, known for his playful expression and diverse production. The Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair Awards event took place on 8th February.

The largest Ceramic fair in South East Asia, Indian Ceramics 2017 took place from March 1st to 3rd in Ahmedabad. It is organized by MMI India Pvt. Ltd. The fair exhibited a wide range of raw materials and additives, measurement and control systems, storage systems, feeding and batching systems, grading and separation systems, heat treatment chambers, tools, spares, replacement parts, glazing, decorating and surface treatment chemicals, ceramic bodies, moulds, electrolytes, coating powders, binding agents, silos, discharging aids, handling, packaging and automation gear and much more.

The three-in-one knowledge and technology sharing platform - DelhiWood 2017, will take place with the support of Eumabois and will have the Sourcing Forum, Furniture Distributors Summit and Architects Seminar as concurrent events. At the fourth edition of DelhiWood in 2015, 393 exhibitors from 25 countries participated. www.delhi-wood.com

TO 8Design 11 MARShanghai, Shanghai

With more than 11,000 square meters of exhibition space it showcased exhibitors like Colorobbia, Cretaprint, De Boer, Dorst, Eirich, Esmalglass-Itaca, H&R Johnson, Imerys, Netzsch, Sabo, SACMI, Sibelco, SITI B&T, Smalticeram, Smaltochimica, System, Torrecid and Verdes. The program included the Innovation Exchange Forum, the cfi -Ceramic Forum International - Workshop, the I-Bart Workshop and the new Buyer-Seller Forum.

10times.com/indian-ceramics

TO 1Delhi 4 MAR Wood,

Greater Noida

www.stockholmfurniturelightfair.se Design Shanghai is the greatest design event in Asia and features as one of the best in the world.

The event showcased the best design brands and galleries from across the globe.

1 3 MAR TO

Indian Ceramics, Ahmedabad

DelhiWood is 2017’S leading show for furniture production technologies, woodworking machinery, tools, fittings, accessories, raw materials and products in Asia. The 5th edition of DelhiWood will be held from March 1 to 4, 2017 in Greater Noida. The show will bring together more than 450 exhibitors from over 30 countries under one roof to showcase their innovative and game-changing products offered to key decisionmakers across Asian furniture industry, which is witnessing a massive growth.

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The speakers for this year included more than 30 eminent design icons with the likes of Benjamin Hubert, Paul Gregory, Ole Bouman, Marcantonio Raimondi Malerba, Dakota Jackson, Andre Fu and Jason Bruges to name a few. The exhibitors included Roche Bobois, Enthnicraft, Zaha Hadid Design Collection, Gilles Caffier, Visionnaire presented by Domus Aurea, Roberto Cavalli Presented by Pleos Home and many others. The event proved how eastern and western design philosophies can work together synergistically across the five halls: Contemporary Design, Classic& Luxury Design, Collectable Design, Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Workplace Design. www.designshanghai.com

PAST & FUTURE

E V E N T S 3 12 MAR TO

Singapore Design Week, Singapore

The second O’Reilly Design Conference will be held March 19-22 at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco. The event aims to arm designers with the skills, connections, and inspiration to create the products and services of today and tomorrow.

This conference offers a deep-immersion experience focused on providing designers and anyone who is responsible for a product’s design with the full stack of skills they need to remain competitive and create the next generation of products and services.

This year the conference has included talks of eminent speakers like Derek Alderton, John Allspaw, Micah Alpern, Peter Morville, Kat Holmes, Evan Ryan and Barry Katz amongst many others. A conference meant for the broader design community.

Returning for the fourth year to celebrate design, it brings together a collection of over 100 local and international events activities in Singapore. Held annually, the SDW is organised

by Dsg (Design Singapore Council). SDW features local and international design trade shows, conferences, showcases, exhibitions and workshops that span various design disciplines.

Many of the activities took place at the National Design Centre, the hub of SDW. These activities also provide opportunities for business, international collaboration and knowledge exchange. The key highlights of the event included SingaPlural, International Furniture Fair Singapore, Singapore + Wallpaper Handmade Classics, Frontliners in Action: architects and the people create a better living environment, Design, Make & Craft Fair and Design Trails. www.designsingapore.org

TO 19O’Reilly 22 MARDesign Conference, San Francisco

At the event, you’ll learn about business, design, and technical topics of critical relevance. Interaction and UX designers, user researchers, product designers and managers, and entrepreneurs will share important lessons on how to make a lasting impact on your organization-and the world beyondthrough design. conferences.oreilly.com

20 TO 23 MAR

TEI, Yokohama TEI (Tangible, Embedded and Embodied Interaction) is for engineering-minded designers.

Presenters will discuss various esoteric topics shaping the field of human-computer interaction in the beautiful port city of Yokohama. A workshop on “mechanical paper-crafting design” promises to delight the attendees. TEI addresses issues of human-computer interaction, novel tools and technologies, interactive art, and user experience. The work presented at TEI has a strong focus on how computing can bridge atoms and bits into cohesive interactive systems.

The intimate size of this single-track conference provides a unique forum for exchanging ideas and presenting innovative work through talks, interactive exhibits, demos, hands-on studios, posters, art installations and performances. TEI is sponsored by ACM SIGCHI, in collaboration with Keio University Graduate School of Media Design, known as Keio Media Design or KMD. tei.acm.org/2017/

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6Facades+, APR New York City

Facades+ Conferences present the latest information and projects involving highperformance building enclosures in a day-long symposium followed by a day of hands-on workshops. This is the 6th year of this conference series and New York is by far our largest. In 2016, over 500 AEC professionals attended it including many key decision-makers in the building industry.

They bring together some of the world’s most productive building professionals and leading researchers to share insights on how facades ideas are brought to life. The unique cross-over of attending professionals brings together a unique brain-trust from the fields of architecture, engineering, construction, fabrication, development and education. Be inspired and learn how to innovate all steps of facade implementation - from systems and materials to designs and delivery strategies. www.facadesplus.com

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It is oft easy to stick to a mould instead of challenging the norm. LIJO.RENY.architects however in their 12 years of practice so far, have always believed in pushing the envelope and have made an indelible mark in the field of architecture.

Based out of Kerala, Lijo and Reny have played a pivotal role in revolutionising the architectural scene in the state. The studio’s constant endeavour to experiment and present a new narrative with each project has been duly acknowledged - the firm has won several awards and their work has been extensively documented by distinguished publications.

Both Lijo and Reny are artists at heart - they practice art as a passion - and approach each project through the sensitive eye of an artist. They visualise the materials, form, textures and the personality of a building as a sculptor would do for its artwork. And maybe that could be one of the factors why they are more inclined towards designing residences, as homes allow them to pour in the personality of the residents in their design.

Now the studio has ventured into commercial and institutional spaces as well. Here, they share with us the principles that drive their practice, their passion for art and future plans.

Interview By Shweta Salvi

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You started your practice in 2005. Please walk us through the journey so far.

We met in a previous firm that we were working for, that’s where we realised we share similar wavelength in terms of design, architecture, art and life in general. In 2005, we got married and immediately started our architectural practice. In the initial phase, we operated from a tiny space at our home and in 2010 we finally moved in with our team into a beautiful office that we now practice from.

The electronic media hosted few shows on architecture and hence, this particular project received extensive coverage.

So, we didn’t have to go through the proverbial struggle that most young studios go through.

Eventually, our portfolio has expanded and evolved. We have been practicing a design language that Kerala wasn’t really familiar with at that time, and people did take notice and appreciate our approach. Kerala has a very difficult demographic to please, everyone has an opinion about everything, which is great, as it reflects how wellinformed they are.

What are your individual strengths that you bring to the drawing board?

Lijo: The good part about having two people heading a design firm is you get to fill the gaps that probably the other person has left. Speaking about our individual inclinations, I am more of a dreamer; I reside on a utopian plane, while Reny is more of a practical person. When I am flying high, she rationalises and put forth the logistics.

Whereas, when she gets too technically correct, I suggest that we should bring in more life in the design and think out-of-thebox. So, we share a great partnership.

One of our initial projects, a residence that we did for my brother, won JK Young Architect Award and in the same year we won the Gold Leaf Award for Excellence in Architecture at the IIA State chapter.

We got immediate recognition after these wins. Coincidently, the architectural media scene was picking up in Kerala - our state alone boasts ten regional publications on architecture and that is unheard of in India.

Your fascination with natural elements and the physical form shine through in your work. How crucial are these aspects and how do you manage to bring out their harmonious co-existence?

We believe that spaces should breathe; so just like any living entity it requires light, breeze and vegetation.

We give primary importance to natural factors in every project that we design.

These elements bring life into the space, and stimulate and engage the users on a psychological and visual level. We believe that spaces should breathe; so just like any living entity it requires light, breeze and vegetation. The rest of the design factors like the open spaces or transformable spaces, fall in line. If you see any drastic difference visually in our projects then it is solely based on our artistic take on our client’s taste/ attitude, but the basic principles for every project remain the same.

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Acknowledging the necessary and unnecessary aspirations and addressing them accordingly must reflect in the buildings you design.

According to you, which are the three sustainable features/processes that should be made a requisite in the Indian architectural scenario?

We don’t believe in the rating systems that people use as parameters for sustainable design. There is no point if you source accredited materials from China to build a residence in Kerala, for instance - the carbon emission during transport is not accounted for.

For us, the first requisite in design is honesty; honesty because if you do something with genuine concerns, effectively representing the requirements and functional aspects without donning skins and pretentions then the results are bound to be sustainable. Acknowledging the necessary and unnecessary aspirations and addressing them accordingly must reflect in the buildings you design.

Understanding the threshold that’s where the honesty comes into picture. That we believe, is the most sustainable way to build.

Secondly, responding to the climatic conditions, allowing the spaces to breathe, adopting renewable energy means, and opting for passive design techniques.

Thirdly, use resources - local or sourced - responsibly, because even our natural resources are depleting. Example, here we used to get laterite stone in abundance, but due to environmental issues we have regulations for quarrying of these stones now. We have a limit to using natural resources. So, one must bring in certain sensitivity through the choice of materials.

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Though globalisation allows you access to sourcing anything from any part of the world, you should make sure it is less labour intensive and there is less carbon emission.

What is the firm currently working on?

Any one building material or technique that fascinates you?

Steel fascinates us because of the characteristics of the material and also the innumerable possibilities it offers to explore our artistic inclinations. Though the material is not the most suitable material for a climate like Kerala, but the treatments and applications available to counter are also plenty. So, yes, we would like to explore steel.

We started our career with large projects but when we experienced the real pleasures of working on smaller projects, we took up lot of small scale residential projects.

Now we have started exploring large scale commercial and institutional projects too.

We are working on a media institute and few commercial spaces. By the end of this month, we would start with a resort project as well.

Secondly, we try to infuse the characteristics of the clients in our design - we believe capturing the emotions is essential part of art. That is precisely why we refer to architecture as frozen music. And the more tangible way which we apply art in is we design the artwork in several of our projects.

Both of you are interested in art and keep exploring it through your work. Any aspirations to pursue it through different media or allied discourses?

We practice art separately. We have done lots of installations and sculptures and not necessarily in connection with our architectural work. But being architects, you can’t really forget you are an artist deep inside and that reflects in our work.

We apply our artistic streak in several ways: Firstly, with a poetic subtext - through textures and materials we choose and effects created by natural elements that we include in our designs.

We are happy at the moment not pursuing art for commercial reasons. We have practiced art not for recognition - we get more of that from architecture - we do it for personal fulfilment as it charges us up.

Your favourite pick of ‘simple yet smart’ design…

Sounds mundane but I would say a safety pin. A safety pin or a spoon has hardly gone through any transformation over time.

Because its form is functional and any other way doesn’t really meet the purpose. If you try to put in a certain kind of exaggeration then the product won’t serve its function. lijo.reny@gmail.com

On a lighter note If you had not been an architect, you would be…

Lijo: I already have an alter-ego. I am an artist.

Reny: I always had an interest in psychology.

In fact, I had already enrolled myself for the same before I got into architecture.

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A TEXTURAL NARRATIVE 24 Home Review March 2017

Making architectural changes before embarking on the details of furniture and design, Tejal Mathur has imparted the feel of a bungalow to this apartment in Mumbai, with a skylight enhancing the perception.

Like all good designers, Tejal Mathur believes that good design should go beyond fulfilling the mere basics. So while converting a nondescript three bedroom apartment with a carpet area of 1,600 sq ft into one with two bedroom suites with walk-in wardrobes, she felt it was essential to reformat the spaces. “Like most Mumbai apartments with an open terrace, this space had a fairly simple layout, though smaller proportions and indeed smaller bathrooms. It was a shell that had squeezed three rooms as built form,� she says. But reorganising the spaces was possible only because the clients understood that the space would be served better with two bedrooms rather than three small ones.

Text By Devyani Jayakar Photographs Sebastian Zachariah Home Review March 2017

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Tejal confesses that she is driven to inject structural proportion into a space, versus creating only furniture and function driven interiors. Here, the starting point was to emphasise the height of the space, create an illusion of volume, in fact.

“Our very first goal with the space turnaround was to allow for the door frames to go up to the ceiling. Structural beams dropped to a woefully low height of seven feet, so we moved the doors out of the beam line,” says Tejal. But this was not an easy task, since they had to be mindful that the division of spaces followed a particular logic.

“The apartment had to be redesigned architecturally, without ending up with shoddy offsets which would then have to be disguised.”

The brief specified a quiet, contemporary aesthetic…nothing flashy. “But the techniques I’ve used are traditional.

Walls are in IPS and the teak joinery is a traditional craft. The finishes may be oldworld, but the language is sharp,” says Tejal.

Creating an aesthetic devoid of

fuss or

self-consciousness Tejal's forte.

26 Home Review March 2017

“On further understanding what the clients wanted, we put our heads together on how to create a more contemporary ambience, even though our work leans a lot more towards rugged ‘old world’ textures to stay true to our grain.”

Where walls are wrapped with Statuario marble, a sand blasted finish tones down the busy veined surface to impart a swanky but aged feel. Juxtaposed with a white brick wall in the living room, the colour palette remains the same even as the character of the two finishes offers a stark contrast. The living room has furniture and lamps sourced from Natuzzi, with large charcoal tiles on the floor ensuring a pro-hygiene finish. “Their ominous St. Bernard, we suspect was the reason they took that call!” laughs Tejal.

Ceilings have a cement pigment-like lime wash since there are no suspended false ceilings. Consequently, there is just about enough wiring to enable track lights to be suspended.

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Sitting adjacent to the terrace, the dining area doubles as a transition space and has a glass roof, through which light inundates the space from the top as well as from the side, through the large glass doors leading to the terrace.This contributes in no small measure towards giving the apartment a bungalow-like feel.

A bench against the wall is faced by three chairs on the other side of the table.

Limestone walls in charcoal tone down the light streaming in by absorbing rather than reflecting it. The dining table is a rough uncut timber plank, showcasing and celebrating its asymmetrical shape.

Imparting a gentle old world feel are ship lamps suspended above the table,� says Tejal.

Timber and plywood sees generous use within the interior, with simple finishes and clean straight lines. Either old teakwood or plywood with an interesting inconsistent grain has been used.The flooring in the bedrooms is in seasoned hardwood in a herringbone pattern, bespoke for the project. The master bedroom has IPS walls, with plywood panels to conceal walk-in space behind.

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“Polished IPS is one of our favourite wall finishes, as the process is laborious but imparts a smooth and soft result…and far more sustainable in our environment,” says Tejal. The master bathroom sports classic finishes with embossed tiles from Bharat Floors.

The headboard of the bed and wall in the daughter’s bedroom is in faceted plywood, the pendant lamp above the bedside table echoing the fragmented look. The front of one drawer adds a vivid punch of colour to the space. There is a glass separator for the bathroom.

Behind the round mirror above the vanity, a sunburst pattern in wood radiates outwards, the grain and shades of colour emphasising the effect. Though heavy timber serves as a wash counter, playful ikat in cut slabs graces the floor.

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Comfortable and liveable are key words; the space is never about the art or important pieces. Also, reading between the lines of a client’s brief is key. “We believe that a client’s requirements are more seminal than physical, so we prefer to understand what they are looking for and to know what will work for them,” she says. tejalmathur@team-design.in www.tejalmathurdesign.in

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Artwork on the Brisbane sign was created by community groups from the city and make reference to the region’s history, culture and environment.

MODERN BRISBANE TEXT AND PHOTOS BY KUNAL BHATIA AND SHUVAJIT PAYNE kunal@kunalbhatia.net www.kunalbhatia.net Brisbane boasts of some beautiful pieces of historical architecture ranging from quaint Queenslander Houses to grand public buildings, some of which were featured in the February issue of Home Review. But apart from these traditional structures, the city has also kept its date with modern design in the form of architecture, art and some contemporary urban interventions.

The best place to begin explorations is at the city’s iconic namesake sign, which forms the perfect foreground to its fast evolving skyline.

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The sign was originally put up temporarily as part of a G20 summit, but thanks to growing popularity with residents and visitors alike, now has a permanent home.

Behind the sign is the sprawling Queensland Cultural Centre with the city’s premier galleries and art venues, all designed as a cohesive precinct in the 1980s by Robin Gibson and Partners. The buildings here are considered to be one of Australia’s most successful experimentations with Brutalist architecture - a movement that was characterized by hulking, fortress-like structures and exposed concrete construction. Prominent amongst the structures are the Queensland Performing Arts Centre that incorporates four theatres within its stepped form.

Two contemporary buildings that have been added to the Queensland Cultural Centre are the State Library of Queensland and the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, both of which were opened in the last decade. These form a welcome addition to the built forms within the Cultural Centre and are a testimony to Brisbane’s evolving experiments with modern architecture.

Right across the Cultural Centre is the delightful Kurilpa Bridge by Cox Rayner Architects and Arup. It is the world’s largest bridge to be based on the principles of tensegrity, with a balance between compressive and tensile structural members. While the bridge might appear rather informal, its cables in tension and tubes in compression are in structural rhythm, providing immense strength and a unique addition to Brisbane’s cityscape.

Top and Bottom: Some notable landmarks along the Brisbane River include the Wheel of Brisbane and the iconic stepped-form of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.

The visual lightness and structural efficiency of the Kurilpa Bridge is thanks to its design based on the principles of tensegrity.

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The redeveloped structure for the State Library of Queensland by Donovan Hill and Peddle Thorp Architects in 2016 is noted for its sustainable design features.

A view of the brutalist concrete forms of the Queensland Arts Gallery designed by Robin Gibson in the 1980s.

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A contemporary piece titled ‘Columns’ by artist Zilvinas Kempinas, in the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, makes use of video-film tapes.

The distinctive exterior of the Brisbane Hilton

by Harry Seidler remains an eye-catching Modernist design even after two decades.

This sculpture by Anish Kapoor commissioned by the Queensland Art Gallery, engages viewers with its large scale and bold use of saturated reds.

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A villa in Delhi for a multigenerational family has been designed by DADA Partners, employing a minimalistic aesthetic.

A centre court invites natural light into interior spaces even as it connects them and creates opportunities for interaction.

Ready landscaping. Sounds good?

Yes and no.

Built on a 2.5 acre plot which was to be subdivided later, the 13,000 sq ft building and its gardens are restricted to just one acre. “But actually this meant that we had to rein ourselves in even further, since the landscaping which took up almost 30% of the area had already been done.

There were fully grown palms which were at least 18 to 20 years old,” says Sumit Arora of DADA Partners. “We were constantly checking with the gardeners and working around the trees for their safety. Eventually, it turned out to be a good thing, because there was a ready landscape the moment we were done with the architecture. It was almost as if the building had been planted amidst the greenery.”

Text By Devyani Jayakar Photographs Courtesy Lightzone: Ranjan Sharma

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THE COURTYARD HOUSE

Large glazed windows towards the courtyard make this an inward looking house, with most rooms almost missing a wall, in lieu of the glass.

Coupled with the pool, there is a cooler microclimate in the centre that further promotes natural ventilation in the house through this space.

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An unusual H-shaped configuration consists of two parallel wings, above which is perched another volume, creating two courtyard spaces.

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“The clients were comfortable with a contemporary, minimalistic aesthetic,” says Sumit. “This usually means less cladding, which translates into savings in the budget.” An additional requirement was living areas which blurred the indoors and outdoors and a large entertainment space.

Minimalistic though the home may be, it is not devoid of drama. There is no shortage of surprises - all of the pleasant kind. An unusual H-shaped configuration consists of two parallel wings, above which is perched another volume, creating two courtyard spaces - one to north and the other facing south. Strategically placing the pool adjacent to the north court contains this space and forms a focal point.

The wing on the west is a private zone, occupied by bedrooms and family areas on both floors of the house. Privacy is maintained on the outside, with fewer apertures. However, large glazed windows towards the courtyard make this an inward looking house, with most rooms almost missing a wall, in lieu of the glass.

This wing helps in shading and cooling the central courtyard during summers.

“Coupled with the pool, there is a cooler microclimate in the centre that further enhances natural ventilation in the house through this space,” says Sumit.

In addition to connectivity across the open courtyard, other smaller internal courts assist in flushing the interior spaces of the house with natural light. At night the effect is reversed, with the courtyard wrapped on three sides by glowing boxes, as the artificial lights in the house come on.

At the front, a cobbled driveway leads to the drop off at the entrance of the low-slung building - a cluster of rectilinear boxes of different sizes and heights. The composition is one of strong horizontal lines and sculptured rectangular forms. A long canopy lunges outwards, supported seemingly precariously, by one slim support. Beneath, a timber walkway floats over a shallow reflecting water body, providing access to the home.

The dining area is aligned with the central court leading to the pool outside the patio in front of the formal living and bar.

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room on the left to the formal } prayer living room to the right. A granite-clad “The water body extends from the

stone wall forms the focus at the entry court with the high volume of living room visible behind it,” says Sumit. The lower level of the villa houses the party zone, consisting of an entertainment area adjacent to the courtyard and pool. The layout is Vastu compliant, with the kitchen in the south east. Of the three master suites, two are on the upper floor and each suite enjoys a private lounge.

Since the clients own Pomegranate Art which designs sculptures, their own home showcases their talents. A 9.5 foot tall sculpture of a human figure titled To the Limit, arms reaching upwards, is visible in the home through the glazed window on the right of the entrance. Within, the foyer shares a wall with the dining room, where a sculpture of a man poised on one leg, arms thrown back and body arced is placed.

“Named Reaching Out, this arresting aluminium and fibre figure is more than seven feet in height,” says Gayatri Khanna Sekhri of Pomegranate Art. Outside the living room, a large sculpture of a Pegasus-like winged white horse on the lawn looks ready to take flight; its anatomy exquisitely detailed.

Sculptures that appear in suspended animation, show up throughout the home, almost like a leitmotif.

Both floors are linked through a central double-height space containing a staircase with a low incline, gliding comfortably to the floor above. “It is typical of our treatment for farmhouses such as this one. Since there’s enough space, we don’t need to create the steep staircase, one is accustomed to seeing in smaller residences,” says Sumit. Floating steps and glass railing sides give it a visually light appearance, while full glazing on both sides offers views of both courts, making the passage a part of the landscape.

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Underneath the staircase, the eight foot high Tree of Life sculpture has bicycle wheels representing clusters of leaves, with birds perched on them. A long skylight runs the length of the staircase.

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Hugging the wall beneath it is a large sculpture of five human figures called Climbing Men bathed with an overhead light; symbolic of the strength that man requires overcoming obstacles in life.

Spanning 14 feet, it has an arresting presence and garners much attention.

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Green strategies make the house sustainable. With a series of interconnected voids, the architectural design facilitates natural ventilation; during summers the stack effect results in cooler spaces. Wherever there are large expanses of glass, timber and aluminium louvers cut down on direct heat gain. South facing solar panels have been installed to heat water in winters, to be used in the toilets and kitchens. “The lighting is simple‌ automation is reserved for the HVAC and the blinds,â€? says Sumit.

All in all, with a central courtyard, sculptures and a minimal aesthetic, the house more than delivers. contact@dadapartners.com www.dadapartners.com

A small gymnasium with a connected outdoor landscaped terrace with multiple levels makes for a perfect sit out.

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HSIL LAUNCHES SNOWCREST AIR COOLERS The New Range of Hindware Snowcrest Air Coolers from HSIL comes with Changeable Color Panels.

Keeping up with the tune of change, HSIL Limited recently launched their exclusive range of trendy Hindware Snowcrest Air Coolers. With their unique changeable color panels, the air coolers are going to attract customers with their interesting amalgamation of style and technology.

Their distinguished slender and tall look, coupled with next generation features like digital display panel with remote controlled operation, anti-skid top cover, shut louvers and high air delivery make them stand class apart. The range of air coolers launched under - Desert, Personal and Window categories are available in fourteen models ranging from 18 liters to 100 liters. With a high air delivery rate of up to 3800 m3/hr., the series is engineered to consume less power and produce exceptional cooling comfort. The air coolers range start at INR 8,990 and goes up to INR 17,990.

Some of the key highlights of the air coolers are as follows:

Colour Changeable Front Panel Elegantly designed panels can enhance the room decor with matching/ contrasting colour options. The front panels are available in three colorsPremium Purple, Brick Red and Ice Grey.

Digital Display Panel with Remote Controlled Operation This is available in select models with remote operation for fan, speed and timer control. The personal air cooler model comes with remote standing pocket.

Honey-Comb Pads Fixed to the back and side grills, honeycomb pads ensure balanced cooling in a room. These low maintenance cooling pads are designed to absorb dust particles, are anti-deformative and anti-erosive thus ensuring a longer life Anti-Skid Top Cover Anti-slippery surface at the top provides additional grip storage for placing objects.

Ice Chamber The ice chamber helps in faster cooling of the room.

Water Level Indicator The water level indicator indicates the water level in the tank Inverter Compatible Additionally, these are inverter compatible as well facilitating life. www.hindwarecoolers.com Home Review March 2017

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Mumbai-based studio, SAGA Design Architects, eschews rigid templates and formats while creating projects that celebrate a charming mix of natural and modern forms.

SAGA Design Architects came into being in 2010 and has dipped its fingers and toes in architecture, town-planning, and product and interior design. Principal architects Mayur Gujare and Deval Shah lead a team that is driven by fervour for innovation and an appetite for creating stylish simplicity.

As the following three projects establish, the firm’s design board has no interest in propping up a signature style, and instead revels in involving clients in the process and realising their vision comprehensively.

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Eating healthy has gone beyond a trend. It has sprinted out of the exclusive domain of the moneyed class, and landed straight into the centre of the mainstream. Architectural practice, and entire communities, clubs, and retreats now espouse and promote this lifestyle, making the act of becoming a follower a well-supported delight. Eco Café is a product of this new consciousness, where the act of eating out no longer demands abandoning all sense of self-control and calm.

The design by SAGA Design Architects walks the line between eatery and spa. Its shell is simple and its interiors are dedicated to mixing the subtleness of natural elements with the relatively more mundane aspects of cafeteria design. “The design engages water, plants, wood, glass and upholstery; all these are woven one into the other and also connected by carving spaces and moods,” states the team led by Gujare and Shah.

The box-shaped shell consists of 4 solid planes that find structure around a white metal frame.

The idea of the mix was to juxtapose natural elements like green walls and a lovely water channel with synthetic and sturdy elements like wooden furniture.

The sounds of flowing water and the presence of greenery hold the promise of elevating the dining experience beyond the mechanical.

Organic cuisine; a seating scheme that combines low-rise cushioned sections as well as regular chairs and tables; the careful placement of art and hanging plants; a wall-spanning cabinet swathe that hovers over the entire area; and a subtle lighting scheme composed of overhanging clusters and wall fixtures, combine to create an ambience of calm that is sure to embrace every guest. Indeed, the idea here was to create something that is, over and above the obvious, an experience to remember.

“Eco Café is an inspiration to lead a healthy life and follow healthy eating habits.It is about aspiring to a style statement,” the team attests.

Text by Shruti Nambiar Photographs Courtesy the Architect/ Ravi Kanade

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Singleton pads are fun to design. They demand eclecticism and imagination, in exchange for an often less-than-generous offer of space. Luckily for SAGA, upcoming fashion designer Kriti Ahuja presented herself as a willing collaborator during the immersive planning stage. The space was small and had to accommodate the stylish living demands of two travel-loving sisters.

What came out of the extensive give-andtake of ideas is a careful spread of bohemian chic accents and items.

One look will confirm that this is a pad worthy of a culture junkie, a product of the ‘pinterest generation’. “The room was zoned into 4 parts - the bedroom, the walk-in wardrobe/dressing area, the study/entertainment zone, and the alcove, a personal hide-out,” shares the team.

Bachelor spaces need to work hard with respect to space-division and this one does so with the brilliance of a thespian.

The master bedroom is a beautiful space; a huge world map covers one wall turning it into an inspirational vision board. Indeed, the intent here is to enable the sisters to catalogue their many sojourns. What looks like the bed is actually a raised wooden platform in a wenge wood pattern holding a plush mattress. Dreamy sunlight streams in from a nearby, linen curtain-adorned window on whose sill sits a small line of little potted plants.

A stack of old-style travel trunks is a clear reference to the wanderlust that afflicts the residents of the room. A scuffed magazine crate reinforces that carefree vibe and a beautiful rope swing that hangs from the rafters becomes the dedicated coffee table, establishing the multifaceted bohemian character of the home.

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“Kriti’s interests in various fields helped define the space’s true character from her perspective. This reflects in her collection of posters, art on metal plates, music, and artists’ pictures framed and hung on the brick wall in the room,” states the team.

This wall is part of the study/entertainment section - the adjoining table and the cabinet along with the chic triangular wall shelves hold Kriti and Bani’s books and sewing materials.

A raw wooden ladder with branches is an on-site creation designed to hold bags and other hanging accessories, while the walk-in wardrobe is home to a vanity mirror, an accessories nook, and clothes shelves. The Alcove is a balcony-like escape redolent with natural light streaming through a beautiful crochet curtain. This is a special home and inspiration pad, designed by and for artists.

SAGA’s product line includes lighting fixtures and furniture pieces, and the collection effortlessly blends simplicity of form and function, as well as a sustainable ethos through the use of on-site scrap as raw material.

The items are inspired by a need to combine natural forms with sturdy modern construction. A ripe example of this is the ‘Tree Table’, which was directly inspired by the branching beauty of a barren Champa tree. The complex structure of the form achieves the design team’s fondest wish - of splitting light as it makes its way through shapes. The Hexa and Node Light lamps establish this more obviously, creating geometric wonder-balls of metal grids around a single central light source.

The overall effect is eye-catching and delightfully geeky. ‘Sculpted Void’ references a cultural building that is venue to multiple activities. This centre-table houses ribs and niches, its multi-levelled structure, again, cutting light while providing magazines and other everyday items a place to cosy into. sagadesign11@gmail.com www.sagagroupe.com

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Minnie Bhatt has designed Myx in a way that it presents a traveller’s world.

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A SPEAKEASY WITH FLAIR

When Alfonso X el Sabio forbade all taverns under his kingdom from serving alcohol if not accompanied by a small amount of food, little did he know that the 21st century would see the evolution of his snacks into a full-fledged sophisticated cuisine.

Text By Ar. Priti Kalra Photographs Prashant Bhat Home Review March 2017

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What the 13th century King of Spain intended with his ruling was for the food to slow the effects of the alcohol, and consequently, prevent drunkenness and misconduct. The mandatory portion of food was placed over a coaster which in turn sat atop the glass of liquor. In the land of Don Quixote in Castilla, wine was voted the most popular drink by revelers and fruit flies alike.

The custom of covering a glass became necessary to prevent the winged pests from drowning in the beverages of unsuspecting customers. The coaster or cover was known as ‘tapa’. Over the years, the definition of the term expanded to include the small eats themselves.

For the conceptualisation of their newest venture in Juhu, Mumbai, the owners of the restaurant Myx approached the Mumbai-based agency, Minnie Bhatt Design.

Envisioned as a tapas bar serving nibbles from around the world, the concept of travel plays a major role in the design scheme.

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world through binoculars is the focal } the point in the interiors. White textured walls The mural of a woman looking out at

adorned with illustrations of air balloons, birds in flight and exotic monuments, together with a large metal compass suggest a culinary journey of sorts. “These elements create a collection of memories that you take back with you,” says Bhatt.

The space is divided into two sections, indoor and outdoor. Taking a cue from the binoculars, the window panels in the exterior wall are in the shape of two intersecting circles framed by metal sections.

Inside, the existing red brick wall has been retained but is overlaid with rough white plaster to bind it with the new textural mood board. It is on this wall that the previously mentioned compass finds its home. A glistening black leather sofa lounges below.

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Tin tiles in an assortment of colours have been refurbished and anchored onto the ceiling. “These lend an old world charm to the space, albeit in a contemporary manner,” says Bhatt. The solid teak wood flooring is complemented with walls finished in IPS panels. This finish continues over the bar front, the countertop of which marks the reappearance of the royal teak. Metal frame chairs finished in tan leather upholstery “lend a casual vibe to the space,” while tables in partly painted and partly polished finishes complete the furniture palette. “The service stations, too, are a blend of different drawers and knobs that have been put together,” adds Bhatt.

The suspended lights that hover over the indoor area as well as the hanging lights that twinkle above the outdoor area have been specially customised for the project.

The antique cameras, retro hip flasks, vintage frames and ad posters, along with numerous other accessories that dot the canvas of the interiors have been acquired from carefully scrutinised flea markets and antique stores.

Two of her most compelling pieces of work of Minnie Bhatt are the interior design of the prestigious Sun and Sand Hotel in Shirdi, and the restoration and redesigning of a 400 year old temple in Vrindavan, Mathura.

Her mantra is to approach each day with a renewed enthusiasm and each project with an eye towards evolving.

Having grown up amidst heritage buildings and the vintage charm of South Bombay, subtle influences of the old world neighbourhood subconsciously make their way into the spaces that she creates. Deeply influenced by the work of Japanese designer Nendo, Bhatt maintains that her style of design is eclectic and contemporary.

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On her client-centric approach, she says, “I try to ensure that a space is not only in sync with my aesthetic sensibility, but also reflects the client’s personality.� One of the few designers who effectively fuses cultural identity with technical tenacity, it is no wonder that the fraternity is abuzz with talk of Minnie Bhatt Design.

minnie@minniebhatt.com admin@minniebhatt.com

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PANASONIC UNVEILS INDIA’S FIRST RADIANT COOLING AIR-CONDITIONER The SKY series is a breakthrough innovation in the air conditioner market that will set a benchmark in the next generation of air conditioners.

Panasonic India Pvt. Ltd unveiled India’s first of its kind Air-Conditioner with Radiant Cooling Technology February 20, 2017 in New Delhi. The SKY Series in the Inverter segment provides the next generation of cooling experience. The new series was unveiled by the popular actor, filmmaker and conservationist - Ms. Dia Mirza, Mr. Manish Sharma, President & CEO, Panasonic India & South Asia, and Executive Officer, Panasonic Corporation, Mr. Tadashi Chiba, Divisional Marketing Director - Consumer Marketing Division, Panasonic India and Mr. Mohammed Hussain, Business Head - Air Conditioning Group, Panasonic India.

The high-end SKY series air-conditioners have been launched with a view to tap the niche customer segment. The Elite Inverter range will be available in 1 and 1.5 tonnage capacity at an entry price of Rs 70,200/- and Rs 85,200/ respectively.

Mr Manish Sharma, President and CEO, Panaonic India and South Asia, and Diya Mirza.

micrometers in size (PM2.5). Moreover, the SKY Series comes with the innovative DUST SENSOR which automatically switches on nanoe-G to purify the air whenever a high level of particle concentration is detected.

This results in preventing health problems such as cough, cold and loss of skin moisture can be prevented.

The Elite Inverter air conditioner range helps in saving energy while ensuring constant comfort by maintaining the set temperature through varying the rotation speed of the compressor.

To revamp and further strengthen its Room Air-Conditioner product portfolio, Panasonic will also launching new models in the energy saving inverter segment, fixed speed 3-Star, 4-Star, 5-Star and Windows segment.

Set to turn the world of air conditioning ‘upside down’, the models feature the new SKYWING flap design at the top which maximizes airflow for a uniform cooling. The SKYWING, supported by three multidirectional arms can adjust the angle of the airflow to achieve different cooling options - Radiant Cooling and Fast Cooling.

The Radiant Cooling allows the cool air to naturally glide along the surface, spreading throughout the room and down the walls, resulting in even and all-round coolness. This innovative cooling system uses the principle of the ‘Coanda effect’ to cool down the room by removing the heat from ceilings and walls. With Fast Cooling option, the SKYWING adjusts the airflow and provides instant heat relief.

The SKY Series features Panasonic’s advanced air purification system nanoe-G, which purifies down the air to the smallest details. It removes the airborne particles including the particles smaller than 2.5

The new range will also equipped with R410 refrigerant gas to make homes more efficient and reduce the emissions of greenhouse gasses into the environment.

Its sleek and striking design makes it a luxurious complement to the interiors of homes. Its remote control has also been redesigned for maximum ease of use and to complement the stylish new design of the SKY Series.

With simple and intuitive controls, the Sky Remote Controller comes with various settings and features, such as backlit LED screen, sliding cover and precise temperature control by 0.5°C, which meets everyday air conditioning needs. www.panasonic.co.in Home Review March 2017

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A bright sunny afternoon depicted in a beautiful deep red, the artist calls it “A Sunlit Afternoon�.

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art form

Flower For Your Thoughts?

World renowned Japanese artist, Kosogawa Runa creates beautiful and delicate floral glass sculptures reflective of an aesthetic that transcends the temporality of life.

‘Kizuki’ is a beautiful Japanese word that stands for appreciating and reviving that which has been neglected. For Takayama City based artist Kosagawa Runa, her kizuki came at a difficult time in her life. After watching her loved ones suffer from health issues, Kosogawa realised the futility of holding onto the transient, and instead, shifted her focus to the more mundane workings of everyday life which added more meaning.

Just before evening turns to night, and the night turns deeper - “Twilight”.

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It was here that Kosogawa decided to condition and channelise her epiphany into creating beautiful pieces of floral glass art that symbolise the inner workings of thought.

“I began to feel that my thoughts seemed to match the language of flowers, and that is when I started to create pieces based on images of flowers,” says Kosogawa as she gives us some insight into her art. “Glass gives me a sense of transience, one that can truly mirror or reflect the imagery of flowers. I feel it is just the right material for representing the themes I have in mind,” she adds.

Since Kosagawa’s approach to art is motivated by her “observing the small things and events” of life that are more often than not, either taken for granted or never fully acknowledged. When she moved to Takayama she realised the importance of having roots - a sense of belonging and in doing so, her art form has undergone a big change. Her work no longer remains just a personal motif, but now extends to include the world as a whole by depicting issues that plague mankind, like war, climate change, etc.

“I have been focusing on the conflicts and contradictions in our societies and also on the importance of passing on stories of war and environmental problems to future generations.” She calls this new theme ‘Enquiring about the Value of Our Lives’. For this, Kosagawa decided to work with black glass, its darkness mirroring the anxieties of the world. “I am reminded of an event when I was a child,” she goes on. “I did not know what colour to use to draw the sun. In books I had seen the sun depicted in orange, but the sun did not really look orange to me.”

The leaf of a Keyaki tree, the artist calls it “A Droplet of Keyaki”.

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Silence speaks here, and does so beautifully - “Profound Silence�.

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Historically, glass art finds its origins in Egypt and Assyria. Made famous by Romans in the later centuries, glass art became more available in the twentieth century, as its techniques (glass bowling, hot sculpting, cold working) became more accessible. ‘Studio Glass Movement’ began to shape in the West by the 70s. As opposed to ceramic art which more often than not, defined by imperfections, glass art is required to be smooth and flawless. But Kosagawa decided to buck this particular stipulation when it came to her art form.

The burst of colours much like life as we know it - “Engraved on Life”.

“I have chosen glass as a medium,” she says, “For my artistic expression because of its fragility and tendency to break. I use these imperfections in my work as a serendipitous occurrence.” Kosagawa goes on to say that “perfect beauty” as a concept does not have to necessarily bind the artist when working with glass. She believes this is reflective of the Japanese concept of being one with nature, rather than confronting and trying to break away from it.

What Kosagawa essentially does with her glass art is create sculptures that are reflective of thought, and aesthetically breathtaking. No two pieces are the same, and yet each is so skillfully created that one is left wondering at the artist’s imaginative genius. To which, Kosagawa says, “When I encounter something beyond my imagination, I have the feeling that the needle on the compass of my mind disappears.” Without a sense of direction to guide her, Kosagawa manages to find answers through her art; a process she believes has led her to where she is today in the museums of the world! info@keikoartinternational.com www.facebook.com/runa.kosogawa

The many shades of dark, known as “Afterimage of Darkness”.

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A spectacular view of Mumbai’s famed Queen’s Necklace, makes an elliptical living room the star of this apartment…which is what tempted ZZ Architects to take on the revamping of the space. Their slick contemporary aesthetic permeates the décor, adding a liberal dose of sophistication.

Text By Devyani Jayakar Photographs Courtesy ZZArchitects

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A Room with a View

An unusual elliptical living room enjoys a prime view of the famed Queen’s Necklace in Mumbai.

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In a city where a view is a luxury even in the most premium real estate, this apartment enjoys the cream of it all. “The linear layout of this 3,000 sq ft apartment was challenging because of the resultant corridors,” says Zubin Zainuddin of ZZ Architects. “But the clincher was the unusual elliptical living room, with a prime view of the famed Queen’s Necklace,” says Krupa Zainuddin, also of ZZ Architects.

“Diametrically opposite this landmark, it complements the curving sweep of the lights on Marine Drive and its dynamic changing sky.” In their make-over, the duo reduced five bedrooms to four, getting more spacious volumes in the process. Since the room faces west, there is abundant natural light, while privacy is not compromised since the apartment is on a higher floor and enjoys a good vantage point.

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Earlier, the dining area was part of the living room. In Krupa and Zubin’s revamp, the dining room has been moved to another area, while three clusters of seating occupy prime position in front of the seascape.

“The space had to be clearly dedicated to lounging and a living zone, thus moving the dining and other activities off this area became necesssary,” says Krupa.

Montepulciano marble sweeps through both the living and dining room, uniting them and acting as an abstract artwork on which the furniture is placed.

“The multiplicity of the seating arrangements gives it a larger than a regular apartment impact when one enters the living room,” says Zubin. One seating faces the television, another is geared towards conversation and a third encourages solitude. A column in the centre of the room has a console placed against it. “This makes the column more relevant, especially as we’ve also used it as a backrest for the chaise longue,” says Zubin.

Most of the furniture has been customised for the home, with the single-seaters intentionally placed next to the window.

Easily moved, they can be positioned to face the room for conversation, or turned around to enjoy the view.

Montepulciano marble sweeps through the dining room, acting as an abstract artwork on which the furniture is placed. A large canvas by Satish Gujral occupies a good deal of wall space.

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After sunset, the room is illuminated by recessed spot lights and a curved cove which echoes the shape of the room. This also permits most of the height of the ceiling to be retained at the centre of the room. “Many sea facing apartments are not the greatest in terms of a night view. Think of Worli Seaface. If you look out of many of the apartments, it is pitch black and can feel isolating. But this apartment actually had a ringside view of the strength of the city.

The classic black and white colour palette of the powder room displays fine detailing, with the marble flooring executed in a complex geometrical pattern.

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After sunset, the room is illuminated by recessed spot lights and a curved cove which echoes the shape of the room.

So dim lighting in the living room works after sunset,” says Zubin. In the dining room, clear glass pendant lamps from Klove hang above the table and illuminate the space, while a large canvas by Satish Gujral on the adjacent wall makes a statement.

There are two kitchens, which is usually more common in bungalows.

“One abuts the dining room, where the hosts bake and create a live kitchen experience for their guests,” says Krupa. “It is a kitchen and yet not a kitchen, as cooking becomes part of the entertaining. A handson cooking island encourages interaction with the diners.”Housing larger ovens, the space is well equipped for such endeavours.

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A powder room sits discreetly tucked away behind a door with mirrored panelling. A delightful surprise, the super luxe ambience of its classic black and white colour palette invites a lingering inspection.The marble flooring in veined Montepulciano and black Marquina marble is executed in a complex geometrical pattern; the pristine presence of white sanitary ware offsets this detailing of the floor. Overhead, the fragmented geometry of the origami-inspired ceiling adds considerable drama, its presence effectively doubled by the mirror.

The four bedrooms have rear city views. The master bedroom is French inspired, a serene space with a white palette. A large tufted leather headboard and crystal bedside lamps with conventional white shades lend it a formal ambience. A single cushion in lemon yellow offsets the snowy white bed linens and a solitary reading chair enables curling up with a book.A crystal chandelier sparkles overhead supported by cove lighting while a wooden flooring in Oak Herringbone adds pattern underfoot. Fabrics are by Andrew Martin and No-Mad. There is no clutter as the room connects seamlessly to the wardrobes, while striped Bronze Armani marble presides in the bathroom.

The master bedroom is French inspired with a large tufted leather headboard and crystal bedside lamps with conventional white shades.

In the daughter’s room, the tall headboard of the bed turns its back on a large window.

“We weren’t sacrificing much light, since this room has a surfeit of windows,” says Krupa. “But to ensure privacy from the adjacent high rise buildings, curtains filter the light and prevent the room to be viewed from the outside.”

The entertainment room doubles as a guest room when required and has coffee tables made from metal wires to provide a visually light ‘see-through’ appeal. “Less and less people want to have a dedicated ‘guest room’,” says Zubin. “The room needs to multi-task and be of use even when there are no guests.” A sofa-cum-bed has a bright red pattern on the cushions, a red pendant lamp fitted with a filament bulb echoing the punch of colour.

In the daughter’s room, the bed has its back to a large window.

The palette in this home is subdued, a quiet style coming from the quality of the materials used. In deference to the view, Krupa and Zubin’s treatment and finishes are subtle and understated, even as they deliver their customary sophistication. contact@zzarchitects.com www.zzarchitects.net

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As a lifestyle brand which offers design services as well as exclusive handmade creations, the products from Peeli Dori range from home dĂŠcor to fashion accessories and apparel, as well as interior and furniture design.

Behind every product is a narrative, as the designers manifest their thoughts into crafting something unique.

The products articulate a narrative of themselves.

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HANDCRAFTED STORIES TEXT BY SNEHA LUKKA

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Peeli Dori promises an exclusive range of handmade utility products.

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Meaning ‘yellow string’ in English, Peeli Dori engages your home with its range of stationery products, fashion accessories, apparels, home accessories and art work - all adding a streak of colour to the surrounding.

What sets Peeli Dori apart from other indie-décor brands is that they design with the deftness of handcrafted art and imaginatively portray a contemporary edge.

Co-founded by Ananya Kumar and Niharika Choudhary, NIFT alumni and product designers by profession, the brand aims to bring forward the skilled clusters of the country with knowledge of contemporary design aesthetics. Offering lifestyle handmade products, the brand is striving to put forth an eclectic collection designed by artists residing in small towns in India.

The store interiors speak volumes of the designer's taste and style statement.

Talking about their design inspirations and people behind the products, owner Ananya says, “Since the day it was founded, Peeli Dori is striving hard to bring forward the hidden skills from the core of India, to a platform where the world can recognize it.”

Every corner of the world has a story to narrate. Inspired from these stories, Peeli Dori is upholding the essence of Indian tradition and skill. Its handcrafted products are a thread between the old forgotten craft of India and its new modern avatar. Looking for creativity in forgotten pockets of the country, the idea is to re-introduce vanishing crafts and talents.

With lifestyle products having handmade opulence, the brand puts forth and eclectic collection

Peeli Dori repaints the vanishing and hidden craft skils.

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Explaining how they tackle competition from other brands, Ananya says, “Peeli Dori competes with design forward aesthetics of the finest quality. The market we cater to is 'smart' and 'conscious' in their decision making. Above all, they seek convenience in user experiences. We are a one-stop solution for all design services, both online and offline.�

With a strong online presence and a concept store in Shahpur Jat, New Delhi, going ahead, the brand sees itself as representing the longstanding design groups of India in the International market, and creating a niche for itself by being the best handmade dĂŠcor brand in the country.

The brand sees itself as a representative of design cluster of India in the international market.

These handcrafted ceramic products link Indian raw living with high end voguish lifestyle.

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Peeli Dori 5k/2, Jungi Lane, Shahpur Jat, New Delhi - 110049 info@peelidori.com +91 9711345160 +91 8826144453

Canvas Of Good Cheer

By Esha Nagar

DESIGNQUEST

Mango Chutney, a home dĂŠcor brand not only relies on hand curating but using any canvas as the core for hand painting.

We have done a variety of products as part of our art portfolio till now. From personalized table and floor lamps to painted hookahs, paintings made from tiles, life size stones, canvas paintings, glass souvenirs, invitation cards and many more, the brand specializes in amazing dĂŠcor products.

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Handpainted Glasses

Handcrafted to Excellence

The brand is gaining immense popularity in the portraits and the story series in the Lamps category.

Story Series

Right from understanding the brief and the stories behind each piece, the ideation, designing the sketches and the final painted products are created in-house.

The prime objective of our brand is to keep things organic, raw and natural yet spiced with happiness. In the digital age, certain things can express volumes and hand painted or curated things standout in this scenario. Also the design inspiration is focused on two things aesthetics and utility.

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The goal is to create affordable art and take it beyond art connoisseurs, to the multitude of common people. Therefore, basic, silhouette and bright colours form the essence of the brand.

The inception of the brand was the outcome of my painting scrap - beginning from waste shampoo bottles, beer bottles to useless glass leftovers. Eventually, it went onto canvas lamps and then there was no turning back. We visualised art as a little explored arena with infinite possibilities.

Invitation Cards

Personalized Table Lamp

We seek to become the go-to Destination for hand painted custom products - and also offer opportunities to artists along the way, thus empowering people and leading the change from being an ‘art up’ to a ‘social’one too.

Our lamps are loved by all our customers and the fans and followers of our social media pages. Our products are preferred for personal as well corporate orders. The lamps are universally admired by all age groups. As exquisite paintings during the day and a vivid art piece when lit, they are loved for more reasons than one.

With determined consistency and profound understanding of the story of each customer, personalization is at its heart at Mango Chutney headquarters.

We strive to deliver happy faces through our products curated with utmost love and care. esha.sre@gmail.com www.mangochutney.in

Handpainted Table Lamp

Moreover, with a number of graphics’ based brands playing in the field of custom gifts, our brand was meant to be the go-to destination for spicing up gift culture, adding quirk and offering limitless possibilities with freestyle painting. The end products define the brand’s idea of a Flavourful Art Store!

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The club house that overlooks one of the four polo fields includes a few guest rooms, the restaurants and the spa.

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AN OASIS IN THE DUBAI DESERT Sitting regally amidst the manicured foliage of a 160 acre polo estate, Desert Palm’s Per Aquum is just a 15 minute drive from Downtown Dubai. Initially created for owner Ali Albwardy’s personal love of the game, it includes four polo fields, a riding school, stabling facilities for over 300 horses and 90 luxury residential villas.

Text By Natalie Pedder-Bajaj Photographs Courtesy The Resort

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Sitting beside the polo field amid swaying palms, the infinity pool looks like an oasis in the desert.

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Ceremoniously opened by Her Royal Highness Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, this exclusive resort also features 38 guest rooms and suites, a signature spa (Lime) and pool, a European Grill restaurant, brassiere, lounge and an outdoor Polo bar overlooking the magnificent grounds.

For the world’s most elite travellers, Desert Palm, Per Aquum has just unveiled a secret new presidential villa on the estate called Layali, engulfed by swaying desert palms and picturesque views. With its sumptuous interiors designed by Miaja Designs of Singapore, this super exclusive three bedroom walled haven captures the essence of the Arabian landscape with an avant-garde flair, making it the perfect private getaway.

Privileged guests arrive via a personal access that ambles across a Jordanian stone walkway as they enter the restricted tall gates of the villa gardens. Reposing regally amidst cooling fountains and waterfalls, Layali is designed around a central courtyard. Mashrabiya screens shield you not only from the sun, but cast intricate shadows onto the blue mosaic pool and the courtyard’s white tiled expanse, while lanterns and outdoor music add to the magical atmosphere.

Across the courtyard, the glass enclosed Great Room boasts of solid oak floors, a private palm enclave and a raised terrace (during Dubai’s polo season this becomes an exclusive VIP viewing platform). The stylish dining area is dominated by an oval marble table, while the adjoining high-end kitchen comes generously equipped with its own wine fridge, a chic breakfast bar and even a private chef!

Natural light streams through all three bedrooms, which overlook lush gardens of pretty fragrant bougainvillea. Guests can relax in plump cosy beds dressed in sumptuous linens with a lavish pillow menu, while the spa-like bathrooms with freestanding stone tubs, indoor and outdoor rain showers and twin stone basins add to the pampering.

For the world’s most elite travellers, Desert Palm, Per Aquum has just unveiled a secret new presidential villa called Layali, designed around a central courtyard with top-of-the line amenities and services.

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Desert Palm also has 90 luxury residential villas including the Pool Villa with its outdoor shower & tranquil ambience.

Patterns and textures, from minimalist Arabian designs to bold geometrics and classic marble add to the rich ambience, while soothing elixirs and a bath-salt menu enhance this decadent experience. Besides their own private buggy and butler service, Layali guests are also spoiled with any personalised luxuries or special on-request indulgences they desire.

Desert Palm is one of Dubai’s better kept secrets perfectly echoing Per Aquum’s philosophy, where the architecture and design of each project is inspired by the beauty of the country and culture it is in, based on principles of realism, sustainability and responsibility.

www.minorhotels.com/en/peraquum/ desert-palm

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The Inside Track Now on Apple and Android

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE COPY* OF The Inside Track and stay connected All you need to do is download the free Magzter app.

Apple users can download Magzter from the App Store.

Android users can download Magzter from Android Market.

Try it out today.

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THE SURFACE DIRECTORY Cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and R+D have enabled products to display high performance finishes that grab your attention. The surface special segment catalogues some of the best for you.

Text By Kanupriya Pachisia Home Review’s special segment this month is the right place to explore the latest trends in surface finishes for the built environment.

As you take a sneak peek at the future of materials you will see how texture has become key this year. Sophisticated colour palletes are emerging in new material collections. Today surfaces are being directed to address all the senses and encourage touch and feel as we look for more engagement with our surroundings. Colour continues to be very important. Along with texture, geometrics and reflections are also gaining momentum in the design run.

With bespoke surface finishes and conceptual interior development, surface design trends are generating an energetic and unique ambience. Advancement in innovation and technology has brought a whole new range of finishes on board. From interesting sound absorbing walls and floors to glass and steel become an alternative for concrete walls, design is breaking all boundaries.

We bring forward some of the latest trending finishes for your walls, floors, ceilings, windows and tiles. Also do not miss our conversations with experts of the industry as they put forward their views on what’s trending in 2017.

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A Matter of Detail

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Floors to Fall For!

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And to Top it Off …

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Tile-a-Tale

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Blind Accent

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Orient Bell - Rings It Right!

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The Design Agenda

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A MATTER OF DETAIL

Walls constitute the largest visual impact in a space. Selecting the right finish renders the right wall. With a plethora of interesting and innovative finishes, walls are becoming a matter of detail.

3FORM THE PAINTERLY COLLECTION The Painterly Collection from 3Form captures hand painted watercolours and infinite glass. The collection most elegantly blurs the line between art and architecture. The new design option of an opaque back allows any of the Painterly designs to be a wall covering for easy use in hotels, restaurants and pubs. From bold strokes to sophisticated speckles and dimensional landscapes - you have a masterpiece to hang! www.3-form.com

CARNEGIE ACOUSTIC WALL PANEL COLLECTION Carnegie launched its acoustical panels using its textiles in some-200 colours. The tiles are also available in patterned and textured fabrics. The nine added embossed and embroidered patterns come in more than fifty colour-ways. A variety of shapes give them a design edge. Fit for use in institutes, offices and residential spaces, these panels are great at absorbing sound and maintaining your privacy. www.carnegiefabrics.com

ELEMENTTO WALLPAPERS THE PANTONE COLOUR OF THE YEAR COLLECTION The Pantone Colour Institute announced Green as 2017’s most trending colour. Ellementto Wallpapers embraced the colour in the most unique fashion in their new range named after it. The collections light and vibrant greens inject brightness into dark spaces while the dark ones bring earthy vibes. Prints of flora and foliage on wallpapers ensure a constant connection with nature. www.elementto.in

HAWORTH THE ADAMICK SCREEN Haworth’s Adamick Screen designed by Chris Adamick is a unique sculpture that brings form and function together as it gives birth to your virtual wall. It is 56” wide, 64” high and 6” thick. The freestanding lightweight screen is composed of 100% recyclable acrylic and comes in amber or white. Its visual interest, design and texture are a sure conversation starter. www.haworth.com

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LITHOS DESIGN RILIEVO COLLECTION The Rilievo Collection by Lithos Design is a range of exquisite workmanship designed throught the meticulous process of chiseling away marble. The name Rilievo is derived from the Italian word that means relief. Drawing inspiration from the art of sculpture, these wall tiles afford a light weight and dynamic rendering. The aesthetic effect is both strong and soft at the same time. www.lithosdesign.com

ARTSTONE HORMIGON PLUS OXIDO COLLECTION

MAARS LIVING WALLS METALINE

Hormigon Plus Oxido, inspired by the appearance of oxidized gross concrete and designs beyond the classic lines is the perfect choice for an industrial look. With its contrasting structure wrapped in natural rust effect it comes in a panel thickness of 7-12 mm and is sound and temperature resistant. Connecting screw marks and fixing effects secure the mold steel to the concrete.

Maars Metaline is a sleek and flush steel partition wall that represents high value. The patented click connection provides rapid assembly and unique flexibility. It combines perfectly with steel and glass doors for a crisp modern look. It renders a fully flushed wall with zero mm joints. Easily applicable, it is a good choice for sleek partitions in offices and homes alike. www.maarslivingwalls.com

www.artstone.com

D&M THE ECHO PANEL WOVEN IMAGE COLLECTION The Echo Panel by D&M is a surface in itself with significant design potential to enable designers to redefine, reinvent and reconfigure the office.

Woven Image Echo Panels also possess high quality acoustic properties. As it comes as a finished surface it does away with the costs of fabric, form and adhesive. It is a certified green product made of recycled PET bottles. www.dnmindia.in Home Review March 2017

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FLOORS TO FALL FOR!

The type of flooring can make or break the appearance of your space.

Today one is definitely spoiled for choice. Let’s turn the spotlight on some that will have you ‘floored’!

FORBO FLOORING SYSTEMS THE LINOLEUM COLLECTION Forbo’s linoleum floor coverings are a natural winner! Associated to the Marmoleum brand, these floors are sustainable, durable and high on quality and innovation in design. Made from natural raw materials, the collection comes in over three hundred colours and more than twelve different design structures to choose from. It is available in sheet and tile formats. www.forbo.com

SQUARE FOOT THE OUTDOOR IPE COLLECTION Square Foot has once again combined the elegance and imitable warmth of natural wood with the convenience and durability guaranteed by their exclusive technology in their Outdoor Ipe Collection. Available in smooth and ribbed finish they are available in a wide range of sizes. Their variegated colour texture gives your outdoor space or deck a feel like natural wood and meets all your needs. www.squarefoot.co.in

INTERFACE URBAN RETREAT COLLECTION The Interface Urban Retreat Collection displays the innate connection between humans and nature. Urban Retreat is a dynamic collection of eleven carpet tiles sorted into pattern studies that range from refined textures to broad organic forms. It explores where concrete gives way to grass and looks at the deeply carved character of an old tree set against the architecture of a manmade grid. www.interface.com

HANDS AKASA-AYNA COLLECTION The Akasa-Ayna Collection from Hands exhibits intricate and vibrant designs set in a modern yet vintage layered style.

Hand-knotted in linen, pure silk and wool these carpets are artistic and in perfect harmony of design elements as the traditional mixes with contemporary colour palettes. Ancient motifs bring a unique freshness in design and texture making them a bold statement on your floor. www.hands-carpets.com

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NOTION EUROPEAN WOODEN FLOORING COLLECTION The exquisite European Wooden Flooring Collection by Notion is made up of the finest quality materials with attention to every detail, providing unsurpassed ease of installation and quality of finish.

Available in three shades – European White Oak, European Ash and Classic Beech, these floors render timeless beauty. Inspite of the fine grains these are hard and strong and perfectly compliment your space. www.notion.net.in

PERGO THE SENSATION COLLECTION

ARMSTRONG FLOORING ALTERNA ENGINEERED STONE

Pergo reinvents the laminate floor with its Sensation Collection. The water repellant flooring is not only designed to look great but is also innovative in terms of performance.

Its surface protection extends all the way into the bevels to create a fully closed surface. This laminate floor comes with silk matte finish and true to nature cracks and knots

Armstrong’s Luxury Vinyl Collection reflects the look of stone via its Alterna Engineered Stone Collection.

The collection radiates beauty and comfort through durability and ease in maintenance. They can handle the hardest working rooms in your home like your kitchens and bathrooms. Timeless elegance and the beauty of stone and tile combine to give this vinyl collection its luxurious charm. www.armstrong.com

www.pergo.co.in

NITCO ACACIA SMOKE DECORI COLLECTION The Acacia Smoke Decori Collection by Nitco is one that eludes rustic charm on whichever floor it adorns.

A part of Nitco’s Woodville series, these glazed vitrified tiles match their wooden counterparts to the closest detail. With a colour variation and random design phase these are available in sizes of 298 x 1200 mm. It is a good option for both residential and commercial use. www.nitcotiles.in Home Review March 2017

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AND TO TOP IT OFF ‌

Your space today has a multitude of options to choose from as ceilings shift from the paradigm of being boring to exciting and conventional to exciting.

ARTEMIDE THE EGGBOARD SUSPENDED CEILING The Eggboard Suspended Ceiling by Artemide is a ceiling that you can hang anywhere from your existing ceiling. It functions on a suspension appliance with sound absorbing properties ensured by a peculiar sinusoidal cross-section design of the lower surface and the use of a sound absorbing material.

Its acoustic efficiency is ensured by placing it one meter directly above the speaker and listener. www.artemide.com

SAINT GOBAIN THE ECOPHON SOMBRA CEILING SYSTEM The Ecophone Sombra ceiling system offers ceiling solutions in bold black. A well proven acoustic solution for cinemas, the Sombra range makes it possible to create just the right sound environment for bars and night clubs. Available as visible and concealed grids, these are easily demountable tiles and come in two sizes - 600 x 600 mm and 1200 x 1200 mm. www.saint-gobain.co.in

FORMGLAS GFRG MODULAR CEILINGS Formglas GFRG is a composite of high strength alpha gypsum cement reinforced with glass fibres that can be factory moulded into virtually any shape and size. Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG) is either field finished or pre finished.

The product is appreciated for its light weight, superior strength, sustainable characteristics and ease of installation. It is commonly used in decorative ceilings. www.formglas.com

BARRISOL BARRISOL STRETCHMASTER ACOUSTIC CEILINGS This range of acoustic ceilings from Barrisol offer premiere solutions for acoustics to the sound and interior design industry. Precisely engineered, it absorbs spurious sounds and reduces noise pollution. Available in 110 colours and 7 different finishes, it offers 4 different noise absorption rates.

This technology can be integrated into a variety of settings from museums to airports. www.barrisol.com

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HUNTER DOUGLAS THE LINEAR PLANK METALINX CEILING Compatible with industry standard lighting, HVAC, speaker, fire safety and security issues, the Linear Plank Metalinx Ceilings act as a plenum mask for the ceiling plane. It is available in powder coated finishes. Made of up to 92% recycled aluminium and 25% recycled steel it is a green product. It offers good light reflectance and is available in shades of grey and white. www.hunterdouglas.in

REHAU ACOUSTIC CHILLED CEILINGS

TROLDTEKT TROLDTEKT WAVE ACOUSTIC PANEL

The Acoustic Chilled Ceilings by Rehau are formed by gypsum and cardboard sheets with or without integrated graphite. The ceiling elements each consist of two perforated gypsum cardboard sheets glued together, where the hole pattern is arranged one above the other. While the acoustic chilled ceilings take care of conventional heating or cooling, the high performance one caters to increased heating or cooling.

This wave-shaped acoustic panel by Troldtekt is designed to give the ceiling surface a sculptural, three dimensional look. Made of 100% natural materials, these acoustic panels comprise of wood and cement.

They also have outstanding fire resistant qualities and indoor climate control properties. Each panel measures 2000 x 600 mm and comes in the company’s standard colours and natural shades. www.troldtekt.com

www.rehau.com

ARMSTRONG WOOD WORK GRILLE PANELS The Wood Work Grille Panels

by Armstrong are warm natural wood ceilings that offer installation flexibility and a variety of design options.

A number of standard slat sizes are available but these can be customized too. It is easy to install and can also be custom curved if the installation requires. It absorbs sound up to 90% and is humidity resistant. www.armstrong.co.in Home Review March 2017

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TILE-A-TALE

Tiles are undergoing a unique personality change as is visible in their impressive range of new designs and materials. Here’s a round-up of some of the dominant trends.

SICIS SKYLINE COLLECTION Sicis imagined the Skyline Collection to use the mosaic in a different way, shifting the attention from organic and rounded shapes where its material finds its best expression, to geometric shapes, straight lines and patterns with clear and defined features. The collection arrests the pulse of city life in rich, poetic subjects giving interiors a new dimension to enter. www.sicis.com

SOMANY CERAMICS STONE16 Somany Ceramics’ Stone16 are outdoor floor tiles with a thickness of 16 mm that is double the thickness of an ordinary floor tile. Available in sizes of 600x600 mm, they are one of the toughest tiles in the market. This range of thicker, high-performance, engineered Durastone is anti-skid and load resistant. They are ideal for all sorts of outdoor applications. www.somanyceramics.com

ORIENT BELL LIMITED THE EUROPEAN COLLECTION The European Collection launched by Orient Bell Limited displays a whole new range of floor tiles that draw inspiration from the European sub-continent.

Made in India, the new range not only promises extravagance for your home but also renders customer satisfaction with its durability and quality. With soft, subtle colours in matte finish imitating wood, it will definitely make you forget wood! www.orientbell.com

BHARAT FLOORINGS AND TILES THE HERITAGE COLLECTION Bharat Flooring’s Heritage Tiles are custom designed to create stunning floors to suit eclectic tastes. Each cement tile is individually handcrafted from the finest ingredients and aesthetically blended to fabricate a high quality tile of rich and glowing colours. The timeless elegance of this collection and its durability, makes it a work of art and an integral part of our country’s architectural heritage. www.bharatfloorings.com

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BISAZZA THE WOOD COLLECTION The newly launched Wood Collection by Kiki Van Eijk for Bisazza is a wood parquet floor tile collection that is available in five distinct design styles. The tiles outer oak hardwood layer of 4 mm is glued to a 12 mm birch plywood. It fits on an interlocking system and keeps the floor stable over time. www.bisazza.com

KAJARIA GRANDE: 80X120CM This latest product from kajaria captures the beauty and richness of marble in large, polished vitrified tiles. Natural, random veins of marble run through the body of the tile giving off the effect of real marble.

Available in large slabs - 80x120 cm, these tiles require less joints and cost much less than real italian marble.

The tiles have a high-gloss finish and are scratch and abrasion resistant.

GRESCASA HEXATILE COLLECTION The Hexatile by Grescasa is a revolution in design in current times as it strives to achieve a new form and surface. Shaped like hexagons in geometric prints, these tiles are laid down in an interlocking system.

Available in shades of white, black, mink and mud, these are frost and scratch resistant and can be applied on both walls and floors. www.grescasa.com

www.kajariaceramics.com

RAK CERAMICS THE COUNTRY BRICK COLLECTION Inspired by the pebbledash walls of old forts, the Country Brick Collection by RAK Ceramics has a unique modern charm. The colour palette consists of shades of grey, beige and brown to characterize rooms with a rustic yet contemporary look.

Available in rectangular and hexagonal shapes the tile perfectly complements wood and concrete finish inspired porcelain tiles. www.rakceramics.com Home Review March 2017

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BLIND ACCENT

With tropical vibes, sustainable elements and bold geometrics setting the stage, blinds and drapes are becoming showstoppers on the ramp as they showcase the latest in window dressings.

RR DÉCOR PVT. LTD. CAVIAR COLLECTION Caviar is a contemporary expression of an eclectic and diverse range of designs that attempt to capture the authentic spirit of art. The collection features signature asymmetrical patterns, matt and glossy – foiled and cut velvets and lustrous, embroidered sheers. Chic yet understated, the palette ranges from beige to charcoal black with a hint of lime, maroon and gold as accent colours. www.rrdecor.com

D’DÉCOR THE COSMOPOLITAN COLLECTION The Cosmopolitan Collection by D’Décor is yet another positively uplifting set of contemporary patterns on a natural palette and a great choice for elegant drapes. Digital prints of water colour effects on sheers featuring damasks, floral styles and textures in vibrant colour schemes of sunflower, cobalt, marigold, fuchsia and emerald transform your space into a refreshing, relaxing and inviting haven. www.ddecor.com

RUMORS FINE FURNISHINGS ENGLISH COTTAGE COLLECTION RUMORS Fine Furnishings recently unfolded its new collection titled the English Cottage Collection that draws its inspiration from the elements of nature. The collection interprets the essence of a tranquil meadow in the style of traditional botanical illustrations. The beautiful imagery is enhanced by a series of evocative colour schemes dubbed Hollyhock, Berry, Foxglove and Hydrangea to name a few. www.rumorsindia.in

PEEKABOO PATTERNS THE GORGEOUS SHEER COLLECTION Sheers designed by Peek-a-boo echo serenity, elegance and style. Most of all, its latest Gorgeous Sheer Collection depicts the joyfulness of childhood in every way. A little of the outside and inside, they suffice for a good combination of aesthetics and privacy in the room. Fluttering butterflies, crazy cakes and the peace sheers are some of the perfect choices for your toddlers and teenagers. www.peekaboopatterns.com

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CLARKE & CLARKE CARIBA COLLECTION Inspired by the Caribbean, the tropical Cariba Collection is bold, bright and contemporary.

The colours featured in this collection of printed cottons include a vibrant mix of spice, raspberry and aqua. The six coordinating design patterns of the collection provide ample interior design opportunities.

An eclectic mix of flowers and leaves, this collection makes sure to leave a fashion statement. www.clarke-clarke.co.uk www.maishaa.com

FANDF CHITRA COLLECTION The Chitra Collection by F&F is inspired by traditional Indian prints and miniature art. The collection looks like carefully crafted miniature paintings printed on cotton fabrics. Available in four shades namely Blue Steel, Gun Metal, Moss and Sage it comes in 254 gsm. For those looking to bring in a touch of traditional India with a contemporary twist, this collection meets all requirements.

ZYNNA MYB COLLECTION The MYB Collection by Zynna reintroduces panel curtains in a new light. The collection encompasses many design periods and styles giving the blinds a real stroke of authenticity. All the blinds are finished with a decorative scallop and edge. This gives them a distinctive design edge. Made of lace, these panel curtains are also used as a good option for sheers. www.zynna.in

www.fandf.in

HUNTER DOUGLAS WOWEN WOODS AND BAMBOO COLLECTION The Wowen Woods and Bamboo Collection from Hunter Douglas renders a unique, warm and natural look through its Provenance and Alustra Collection of woven textures.

Hand woven from versatile, light filtering reeds, grasses and woods the former comes in five styles while the latter is an innovative alternative to solar screens that artfully blends unique fibers to create distinctive light filtering fabrics. www.hunterdouglas.com Home Review March 2017

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Madhur Daga

ORIENT BELL RINGS IT RIGHT! Home Review walked the talk with Mr. Madhur Daga of Orient Bell Ltd. who turned the spotlight on the road ahead and explained how innovation proved to be the right orientation for the company.

Tiles have come a long way. How do you address this growth and what potential do you see for this market?

The tiles and furnishing industry in India has witnessed a substantial growth and change. This growth is not only in terms of the scope and breadth of the industry but also in terms of how tiles are now seen as an integral element of dĂŠcor. Initially, consumers were not well informed on the variety of tiles and expansive options they could be catered to, according to their need. Now, tiles have functionally and aesthetically advanced and are not just a commodity to cover walls and floors.

The design potential with tiles is limitless. They have the advantage of being stain resistant and easy to maintain for years. Over the last decade, customers have become far more exposed and knowledgeable, more adventurous and aspirational. The biggest development is that, the technology to produce patterned and coloured ceramic and vitrified tiles has evolved rapidly with the advent of digital printing. Hence, the tile industry is witnessing an innovation boom.

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Tiles have functionally and aesthetically advanced, and are not just a commodity to cover walls and floors.

The technology to produce patterned and coloured ceramic and vitrified tiles has evolved rapidly.

What are some of the trends you would forecast for the surface finish industry this year?

A major trend in tiles and furnishings is large-format natural stone tiles which please designers as well as consumers. Another trend is that of wood finish tiles which has been taken over by the concept of ‘wood finished tiles’. These tiles have identical features and aesthetics of wood, yet retain the durable and stylish nature of tiles.

Since wood is a limited natural resource, ‘wood finish’ tiles are an ode to environment and their safety. These wood finish tiles are the new age green tile as they are environment friendly and also appeal to the fashion conscious consumers.

What is Orient Bell planning to give to the flooring and wall tiles industry in the near future? Could you please tell us more about your latest collection?

OBL has a well-equipped R&D laboratory with a 12 personnel focus on betterment of existing products and development of new products.

Designers enjoy the aesthetically pleasing, open look that it gives to the floors and walls in residential and commercial applications.

Orient Bell is primarily offering tiles in all approved and possible sizes in the industry. We manufacture floor and wall tiles upto 800X1200mm size. In the financial year of 2018 we intend to introduce innovative products such as parking tiles with 12mm thickness along with wooden planks in 150X900mm size from our plant in Sikandarabad.

We are also in the process to launch 600X1200mm PGVT/ DGVT from the same plant. Apart from this Orient Bell is introducing new 12mm Digital Parking Tiles from Hoskote plant primarily targeting the South market.

We are also launching a brand new range of floor tiles that will offer a complete range of rustic yet luxuriously elegant styles that are inspired by European trends but handcrafted in India. www.oblcorp.com www.orientbell.com

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THE DESIGN AGENDA Colour, material and finish trends are the most widely tracked trends in the creative field. Treating these in new and fresh ways is not only critical for creating differentiated products but also for creating a thriving channel that gives new dimensions to the interior and architecture world. As designers and style watchers we’re always looking for a first-read stylistic element that will attract the target user’s immediate visual attention.

Wallpapers and high-end wall coverings add an extra kick to the room. The essence of each new wall covering draws from the innate beauty of the material. Along with intricate wall texturing, wallpaper and coverings have begun to make a comeback as a way to set the room apart. Maya Romanoff’s Bedazzled Sparkle Geode is a flexible glass bead wall covering that combines a dense layer of genuine glass beads with a dash of sparkle. The added layer of sparkle makes this diverse surfacing material even more eye catching. Hand crafted with close attention to detail each panel reflects light beautifully.

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We are surrounded by objects that are constantly fighting for our visual attention. With new trends summing up design equations, surfaces are not only exploring new looks but also wearing them well.

Tektura’s wall coverings play up sentiment against fine texture as they launch Dan Savage’s new collection, ‘Down Memory Lane’. Extensively used in health care interiors, providing nostalgic scenes drawn from nature, landscapes and village life, these murals consist of ten views that can be mixed and matched to create unique scenes. Each design is made up of ten scenes, 2 meters wide and 3 meters tall.

The options are endless and can also be custom coloured to suit.

With more and more importance being given to acoustics, products are gearing up to leave their mark in yet another arena of design display. Baux Acoustic Tiles are converting empty spaces to warm and welcoming ones by eliminating sound reflections from tiled floors and huge glass windows.

The texture of their wood-wool tiles contrast the hard surfaces and help soften the space.

Their wide range of colours also make a huge visual impact. By the simple process of gluing them to any surface, these tiles have given, walls and ceilings a whole new look.

They are also being used as window films giving windows a new surface to lean on.

‘Luxury Vinyl’ - yes we are talking of luxury vinyl here and the terms do not contradict each other! Pergo’s range of luxury vinyl flooring has given floors a decorative, stylish and highly practical solution to consider.

Inspired by natural wood, it gives the room the look of real wood planks. Its warmth, softness and water proof properties makes it a suitable choice for most spaces.

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Screenwood Ceiling and Wall Panels are acoustic and manufactured using solid timber slats in a variety of profiles. Modular and pre-finished, they facilitate ease in installation. All acoustic panels are fitted with SC15 acoustic scrim which is a polyester fabric that has been specifically designed to complement the full range of Screenwood panels and comes in sheet or tile format.

With products like these re-defining the trend in markets this year, we are left with a plethora of options to explore innovative ways of manipulating and experimenting with materials and finishes that create unique textures and bold statements.

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Home Review Now on Apple and Android Devices

All you need to do is download the free ‘Magzter app.

Apple users can download Magzter from the App Store.’ Android users can download Magzter from Android Market.

Try it out today.

Art, textile and texture in one spectacular frame. Notice the monochrome palette working towards augmenting the visual aesthetics of this room.

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THE GREY BOX Kavan Shah Design Studio’s Grey Box is a seamless display of art and textures in a minimalist setting.

Mumbai based Kavan Shah Design Studio (KSDS) is, in their words, a “whimsical” design firm intent on focusing on the narrative that is singular to a particular space. The Grey Box is an extension of a house in Mumbai where art, textures and textiles coexist to create a narrative that reflects even beyond its existing space constraints.

Speaking exclusively to Home Review, Kavan Shah says that a spatial designer’s greatest challenge today is “the creation of meaningful places for gratifying user experiences.” The Grey Box has been designed keeping in mind the owners’ hospitable nature, with comfortable spaces to host friends and family, and simultaneously serving as a wonderful display of art.

The space is similar to an art studio and amalgamates simplicity with luxury with ease. This has in turn transformed the space into a warm and inviting home with luxurious and fantastical elements too.

What KSDS has managed to do is create a sublime, abstract, yet seamless representation of the passage of time.

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The existing layout was restructured and was made to appear more “inward looking” in order to give it a different and singular concept. This is observed in the way Kavan Shah deals with exploring the “narrative” that is typically reflective of a space. The Grey Box’s interior and exterior share an intricate relationship that makes the space interact with the surroundings.

Shah is greatly inspired by Geoffrey Bawa, who is renowned for blending the interior and exterior of a space. With the landscape effectively coming into play with the interior spaces, the Grey Box is a stellar example of Bawa’s signature style. Shah takes this a step further by having even the bathroom open out to the landscaped view.

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One of the biggest challenges Kavan Shah faced in designing the Grey Box was trying to figure out “how to divide a square box with existing floating structural members.”

He goes on to say, “We extended this fractured geometry to harmonise with other spaces in the plan. Using these fractures and angles, we made a barrier against direct view to the room, and created a space in front of each room entrance.”

Shah adds, “During the design process, minimalism and honesty in detail and materials became the ultimate challenge.”

Perhaps the most interesting feature of the Grey Box is the way grey concrete walls sublimely highlight the geometric layout and angles of the rooms.

Fresh and unabashedly unpredictable, these patterns and textures are characteristic of Shah’s design philosophy. He says, “My approach has been to support the application and critical questioning of our relationship with physical spaces, in reference to the specific phenomenological and cultural architectural design.” This concretised geometrically aligned narrative of the Grey Box is a perfect setting for a display of shadow and light, courtesy of the sunlight filtering through the teak staircase.

The lighting bouncing off the grey concrete walls accentuates every piece of art in the room, whilst the exterior view steadily maintains the sought after privacy in regular urban life.

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One of the main objectives while designing the Grey Box was “to accentuate the different programs of the house by establishing a relationship to the exterior.”

It is masterfully connected to the interior space with a cantilevered teak stairwell.

Since, self-finish materials only age better with weathering and exposure, a monochromatic palette of concrete, namely grey, and Burma teakwood have been used for both the interior as well as exterior spaces.

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The Grey Box’s artistic character emerged from a constant interaction between the owners and KSDS. The owners, a couple whose interests extend towards contemporary art and textile, were quite particular that their home should be reflective of their tastes. In this vein, the Grey Box is a veritable gallery of art - from a rare photograph of Fatehpur Sikhri by Nasreen Mohamedi and Bajots from Kutch, to Thotta Tharani art and batik textiles, and even paintings by lesser-known artists too. The most prominent artistic element is a Mughal arch, dating back to the 17th century, sourced from Saurashtra.

The other side of the arch nestles a library and a bar. Even the versatile lighting has been designed keeping in mind various moods and occasions - from dim and romantic settings to a warm and inviting ambience that prominently highlights each piece of art on display. As for the exterior, dramatic lighting highlights the landscape to perfection juxtaposed against the cantilevered teak stairwell.

As we talk about the landscape, one particular area in the house that wonderfully compliments the designer as well as the owners’ natural and artistic aesthetics, is the tree from the picture window - a beautiful view that cuts out the hustle and bustle of urban city life, while maintaining the privacy and artistic sensibilities of the owners.

With the Grey Box, Kavan Shah Design Studio has effectively created a haven nestled in urban settings, yet separated from its chaos on the whole. kavan@umich.edu www.facebook.com/ KavanShahDesignStudio

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VITRA INTRODUCES MAXIMUM HYGIENE AND FRESH ODOR WITH VITRAFRESH

VitrA, the leading bathroom solutions brand of Eczacıbaşı Building Products Division in Turkey introduces VitrAfresh.

The liquid cleaner tank on top of the WC pan adds liquid detergent to the flushing water, every flush maximizing hygiene and freshening the air. Thermostatic stop valve integrated to the WC pan allows users to mix hot and cold water coming from the bidet nozzle and fixes the water at maximum 38 degrees for adding comfort.

VitrAfresh is now available in Metropole, D-Light and Nest in Wc’s. Metropole is made by the award winning design group NOA from Germany and Nest series which

is designed by the Pentagon Design from Sweden, both series now available with bidet and without bidet function.

Liquid cleaner tank on top of the WC pan blends detergent with flushing water for maximum hygiene is safe to use with hypochlorous cleaning agents (bleach at up to 12,5 pH), non-abrasive detergents and fragrances. The tank lid is removable which enables easy cleaning.

VitrAfresh ensures a pleasant odor in the bathroom together with superior hygiene and sanitation. This series gives maximum hygiene and fresh odor along with sophistication. The Pure white color

option of VitrAfresh helps fashion an elegantly natural bathroom.

With its stylish aesthetics, sophisticated details and almost an infinite product range, VitrAfresh is the choice of people who are on a lookout for a bathroom series to complement prestigious households. www.vitra-india.com Home Review March 2017

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DESIGN DESTINATION

BOG WHERE Bogota, the capital city of Colombia is a large sprawling metropolis located at an average altitude of 2500 metres. Cradled by chilly Andean peaks in the east, it is located in the south-eastern part of the Bogota Savannah.

The beating heart of Colombia, it is the third largest capital of South America.

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OTA WHEN

WHY

In stark contrast to the other tropical parts of the country, Bogota flaunts a sub-tropical highland climate. Dry and rainy seasons alternate throughout the year.

With the driest spell lasting from December to March, the weather is quite unpredictable. July and August are the best months to consider a visit.

Bogota is where colonial meets cosmopolitan. It is a culture filled gem that presents surprises at every turn exuding vitality and verve. Its colonial architecture, eye-catching murals and colourful graffiti make sure you down some Colombian coffee and tackle the city with the energy it deserves.

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THE GOLD STANDARD Bogota crossed the boutique hotel frontier a few years ago with the B.O.G Hotel in La Cabrera, whose sumptuous interiors inspired by Colombia’s natural treasures of gold and emerald, landed it in the clique of Design Hotels™.

Portuguese designer, Nini Andrade travelled for a month around the city looking for inspiration and materials till she stumbled upon Bogota’s renowned Gold Museum where she found her muse.

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The Hotel echoes the Colombian capital’s mix of ancient and modern.

Its lobby ceiling takes its cue from gold panning. Glass and gold film around pillars in the lobby evoke a museum display case. A large sculpture at the check-in-desk has its concept rooted in how the earth looks once gold is mined from it. The elevator and halls are very dimly lit, in the way a precious artefact is lit in a museum display case.

The overall bronze and gold palette feels very modern and the materials used are intentionally tactile, inviting you to touch the woven wall covering behind your luxurious bed and pet the shockingly realistic animal print wallpaper squares.

The same attention to detail is evident in the amenities and finishes in each of the 55 rooms. The in-room stunners are the showers which are tiled from floor to ceiling in tiny gold squares. Locally crafted hats behind the welcoming lobby bar add spunk to the sophisticated interiors.

TRUE ARTISTRY Like most Latin American capitals, Bogota has a charming historic centre. Its Teatro de Cristóbal Colón is the oldest opera house in South America. The theatre recently opened its doors after more than six years of restoration. While state-of-the-art light and sound technology was provided by the Japanese Government, the Italian Government sponsored the work of one of its most eminent restorers, Ruggero Martines.

The 122 year old theatre has also been fitted with seismic reinforcements and now offers disabled access as well as a new electrical grid for better lighting.

The building’s opulent restoration has been cleaned and re-sculpted but the most impressive achievement is the meticulous restoration of the ceiling mural.

With a 3000 seating capacity and spread across a width of 6,20,000 sq ft it was named one of the seven wonders of Colombia in 2007. Strong traces of Neo-Classical and French styles are recognised in its architecture that speaks volumes of its glorious past.

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SPAIN IN BOGOTA Designed by Saul Sasson, Castanyoles - the first floor eatery of the Four Seasons Hotel imitates a traditional neighbourhood Spanish restaurant and tapas bar. Built beneath a stunning glass atrium, the integration between the indoor and outdoor sections has been most adroitly tuned by warm colours, Spanish tiles and modern furnishings that construe a chic and inviting atmosphere.

While rustic bricks add dimension to the walls, rough cut masonry adorns a full wall that accentuates the local flavours of Spain.

Earthy shades of taupe, burnt orange and chocolate brown along with indigo blue influence the ambience of the restaurant.

White plates with blue motifs add flair to the accessories while wooden framed windows and ceilings bring in the conventional charm.

Installing a combination of hardwood and terracotta has very felicitously taken care of authentic Spanish flooring. While Spanish interiors are incomplete without a metallic touch, hanging lights in lattice frames and painted metal chairs render the scene complete.

THE PRIMARY CODE The Anglo Colombiano School in Bogota is based on the simple premise: learning by doing. The interiors showcase a world crafted for children where colour and geometry set the pace of the space. Blue, green, yellow and red were chosen to fill different rooms representing the hues of the school. There colours were also used to symbolise different houses of the school.

While vivid colours graciously separate the space, some walls are clad in cushions which can be taken out by students to sit on the floor or make sculpture-like structures. These empty nooks in the wall then serve as private reading corners. The cushions can be stored back creating a pattern or a sort of puzzle for the children to solve. A set of hanging trees are given a second role as whiteboards, allowing kids to play around and paint on them. The library is vastly illuminated and small geometric shapes carved out beneath the staircase offer a peep across. Gabled movable houses in the library create intimate spaces that kids enjoy.

Text By Kanupriya Pachisia

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MITSUE KIO0

Take a moment to pause and admire the fragile, origami-inspired creations of designer Mitsue Kido.

Text By ChryselleD’Silva Dias Photographs Courtesy The Designer

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When you look at the work of Mitsue Kido it makes you wonder: Is this what they call ‘poetry in motion’?

Kido is a Chilean architect of Japanese origin. A mere year after the completion of her architectural studies, Kido was a finalist in the 2011 YAP competition organised by MOMA PS1 and Constructo Chile, a project that focuses on giving an opportunity to emerging talented designers from Latin America to explore and think about a transitory space.

Kanaami Kiku

Kido and her collaborators used the Quinta Normal Park in Santiago, Chile, as the place to exhibit their craft because it incorporated the elements of the YAP brief: shadows, water and sitting space. The vertical volume of the design was inspired by the willow trees hanging low over the water.

In 2012, she formed her own design studio with a focus on creating installations and objects made mainly out of paper. Her designs for lighting and other products have received praise for their elegance and incorporation of traditional techniques.

Kanaami Origami

Kido’s designs for lamps are exquisite.

They look fragile, as if they are made out of paper and the origami techniques used to create them only add to their allure. As part of the 2016 Tokyo Design Week, Kido designed a series of five lamps under the ‘Decontextualising into a lamp’ project.

“This project emulates the decontextualising act using traditional Japanese objects of daily life such as lampshades in a way that the objects are highlighted and a cultural reflection is generated,” says Kido. “In Japan I found several objects which had specific traditional uses; I chose some and transformed them into lamps. While Japanese people can recognise these elements playing a new role, outsiders see a lampshade made of unknown objects.”

Matsumata

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Shibori lamp

One of her most praised designs is Kanaami KIKU, a lamp made of woven copper wire symbolising a chrysanthemum flower (‘kiku’ in Japanese). The design is inspired by a traditional technique in Kyoto, Japan, called kanaami where kitchen and tableware is made from woven wire. Copper, bronze or steel wire is used to create concentric and geometric patterns of the chrysanthemum flower which incidentally is also used to represent the Throne of the Emperor of Japan. The lamp also has three enlarged versions of a traditional tofu server spoon.

The Kanaami Origami lamp uses a regular mesh of steel instead of wire. “This lamp recreates the basic folds of origami and the shape allows the lamp to be kept standing or get flat-packed.” The four lids of a sesame roaster were the inspiration for this design.

The Matsumata lamp is made out of Japanese cypress wood. The lamp has three identical pieces which are joined at the top without the use of nails or glue.

The beautiful Shibori lamp is inspired by Shibori, a Japanese manual resist dyeing technique, which produces patterns on fabric, something akin to tie-dye of the West. The process of dyeing involves knots which apart from creating beautiful patterns also impart elasticity to the fabric.

The inner structure of the lamp is made from bamboo and is wrapped in shibori silk making for an unusual shape and texture, and interesting shadows, when the lamp is lit. This beautiful lamp is also inspired by furoshiki, the common Japanese custom of wrapping objects with fabric.

Chasen holder lamp

The final lamp in this project was the Chasen holder lamp. If you are familiar with Japanese tea ceremonies you might recognise the modified tea whisk or chasen in the design. The bamboo lamp can be used as a pendant or a floor lamp. “The filaments of the chasen cast a shadow associated with the tea ceremony. The holder has a geometric shape and is coated with urushi or Japanese lacquer. I use urushi because it is traditionally and commonly used in Kyoto. The chasen is an important element of the tea ceremony,” says Kido.

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Kido’s Moshi-Moshi series of Origami lamps were exhibited at NY NOW 2016 (NYC) and Ventura Lambrate 2016 (Milano). All lamps from this series are made using a mineral paper called ‘stone paper’, which has several interesting properties - it is recyclable, heat resistant, water repellent and durable.“The Moshi-Moshi range has mokuzai (meaning wood in Japanese), and screens which are inspired by the Japanese art of origami. The final shape is reached by using different folding techniques. I found it interesting, this mix of paper and wood as they relate to its origin.”

The flower-like Hikaru, Mizuki and Hana lamps are 100% handmade and demonstrate the result of various design possibilities of paper folding. “The names of these lamps come from Japanese words.

Hikaru means to shine, Mizuki means beautiful and moon, and Hana is a flower.”

These three lamps use the same folding lines with equivalent angles but with different repetitions.

Kido talks about how her heritage influences her work. “I am of Japanese descent and my grandfather is Japanese. I have always been attracted to that part of my family and became interested in that culture quite spontaneously. The use of origami is inspired collectively by my heritage and an interest in aesthetics.”

Kido’s designs also reflect the popular ‘slow’ movement. The art of origami invites that kind of pause which values the handmade and the organic as opposed to the instant and mass-produced. mitsue.kido@gmail.com www.mitsuekido.com

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Moshi-Moshi

GREEN PROJECT

From the idiosyncratic diagram of each project to the precision in its construction, the Vo TrongNghia skyline is one of sheer professional expertise and aesthetic wonder.

GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE

Sir Frank Lloyd Wright, once stated, “An idea is salvation by imagination.� The Atlas Hotel is a standing proof of this profound notion. With an integration of nature into the urban fabric of the building, green architecture takes on a new dimension aesthetically.

Text By Kanupriya Pachisia Photographs Courtesy VoTrongNghia Architects

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Defined by an envelope of ‘green-concrete’, the façade of the Atlas Hotel speaks for itself.

The brick and concrete façade has been constructed from locally sourced sandstone.

Astonishingly exotic and utterly compelling, Vietnam is a country of breath-taking natural beauty, with a unique heritage where travel quickly becomes addictive.

To accomplish such an experience, a start at a hotel that emits a fresh and serene vibe becomes a must. The Atlas Hotel in Vietnam’s UNESCO heritage old town of Hoi An, is one such address.

Designed by the country’s very own Vo Trong Nghia Architects, the project combines the charm of the old town, the local tiled architecture and spatial quality to result in the five storey hotel that reconnects its guests with nature whilst conserving energy at the same time.

Ground Floor Plan

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The hotel features a linear layout that has been lifted to free the space underneath, transforming it into a sheltered network of inter-connected courtyards.

In fact the entire ground floor is a chunk of open space.

Coined champions of sustainability, Vo Trong Nghia Architects is an award-winning Vietnamese architectural firm, which is on a mission to transform Vietnam’s attitude towards architecture and urban spaces through its sustainable and green designs.

The hotel features a linear layout that has been lifted to free the space underneath, transforming it into a sheltered network of inter-connected courtyards. In fact the entire ground floor is a chunk of open space.

The brick and concrete façade has been constructed from locally sourced sandstone.

Natural sandstone not only has an enduring life cycle, but it is also durable and offers easy maintenance. Being local it is also recyclable and helps in preserving resources.

True to that the Atlas Hotel is a green-filled holiday destination. Nghia believes that, “For a modern architect, the most important mission is to bring back green spaces to Earth”. Located on an irregular plot of land, the design approach peddles on converting this restraint into its unique inherent character. Several internal courtyards define the organisation of the architectural scheme.

“From the beginning I always wanted to follow green architecture but the founding of my company was difficult because my designs were different from what people were familiar with,” shares Nghia. Defined by an envelope of ‘green-concrete’, the façade of the Atlas Hotel speaks for itself.

The addition of plants positioned in an alternating fashion forms a protective blanket to reduce heat radiation. While the exposed concrete slabs compliment and lend a sense of horizontality to the building, a layer of draping plants arranged along balconies and corridors filter in dappled sunlight and provide solar shading at the same time.

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Due to the complexity of the site, each guest room is shorter and wider than typical hotel rooms.

Most of his buildings incorporate plants and trees as a key design element.

This contributes towards sustainability in its own way.

The green screen not only allows cooler air to ventilate the spaces and minimise the use of air conditioning, but it also softens the concrete and brick building visually.

Due to the complexity of the site, each guest room is shorter and wider than typical hotel rooms.

This presented an opportunity for the architects to design the rooms with greater access and immersion in greenery not only from the bedroom but also from the bathroom. Apart from its forty-eight guest rooms the hotel houses a restaurant, cafĂŠ, roof top bar, spa, gym and a swimming pool. A cascade of plants overhangs each side of the building radiating a feeling that one is surrounded by a tropical garden.

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As the lauded architect shares, “Our aim is to create affordable green architecture for the 21st Century while maintaining the essence of Asian expression.� Through experimentation and prolific building, the practice is actively collating knowledge and technology and then delivering it. Most of his buildings incorporate plants and trees as a key design element. This contributes towards sustainability in its own way.

Impervious surfaces like facades influence the microclimate of a place and increase the surrounding temperatures. A possible solution to this problem is the integration of vegetation in architecture.

“Our aim is to create affordable green architecture for the 21st Century while maintaining the essence of Asian expression.” Through experimentation and prolific building, the practice is actively collating the knowledge and technology to deliver it.

Plants not only provide a natural solution to clear indoor air, they also lead to biomimicry. Bio-mimicry is the science and art of emulating nature’s best biological ideas to solve human problems. With plant life visible from nearly every floor, the green walls pull fresh air through the perforated walls and into the mechanical ducts.

They support vertical mixing of air, so the temperature over them tends to be lower than the neighbouring areas built. Warm air rises over hard surfaces and gets exchanged with fresh oxygen. This in turn reduces the heat island effect and also the need for artificial cooling. While plants also facilitate evaporative cooling, psychologically they have their discrete way of making you feel less stressed and more productive. What more does one want on a vacation!

From the idiosyncratic diagram of each project to the precision in its construction, the Vo TrongNghia skyline is one of sheer professional expertise and aesthetic wonder.

While it is true that facades are a building’s most visible element, it can be seen that adding plants to this semblance offers an entirely new dimension of texture, symbolism and seasonal dynamism.

www.votrongnghia.com

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THE BOXWOOD

The Boxwood is a reputed brand involved in the manufacture of eco-friendly, biodegradable food containers. These have been thoughtfully created for use as an alternative to plastic, rubber, foam and other eco-hazardous products. The team at The Boxwood tries its best to meet the aims of an environmentally responsible management company.

With its products the company wants to create awareness amongst people, especially the youth so that they not only make an effort to stop using plastic and other non biodegradable products but also influence those around them to do the same.

Text Compiled By Mala Bajaj

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Mr. Malay Shah an interior designer by profession was always worried about the impact on Mother Nature in the form of construction, plastic waste, and industrial waste and so on. Considering these issues, he, along with Parin Haria, Rushabh Gala, and Darshana Shah a finance professor, together came up with an idea to create something which is both environment friendly and sustainable. They started a company which then went on to create the brand The Boxwood.

The Boxwood products are made from naturally fallen Indian palm leaves. Almost 60 billion palm leaves fall to the ground every year and this eco-conscious company capitalises on this organic waste by recycling it into very useful and elegant products.

The palm leaves are sustainably harvested, washed and compressed without the use of chemicals, resins or glues. Heat compression gives the palm leaf the different shapes of the extensive tableware range. Heat also renders the product sterile and absolutely ready-to-use. The final product is strong, well shaped and can substitute for any non biodegradable disposable food container.

The finished products are completely biodegradable and compostable and can be conveniently composted in their entirety.

Along with being a sensible choice, The Boxwood range is excitingly comprehensive.

The range includes plates, bowls and spoons in several sizes. The shapes of the bowls and plates are also varied, as these come in rounds, hexagonals, rectangles, squares and even hearts.

Disposable containers are the need of the hour these days, whether it is outdoor entertaining, meetings, excursions or trips.

This range which is both rustic and chic can easily replace conventional, containers made out of harmful plastic, thermocol or any other non biodegradable material. Not only using The Boxwood range makes for a sensible choice, but its rustic feel, look and shape is just what you need to make the food taste even more delicious.

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The Boxwood’s naturally beautiful biodegradable products are for consumers who have a conscience and who are willing to contribute towards protecting the environment by showing a keenness to use eco-friendly products. The products are not only a very simple alternative but are a clear greener choice over plastic, polystyrene and paper products.

“Our mission at The Boxwood is to care for the world we live in. From the products we make to the ways in which we give back to the society. At Boxwood we strive to set an example for environmental leadership and responsibility with our simple yet important daily-use products,” so signs off the team at The Boxwood.

Seeing the success of their disposable tableware range, The Boxwood has future plans of launching non-toxic paint and ecofriendly beauty products (organic and vegan beauty products). Setting up green mobile applications, which will help users learn more about going green and guide them towards achieving a holistic sustainable lifestyle is also on The Boxwood’s to-do list.

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www.facebook.com/ theboxwoodecoproducts/

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Design Smoke House Deli, MumbaI Designed delightfully

by Saheba Singh, lead designer at “This Is It Designs”, the new Smoke House Deli is nestled within one of India’s biggest tourist destinations and its décor reflects its locale. In the words of Saheba, “The concept of CP Smoke House Deli is based on the architectural design and plan of the old Connaught Place and we’ve also borrowed a little from the Venetian coffee houses and the two came together beautifully.”

With interiors inspired by the iconic architectural facades of CP and its imperial colonnades and imposing arches, the main idea was to immortalize the old stories and history of CP on the walls of Smoke House Deli something to be cherished for years to come.

The walls that capture famous toy shops, book shops, jewellery shops, old restaurants and cafes, have been painstakingly handdrawn, leaving you gaping for hours - of course, paired with a plate of delicious food.

Walking into Smoke House Deli is like walking into a storybook.

www.thisisit.net.in

Text Compiled By Anindita Ganguly

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Intelligent design need not be restricted to mammoth-sized spaces. Sometimes, even a small idea can lead to stunningly brilliant interior themes.

Mixology Design Mixology spotlights innovative design in various domains such as showrooms, bars, clinics, spas and much more.

Lodha Wall, MUMBAI Designed by Rooshad Shroff of Architecture + Design, the basic brief for the project was to construct a temporary barricade and reflect the ethos of the brand, Lodha - The Luxury Collection.

The idea of luxury was conceived through the notion of innovation, exclusivity, made to measure, craftsmanship, detail, material and technology.

The contextual response was the demarcation of the wall into a primary and secondary zone, the primary marking the main entrance.

The proximate relationship of this zone to people encouraged the use of more luxurious materials, while the secondary zone is seen visually from a distance by vehicles passing.

The Lodha monogram became a tool with which imagery was used to change space and create an engaging and visually stimulating picture. There is a play of scales - the macro and the micro. At the macro level, more of an underlying image is visible, while at the micro level the logo itself has been used.

info@rooshadshroff.com

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Blanco, MUMBAI Chromatically inspired by nature and rooted in simplicity and openness, traditional Greek interior design at Blanco, conceptualized by Hiren Ganatra and Saloni Ganatra from Colab, is a glorious example of less is more. As one enters, on the outside the place features a front-gable design, whitewashed walls with vibrant blue-coloured wooden windows, Aztec prints and decorative columns, reminiscent of ancient Greek structures.

Area rugs featuring stripe patterns mostly of flowers, trellises and classic motifs have been used instead of wallto-wall carpeting, also lending the bar a rustic feel. Glazed pottery and coloured glassware have been typically placed as accessories.

Designed to facilitate the old school ‘sit down drinking culture’ and ‘conversations’ over a satiating meal with family and friends, hand cut mirrors, black and white tile patterns, high stool seating, graffiti wall art and umbrella shaped steel lights specially made by hand is what defines the high energy bar space. Adding an element of significance is the mini live juice counter which serves unconventional yet refreshing blends of smoothies, fresh juices, and healthy shakes.

www.colab-co.com

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FURNITURE MANUFACTURERS ARE STEADILY CHOOSING LUMBER OVER LOGS Lumber is wood material that has been rough sawn and cut to length, typically in standard increments, whereas logs refers to rough stock wood that hasn’t been shaped or processed.

Cutting & Wastage Before production, logs need to be converted to lumber. Sawn lumber on the other hand is processed in stateof- art facilities focused on this process alone. Lumber saves manufacturers from the added hassles.

Quality For hardwoods, there are no proper systems and facilities in place for kiln drying, heat treatment or for standardization of grades hence a lot of uncertainty and added hassles of quality management at the raw material stage is involved.

India has traditionally used tropical hardwoods to manufacture wooden products such as furniture, paneling, doors etc. Most hardwoods are either imported or available in India in the form of logs.

Coniferous wood coming from western regions of the world like British Columbia (B.C.), Canada are available in the form of sawn lumber which conform to standard grades, come in standard sizes and are kiln-dried (KD) & heat treated (HT) ready to use.

Moreover these wood products are certified for sustainability by PEFC/FSC. In recent times, a new trend is fast emerging in India- furniture manufacturers are increasingly opting for ready sawn lumber over logs.

The prospective reasons for this are as follows: Debarking Debarking is a cumbersome process consuming a lot of time and effort. By contrast, sawn lumber is ready-to-use making the production process efficient.

As lumber comes in standardized grades and sizes and are heat treated and kiln dried in scientific facilities, manufacturers are assured of consistent quality at all times. Guidelines set by independent agencies such as NLGA and R-list ensure standardized grading throughout the world.

Certified Products The Indian consumer is slowly becoming aware and conscious of the need to use sustainable, environmentally friendly products in their lives. Certified lumber gives buyers the confidence that furniture products produced from it are truly compliant.

Ability To Control Budgets Graded wood offers manufacturers flexibility to adjust their budgets by using lower grade wood and using techniques like finger joining to achieve a clear look. Similarly, they can use knotty wood to create furniture for a more rustic appeal. These features offer greater control over the budget as compared to logs.

Furniture manufacturers can look forward to a number of benefits by switching to lumber over logs. Canadian Wood species like Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas-fir and Spruce-Pine-Fir offer immense versatility, high durability and workability- qualities that are essential for producing high quality furniture. info@canadianwood.in Home Review March 2017

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Mature coconut trees were specially ordered from Andhra Pradesh and placed along the central path to introduce an instant established feel in the outdoor spaces.

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Landscapes

MEMORIES REVITALISED Landscape architect, Kishore D. Pradhan is adept at stitching together architectural and landscape elements into one unified experience, just like a quilt of finely embroidered pieces. The Konkan Farmhouse designed by him, symbolising rustic luxury in its entirety, displays a perfect example of his modus operandi.

A little developed shoreline, running south from Mumbai, all the way to Goa with its picturesque strip of coast, peppered with postcard beaches, fishing villages, ruins of magnificent forts and tropical backwaters is what is popularly called ‘Konkan’.

One can’t help but get attached to the nostalgic charm it exudes. When landscape architect, Kishore D. Pradhan set out on landscaping a farmhouse in Raigad, he started along the lines of his initial conversations with his client. He recalls, “The lady of the house hailed from the region and was passionate about reliving the memories of her childhood.”

Thus he created a plan where the garden is not just another feature of the house but a well-defined element. Pradhan explains, “The landscape design endeavours to recreate the typical old wadi ambience combined with a contemporary looking zone, relating to their present lifestyle.”

Text By Kanupriya Pachisia Photographs Courtesy Kishore D. Pradhan Home Review March 2017

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A dry kund located at the central terrace, acts as a visual recall of the village water-body. It also doubles up as an informal amphitheatre, dipped in Greek cultural ethnicity that once facilitated literary and musical evenings.

Today the farmhouse has emerged into a perfect location for an authentic Konkan weekend to be enjoyed by family and friends.

Unlike conventional vacation homes seated on the seashore or among hilltops, this six acre farmhouse is situated on a river bank.

This perennial river owes itself to an upstream power generation plant. Respecting the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, juxtaposed with numerous wadis, the architectural team decided to limit the landscaped area and instead dovetailed it with the groves of mango, banana and coconut trees, to achieve an effortless transition to the orchard around.

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Pradhan explains, “For the facility of cultivation, a wadi is generally serviced with paths and irrigation channels in a grid pattern. The orchard zone continues to have a grid pattern for access, and thus achieves visual continuity.” He further explains, “The use of the charbagh pattern fitted well into this geometry and character.”

The presence of cascading water, fountains and a narrow rill at the central plateau, highlights the presence of natural water, which is again a important characteristic of the charbagh concept.

The Konkan area is famous for its snakes. Thus while selecting plants special care was taken to avoid unruly and bushy plants.

All accessible areas were either paved or covered with manicured grass to ensure a safe environment.

The plot slopes naturally towards the river bed making a sharp descent of nearly eight metres from the access road to the river edge. The house stood on the access road - the highest location on the site which permitted its inhabitants to enjoy splendid panoramic views. A large terraced deck next to the house ensures easy accessibility and invites people to step out and enjoy the mood-lit outdoors. A dry kund located at the central terrace, acts as a visual recall of the village water-body. It also doubles up as an informal amphitheatre, dipped in a Greek-like cultural ethnicity that once facilitated literary and musical evenings.

“This,” Pradhan tells us, “satisfies the needs of the client’s rich cultural personality.”

Mature coconut trees were specially ordered from Andhra Pradesh and placed along the central path to introduce an instant established feel in the outdoor spaces.

The house seems to be a simple concept of interlocking geometries. It has a three meter wide path all along its periphery. Thoughtful in approach, the architectural team shares, “the path not only allows for morning walks but also acts as a cart access for senior citizens, access for emergency vehicles and the security patrol of the entire site.”

A small parking space for family cars is located near the porch.

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Farmhouse design typically displays the use of natural elements and pastel shades.

Natural stone in regular and irregular shapes and in earthy tones was used as path pavers.

The visitors’ parking is situated away from the main entrance to the house in order to ensure privacy and quietude around the bungalow. Pradhan shares, “The major challenge was the intense Konkan monsoon as well as the summer heat. The heavy rainfall brings about erosion and flooding.

A general elevation of the ground level by controlled earth-filling ensures efficient storm water drainage into the river and also prevents ingress from neighbouring plots.”

Farmhouse design typically displays the use of natural elements and pastel shades. The Konkan farmhouse is a postcard replica of this trend. Natural stone in regular and irregular shapes and in earthy tones was used as path pavers.

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The Konkan area is famous for its snakes.

Thus while selecting the plants special care was taken to avoid unruly and bushy ones.

All accessible areas were either paved or covered with manicured grass to ensure a safe environment.

No garden is complete without a focal point. Urns on animal backs and topiary sculptures draw attention as they stand to mark their territories with a rustic disposition.

To conclude, one can rightly say that the unpretentious landscape of this farmhouse is in complete harmony with its idyllic surroundings and Pradhan has fully succeeded in transforming a slice of his client’s memories into a garden worthy of both admiration and enjoyment.

kishorepa@gmail.com www.kishorepradhan.com

The presence of cascading water, fountains and a narrow rill at the central plateau, highlight the presence of natural water nearby, which is characteristic to the charbagh concept.

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The items and products are arranged eclectically across all rooms, rather than thematically.

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Retail Therapy

Vibrancy Unplugged Peacock Life is a store that clearly defies conventions. Its best feature is probably the fact that it is so atypical!

Text By Dhanishta Shah Photographs Indrajit Sathe

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The stairway walls have become a canvas for displaying knickknacks, artwork, collectibles and small accessories in a diverse mix.

Architect Shabnam Gupta was at the helm of the store. After several design projects, a retail outlet was a natural progression for her creative expressions. Peacock Life’s second store at Bandra once again exemplifies Gupta’s eclectic style.

The store is housed in a stark blue painted building named Bandra 190. “Since inception Bandra 190 has been a design hub. Besides, Bandra being a special place for retail and niche shoppers, this was ideal,” explains Gupta, as she elaborates on the choice of location.

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While one finds that most décor stores are open and free flowing, this one is located over three floors and has an arrangement of five tiny rooms, each of them located on either side of the stairway of the building. Gupta has turned this unique arrangement to her advantage. “This worked well for us in terms of space to create pop-ups, as well as individual set ups and styles,” she says.

Within each of the rooms, she has experimented with bold and subtle colours, such as on the brick walls that were a part of the original construction.

The ceiling has been left raw and unfinished across all rooms. Each room gets a lot of natural light, which streams in thanks to the generously sized windows.

Some old pieces are restored and reinterpreted, while some are actual antiques.

Though there are five different rooms, the items and products are arranged eclectically across all rooms, rather than thematically. This is well in line with the atypical design temperament of the brand.

“Thematic décor is not our style. Our practice’s USP has always been all about eclecticism and spontaneity.

Contrasting elements such as the old and new, quiet and bold, muted and bright are all that we endorse in our projects,” points out Gupta. Hence, one sees a heady concoction of beautiful things put together. When things are sold, other products are put in and things get moved about all the time. This keeps renewing the look.

Each room features experimentation with bold and subtle colours.

The ‘ethos wall’ has various press cuttings stuck on it, which has turned the wall itself into a statement design feature.

The stairway is very important because the store is spread over three floors and clients use it for access. It intrigues and adds a quaint feel as you walk through the store. In fact the stairway walls have become a convenient canvas for displaying knickknacks, artwork, collectibles and small accessories in a diverse mix.

An ‘ethos wall’ has various press cuttings stuck on it, which turn the wall itself into a statement design feature.

Two creative installations form a part of the stair landing on two different floors. One is made from sari balls and the other is a nod to the prayer wheels characteristic of monasteries and uses the quintessential Bombay dabba, holding a design heritage in its own right.

The terrace is the icing on the cake. This magical space has a festive canopy, and has been landscaped by Gupta’s mother, Neelam Sagar Chopra, a renowned landscape designer. The multifunctional terrace is the go-to area for events, client meetings and displays of outdoor furniture and accessories. In the evenings it takes on an enthralling feel.

Peacock Life sources some of the products from across India while the rest are designed and manufactured in-house. Some old pieces are restored and reinterpreted. Metal is an integral part of Gupta’s design and this translates into the products as well, like for instance the cement table with a metallic base.

Nothing is imported and everything has a strong Indian ethos.

There is a lot of wonderful detailing that will not fail to appease the connoisseur.

The old and the new sit next to each other as do products with different design styles. Much like its namesake bird, the products are sure to add vibrancy to any space. www.peacocklife.com

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THE MARKETPLACE Milton launches ‘Futron Electric Tiffin’

Anticipating consumer’s unspoken need for warm food, Milton, the leading houseware brand in India has introduced its latest innovation, Futron Electric Tiffin. Made from the best quality materials, the most unique aspect of this product lies in the intelligent plug-in feature. This allows one to plug the tiffin at their desk or any outdoor location with a plug-point and serve hot food in 45 minutes.

While the built-in Thermostat provides an auto cut-off feature to ensure safety, an LED indicator shows whether the power is on or off. Not just that, this tiffin consumes very less power as well making it an effective power saver. It also has stainless steel containers with an easy rubber grip lifter along with a special transparent compartment to keep the cord.

Available in sizes ranging from 180x218mm (3 containers) to 180x260mm (4 containers) and priced within a range of Rs.1064 to Rs.1327. Redefine your lunching experience with this fabulous tiffin! www.milton.in

VitrA Introduces Loft Series VitrA is a leading brand of Eczacıbaşı, a prominent Turkish industrial group.

Eczacıbaşı, core sectors are building products, healthcare and consumer products. The brand introduces an exclusive range of Loft series – Different shapes add motion to living spaces. You can express your style on your bathroom with the confidently bold and sharp lines of new Loft series. This series artfully showcases the designs of ceramic washbasins finished with brilliant metallic coatings. Loft series is pure and natural.

This Loft delivers water flow at a pre-set temperature, preventing risk of burning due to very hot water. It enhances safety for children and elderly users. The series adds texture, depth and a unique identity rarely seen before in bathroom design. Loft series has a variety of designs.

Loft has brought a new dimension to the bathrooms with its sharp lines and adds a new meaning to elegance with the minimalist details in its design. It also stands out with its ergonomic use. Loft series with pioneering designs and ergonomic use maximizes your control over water with

This New series offers various alternatives, stands out with its brave and self-confident appearance. Also have stylish aesthetics, sophisticated details and infinite product range, Loft Series is the choice of people who are on a lookout for a bathroom series to complement prestigious households.

And all that is left for you to do is to pick the right product for yourself and let your bathroom reflect your style. www.vitra-india.com

K-LITE Introduces LED Landscape - Redefined K-Lite is passionate about creating a distinctive atmosphere that improves the quality of life in the cities and towns by exploring the many potential facets of lighting that supports the wellbeing and safety of all.

Founded in 1977 in India, K-Lite has grown to be the leading manufacturer of outdoor luminaires and decorative poles. K-Lite’s proven performance in the landscape segment is because of its ability to stylishly convey the identity of a space with a blend of efficiency and modularity to maximise the visual comfort that is best suited to each specific space.

The Landscape range includes Linear Wall Washer, Up-Down Lighters, LED Strips/Neon flex, Promenade Lighting, Bollards, Under Water Lighting, Post top luminaires, Bulk Heads, Path finders, Polar lighting and newly added series of Facade Lighting. www.klite.in

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built-in and standard basin mixers as well as bath/shower mixer.

THE MARKETPLACE

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THE MARKETPLACE

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