Home Review March 2014 by Home Review

MY SPACE : Michael Foley

vol 13 issue 3

MARCH 2014

Archilogics Design UNCOVERED

total pages 154

DESIGN DESTINATION : Stuttgart

RS 100 HOME-REVIEW.COM

STUDIO WEAVE’S LULLABY FACTORY TRADITIONAL POP-ART BY SHABNAM GUPTA

CONNECTED LIVING

_OPOLIS ARCHITECTS’ SPATIAL COLLOQUY

Home Review Now on Apple and Android Devices

All you need to do is download the free â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Magzter app. Apple users can download Magzter from the App Store.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Android users can download Magzter from Android Market.

Try it out today.

Photo: Cyrus Dalal

ahul Gore and Sonal Sancheti, principals at _Opolis Architects, take generous hints from the surroundings to craft a breeze-happy home (cum art repository) in the tranquil environs of Goa. Imagined across a white and brown colour palette, the residence is simple and earthy in its manifestation with an inside-outside connect forming the fulcrum of the design. Materials and forms seamlessly migrate from the façade to the interiors, with the insides revealing free-flowing spaces that are spatially transparent. Using an assemblage of courts, the designers connect several enclosed spaces conjuring an unassuming paradise that reveals itself gradually. This reticent home is a tribute to less saying more, but not without an inspiring personality that doesn’t go unnoticed. Designer Shabnam Gupta’s joie de vivre shines through magnificently in her projects. Defined by an eclectic collection of furniture, a mélange of materials, crisp detailing and exuberant bursts of colour, Shabnam’s projects string together contrasting elements into a unified whole. This home in Pune, where pop-art meets old Rajasthani opulence, is just another marvellous example of work from her firm, The Orange Lane. The residence is a striking balance between the old and the new, where materials, colours and diversity celebrate a zest for life. You could define the intervention done by Studio Weave as a renovation project, restoration or installation. They all fit the bill! The designers were commissioned to transform the façade of a building that faced a hospital. Their take on it was to create a ten-storey high quirky installation, amalgamating bronze pipes and sixty large and small trumpets designed to transport music! This creation certainly defies any convention and manages to create a fantastical landscape that engages your attention like few other things can. Anish Bajaj, Editor anish@marvelinfomedia.com

8 Home Review March 2014

THE MARKETPLACE Get your hands on the latest products to hit the market

My interest in water colours and building models as a child did stem a part of my inclination towards design and architecture

151

MICHAEL FOLEY

136

art form

The Kaleidoscopic installations by Dutch artist Suzan Drummen are luminous, colourful and short-lived, like rainbows.

Cover Story Rahul Gore and Sonal Sancheti, principals at _Opolis Architect, take generous hints from the surroundings to craft a breezehappy home in the tranquil environs of Vasco,Goa

133 128

MAR

Located on the River Rhône within the city’s shopping, historic and business districts, the Mandarin Oriental, Geneva will satiate even the most fastidious world traveller

124 My Tailor Home, a studio in Mumbai celebrates a new relationship between India and France through bespoke décor pieces that exude the highest level of French craftsmanship

119

product

designer

Italian designer Matteo Zorzenoni tests the limits of everyday materials by combining them with unexpected partners.The result is often surprising, but always elegant

114 A look at the Maison&Objet fair which brought together design officionados the world over to witness burgeoning creativity

10 Home Review March 2014

109

108

101

GREEN PROJECT

The new CDGAI building, built by Belgium-based Dethier Architecture serves as a starring example of a happy cohabitation of nature and innovation

GREEN SPEAK

106 ARCHITECTURE PARADIGM

He turned an envelope of unwrapped paper into the design of his own residence, a look at Frank Gehry’s iconic sketches

Designed by Shabnam Gupta this residence in Pune is a striking balance between the old and the new, where materials, colours and diversity celebrate a zest for life.

54 Studio Weave breathes fantasy into the children’s ward at one of London’s oldest hospitals with their giant sized installation

Snapshots of the din and cacophony, a celebration called life

RCH

A look at ‘Design Do’, a niche yet outstanding design communion which served as a barometer of Mumbai’s design conscience

STUTTGART A DESIGN DESTINATION

93 This picturesque ‘Fobe House’ in Morocco designed by Guilhem Eustache, for a Belgium film director and producer, can easily be termed as an artistic and architectural beacon.

88 Mumbai-based Archilogics combines unconventional form with highly sensitive space-building and comes up with visually striking projects

74 A thematic office space designed by Kamat & Rozario Architecture in Mumbai finds inspiration in ‘Mario’, ‘Tetris’ and ‘Space Invaders’, the eight bit games from the 80’s

Home Review March 2014

Editor & Publisher Anish Bajaj Creative Director Natalie Pedder-Bajaj

Chryselle D’Silva Dias Freelance Writer Chryselle D’Silva Dias is a freelance writer and blogger currently based in Goa. She writes about places, people, interiors, books and green issues. Her work has been published in national and international publications including the likes of Time magazine and The Guardian.

Features Editor Mala Bajaj Assistant Editor Shweta Salvi Sub Editors Vikas Bhadra Ulka Vartak Rehana Penwala Contributing Writers Chryselle D’Silva Dias Christabelle Athaide Dhanishta Shah Himali Kothari Kruti Choksi K Parvathy Menon Shruti Nambiar Designers Asif Shayannawar Snigdha Hodarkar Vikas Sawant

Aakanksha Rajhans Industrial Designer Design and accolades go hand in hand for Aakanksha Rajhans; a former Home Review Designquest winner, this young industrial designer from MIT Pune was recently conferred with a Red Dot Award for the ‘Acuwake Sock’.

12 Home Review March 2014

Home Review March 2014

Editorial & Marketing Mumbai Mr. Ganesh Gurav, Mr. Vivek Jadhav, Mr. Rakesh Kini (Digital), B-62, Cotton Exchange bldg., Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033 T 022 23736133/1, 32958501 F 022 23743069 E response@marvelinfomedia.com

_Opolis Architects Connected Living. Page 28 _Opolis is involved in a wide range of architectural, interior and urban projects. A multidisciplinary design practice started by Rahul Gore and Sonal Sancheti in January 2001, the firm prides itself in having stayed away from a signature style and believes that most complex and beautiful solutions are often the simplest.

Delhi Ms Sumita Prakash Flat F 304, Rajasthan C.G.H.S. Ltd, Plot No. 36, Sector 4, Dwarka, New Delhi 110075 Tel 09899179540, Email: s_biswas1203@yahoo.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.

Kamat & Rozario The Eight Bit Wonder. Page 74 Set up in 2007 in Bangalore by Lester Rozario and Smruti Kamat, Kamat & Rozario is active in the fields of architecture, interiors & furniture design. The firm endeavours to put forward simple, yet strong ideas and believes that the uniqueness of each project (and each client) should reflect in the various aspects of its design.

This issue has a total of 154 pages comprising of a 4 page cover plus 150 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

14 Home Review March 2014

Manoj Ladhad, Sandeep J and Vimal Jain Green Speak. Page 106 Architecture Paradigm was established in the year 1996 by Manoj Ladhad, Sandeep J and Vimal Jain. The firm believes that its most significant strength lies in the capability of its team members and a belief in their core values.

Home Review March 2014

emails + feedback Garnering Attention Your article on Matha Chaaj will definitely create awareness and will also help the women collective to get more business opportunities. Thank you once again and hope that our association nurtures further. Prajesh Jethwa Matha Chaaj and Hunnarshala Foundation

High On Pot The products designed by Benjamin Hubert are simple yet classy; I instantly fell in love with ‘Pots’ - the series of jars he designed using terracotta. Riddhi Somasekaran Mumbai

In Tune With The Contemporary Your special issue on sustainable architecture was an interesting read. My favourite project was the Ghose House in Bangalore, more so because it had a contemporary aura about it and at the same time was executed on a tight budget.

Of Subtle Emotions And Kalashnikovs Let us know what you love and hate about this issue. Mail us at letters@marvelinfomedia.com

Doggies, rabbits and Kalashnikovs, Robert Bradford’s creations are entrenched with subtle emotions and creativity which can be recognised by the young and elderly alike. Joshua Baron Italy

Keep Going I must say it’s an absolute pleasure to see a magazine that has its heart and soul along with a very powerful eye in the right place stunning! I’m glad you are putting this out there and wish you the best of luck to grow beyond your wildest dreams. Deb Medhekar Mumbai

16 Home Review March 2014

Rati Pandian Kerala

Home Review March 2014

18 Home Review March 2014

Home Review March 2014

PAST & FUTURE

E V E N T S 17 JAN TO 16 MAR

From Beijing to New York, airports to museums, Foster to Rogers, this era of vast change saw a generation of British architects redefining world’s cities and creating extraordinary buildings that put British architecture back on the world map.

Subodh Gupta - Everything is Inside National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi

The National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi announced a solo exhibition of works by Subodh Gupta curated by internationally acknowledged curator Germano Celant entitled ‘Everything is Inside’ The exhibition is spread across two buildings the ornate Jaipur House, originally built as the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur in 1936, and the museum’s modern concrete and glass extension constructed in 2009. Celant uses the historical edifice of Jaipur House to focus on Gupta’s paintings and smallscale sculptures made from everyday objects such as the ubiquitous tiffin. In contrast, the modern wing of the museum houses a selection of Gupta’s large-scale work, including a site-specific installation the artist is unveiling especially for this exhibition. Much of Gupta’s previous work is also concerned with literal and metaphorical journeys. ‘Everything is Inside’ features itinerant images including the ones making a reference to the artist’s affinity to his roots and memories of his childhood environment. www.ngmaindia.gov.in

TO 12Design 28 FEB X Design

Alliance Francaise, New Delhi The exhibition component of Design X Design involved showcasing the work of Delhi based designers to facilitate a reading of

20 Home Review March 2014

emerging trends across various design based creative industries in the city. Is Indian design recognisable? Is there a vision guiding it? Can tradition and modernity, continuity and change co-exist in it? Is it culturally relevant? Questions such as these were addressed by showcasing the work of young upcoming designers. A joint initiative of Alliance Francaise de Delhi and Studio IF, Design X Design is also geared towards raising levels of appreciation within and nurturing connections across various creative industries. To facilitate this idea Design X Design held the exhibition “20under35” by sharing the design philosophies, working methods and future aspirations of the twenty shortlisted designers under the age of thirty-five.

The exhibition charts what was created and where, revealing the buildings, their designers, influences and the style they inspired. It explores the reasons behind this global success story through over 190 photographs, drawings, models and other material, taken from RIBA’s incredible collections and key architectural practices. www.architecture.com

28Typographic FEB TO 2 MARDay Pune

www.designxdesign2010.blogspot.in

13 FEB TO 27 MAY

The Brits Who Built The Modern World RIBA, 66 Portland Place, London The Brits Who Built The Modern World, 1950-2012, tells the fascinating global story of how British architecture underwent a transformation in the post-war years to become world-leading in the second half of the 20th century.

Typography Day was organised for the seventh time at the Symbiosis Institute of Design, Pune in collaboration with the Industrial Design Centre (IDC), Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) with support from India Design Association (InDeAs) and Aksharaya. The theme for this year’s event was ‘Typography and Culture’. The event featured a day of workshops on Typography and Calligraphy followed by two days of conference dedicated to typography and culture. The international conference was devoted to addressing issues faced by type designers, type users and type educators. The conference included presentations by invited keynote speakers, eminent academicians, blind juried papers, industry professionals, research scholars and students. The event also hosted an exhibition of selected posters and typographic works of students and faculty members from design institutes. www.typoday.in

PAST & FUTURE

E V E N T S

Home Review March 2014

PAST & FUTURE

E V E N T S TO 10Maison 13 MARand Objet Asia

This category is open to all participants who are at least 18 years of age. The “Next Generation” category is open to participants between 18 and 30 years of age. The focus is primarily on visionary projects and bold ideas. The consideration date for projects underway in this category too is post July 1, 2013.

Singapore,

territories including Austria, Hungary and Pakistanstrengthen the fair’s global credentials and appeal to a broad base of collectors.

A leading event in home style, Maison&Objet offers an international, 360 degree panorama of the market.This lifestyle platform merging business and creativity is the meeting place for buyers and specifiers over the world. Being a facilitator of encounters, a business booster and a strategy scout all rolled into one, this essential trade exhibition draws its inspiration from Paris. In line with its practice in Paris, Maison&Objet Asia will also be presenting its Designer of the Year at its Asian edition in Singapore. The Designer of the Year (Asia) will be selected from among top Asian designers who have made a strong impression in their field of design. The winner will be given an opportunity to design an aspect of the show in Singapore and will play the role of ambassador for Maison&Objet Asia. www.maison-objet.com

17Design 24 MARDays Dubai TO

Dubai

One of the region’s first and leading dedicated design fair, Design Days Dubai, returns for its third edition to deliver a diverse, exhibitionquality collection of compelling, highly-collectible modern and contemporary design pieces and installations, alongside a public programme with leading design personalities and industry experts. The most internationally-diverse Design Days Dubai to date, galleries from new

22 Home Review March 2014

For the first time, Design Days Dubai has been extended by an extra day, and will now be open to the public on the weekend. The fair will host a stimulating public programme, presented by Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, which has been developed to inspire and help educate visitors about principles and innovations in design. The five-day programme will feature informative talks and workshops, as well as live performances and special design installations.

To enter the 4th International Holcim Awards competition you must register online by March 24, 2014. For more details please visit the website mentioned below. www.holcimfoundation.org

30Light MAR+TO Building 4 APR

Frankfurt am Main, Germany

www.designdaysdubai.ae

24 MAR

Registration Deadline for Holcim Awards The 4th International Holcim Awards competition celebrates projects and visions that contribute to a more sustainable built environment and features total prize money of USD 2 million. The competition is open for projects in architecture, building and civil engineering, landscape and urban design, materials, products and construction technologies that contribute to the five “target issues” for sustainable construction. The five target issues as defined by the organisers are (i) Innovation and transferability - Progress (ii)Ethical standards and social equity - People (iii) Environmental quality and resource efficiency - Planet (iv)Economic performance and compatibility - Prosperity(v)Contextual and aesthetic impact - Proficiency. Furthermore the competition has two categories with different requirements. The main category caters to projectsthat have reached an advanced stage of design with high probability of execution. If the project is in the implementation stage, the date of commencement needs to be post July 1, 2013.

As one of the world’s leading trade fair for architecture and technology, Light+Building brings together three segments of particular relevance to building planning - lighting, electrical engineering and building automation - at the same time and place. It primarily focuses on lighting and building-services technology to presents solutions that cut the energy consumption of a building at the same time increase the level of comfort. At the fair, everything is represented, from LED technology, via photovoltaic and electro-mobility, to intelligent electricity usages with smart metering and smart grids. The combination of lighting and networked building-services technology allows the companies to present an integrated spectrum of products and services that make a decisive contribution to exploiting the energy-saving potential of buildings to the maximum. www.light-building.messefrankfurt.com

PAST & FUTURE

E V E N T S

Home Review March 2014

They say “God is in the details” and for Bangalore-based designer Michael Foley it is a thumb rule that he swears by. After graduating from NID, Michael started working with Titan Industries, rising from the bottom-up he dramatically changed the face of the brand in the thirteen years he worked there. In a quest to broaden his scope of exploration, Michael chose to start on his own in 2006 under the label Foley Designs. The team’s work spans much beyond just industrial design, they cover a panorama of creative platforms ranging from environment design, packaging identity, to space design. Foley Designs had the honour of designing the baton for the 2010 Commonwealth Games and the Indian Grand Prix trophy for two years in a row, the designs of which had been termed as path-breaking by many in terms of its execution of thought and avant-garde design. From working on traditional Channapatna wooden toys to creating cutting edge smart watches, he has done it all. The secret to his success in a short span of seven years lies in the fact that Michael seldom applies a cookie-cutter approach to design and yet the discipline and enterprise put in each design is the same. Industrious research, collaboration with several skilled facilities and perfect understanding of client requirements drive the creative energies of the firm. Design is an all encompassing experience and not an isolated state of mind for Michael and that shines through in this interview. Here he talks about the firm’s future plans and the rapidly evolving design scene in India.

my space

Interview by Shweta Salvi

24 Home Review March 2014

Tell us about your journey from choosing design as a profession to finally setting up your own practice? My interest in water colours and building models as a child did stem a part of my inclination towards design and architecture. I finally felt the best fit with product design as it intuitively seemed right. I joined Titan with the motivation of changing the perspective of watch design.

We built TILT as a venture to express our vision in the home experience space; a brand of lifestyle products that looks at unique Indian insights and opportunities within homes.

Your quest for exploration is evident through your body of work - through different materials, techniques and technologies or the various mediums of design you have worked in. What drives you to risk venturing into new territories? I believe embracing challenges gives me a unique opportunity to explore and push boundaries, in the hope to find and establish new benchmarks, ideas and processes. I look at these as windows to new avenues, sometimes successful but with a lot of persistent effort. Is there a person or a medium (not related to design per se) that has inspired you in some way? Inspiration has evolved with my career; it was originally awe for designers, sculptors and artists who were able to break boundaries in their disciplines, be it artist/explorer Leonardo Da Vinci of the Renaissance period or designers and sculptors like Ron Arad, Alexander Calder to name a few.

Watch design gave me an opportunity into collaborative creative practices. I spent about thirteen years building the design studio, working on diverse product innovations and understanding the importance of ‘attention to detail’ with everything one designs in a watch fitting into a small real estate on the wrist. This multifaceted experience was key in setting up my current practice ‘Foley Designs’.

Home Review March 2014

From designing Channapatna toys to working on futuristic technology, you appear to effortlessly handle all sectors of design. Is there a design constant you follow or is there always a new approach to every assignment?

The hot watch brings a simple innovation of using one’s body to project audible sound from the watch to the ear, making ‘private calling’ possible, a big challenge in wrist devices. The watch has withstood challenges from much larger technology players primarily due to its apt functionality and versatility to adapt to various smartphone platforms.

I do believe every project needs to be seen with originality of approach; we try and make the effort to reinvent these approaches. What really transcends projects is the thought and sensibility behind them. You have worked with wood, metal, ceramic, etc. Is there any one material or technique that you wish to explore in the future? A greater focus on natural materials apart from exploring new manufacturing processes to transform commonplace materials, as well as on innovations in surface quality of materials to transform their apparent qualities. What are the challenges while designing for the electronic industry? What part of it thrills you?

The idea that technology today can be seen from the lens of a platform for integration is invigorating. This is bringing together a whole new world of relevant yet unusual and smart, intuitive engagement with devices.

You have designed the baton for the 2010 Commonwealth Games and the Indian Grand Prix trophy for two consecutive years. How was the whole experience, especially when your design, in a way, underlines the pride and prestige of the nation?

Tell us something about the Hot Smart Watch. What are the salient features and how has the feedback been so far?

The projects have been very fulfilling, as it gave us an amazing opportunity to express a nation’s perspective towards sports and build global visibility of Indian design. The design fraternity in India does need such opportunities to make Indian product design more apparent on the global stage.

26 Home Review March 2014

On a lighter note...When you are out of your design zone what do you enjoy doing? Quite erratically in an out of the design zone! My current challenge is to try and make enough time to spend with my family. What are you currently working on?

Tell us something about your collaborative venture TLV and your product brand TILT. TLV was set up to take ideas into execution. The company was a natural extension of Foley Designs, bringing greater control on projects that required an end to end solution. We built TILT as a venture to express our vision in the home experience space; a brand of lifestyle products that looks at unique Indian insights and opportunities within homes. We have designed smart and thoughtful products that accessorise our personal experiences. TILT explores interesting interpretations of everyday objects with a twist.

We want to explore the domain of public design. As a studio with multi-dimensional capabilities we have started developing concepts in the sustainable energy space, low cost housing and attempting to solve traffic flow in cities by sensible design. These are projects on the anvil and hope to see the light of day soon. Any new Indian designersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work that has come to your notice and you have really liked? I think as a creative fraternity we really need to be a lot more entrepreneurial; the design capabilities in India are exceptional and will soon reach a threshold of impetus for large scale impact.

As a studio with multidimensional capabilities we have started developing concepts in the sustainable energy space, low cost housing and attempting to solve traffic flow in cities.

info@foleydesigns.com www.foleydesigns.com

Home Review March 2014

CONNECTED LIVING In Vasco, Goa, is a serene home built to house an art-loving family and its treasure of carefully collected pieces. Mumbai-based _Opolis Architects has cleverly added subtle doses of drama in the scheme to accord it a certain added interest as well. Text By Shruti Nambiar Photographs Courtesy The Architect

28 Home Review March 2014

Home Review March 2014

Vasco, short for Vasco da Gama, is a serene spot in the otherwise touristy bustle of Goa. This town conjures up images of the beach (but of course!), of markets full of fresh produce and of fishermen lost in time with their fishing nets and tides.There is no doubt that this home takes generous hints from its surroundings, and has been lovingly built to be a peaceful retreat as well as a veritable treasure trove of art. The owners of the house are consummate art collectors and followers, so the home naturally had to fulfil the demands of not just their utilitarian needs, but also of their deep-running interest. The design of the house reflects this split in priorities very well, and the team from Mumbai-based _Opolis Architects can easily take a bow.

The entranceway is defined by a cover of bushy green, breeze-happy plant and tree cover. The faĂ§ade itself is simple and earthy, and mostly imagined across a white-and-brown tone range. There has been a dedicated effort at maintaining a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;softâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; look for the house, so hard surfaces and contours will be hard to come by here. The pervious paver cover for the driveway, therefore, is only a practical consideration and not really an aesthetic one.

30 Home Review March 2014

Another critical aspect of the design is its ‘inside-outside’ perspective, where materials and forms have found continuation from the façade to the interiors, so as to retain a sense of oneness. The beautiful exposed laterite walls, perfect in any earthy set-up, are not just on the external walls but on some internal walls as well, like in the living room. The whole house is split into two specific blocks - one private, and the other public. A beautiful open-courtyard approach has made possible this division of spaces, which conveniently affords privacy and sociability. “The bays are separated by courts that are open and not enclosed, lending a spatial transparency to the place. The spaces unfold gradually like layers as there are several courts that connect all the built enclosed spaces. The massing of the main wing is such that it slides horizontally in two directions and spaces are created as a result of this tectonic shift.” state Rahul Gore and Sonal Sancheti, principal architects at _Opolis.

Home Review March 2014

The public section of the home is populated by the brilliant, canopied entranceway; the meditation segment; the living room, the kitchen and the services; and the dining room.

The entranceway itself is a mighty good-looking arrangement - it is a cantilevered structure, with bevelled edges and vertical wooden wings, and was intentionally built to resemble a passageway to heaven. It is quite a score if a homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entranceway can set up solid expectations of elegance right from the first step in.

32 Home Review March 2014

The interior scheme of the house is centred around the idea of free-flowing spaces, so the floor swathe is generous and largely unobtrusive. The seamless concrete flooring is a brilliant effort in this direction - it accords the rooms a sweeping, carefree character. Home Review March 2014

The cream and brown combination afforded by the polished wood partner enhances the effect of the art on the walls. Separating the dining space from the living room is a grid of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Shivlingasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; set amidst gravel; an elegant frangipani tree hovers over them - a smart installation addition to an art-focused home.

The abode is an 8,000 sq. ft. marvel within an estate. It is flushed with natural light, is non-frilly and largely unassuming in style, albeit with a solid personality. Being in this home means being in constant touch with the outside; the sense of enclosure here is never claustrophobic. The team from _Opolis Architects has been extremely sensitive to the understated tastes of the residents of the home, but has still managed to build a distinct looking abode. This aspect is the most resolute achievement of this project. info@opolis.in www.opolis.in

34 Home Review March 2014

Home Review March 2014

Though most of Drummenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art is temporary, she also experiments with permanent installations on walls and ceilings.

36 Home Review March 2014

art form

RANGOLI MEETS VEGAS Kaleidoscopic installations by Dutch artist Suzan Drummen are luminous, colourful and short-lived, like rainbows.

Suzan Drummen’s flashy floor installations initially hit you between the eyes with a ‘Rangoli-meets-Vegas’ kind of impression. The polychromatic, ornamental forms splattered on the floor and their pleasing symmetry is all too familiar to the Indian eye and yet Drummen is a Dutch artist occupied with examining the relationship between decorative and meaningful art. From a top view, Drummen’s installations appear more as bright, reflective optical illusions. Come closer, or better still, view the installation from eye level, as many visitors prefer to, and you will come away struck by the many layers and sheer number of tiny crystals, beads, mirrors and chrome-metal surfaces that are manually arranged, piece by piece, to create the kaleidoscopic work. Text By Christabelle Athaide Photographs Courtesy Suzan Drummen

Home Review March 2014

The most amazing feature of the installation is the loose and free-standing nature of all the components and hence their vulnerability to attack from the environment. Drummen recalls, “Once there was a little baby who fell into the work, but then we immediately fixed it back. It is really important that everything is just loose on the floor, as it deals with vulnerability.” The Dutch artist’s preference for such kind of ephemeral art is fascinating especially since the installations are so labour-intensive and take two to three weeks to complete. Interestingly, Drummen arrives at the site of installation without any detailed plan in mind and allows the design to grow organically. “I just start; I never make a plan. The work is very site specific and so for every space the work is different. It grows while working.” She starts laying out the installation without the help of any tracings or guide marks making us marvel at the perfect circles and precise symmetry. The installations are labour-intensive and require Drummen to enlist the help of a few volunteers. “Usually I have a group of ten students to help me. They all like to help as it is not difficult, and in fact very exciting to do. After a while though your knees hurt.... and sometimes they have to redo things as I am not easy on them. It has to be very precise.” During her student days, Drummen studied painting and monumental design at Kunstacademie Maastricht, but says she began working on temporary installations in earnest only in 2004.

Rangoli-meets-Vegas in these floor installations composed of thousands of crystals, semi-precious stones, mirrors and other reflective surfaces.

38 Home Review March 2014

Her own reaction to her first installation was one of amazement and discovery. “When you see this space with a convex lens, you will see it differently. In many convex lenses together, however, the view becomes staggering.

The loosely placed components of the installation tempt visitors to move pieces around. Drummen finds this kind of vulnerability to be an important aspect of her art.

Home Review March 2014

The reflections can no longer be ‘read’ by the eyes. Automatically the eyes focus differently in an attempt to see the whole. I am constantly studying this moment of simultaneously grasping and not grasping. The material helps me in doing this.” In Drummen’s art, the circular form rules. She clarifies, “The circle is an open form. It invites one to come inside. Coming closer or looking at it sideways, you see that it is just material, there is no illusion. This is what I also want to show. Life as it is. The circle helps me and I can play with this form endlessly.”

A team of nearly ten volunteers assist Drummen in laying out each component and assembling the final installation. This often takes two to three weeks to complete and can be quite hard on the knees as well.

When the time comes for the installation to be cleared and all the pieces put away, Drummen admits to feeling a tinge of sadness but then reasons by saying, “After a few weeks the mirrors become a little bit dusty and of course I cannot clean them whilst they are a part of the installation. So after a while I prefer to take away all the material, clean it and use it again in a new installation in another spot.” There’s another significant reason why she continues to subscribe to the temporal experience. “When people see my work for the first time they always want to touch it. They move one little part, and then they get very excited when they realise that every part is just loose on the floor. The manual labour is so impressive that it becomes part of it all.” Drummen’s art is full of contradictions: It is attractive yet also over the top; it is simple to look at but complex to create; it is randomly laid out yet very precise; it invites touch but also rejects it. And let’s not forget - now you see it, now you don’t. suzandrummen@gmail.com www.suzandrummen.nl

40 Home Review March 2014

Home Review March 2014

To understand the beauty of this house, one must dwell on all the carefully selected elements that were involved in enhancing the charm of the design scheme.

Text By Shruti Nambiar Photographs Courtesy The Architect

42 Home Review March 2014

THE HOUSE THAT BECAME A CANVAS

Home Review March 2014

44 Home Review March 2014

}

From the first step in, some homes fill you with awe with their vitality. This house in Pune, Maharashtra, is one of them. Designed on the meeting point between pop art irreverence and old Rajasthani opulence, the rooms here are as suffused with a zest for life as they are with colours and light. Conceptualised and realised by Mumbaibased, Shabnam Gupta-led, The Orange Lane, the Gawande residence is a refurbishment-cum-redesign project that amalgamated the preferences of the clients and the aesthetic dedication of the design team seamlessly. Evidence is in the light flowing spaces, the remarkable furniture pieces and in the sense of belonging to a warm, welcoming place. The team began work with a fairly straightforward agenda. “The client’s brief was very simple and clear. They wanted an eclectic space which enhanced the experience of a home, a happy, colourful space that one could relax in at all times.” The home encompasses eight rooms split across two levels. The ground floor houses the living room, a ‘den’, the kitchen-dining room and the mother’s room. The study, bedrooms of the son and the daughter, and the master bedroom take up the first floor. The brief included a specification to cover up the terrace on the upper floor and turn it into a private den and study cove. Also required was a large library. “The ground and first floor combined were the outcome of a close-knit relationship, with inputs from the client along with our expertise on eclectic living and innovative space design,” states the team.

A large library was a specification of the brief.

Home Review March 2014

Work began on a pre-existing house, whose entrance had to be broken down and shifted to comply with Vastu strictures. Statement-making bold colours became the fulcrum of the design process here, and form and material were decided to enhance the tenor thereafter. “Earthy materials with warm colours and rustic textures made this project homely and lived in,” attests the designers. The backdrop became a critical element in a set-up where there was an abundant use of colour and The Orange Lane team chose well - cement tiles, river-washed Shahabad stone with granite borders, and wood, share duties in the flooring department. The master bedroom’s bed is overlooked by a brilliant wall of exposed Bangalore bricks; a sunny mix of glass and Mangalore tiles adorns the roof of the private terrace; and the den outside the study has a spectacular terracotta colourpainted brick wall. The lighting scheme here - bulwarked by beautiful lamps that conjure up visions of courtly palaces and antique candelabras - is a deft marriage of the bright and the mood-soothing. Dimmers were put in the living room and the den to help regulate the influx of light according to personal requirements. To complete the design juxtaposing of new boldness and old elegance, jaali designs inspired by Rajasthan were infused into the spaces, complete with the archway-forms reminiscent of Islamic architecture’s most alluring representative. Indeed, the staircase door at the entrance was inspired by Iranian screens. The jaalis themselves were specifically fabricated in metal and wood at site.

Everything from the flooring to the furniture has the primary function to add more charm to the colour-scheme.

46 Home Review March 2014

All window and door frames received fresh coats of veneer and polish, while doors from the old structure were put back in use. The whiteness of the old BTC furniture again came to be as a way of enhancing the colour explosions around, while the more rugged antique furniture serves as a beautiful contrast to the walls and upholstery.

}

Home Review March 2014

The home is peppered with open, sociable spaces, as well as private coves suited to read and relax in. The Gawande residence is a remarkably attractive abode. Built for a Mumbai-based family, it exists within a gated community in the city of Pune and stands out like a shining beacon of vivacity. It would have been rather easy for the design team to have slipped off the spectacular colour use track into a tacky, overdone quagmire, but it is to the family membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; credit that the home is, instead, a beautiful balance between the old and the new. theorangelane@gmail.com www.theorangelane.com

48 Home Review March 2014

}

Home Review March 2014

PERISCOPE Few modern architects can claim to have divided opinions as wild as the Canadianborn Frank Gehry. And probably no famous architect can claim to have kick-started a stellar career from the launch-pad of his own residence. Gehry did that, maybe not by design, with his perception-redefining Santa Monica pad that he still calls home.

Frank Gehryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Santa Monica Residence

Dancing House, Prague

FRANK GEHRYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ICONIC SKETCHES Text By Shruti Nambiar Photographs have been used for representational purposes only. No copyright infringement is intended.

50 Home Review March 2014

Vitriolic criticism notwithstanding, Gehry’s influence has been undeniable, and even though he detests the term ‘starchitect’, his name whips up strong allusions to celebrity. This fact was reinforced in the 2006 Sydney Pollack-directed documentary, Sketches of Frank Gehry, and a personally regrettable cameo in The Simpsons a year earlier. Frank Gehry’s cameo in television sitcom The Simpsons.

Now 84, his residence re-design in 1978 – looks like an envelope of unwrapped paper surrounding an existing small pink bungalow that his wife had purchased – brought in notoriety so enduring, that a long list of high-profile patrons have for many decades worked with him carte blanche, and revelled in his unbridled madness of method.

The Walt Disney Concert Hall, LA

Home Review March 2014

New World Symphony, Florida

Critical to his acclaim, though, is his method. Gehryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sketches are legendary, because they highlight the painstaking toil behind building designs that would to an amateur eye seem like they were swept in by the tides. Gehryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sketches are hyperactive squiggles, uneasy lines that first establish what his brain has cooked up.

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Spain

52 Home Review March 2014

These are admittedly inscrutable to quite a few apart from Gehry himself, but these are the foundations on which a series of models are constructed, and then translated into full buildings. The sculptural quality and sharp functional sensitivity of his sketches have inspired academic studies of his modus operandi. The Ray and Maria Stata Centre for MIT

Sketches of his most iconic works, The Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain, the Dancing House in Prague, and his own residence, are starting points to understanding Gehryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s redoubtable talents.

Experience Music Project, Seattle

Home Review March 2014

A network of trumpets and cylinders lend authenticity to the installation’s claim to being a ‘Lullaby Factory’.

54 Home Review March 2014

THE LULLABY FACTORY

Studio Weave creates an interesting giant sized installation in what was once an awkward space and breathes fantasy into the children’s ward at one of London’s oldest hospitals.

The Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London’s Bloomsbury area, has an ambitious multi-phased redevelopment program on the cards. The recently completed Morgan Stanley Clinical Building and the 1930s Southwood Building currently sit very close together. Phased out over a period of 15 years, it will involve tearing down the latter and replacing it with a public square. When in place present and future clinical facilities will surround this open space, and their large, glazed windows will overlook the tree-lined lawn. But, the Southwood Building must continue its operations while the new buildings materialise around it.

Text By Himali Kothari Photographs by Studio Weave Home Review March 2014

The grassy, leafy plaza is the reality of the future; however, the present view for the children’s ward is a drab façade of the Southwood Building less than a couple of metres away from the windows, crawling with a network of pipes. There is enough evidence of the effect the surroundings have on recovery and the well-being of the sick. This in mind, the management at GOSH wanted an installation that would infuse the atmosphere with cheer and joy for their young patients.

A network of bronze and copper colour pipes seem to transport the lullabies to the 60 small and large trumpets across the installation.

The team at Studio Weave created a concept that would involve maximum effect with minimal changes, “Our aim for this project was to re-imagine the Southwood façade as the best version of itself, accepting and celebrating its qualities and oddities; rather than hiding what is difficult and creating something unique and site-specific.” Instead of ridding the brickwork of the pipes and other fixtures, they were integrated into the innovative design concept. In their bid, the team rechristened the Southwood Building as the Lullaby Factory, a place that produced and delivered melodious lullabies to soothe young patients. The designers were clear that the physical transformation of the façade should be such that would inspire belief that lullabies were indeed being manufactured within. The execution of the plan was tough. The site was irregular, over 30 metres in length but at a distance of only one metre from the Southwood building in some places. The architects had to ensure that their installation was built only on the Southwood façade without touching the alley below or the new wards around it.

A large silver cylinder fitted with valves and guages is the starting point for the ‘manufacture’ of the lullabies.

56 Home Review March 2014

}

Home Review March 2014

To keep the cost down, reclaimed and bespoke components were used to create the various components of the structure. Some of the material was also procured from the hospital’s old boiler house that was being dismantled.

}

The result is a ten-storey high quirky creation in the secret space, hidden from the outside world and visible only from within the hospital. A large cylindrical chamber fitted with guages and valves is where the melodies are created. Bronze and copper coloured pipes run the length and breadth of the walls to transport music to the 60 large and small trumpets clustered on the surface and poised to pour out sweet sounds. The design adheres to a metallic colour palette and steers away from the cliched splash of bright colours typically associated with children’s projects. “Aesthetically, the Lullaby Factory is a mix of an exciting and romantic vision of the music industry, and the highly crafted beauty and complexity of musical instruments,” state Studio Weave. But, the aesthetic change was only one aspect of the team’s vision. They wanted the Factory to actually ‘create’ sound. Composer and sound artist Jessica Curry was enlisted to compose a lullaby specifically for this project. This melody can be heard either through the listening pipes next to the hospital canteen or by tuning into the designated frequency on the radio. The playful setting is reminsicent of the many surreal locales created in popular British literary classics.

58 Home Review March 2014

The Studio Weave philosophy pivots around the site of the project. They believe in unearthing the inherent characteristics of the space and aligning them with their concept. At the Lullaby Factory, the Studio has applied its viewpoint to create a fantastical landscape that engages the attention of the patients, visitors and hospital staff. Within a few days of the opening of the Lullaby Factory, unusual sightings were reported. Some children insisted that they had spotted Peter Pan hiding behind the curtains blowing fairy dust, his pointy shoes peeking out from under them. Others vowed they saw Mary Poppins breeze by, her duck-head umbrella in hand. Even though there has been no evidence to prove these claims, nobody is trying very hard to not believe! hello@studioweave.com www.studioweave.com

Home Review March 2014

Life is a celebration! TEXT AND PHOTOS BY DR. SRIRAAM KALINGARAYAR sriraamk9380@gmail.com

The sun lazily lightens up the rain sloshed street. But for the vendors of this street, business has already started and is in full swing. They are so caught up with their trade that they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even take take the time to throw a glance at an ill groomed, tee shirt clad me with a camera hanging around my neck, trying to click snapshots of the din and cacophony from varying weird angles.

60 Home Review March 2014

I see vendors unloading their produce, a man cutting banana leaves for sale, flowers being tied together to be sold for the local deity. A man has just opened his shop, and awaits his customers as he delves into the newspaper updating his worldly wisdom. A boy, dripping with grime and dirt, shyly tugs at my shirt and points his finger at my camera indicating his desire to be clicked a portrait. I readily agree and he hops off happily, after seeing his face on my camera screen. A cherubic girl walks by daintily, her teeth stained a shocking pink of the cotton candy in her hand (refusing to pose for me). I keep walking merrily taking in the scene, losing track of time and reach the end of the road where I see people enjoying themselves at a fair. Life is what we celebrate. All of it.

Home Review March 2014

62 Home Review March 2014

Home Review March 2014

1. A papier-mache lamp by Whiteroom Studios 2. Fuchsia Lane’s bar stools, sofa and a chair which works as a wall frame too. 3. Design Do brought together a number of well-known design studios, contemporary designers and architects. 4. Yashashri Telkar Shidhankar, a ceramic artist from Sir J.J. School of Arts, uses a form of pit fire reduction to decorate her objects, which gives them a stone-like feel. 5. The Retyrement Plan offers chairs, pouffes, cushions for cats made from discarded waste like plastic gut, rubber tyre tubes, cloth and plastic scrap. 6. Winnow stool by Farzin Adenwala of Bombay Atelier.

report Design Do, a creative communion held at At-Tin studios in Mumbai, exhibited works from contemporary designers and architects while also discussing finer aspects of design. Design Do was held at At-Tin studios in Mumbai on the 31st January 2014. The event which served as a barometer of Mumbai’s design conscience brought together a number of well-known design studios, contemporary designers and architects among others. Nine architects and designers from the city featured their body of work; from furniture to ceramics “Design Do” was packed with expressions of contemporary creativity.

Design students who are new to the business got a chance to interact with established names. Finer nuances of good design and how innovative yet creative products can be devised using the right materials and correct techniques were some important points on the agenda. The design studios who exhibited their body of work included Xheight, a multi disciplinary studio who put up furniture pieces on display. The furniture pieces which included a workstation table, bench and a chair was inspired from their days spent in transitory and rented spaces. Designer Ajay Shah from Industrial Playground showcased an innovative table which works as a conference table, dining table or a workstation; including some chairs and benches all made in mild steel and powder coated with bright colours.

64 Home Review March 2014

Home Review March 2014

1. The Nested Tables in the Alcohol Series are a collaboration between At-Tin and Studio Eeksaurus which explores the relationship between products and graphics. 2. Pet Table by MuseLab is made from teak wood, plywood laminate and dwellings made from mild steel. 3. Farzin Adenwalla’s Handi Man, which is inspired by the ‘handi’, has a removable teak wood top. 4. At- Tin displays screens in different sizes and different materials, using the same motif. Also on display is The Industrial Playground by Ajay Shah which creates furniture that has an industrial design approach. 5. Anand Prabhudesai turns mundane objects into lyrical poetic sculpture; on display is a bench made from mild steel.

66 Home Review March 2014

Papier-mache creations also found a space in this event, Whiteroom Studios displayed bar stools and lamps made from papier-mache, a material preferred owing to its versatility, durability and workability. Other designers and design studios that were a part of the event included Fuchsia Lane, The Retyrement Plan, Anand Prabhusesai, ceramic artist Shalan Dere, Yashashri Telkar Shidhankar - a ceramic artist from Sir J.J. School of Arts, Jasem Pirani and Huzefa Rangwala of Muselab and Farzin Adenwala of Bombay Atelier. In this eclectic gathering how could At-Tin be left behind? The studio displayed a visual allegory consisting of three different screens. The three screens in three different sizes and three different materials used the same motif repeatedly, reoriented to create visual magic. In spite of using the same motif the three screens looked distinctly different. The screens were made out of metal foil, another from MDF and the third from mild steel. Apart from this the studio also displayed ‘nested tables’ which is a collaborative venture between Studio Eeksaurus and At-Tin. The tables explored the relationship between products and graphics where the graphic/design is contextually in sync with the product. All said and done “Design Do” was a niche yet an outstanding design communion in a city which needs plenty more of such exchanges. www.at-tin.com

Expressions of creativity were plentiful at the ‘Design Do’ event with imaginative and contemporary furniture and products on display.

Home Review March 2014

DESIGN DESTINATION

STUT WHERE Stuttgart, in southern Germany, has the Black Forest on one side and the Swabian Alps on the other. The city centre lies in a lush valley with the River Neckar flowing through its one end. The city is often described as lying between woodlands and vineyards and in fact some vineyards still exist in the middle of the buzzing metropolis.

68 Home Review March 2014

TGART WHEN

WHY

Stuttgart’s located in the centre of the European continent and thus the difference in temperature between summer and winter is extreme. The severe summer heat experienced in the city centre has earned it the nickname ‘Kessel’ which means kettle in English. The best time to visit Stuttgart is in May, when summer is easing in or September before the onset of the cold.

Being the hometown of Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, it is not surprising that Stuttgart is referred to as the ‘cradle of the automobile’. But, the city’s tourism department with its slogan, ‘Stuttgart offers more’, begs to differ. And rightly so! The centre houses many examples of modern post-war architecture while the outskirts are dotted with sprawling castles from its past.

Home Review March 2014

A WAVE OF THE MAGIC WAND The façade of the building is painted in a brick red shade. It is a simple building on a quiet street, the kind that may be missed unless you are looking for it. It is the name that gives a hint that things may not be as commonplace as they appear - the hotel is called Der Zauberlehring, translated in English - Sorcerer’s Apprentice. As you enter, it is clear that the exterior is a smokescreen; the sorcerer waves his wand, and the curtain lifts, and brings to view the interiors where imagination has definitely exploded. Der Zauberlehring has 13 rooms and four suites; each one conceptualised and designed to appear as a microcosm of one unique style. The names encapsulate the experience that is held within. The Paddington Room is all about Victorian grace with antiques from that era adding the special touch, the piece de resistance being a portrait of Agatha Christie’s Miss Maple.

In the Chalet Suite a lifelike figure of a stag, faux animal skins and the stone floors create the Swiss Alps setting, while a few doors away, the Nacht Suite with its bronze and gold accents and ‘mosaiced’ bathroom creates a more oriental ambience. The décor of the Titanic room is suited to appeal to aristocratic tastes and the Camouflage room with green vines painted across the walls would appeal to fun personalities. Every door opens up a new culture and every element in the room, large and small, comes together to complete that experience which is promised.

70 Home Review March 2014

BEHIND THE WHEEL Mercedes-Benz prides itself on the advanced engineering of its vehicles. It is no wonder then that the new Mercedes-Benz museum building too is an architectural wonder. The building design is based on that of a clover where three circles overlap. This layout enables the visitor to tailor his visit as he wishes, either moving between time lines of the exhibits or following the chronological line of automobile development. One of the key achievements of this vision is the creation of space - 16,500 square metres on a footprint of 4800 square metres. The Museum showcases more than 160 automobiles including the first one invented by Karl Benz in 1886. Another interesing vehicle is the Popeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vehicle for his visit to Germany which has a bullet-proof glazing to ensure safety and at the same time allow people to see the Pope.

Home Review March 2014

â&#x20AC;&#x2122; MOTHER S DAY OUT

A three floor building in Stuttgart claims to be the haven for all women, especially the pregnant ones and the mothers. With the very first step into Mama Spa, it is evident that it is unlike the stereotypical spa with its Zen-like ambience, the theme here is modern with a splash of kitsch and retro.

Black and white stripes have been integrated into the colour scheme in all the spaces, either on the walls or the floor tiles or fixtures and accessories. In the treatment rooms the soothing white is interspersed with an occasional wall in red and in the child care room, furniture and fixtures in bright hues create a playful ambience. Every detail at Mama Spa has been planned to pamper and indulge the visitor during her time there. Text By Himali Kothari

72 Home Review March 2014

Advertorial Home Review March 2014

The Eight Bit Wonder Pixels, bright colours and bold geometrical graphics – these are the strokes that render this office space designed by Kamat and Rozario Architecture into something that gives us an ‘8 bit’ experience. Bright colours and bold graphics make up the language of architecture employed in this newly designed office space, for a company called 22feet that provides digital solutions. Designed by Bengaluru based design firm Kamat & Rozario Architecture, this 3,200 square feet of space is a trip down memory lane, not to college days and television drama but to the ‘tech fun’ of the 1980s, when the Japanese introduced to the world the 8-bit era of computer games.

Text By K Parvathy Menon Photographs By Upasana Jain

74 Home Review March 2014

The idea of the pixel was translated into storage; this wraps around existing columns in the form of bright coloured 3D pixels. These colour blocks act as attention grabbing foci in the large space.

Home Review March 2014

The client desired the office to be themed on eight bit games from the 80s and hence the motif of the pixel became the guiding principle for the design of this office space. This is seen within the graphics and writings on the wall, all of which are inspired by the computer architecture from that era.

76 Home Review March 2014

“The clients desired their office to be themed on the eight bit games from the 80s,” say principal architects, Smruti Kamat and Lester Rozario. Hence the team tried to bring into the architecture the simple endearing joy of 8-bit computer games like ‘Mario’, ‘Tetris’ and ‘Space Invaders’ characterised by tile and stripe graphics in bright pixelated colours. They stress that the idea of the pixel became the guiding principle for the design of the office space. A far cry from the formal corporate decor, the archetypal programme of workstations, conference room and cabins have been designed with bursts of colour in what Smruti Kamat describes as “a simple plan with closed spaces kept to a minimum.” To cater to the countless conversations and interactive moments between the various factions of the company, the team employed a design strategy wherein the peripheral length of the volume was allocated to workstations. An exposed ceiling and glazed walls give the long strips a spacious, airy and casual appeal; add to this pops of bright colours and we have the exact casual, interactive environment which the client wanted. “By placing the workstations in the periphery and closed rooms in the centre as a single entity, natural light floods the entire office,” says Sowmya, from the design team. In positioning the cabin and conference room to the centre, the architects not only functionally zoned the office, but also got canvases for their creative expressions.

Home Review March 2014

}

“The white vertical surfaces walling the central rooms have been mostly kept bare, on which patterns made from unfinished plywood strips bring to us glimpses of the 1980s’ Invader,” explains Smruti Kamat. Open planning and glass partitions between different domains in the office has the design sketching a circulation pattern in the sphere, which encourages constant visual connectivity, social interactions and a spatial experience that is capacious and unconstrained. Further highlighting details about the volume, Lester Rozario shares, “The functioning of the office required two separate departments. The interface between these two was a common breakout space.” If not writings in the typical script associated with the graphics of 8-bit computer architecture on the wall surfaces, it is random doodling captured elsewhere. This space bound by white walls with doodles etched on it is bound to wake up any weary employee with its spatial energy. Furniture - bright colourful sofas and chairs, unique tables with supports that resemble the ‘Tetris’ blocks, also does its bit to underline the theme and energise the overall appeal. Three large columns in this big expanse are another mode of reference to the 8-bit theme; simply put, in the words of the architect, ‘The idea of the pixel was translated into storage units that wrap around existing columns in the form of bright coloured 3D pixels.’ The bright coloured square blocks are much like a 3D print of the basic pixel; this used to be the trademark of the third generation computer games of the eighties. Glancing at the open spaces, one realises that there is a lot happening in the volumes architecturally that we slowly begin to grasp and experience as we make our way inside. Smruti explains, “The bare ceilings create a sharp contrast with all the remaining elements that are so very colourful, or polished and shiny.”

78 Home Review March 2014

}

The spaces walled in glass allow a constant visual connection. Doodles and bright colours lend a casual and inspiring appeal to the work spaces.

Home Review March 2014

The moment one steps into this large office, one is not cowed down by the scale, instead the spatial experience urges one to let their hair down and set the grey matter working. There is a perfect blend of functional, aesthetic and creative architecture in these spaces designed by Kamat and Rozario Architecture. They strive to bring in a unique identity to all their projects which are almost always inspired by context, client needs and constraints. Here at the office of 22feet, the theme of 8 bit games is interlaced into every nook and cranny defining the character of the architectural language, and taking us back briefly to the simple joys of games like ‘Tetris’ and ‘Invaders’.

kamatrozario@gmail.com, kamatrozario@kamatrozario.com www.kamatrozario.com

80 Home Review March 2014

Home Review March 2014

As I step into a small, yet neatly organised apartment in Khar, Mumbai, an aura of nostalgia grips me and reminds me of times when locomotives were driven by steam and movies like ‘Casablanca’ were all the rage. ‘Ironworks’ - the name perhaps creates the visual imagery of a workshop where workers toil all day to create a country made revolver or an iron bust or figurine. However, I am delighted to share that it’s a brand name for furniture pieces which regale the industrial era.

82 Home Review March 2014

BACK IN TIME TEXT BY VIKAS BHADRA

Home Review March 2014

84 Home Review March 2014

Tejal Mathur needs no introduction, a well-known interior designer she has forayed into furniture and the results are splendid. Explains Tejal, “Basically ‘Ironworks’ would be used as a suffix to a brand that was engaged in steel or machine tool manufacturing back in the days. Factories then had steel trusses and big windows, and you had a lot of people working there welding by hand. The kind of furniture I do is actually created using similar processes.” A number of furniture pieces of Ironworks are also an amalgam of wood and iron - together they create a story which brilliantly depicts the era when revolution and counter revolution was on the rise and the world was ruled by big names in history like Churchill and Roosevelt. This industrial vintage kind of furniture that Ironworks produces can’t be done in a jiffy; it requires a significant amount of effort and time. All finishes are hand done, and Tejal personally checks on the finer details of the end product ensuring that it meets her stamp of approval. As I analyse the Ironworks coffee table displayed at the store, Tejal explains “I use teakwood only if it is already in furniture form, hence for a large part of my creations I prefer using the substitute varieties instead. When it comes to durability, most Indian hardwoods thankfully respond appropriately to the climate when used in the right way and with the right application, and this has certainly made my job easier.” Though the vintage pieces take you back in time, they are well suited for today’s luxury apartments that dot the city skyline; furthermore since the pieces are bespoke, it certainly adds a touch of novelty apart from the dash of old world charm it brings along with it.

Home Review March 2014

Some may consider furniture design as a viable business vertical for an interior design professional, but as the conversation steps into the finer characteristics of furniture making Tejal reveals “It is a discovery of the self which speaks through these pieces, it probably also reflects the anecdotes and nostalgia that I grew up with. In a way it is a window to the past which we tether on to when we look down memory lane.” The factor of individualism is at work even when Tejal executes her interior design projects, “Everything I do imbibes a bit of my personality, but unlike my interior design projects which are more, and rightfully so, client driven, Ironworks gives me a chance to completely express and not explain myself.” However, she is quick to elucidate, “Apart from vintage accents in a home which reflect my sub conscious elements, I must add I cannot do without the very modern edgy design of efficient products from brands like Vitra, the MOMA kitchenware, Crate n Barrel dinnerware and stemware or Muji boxes and organisers that are high on quality and seamlessly fit right in; no matter how relaxed or organic the setting might be.” The array of products at Ironworks includes coffee tables, desktop lamps, floor lamps, trays and much more. These products which are produced across the country are a candid reflection of the industrial revolution which altered our lifestyle. Though this wave of industrial onslaught has our market riddled with mass produced goods, there is a certain unbridled charm which speaks out when the end product is aided by precise machining, processes and skilled workmanship - and this is undoubtedly the USP of Ironworks.

Ironworks 201,Vimal Residency, 10th Road, Khar Gardens, Khar West, Mumbai 400050 tejalmathur@team-design.in www.ironworks.in

86 Home Review March 2014

Home Review March 2014

Mumbai-based Archilogics combines unconventional form with highly sensitive space-building, and comes up with visually striking projects. Archilogics was founded by Saket Sethi, with then partner Rupali Saple, in 2005. With a later incorporation into Archilogics Design Pvt. Ltd., the firm has fortified its dedication to end-to-end ideation and execution when it comes to projects. The portfolio here spans a significant range and trawls a good depth too. Archilogics is as adept at intricate interior design and sensitive building of workspaces, as it is proficient in imagining and realising big ticket projects of massive acreage. Through it all, the team has maintained an affinity towards the avant-garde form, and the philosophy of conjuring up exactly what the clients have demanded. In this journey, some of the supportive patrons have been Varun Shipping, the Aditya Birla Group, Salman Khan, Shilpa Shetty and Raveena Tandon.

88 Home Review March 2014

Archilogics wanted to break free from the strictures of designing a conventional boutique with Ahakzai. A designer boutique launched by producer-designer Alvira Agnihotri, and designer Ashley Rebello, the store is a commitment to flowy, delicate Indian apparel, standing at 1 Oceanside in Bandra. In the store, pop art flamboyance meets the high-browed refrain of regal Indian sensibilities. The colours, right from the IPS floor with embossed antique tiles, to the stylishly faded furniture pieces, are all deep and distinguished, but the lighting is all warm and crepuscular. This is a delightful combination that would complement the style and silhouettes of the garments on display. The overall look and feel of the store is quite un-store like - it is warm, homely and welcoming, and not overtly keen on striking sales. One canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the magic of the jaali designs on the walls, the lovely hanging lamps, the aged Italian hand-painted walls, the beckoning staircase, and the bouquet of wooden frames across its side wall. Archilogics deserves praise for the sheer depth and range of detailing that its team instilled here.

Text By Shruti Nambiar Photographs The Architect Home Review March 2014

Openness and transparency were the key ideas binding this project together. The Aditya Birla Science and Technology Campusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ambition is to become a premium centre of research and development, and Archilogics was commissioned to deliver on the mega package of its architecture, interiors, road-works, landscape and graphics. The team delivered on its assignment by building a circulatory set-up of the main spaces hinged to an axis; atriums that tentacle around circular colour-coded helix stairs; uninterrupted views of greenery from most directions; and a cone skylight that recreates the highly-recognisable Aditya Birla Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sun logo. Part of this 22-acre scheme is also a spectacular faĂ§ade - a tall glass pyramid for corporate floors rising from a reclining structure with cast-in-place cones and the look of a high-tech extra-terrestrial.

90 Home Review March 2014

Ax2 in Mumbai had to become Bollywood fashion designer Ashley Rebello’s office, and was assigned to Archilogics by the team behind the Good Homes show at NDTV Good Times. It is a 400 square feet, one-room workspace which had to accommodate a waiting area, a changing room, a tailoring room, toilets, and of course, Rebello’s work station. Working on the designer’s specific demands, the Archilogics team has suffused the interiors with the traditional jaali motif. The client’s affinity to nature was translated into a beautifully patterned partition wall and ceiling, sporting motifs of dragonflies, butterflies, flowers and geometric diamond shapes. The patterns, with their artful perforations, look like delicate paper cuttings. Because this was essentially a refurbishment project, all pre-existing art and furniture from the previous space was retained; old chairs were re-polished and re-upholstered; an old door became the main work-desk; waste pieces from laser cut panels became embellishments; and anything new came from an affordable online portal. For this project, Archilogics again amalgamated client sentiments with chic aesthetics. The result is a visually striking space that makes the most of its limited girth.

info@archilogics.com www.archilogics.com

Home Review March 2014

92 Home Review March 2014

Advertorial

A CONTEMPORARY OASIS

Mythology, movies, mysticism and then there is so much more that Morocco offers. A picturesque house in this country designed by Guilhem Eustache, for a Belgium film director and producer, can easily be termed as an artistic and architectural beacon. Text By Namrata Joshi Photographs Courtesy Jean-Marie Monthiers Home Review March 2014

At the edge closest to the road to Marrakech is the double garage that attentively includes the caretakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dwelling and has two attached cubes.

94 Home Review March 2014

Morocco is a land of culture, cinema and breathtaking landscapes. These facts substantially added to the vision of Guilhem Eustache, the architect who created the Fobe House. The project was designed with the help of a variety of inspirations - right from the works of architects, painters, sculptors, conceptual artists and filmmakers of all periods and all schools of thought. While the project spans 1800 square feet of living space, the structure was designed keeping in mind the necessity to build a structure with character, one that would match up with the intensity that Morocco is surrounded with. The mountains play a pivotal role as the client chose the land primarily for its stunning view of the Atlas. Hence, the breathtaking landscape of the Atlas Mountains, on a clear day, offers quite a sight as a backdrop to the Fobe House. Located about ten kilometres south of Marrakech, the flat land mostly lies under a veil of heat that conceals the horizon. Hence, one notices an active composition of light and shadow that is strategically designed to enhance and strengthen the volumes. As Guilhem Eustache shares, “Extensive analysis of the site is always essential. Its orientation to the sun, its size, shape, access, the best points of view (toward the horizon or neighbouring homes) and any potential problems, all necessarily impact upon one’s architectural choices.” The essence of the house lies in an interesting amalgamation of the land, the vegetation and the Atlas Mountains sitting on the horizon. The wildness of the land is well preserved and nature in all its glory is flaunted. The topology of the terrain was kept in mind during the nascent stages of the project, in order to protect the inhabitants from excessive sun and wind, and at the same time, make the best of the innumerable pros and cons that such a territory of nature brings along. The main building is strategically positioned in the centre of the plot and at the edge closest to the road to Marrakech is the double garage that includes a long tube making way for square shaped openings; the caretaker’s house has two attached cuboids. A symbolic fireplace stands between the two structures, while three vertical walls mark the entrance to the property.

A night view of the three parallel surfaces that make up the Fobe House façade.

Home Review March 2014

}

The small pool truly stands out, especially with the laminated stairs rising from the water structure and mounting all the way up to the roof terrace. All the paths and outdoor terraces that are built 50 cm above the natural ground level, and the stairs/ bleachers at the foot of the swimming pool serve to add an edge of leisure that does not go unnoticed. Keeping in mind the vision of the client, a Belgian film producer and director, architecture and cinema has been intricately woven into the design scheme. The various elements of the house reveal themselves slowly, one by one as one navigates through its spaces. From a distance, one intriguingly sees the Fobe House as a white square that gradually seems like a cube, a white wall, a tube, and then a white rectangular structure which eventually turns out to be a flat wall and a small triangle which is a pyramid.

Out in the open a tranquil pool offers succour in this very dry land.

}

The flat, barren desert land allows for clear visual connections between the separate buildings, the horizon and the earth itself. The smallest wall in the distance stands out in this lunar landscape; it keeps getting hidden and magnified, all through the day. To construct the house, local materials like clay and tadelack were used to befit an economical approach and to retain the essence of the desert. The fact that the client hailed from the UAE, made it easier to present the beauty of Morocco and the particularly hot temperatures it brings along. The architect Guilhem Eustache has the last word, â&#x20AC;&#x153;According to Hegel, architecture should be considered the first among the arts, my intervention is narrative - a more cumulative and pragmatic process than a conceptual one.â&#x20AC;?

The illumination of the house is planned very comprehensively; every corner whether indoors or outdoors is well lit.

96 Home Review March 2014

Acknowledging the fact that almost two major rainstorms greet the region each fall, the buildings were elevated by nearly 50 cms. Fresh water from the glaciers on the Atlas Mountains is used in the house, with the help of a 30 to 40 metres deep well dug on the site. Clearly, the main dwelling is paradoxically simple and complex; designed to fulfil the specific climatic, cultural and economic conditions.

contact@guilhemeustache.com www.guilhemeustache.com

Home Review March 2014

SUBSCRIBE!

No. of Issues

Cover Price

You Pay

Benefits

36 + 9 Free

Rs. 4500

Rs. 3600

Pay for 36 and get 45 issues you save Rs. 900

24 + 5 Free

Rs. 2900

Rs. 2400

Pay for 24 and get 29 issues you save Rs. 500

12 + 2 Free

Rs. 1400

Rs. 1200

Pay for 12 and get 14 issues you save Rs. 200

Please fill up this coupon and send it along with your cheque/DD to: Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd., B 62, 1st Floor, Cotton Exchange Bldg, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033. Tel (022) 23736133/1, 32958501 Fax (022) 23743069 Email response@marvelinfomedia.com

YES! I wish to subscribe to Home Review ¨36+9 Free =Rs.3600 ¨24+5 Free =Rs.2400

¨12+2 Free =Rs.1200

I am enclosing a cheque/DD No _________________ Dated __________________ drawn on ( name of bank ) ____________________ favouring “Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd.” for Rs.______________( Add Rs 40/- for non Mumbai cheque/DD ) YOUR DETAILS Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms_________First Name __________________________________________Surname ____________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City____________________________________________State____________________________________________________Pin Code________________ Phone__________________________Email____________________________________________________Occupation_____________________________ Terms & Conditions: Home Review reserves the right to extend, cancel or discontinue the offer without giving any reason or prior notice. Your subscription will commence from the next available issue on a monthly basis. No cancellation will be entertained after the commencement of subscription.

To subscribe online log on to www.home-review.com 98 Home Review March 2014

GREEN PROJECT

The CDGAI centre is luminous under the night sky amid the wooded lancscape of the Sart-Tilman Park in Liege.

A Walk In The Park

The new CDGAI building, built by Belgium-based Dethier Architecture serves as a starring example of a happy cohabitation of nature and innovation.

Text By Himali Kothari Photographs Courtesy Serge Brison

Home Review March 2014

101

Solids and voids have been used intelligently to diffuse light in a way that is not only interesting but also ecologically effective.

102 Home Review March 2014

Semi-transparent glass helps maintain privacy, yet blurs the divide between the inside and the outside.

The project was to be a unique culmination of three diverse philosophies. The client: Centre for Group Dynamics and Institutional Analysis (CDGAI), which has become a point of reference in the field of psychosocial science-action in Belgium. The site: Liège Science Park, here research and development of innovative solutions is of prime importance. The architect: Dethier Architecture, which believes in matching requirements with appropriate solutions. The CDGAI works with small groups in the field of social psychology. Their new offices needed to provide a space for individuals to gather and exchange their thoughts and ideas.

The resulting edifice is a cosy cocoon sitting comfortably under the watchful eyes of the towering conifers that surround it. At night, the transluscent wall and roof of the Centre emit light from within and the cocoon metamorphoses into a glow-worm. The interior has been planned such that there is fluidity in movement, a trait that is important in the context of the clear-cut structure of the organisation itself. The single-storey building holds within it two meeting rooms and their annex as well as the entryway, a secretariat, a kitchen, a room for office equipment, lavatories and a machine room. Offices and a library occupy the mezzanine floor.

The Sart-Tilman Science Park in Liège was selected as the site for this new building. The team at Dethier Architecture had to ensure that the building was in accord with the urban planning philosophy of the Liege Science Park, that is, “high-quality architecture in harmony with a cherished wooded landscape.” Home Review March 2014

103

A free cooling system enables the air to be absorbed through the night and used during the day to cool the interiors.

For Dethier Architecture the environment is an important consideration in all its projects. In its recent projects, the company has endeavoured to employ technology to minimise the impact on the environment. At the CDGAI provision of rainwater harvesting has been made through gutters at the ground level which are easy to maintain. A free cooling system has been opted for to adjust the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s temperature rather than an air conditioning unit. Screened vents let cool air in at night, which is absorbed by the masonry and the cement flooring and during the day the same air is released gradually to cool the interiors.

104 Home Review March 2014

The plan has also accommodated the use of high quality yet innovative materials. The materials chosen are easy-to-install; these not only minimise costs but also diminish the carbon footprint. Their high durability factor works well towards reducing the burden on ecology. A masonry faĂ§ade faces the north; the southern faĂ§ade is metal, thus, giving the structure both volume and lightness. Black rubber coating is stretched over the steel structure of the roof while semitransparent glass and polycarbonate panels make up both the exterior and the interior walls. It was a conscious decision of the team at Dethier to stick to easy-to-install materials so that both the cost to the client and the environment would be minimal.

Natural light floods the interiors during daytime and minimises the dependence on artificial light resources.

The use of transluscent walls to separate the different spaces within the Centre helps maintain the needed privacy but at the same time effectively diffuses light into all the niches and corners. During daytime, natural light floods the interiors through the semi-transparent glass minimising the burden on electricity. At night, the Centre glows in the light emanating from the inside. The Dethier website explains how the play between the colour scheme and light has been used to make an artistic statement, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Artist Jean Glibert chose to focus on this luminous intensity, using the sheen of the galvanised roof to reflect the green and red tones of the office and the library towards the reception area and meeting rooms. The interaction of light and contrasts finds an echo in the wooded area in which the structure rests.â&#x20AC;?

The surroundings have been left largely undisturbed and in fact, the building has been planned to conform to the landscape that it exists within. The CDGAI is a standout example of costconsciousness and ecological awareness going hand-in-hand. The direct ground absorption of rainwater, preservation of the existing topography and vegetation, ensuring that the structure fits well into its natural surroundings and a meticulous planning to ensure on-time delivery - all this benefits the client with the most minimal of impingement on the ecosystem. info@dethier.be www.dethier.be

Home Review March 2014

105

How would you classify the architecture you practice? There is really no classification. Our work is about an engagement with landscapes, both natural and manmade. It is a continuous learning experience

There is a thorough engagement with the whole or part of a program where they have the potential to influence each other to express new or latent possibilities. Flexibility and open-endedness are seen as important aspects of programming as they are more of a necessity in these conditions. How do you manage to adhere to your desired style of architecture in this turbulent environment?

GREEN SPEAK

ARCHITECTURE PARADIGM

Architecture Paradigm was established in the year 1996 by Manoj Ladhad, Sandeep J and Vimal Jain. The firm believes that its most significant strength lies in the capability of its team members and a belief in their values. All thirty-five of them being young, their instinct for design is tempered by real world experiences where they have been constantly exposed to designing and supervising a variety of projects.

dealing with the incredible amount of visual, tactile and virtual information we encounter on a day to day basis. Our cities today are dense and complex, simultaneously old and new, there is growth and decay, presence and absence, reality and fiction; it is always in a transitory state of being. We are influenced by these temporal conditions as most of our projects stem from these conditions. As a practice we look to approach this indiscernible landscape with an open and progressive stance. We are unafraid to speculate and design projects that can express the latent realities of these emerging conditions.

Apart from designing projects Architecture Paradigm has also been instrumental in the development of a software for internal studio management called “Documan”, which is currently being used by many other architectural studios in the country. Numerous accolades and awards stand testimony to the passion and commitment of the studio but eventually it is every end result of an assignment that fuels the firm’s love to create environments that people enjoy and like to identify with.

We deliberate on the nature of inhabitation in these conditions, as it becomes one of the key points for idea generation. Here the relationship between inside and the outside gains a pivotal role. Tradition demonstrates that the outdoors have been a crucial part of inhabitation in a climate like ours. It therefore necessitates inventiveness about living patterns and lifestyles. We explore this relationship in our work as we feel it has the potential to reflect time and place.

106 Home Review March 2014

Today working in these conditions requires the ability to collaborate with different faculties. Our practice in this regard relies on many voices where both consultants and clients become an active part of the process. Here from ideas to execution, the process is subjected to critical views lending objectivity and depth to it. Underlying all this is a sense of optimism that makes it possible to initiate a difference. This collaborative structure enables us to reflect on our work, take risks and push boundaries. It is through such engagement that we are able to address various facets of the practice. With us passion and pragmatic concerns go hand in hand. Quality takes precedence in all our pursuits and this is enabled by an open studio which allows for a free exchange of views amongst people. How far away is India from mainstreaming ‘sustainable’ architecture in the context of new developments? Sustainable and innovative strategies have always been a part of our traditional culture and it was an integral part of people’s day to day lives. This sensibility still continues to exist in our villages.

Architecture essentially should be based on sensitivity to the environment around us. The application of this sensibility in our energy guzzling cities is where the problem lies which is often an outcome of economics. In view of our depleting resources we have to continue being innovative to sustain as there is no other way out. Core principles of architecture have sustainability ingrained in them and we believe that architecture that does not address the concerns of the environment that plague us is meaningless architecture. Sustainability should not be practiced to merely satisfy a fad or a style; it should become a part of reality.

In other words architecture should not be about green ratings as mere figures and numbers are commonly known to be manipulated. What are some of the opportunities and challenges your office faces now? The building industry is perhaps the most, energy consuming and destructive activity that there is; this I feel poses a challenge to any practice. Design is often a palliative measure in these conditions but working sensitively, it gives us the opportunity to reconcile with the environment. We see working in India as an opportunity, a chance to interact with the talent from the industry, like talented craftsmen and designers. It allows us to innovate and look at buildings beyond systems and as extensions of ourselves and the landscapes we live in.

Our belief in sensitivity towards landscape both built and un-built forms the basis for our design approaches. A thorough understanding of the various factors contributing to the idea of context informs the process. The idea of going ‘green’ is not a stylistic agenda for us, much rather it is about an ecological initiative which is embedded in our attitude which is to be able to build an architecture that addresses the realities of our time.

but there is an element of positivity in the current architectural scenario with numerous young practices investing in quality rather than quantum of work. But with a large amount of population moving to the cities by 2050, the focus needs to be about improving the quality of life in urban areas; essentially there is a dire need of quality public spaces in the city. We live in temporal conditions where the building scenario is about, ‘here now, gone tomorrow structures’ that have so come to dominate our landscapes. Architecture in these conditions risks superficiality and is subservient to economic undercurrents that sweep our landscapes. India is also

We draw from the numerous built examples of our past and the traditional patterns of living, reflecting nuances of healthy life as much as the technologically advancements offering solutions to the ecological problems we face.

In other words architecture should not be about green ratings as mere figures and numbers are commonly known to be manipulated.

For your firm, what is sustainable architecture and how does it go about achieving it?

The approach to the planning of any project is driven by the climatic and sociological considerations. Materials that have low embodied energy and are locally available are given precedence. We look to tap renewable resources such as sun, wind, rain, plantation or certified timber and bamboo for our projects. We constantly review our labour intensive industry and its practices for enabling better buildings and a better life for the people who help us craft our buildings. Where do you think architecture in India is headed? In the capital driven conditions that we live in, architecture has come to reside in images rather than as built realities,

made up of many small towns with small populations. These are areas which are going to be critical from the point of how we as architects or designers are going to react to these emerging new frontiers in the landscape as they will bridge the gap between the urban and the rural conditions. We in our studio feel that architecture for tomorrow should be about “presence” in an aesthetic and experiential sense. info@architectureparadigm.com www.architectureparadigm.com

Home Review March 2014

107

PAYG SOLAR PANELS

E-waste is a known environmental nightmare. What if the overflow of outdated tech junk could be put to better use than just providing fodder to landfills? San Jose-based manufacturer Fireclay teamed up with electronics recycler ECS Refining to transform the CRT glass found in old school TVs and computers into tiles for the home. The finished product is a nice ‘phosphor’ grey, and it’s kind of fun thinking that each piece contains the essence of one’s favourite tv shows! www.fireclaytile.com

PAYG solar panels made by Azuri Technologies allows customers to pay an up-front fee of around $10 for a solar charger kit that includes a two to five watt solar panel and a control unit that powers LED lights and charges devices like mobile phones. Energy is then paid for as and when it’s needed, either in advance each week, or when families have enough money to spare. It normally takes about 18 months to pay off one of the solar kits, after which the electricity is free to the new owner.

CUSHION-SAN PACKAGING

www.azuri-technologies.com

FIRECLAY TILES

Cushion-san reusable packaging by Japanese designer Masashi Sano protects fragile houseware, artworks and other delicate possessions just as well as plastic packing peanuts. Unlike the latter, however, you’ll want to keep these cute foam cutouts around for your next moving experience. Made from polyurethane foam, these small but strong miniature moving men can be used and reused for a long time thus preventing the throwing away of any material. www.shop.spoon-tamago.com

108 Home Review March 2014

A Contemporary Indian Household Designed by architect Pranav Raiji, this house calls out to the Indian roots of a family. Creative yet steeped in culture, the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;8C Ratna Aasthaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is a delightful residence that is definitely more than just a project. Text By Namrata Joshi Photographs Courtesy The Architect Home Review March 2014

109

The epicentre of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;8C Ratna Aasthaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is the dining area that connects each separate section and brings the family in to the middle of the apartment to integrate.

110 Home Review March 2014

A house should depict its inhabitants’ persona, and that is exactly what comes through when one steps into ‘8C Ratna Aastha’, an apartment designed by Pranav Raiji’s firm. Raiji.in is an integrated architecture, interior and landscape design consultancy based out of Ahmedabad and involved in a number of projects of varied nature and scale. The brief given to the studio was to transform their newly constructed apartment from the bare concrete structure and cement block masonry envelope that it presently was. The Doriwala family is very social and enjoys hosting parties for its extended family and friends frequently; the clients thus desired a residence that would bind the house with warmth and have an abundance of natural light and air. Ample place to display artefacts collected from their travels was also a requisite.

Lots of wood work, contrasting hues and spacious seating; the contemporary living room is roomy, comfortable and stylish.

As one enters the house, the culture of the place is quite visible and welcoming. By placing the dining area in the centre it becomes the junction that connects all the spaces in the house and brings the family closer together.

}

The more private spaces such as the bedrooms and the study area are tucked away in all the corners of the house, supported by layers of subsidiary spaces like the puja room, pantry, utility and the powder room. There is a certain contrast in the construct of these closed buffer spaces that enhances the living area with more capacity. The peripheries of the house are lined with slatted wooden screens that can slide over the walls and panels, filtering the natural light and breeze; ideal for the hot and humid weather of Ahmedabad. Standing next to the windows, the house offers vast open spaces on all four sides of the apartment, allowing for a serene view of the city. This was achieved by carving out a cross tunnel-like space in the middle of the house by the architect.

}

The flooring and ceiling patterns of the house are constructed in a defined manner. The flooring is made of dark stone that highlights the pathway, quite uncommon in most homes, and the low wooden ceiling in turn defines the adjoining walls and the wood work done on them.

Home Review March 2014

111

112 Home Review March 2014

The walk-in wardrobes and bathrooms are attached to the bedrooms; the operable glass louver screens and shutters separate the two and keep the privacy factor intact. The glass louvers allow sunlight to enter the walk-in wardrobes and bath areas and offer a spectacular view of the city that one may enjoy while lying on the bed that has a raised wooden deck.

}

Every section of the house is coloured in contrast and blends quite well with the wood work and other fixtures. The walls and ceilings are enamelled with neutral colours like grey and white, this creates a muted background for the bright upholstered pieces of loose furniture and lamps. The well chosen, bright tones of fabrics, along with selectively picked artefacts occupy distinct spaces of the apartment and keep it clutter free at the same time. This well balanced element is achieved by camouflaging all the storage units with the help of walls and columns and letting only certain pieces of furniture greet the guests. As architect Pranav Raiji shares, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The effort behind the structure was to identify and respond to the existing patterns, with the help of renewed and relevant interpretations. The concepts conceived are less complex, the materials preferred are less processed, and the techniques applied are less tedious, yet more effective.â&#x20AC;? The overall palette leans towards more natural and simple techniques. The house is contemporary in nature, yet it calls out to the values and closeness amongst the owner and his family. Each section is well articulated and appealing, and the alluring colours add to the calming effect that the house exhibits in all its glory.

The extensive wooden panelling at the entrance is not just all fancy. The grooves conceal a security window in the main door as well as a service entrance on the left.

mail@raiji.in www.raiji.in

Home Review March 2014

113

MAISON&OBJET 2014 DELIGHTS The decoration and homefashion event Maison&Objet opened its doors to the design fraternity this January in Paris. Demanding. Innovative. Visionary. These three words satisfactorily sum up the colossal decoration and home-fashion show that was Maison&Objet, Paris. From the 24th-28th January 2014, design aficionados from different parts of the world descended to the Paris Nord Villepinte convention centre to witness creative ingenuity at its best. 114 Home Review March 2014

When Verner Panton designed this iconic light in 1968, it was released in chrome, black, white and other colours. Now, a lacquered copper light is introduced at M&O 2014.

Maison&Objet presented a cutting-edge platform in line with developments in world markets. It revealed retail strategies that work and spotlighted emerging trends. This design extravaganza reflected the strategic thinking behind the best brains in the field and unveiled promising talents, through appealing special events. Bright colours dominated at Maison&Objet 2014, one of the examples being Arik Levy‘s Jar RGB for Lasvit.

Inga Sempé’s ‘Ruché’ quilted armchair.

The exhibition was divided into various sections. Known for its eclectic offer mixed with nomadic influences, ethnic chic.MIC refined its collections around inspirations and exotic materials. This authentic, quirky atmosphere was full of stories told to us by unusual objects, full of history and personality. At the home textiles sector, fashion and the home colluded through valuable collections dressed in high fashion designers’ codes. Linen played the star of the show with new generation collections: pristine white embroidered with coats of arms, revisited Basque-inspired stripes, a stonewash treatment and more.The stands displayed grand and stylish set designs. Contact Raj Anand & Associates +91 22 25224081 raj_anand59@hotmail.com www.maison-objet.com/en/paris

The Fortuna dining table is a fresh and contemporary statement from Boca do Lobo. It uses gold as its colour theme to represent empowerment and sophistication. HomeReview ReviewAugust March 2013 2014 Home

115

The bold, explosive and colourful scenography of Actuel was by Jean-Philippe Nuel.

Paola Paronettoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colourful creations.

116 Home Review March 2014

The interior decoration section showcased concepts from Gustavian period pieces to urban-inspired classics; from family homes to vacation houses. Classic style was revisited in the form of furniture, accessories, craftsmanship and concepts here. At Craft, the art trades space, unique and rare pieces and singular craftsmanship by designers, artisans and artists were on display. It was a presentation of different materials allowing traditional and contemporary pieces to commingle and highlighted the work of nearly 160 artists including glassblowers, metalworkers, jewelers and potters who tame their favourite material with the magic of fire.

The Guatemala wallpaper is a part of Miss Print‘s new collection, Collection 3.

Actuel, the lifestyle show for urban decoration was dedicated to rich, contemporary trends with the excellence of its furniture/decoration concepts inspiring different styles. The bold, explosive and colourful scenography was by Jean-Philippe Nuel. The home accessories sector presented colourful articles in which fashion and decoration mixed within a range of varied worlds; from decorative objects to nonconformist gifts by way of toys or fashion objects. Trendy, even quirky objects, occasional furniture pieces and decorative articles with a strong identity found place here.

Boca do Lobo’s stand at the Scènes d’Intérieur was heralded for its pure exclusivity, luxury design and creativity.

At scènes d’intérieur, beautiful, luxurious and extravagant decoration projects were showcased. Honouring the designers who count, Maison&Objet announced British designer Tom Dixon as The Designer of the Year. Tom Dixon’s Plum Collection is created in hand-blown and hand-cut glass.

The Hang Sitt Stool by Danish brand Norrmade. Home Review March 2014

117

Subscribe to The Inside Track and stay connected

India’s leading trade publication that connects manfacturers, dealers and designers across the country No. of Issues

You Pay

You Save

36 + 8 Free

Rs. 900

20%

24 + 4 Free

Rs. 600

16%

Rs. 300

I am enclosing a cheque/DD No _________________ Dated __________________ drawn on ( name of bank ) ________________________________ favouring “Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd.” for Rs.__________________________________( Add Rs 40/- for non Mumbai cheque/DD ) YOUR DETAILS Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms_________First Name __________________________________________Surname ____________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City____________________________________________State____________________________________________________Pin Code________________ Phone__________________________Email____________________________________________________Occupation_____________________________ the inside track reserves the right to extend, cancel or discontinue the offer without giving any reason or prior notice

product

designer

MAT TEO Z ORZ ENONI

Ceramics and glass? Copper and Wood? Italian designer Matteo Zorzenoni tests the limits of everyday materials by combining them with unexpected partners. The result is often surprising, but always elegant. Text By Chryselle Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Silva Dias Photographs Courtesy The Designer

Home Review March 2014

119

Italian designer Matteo Zorzenoniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oeuvre is all about testing limits. Whether it is in designs that bring together two diametrically different materials (glass and ceramic, for example) or challenging the fundamentals of weight and shape with unusual patterns and balances, Zorzenoni is carving a niche for himself in the design world. His customers include Cappellini, Mercedes Benz, Replay, Alcantara, Bosa Ceramiche and Miniforms.

Conica Collection

Born in Treviso, Italy in 1978, Zorzenoni has been working as an industrial designer since 2002. His works have been exhibited at the Venice International Architecture Biennale, the London Design Festival and the Saint Etienne Biennial of Art and Design, among others. Zorzenoni was also a consultant for Fabrica, the communications research studio founded by Benetton in 1994. Here, he worked with the respected Spanish designer Jaime Hayon, a collaboration that is on-going since 2004. Zorzenoniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experiments with materials and their innate properties have led to some interesting and unusual designs. The Conica Collection (2012) of side tables are made from lacquered wood and lacquered copper and was exhibited at the Edition of Nine in Milan where nine designers were each paired with a local craftsman who specialised in a particular material. In this case, Zorzenoni was paired with Vanzo Ferro Battuto, a traditional blacksmith who uses modern techniques in his work to create contemporary furniture and wrought-iron products. The Duke table (Prototype 2011) made of natural walnut and lacquered wood is a simple and elegant piece of furniture, versatile in its uses.

120 Home Review March 2014

Duke Table

Circus Low Tables

Simple yet evocative is the line of Circus low tables (2012) made from lacquered wood and resin. The simple design reminds you of the circus and all the memories that it evokes. These would be lovely in a child’s room or even in a contemporary space for a touch of whimsy.

Path Collection

Crystal Ball

The ‘Path’ collection of screens was made for public spaces such as bars and restaurants where with their simple addition an extraordinary sense of seclusion is created, one that you might get in a ‘reserved’ enclosure. Made out of wood and Alcantara, a “unique and innovative covering material”, the Path has many possibilities - from privacy screens in restaurants and parks, or even a playful rendering of a maze, where screens get lined up in several different formations. Zorzenoni’s designs for vases have received special recognition. His ‘Crystal Ball’ (2011) combined marble and Pyrex with the translucent spheres balancing delicately on the granite base. A more recent version of the Crystal Ball was made for Cappellini, with a wooden base instead of a marble one. The Ninfea Vase is named after the Water Lily. Made out of ceramic and glass, its elegant pink tones remind one of a ballerina waiting in the wings to go on stage. Contrastingly, the Meccano series of vases is a bold and striking set of vases reminiscent of traditional blue and white pottery. There is nothing floral or delicate about this range, though. Strong stripes pack in a punch and make the pieces stand out.

Meccano Series Of Vases

Home Review March 2014

121

Zorzenoni has a range of lighting as well. The ‘Warm Up’ lamp conjured out of thin metal rods and glass spheres was inspired by the warm-up routines practised by dancers. Both the Warm Up lamp and the Ninfea Vase were created for an exhibition to celebrate 30 years in business of the Milanese clothing store Dimensionze Danza. Called ‘Pirouette’, the exhibition invited five designers to create objects that interpreted the pirouette movement. The Heavy Light (2010) Marble Lamp does not look like a lamp at all. A simple marble rectangle with a base, the light adds a stark contemporary touch to the interiors. The Trumpet Light (2012), on the other hand, has no plans to blend into the background. Made with borosilicate glass and a ceramic ‘trumpet’ inside (that hides the bulb), the Trumpet is a dramatic hanging light. The transparency of the glass contrasts beautifully with the handmade pottery, showcasing this juxtaposition of materials that Zorzenoni is becoming known for.

Trumpet Light

Warm Up Lamp

Heavy Light

122 Home Review March 2014

Apart from furniture and lighting, Zorzenoniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other notable designs include Tropicana, a mirror for Miniforms; MrsMiss, a set of two Pyrex carafes in different colours, that suggest the shapes of, well, a young girl and a more mature woman; the In-lay Chopping board, an ingenious beech and wooden two-in-one chopping board and the Parchi di Mestre, a series of bold public signs created while working with Fabrica.

Tropicana Mirror

Zorzenoniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work has certainly evolved over the years that he has been designing. Some things, however, have remained consistent - his passion for experimenting with materials and his now trademark combination of using different materials in surprising and unexpected ways. info@matteozorzenoni.it www.matteozorzenoni.it

Mrs-Miss

In-lay Chopping board

Home Review March 2014

123

Bespoke furniture pieces are arranged around the studio in a warm and home-like manner.

124 Home Review March 2014

Retail Therapy

Tailored Care For Isabelle Vernhes and Philippe Coudray, India was love at first sight. Their venture, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;My Tailor Homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, gave them the perfect way to establish a connection and to combine business and pleasure between India and France. And, they have indeed succeeded in doing so, albeit in a fairly non-traditional way. Text By Dhanishta Shah Photographs My Tailor Home

Home Review March 2014

125

With the soft yellow lighting from the tailored lights in the store, one has a truly luxurious setting.

The ceiling and wood flooring are dark and have the same colour, as the duo’s studio in Pantin, France.

My Tailor Home is a refreshingly different setup. For one, it is not a usual home décor store. It is located in the Lower Parel area of Mumbai, which is the hub of several décor stores. But for the owners, the term store does not fit into the idea of the space at all. ‘Studio’ would be an apt term to use. Just like an artist has his studio where he creates his art, this is a place where a new relationship between India and France is celebrated through bespoke décor that exudes the highest level of French craftsmanship.

Hence, they have furniture made from alabaster, bespoke upholstery, luminous objects and sculptures, leather tiles, handcrafted tableware, fine furnishings, porcelain art, designer chandeliers and elaborate sculptures. They also represent high-end and specialised companies providing services such as clay moulding, elaboration and glazing techniques on varied surfaces and furniture pieces, glass blowing, fine bathroom fittings and creative use of high end concrete.

As the name hints, My Tailor Home provides tailored décor items to home owners after a process of collaboration and discussion with the homeowners and architects. The studio represents more than 16 designers, mostly from France. Each designer has an exclusive strength and specialises in one aspect of décor.

The space is indeed a reflection of the brands that it displays. Conceptualised by Philippe and Isabelle, the studio is small but sophisticated, specially designed to the smallest detail.

126 Home Review March 2014

“Our friend, Christophe Faton, designer of our stands in exhibitions, translated our ideas into 3D drawings. We have adapted our design to the morphology of the existing place,” says Isabelle. Indeed, there already were columns that separated the wall into several panels. This is why they created the place in the form of small ‘scénètes’. Each section is wallpapered differently and designated to one designer. This creates different atmospheres in the store. The common thread of opulence binds these areas together. When one views beautifully handcrafted décor pieces against the backdrop of elaborate wall coverings, the effect is indeed mesmerising. Combine that with the soft yellow lighting from the tailored lights in the store, and one has a truly luxurious setting.

Some of the wall panels have been used to display fabrics in a very innovative manner.

Bespoke furniture pieces are arranged around the studio in a warm and home-like manner. The ceiling and wood flooring are dark and have the same colour, as the duo’s studio in Pantin, France. Chairs and tables are arranged in a casual chic manner. The intricately carved and hand treated tableware sits regally on the various tables around the studio. Sculptures and lights that look like sculptures are also fitted all around. Carpets from Philippe Parent Studio add to the cosy atmosphere. This arrangement is only a hint of the vast offerings they have. On one of the tables, loads of beautifully illustrated catalogues and books showcase the immense design possibilities that the studio offers.

The studio represents more than 16 designers, mostly from France. The “products” are extremely high end and bespoke.

Clearly, they target the high-end luxury market where the highest level of customisation is desired, and they are quite clear about that. “It’s a bit like fashion where you have haute couture with customisation to the extreme and you have ready to wear, which cannot be customised,” explains Isabelle. Almost all the companies in the studio are working on made to measure projects and hence it is very difficult to demonstrate the extent of their respective capabilities. Yet, in the décor and the design, the studio, as it is, makes it possible to understand the diversity and quality of the products offered by this very unique atelier!

The studio is the beginning of the love affair with India, and Isabelle and Philippe are still looking at strengthening this bond. “We would love to get him a little brother or sister and to continue the adventure in another form!” they say, as we sign off from the studio. www.mytailorhome.com

Home Review March 2014

127

128 Home Review March 2014

THE MAGIC OF THE MANDARIN

Located on the River Rhône within the city’s shopping, historic and business districts, the Mandarin Oriental, Geneva will satiate even the most fastidious world traveller.

Text By Natalie Pedder-Bajaj Photos Courtesy The Mandarin Oriental Home Review March 2014

129

130 Home Review March 2014

Opening its doors in 1950 after World War II as the luxurious Hotel Du Rhône, the MO has undergone a number of renovations, effortlessly weaving its past history into a contemporary palette and elegance we have come to expect from the group today. During redecorations in the late 90’s, the original framework and feel of the building (an early modernist Art Deco style) was left intact, under the supervision of Swiss Architect Jean-Louis Christen and interior designers Chhada Siembieda and Partners. Another major transformation in July 2008 by acclaimed New York designer Adam D. Tihany gave the hotel a sleek modern look and saw the launch of Geneva’s popular restaurants Rasoi by Vineet, Le Sud and MO Bar.

}

French Designer Sybille de Margerie of SM Design headed the most recent phase of renovation - the new interiors a.k.a the Mandarin Floor that offers modern and spacious rooms immersed in vibrant though delicate colour patterns. Greek marble and soft wool carpets bedeck the floor, while leather, silk and mohair complete the plush look. The Mandarin rooms located on the sixth floor blend contemporary design with effortless elegance, offering elite guests a choice of two sophisticated pallets; fuchsia and silver or delicate tones of gold.

}

The interiors of the MO are an intelligent symmetry of clean lines embellished with well-designed furnishings, juxtaposing bold modern art against soft earthy tones of greens, browns and creams. Another unique design in the rooms is a sliding cabinet which cleverly incorporates the mini bar and laundry compartment, accessible by housekeeping from the outside for the seamless delivery of drycleaning, polished shoes and restocking of drinks with no disturbance to guests.

Home Review March 2014

131

}

The hotel’s Michelin-starred signature restaurant Rasoi by Vineet run by India’s very own master chef Vineet Bahtia, is decorated in vibrant colours of reds and purples evoking our colourful heritage and traditions. While the contemporary MO Bar has cherry wood ‘fin’ planks connected with a glass membrane lit from below on the outside and materials such as leather, silk and warm wood on the inside. In addition, six sound proof private rooms are located on the first floor with their own distinctive look in tones of cognac and beige. Besides ample natural daylight, the rooms provide a grand view of the Rhône River, a great place to hold conferences and meetings. Whether on business or a pleasure trip, the Mandarin Oriental in Geneva has something all travellers can appreciate - class!

www.mandarinoriental.com/geneva

132 Home Review March 2014

DESIGNQUEST

By Aakanksha Rajhans

THE JOY OF DESIGNING The sun rises and the alarm rings. Somehow I open my eyes to slide my finger across my cell phone to shut the noise and go back to sleep, I will wake up in 10 mins I think. This is the story of many mornings, for many people. But how many notice the beautiful interaction design that switches off the alarm? It is so seamless that we can perform the action in our sleep. This is but one simple instance - in a broader sense there are a number of areas design has touched upon and thus become a necessity of life.

That I belong to a family running an advertising and communications business consolidated this idea further and it became amply clear that to hone my skills, a graduate course in Industrial Design would be most suitable. I enrolled for a course in Industrial Design at the MIT Institute of Design in Pune.The institute not only imbibed the requisite technical skills needed to express myself, but also gave me exposure to contemporary global conversations in my field.

The curiosity, eagerness or design bug, if I may use the word, bit me quite early; from the start as a child I was fascinated by everyday objects and as time went by the desire to instill creativity in common household products became paramount.

Home Review March 2014

133

After having won the IIDA Incheon Green Heart Netizens Award in 2010 and Home Review Designquest 3 in 2012 this was another recognition which was worth the time and effort. I try and design products which can serve as a paradigm of innovation, for example the ‘Acuwake sock’. The Acuwake sock was my group project for the Red Dot Awards.

134 Home Review March 2014

The sock gives you a rejuvenating wake up call, helping you to gradually and smoothly come out of your deep sleep ready to start your morning fresh and vibrant when you are alone. The sock has micro vibrators which massage your feet at the acupressure points resulting into a healthy heart, strong spine and an efficient intestine. The Eco-cool bottle earned me a nomination in the IIDA green heart competition. Designed in 3 layers, the innermost copper container of the bottle holds the water. The middle layer consists of sponge made from khus (vetiver) or agricultural fibre waste and the outermost layer is a rubber sleeve. The materials for all the layers are either biodegradable or recyclable and have been chosen keeping in mind their properties. Bloom From cutting and washing to cooking, Bloom can perform a plethora of functions

I have worked as a freelance designer before my full time position with Webonise Lab as a User Interaction and User Experience Designer. And along the way prestigious laurels in product design events, competitions as well as structured work experience made the journey exciting. The ultimate validation unarguably came from winning the RED DOT award in 2013.

Eco-cool Bottle The Eco-cool waterbottle consists of three layers, each made from either biodegradable or recyclable material

Acuwake Sock The Acuwake sock helps you to gradually and smoothly come out of your deep sleep. It’s a Red Dot winner!

My design skills were first put to test during my internship wherein my task was to develop signage systems for Mahindra Composites in Pune. This exercise made it evident that within the great ambit of design, communication design and product design is something I wanted to explore.

The petals of the product are made of high strength, heat resistant and non-stick material - it can assume multiple positions depending on the application for which the device is being used.

Belit Bag Due to movement of a person the pressure on the bean bag changes creating energy for the peizo electric cells to power the LEDs

Belit Bag The LED’s in the bean bag light up when a person sits on it

Infinity Clip The Infinity clip is smooth and ergonomically safe Bloom The petals of this product are made of high strength, heat resistant and non-stick material

Being a girl it is but natural to devise a device which will simplify kitchen chores and this led to the inception of ‘Bloom’, from cutting and washing to cooking, Bloom can perform a plethora of functions.

The petals also turn at speeds ranging from 10rpm to 8000rpm depending on the application. A touch sensitive control and display panel on the back of the Bloom’s stem controls the entire device. Though innovation is necessary for good design it can never serve as a synonym of good design. To drive home this point I would like to point out the example of the ‘Infinity Clip’. A clip is an object of mass consumption but the design of this clip is what makes it different, a curved take on the usually angular clothes clips, the Infinity clip is smooth and ergonomically safe with no sharp surfaces or edges. As a designer I believe we have the liberty to not only think but also design out of the box, the Belit bag is an outcome of such wishful design thinking. The LEDs. attached to this bean bag are the surprising element of this product.

The bean bag has a transparent outer casing. The lights are powered through peizo electric cells. Due to movement of a person the pressure on the bean bag changes creating energy for the peizo electric cells to power the LEDs. The bag can be moulded and kept in the corner of a room making a great piece of conversation when not in use. Hard work is inevitable for every project I undertake as a designer, but I must add I design because it gives me joy, it may be a product, a graphic, an app or even a small doodle. This is just the beginning for me and to quote Robert Frost quite aptly I have miles to go before I sleep. aakanksha.rajhans@gmail.com

Home Review March 2014

135

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION

External Security and Gates Be it commercial spaces or housing societies, a gate is the periphery which demarcates the entry point from the rest of the landscape hence it requires special attention - a series of automated gates does the trick effortlessly and seals off the area when required and welcomes folks when neccessary.

SLIDING GATES BY GANDHI AUTOMATION

Sliding Gates use a ground mounted rail for the gate wheels to move on. These gates do not encroach into the driveway since they slide on the side of the opening; they are also ideal incase of inclined drive-ways.

CANTILEVER GATE BY TOSHI AUTOMATIC SYSTEMS The cantilever gates designed by Toshi Automatic Systems are perfect for areas with truck or heavy vehicle traffic, these gates can cater to a certain degree of unevenness on the ground. www.toshiautomatic.com

RETRACTABLE GATES BY GANDHI AUTOMATION

Retractable Gates from Gandhi Automations Pvt Ltd. not only eliminate the need of a back run area but are a unique combination of technology and design. Based on an intelligent infrared double probe anti-collision device, the gate can automatically perform any return operation in case of a collision with any human or foreign object. This mechanism ensures the safety of the vehicles and pedestrian. The gate is also equipped with anti-climb alarm system that turns on when it senses an obstacle on top of the gate. www.geapl.co.in

136 Home Review March 2014

The built-in anti jerk mechanism prevents damage to the automatic system of sliding gates and the thermal switch obstacle detection causes the gate movement to stop if something is in the way. Tracked sliding gates can span over larger opening widths. Optionally, a pedestrian gate can be integrated with these types of gates. These sliding gates can also be operated manually in case of a power failure. www.geapl.co.in

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION

SWING GATE OPENER LIVFUTURE

The swing gate opener allows a gate to be controlled by remote control switch and other access control systems such as RFID, Biometric and VDP. With the new wireless keypad the gate only operates with a password set by you. A key is also provided so that gates can be opened manually in the event of power failure. The product is CE certfied. www.livfuture.com

SLIDE GATE OPENER LIVFUTURE

The slide gate opener is ideal for metal and wooden gates, it can be controlled using a remote device. The remote control operating distance can be upto 150 feet. The slide gate operator is CE certified which follows the EU’s directives for regulatory compliance of most electrical and electronic products. www.livfuture.com

SLIDING GATES HORMANN

Hörmann sliding gates come with five selfmonitoring closing edge safety systems to stop the gate instantly on encountering the slightest resistance. This ensures the highest safety for people and vehicles. The sliding gate comes along with an electronic control system which is integrated into the post. An individually coded hand transmitter makes opening the sliding gate from a vehicle especially convenient for people who regularly drive into the premises. www.hormann.in

Home Review March 2014

137

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION

CCTV Surveillance and Intercoms Closed-circuit television cameras can enhance the security of your premises. They can be used as a standalone device for home entrances and integrated with automated gates in case of entrances to housing societies and commercial premises. CCTV’s can also be used for surveillance of specific zones - more so in cases of commercial spaces spread over a wide area.

DIY CCTV SURVEILLANCE KIT ZICOM

HOME CCTV CAMERAS GODREJ HOME SOLUTIONS

The Godrej Home Solutions’ high tech CCTV camera helps you view and record events at your home or office The state-of-the-art CCTV system monitors events in the home when one is away. It has a 360 degree rotational body which enables you to angle the camera as required to view the desired area of your home or office. The special G-Sensor records sudden movements or events occurring in and around the area. It has a user-friendly operation with pre-recorded instructions that make using the product easy and convenient.

This out-of-the-box CCTV solution is easy to install and even simpler to use. All cameras are equipped with infrared Array LED (IR) sensors which gets activated automatically in low-light or no-light situations to allow you to see up to 30 meters (95feet) away and deactivate once lighting conditions are brighter to allow for round the clock monitoring. Two more cameras can be added to this kit at a later stage, should the need arise. Even better, you can also securely access your system from practically anywhere in the world from almost any computer connected to the internet. You can even use your smartphone to know what’s going on even when you are not around. www.zicom.com

www.godrejsecure.com

DIGITAL VIDEO MANAGER HONEYWELL

Shaped by Honeywell’s technology and integration expertise, the Digital Video Manager (DVM) is a scalable, digital closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance solution that sets a new standard in cost effectiveness, flexibility and performance. The solution takes advantage of your enterprise network communications structure - eliminating the need for coaxial cables and providing unmatched camera portability. DVM’s flexible architecture also allows you to re-use your existing CCTV infrastructure of analog switchers, multiplexers, monitors and coaxial cabling, while extending their functionality through integration to the enterprise network. This protects your existing CCTV investment while taking advantage of the latest digital video technologies. In addition, DVM is tightly integrated with ‘pro-watch security management software’ providing alarm and event activated recording so that you only capture the video you need, when you most need it. www.honeywellintegrated.com

138 Home Review March 2014

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION INDOOR INTERCOM ROOM UNIT LEGRAND

The Broadcast Intercom Room Unit offers a simple interface for communication with other intercom stations in the home. The modern, adjustable backlit keypad makes it simple to communicate in low-light conditions. In addition to paging, the user can monitor other units from anywhere in the house. www.legrand.com

A-BUS INTERCOM HONEYWELL The A-BUS Intercom is easy to install requiring only a single Cat5e wire to carry all communication options as well as power to operate the units. There is nothing complicated to connect. One simply has to follow the colour coded labels to punch down all connections between the master console, room console, door communicators and central wiring hub. Honeywellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A-BUS Intercom is available in QuickNetwork as well as SuperPro Packaging to provide you with utmost installation flexibility. www.asia.security.honeywell.com

OUTDOOR INTERCOM UNIT LEGRAND

The Broadcast Intercom Patio Unit includes most of the options available in an indoor room unit, but in a weatherproof version. It is available in classic finishes to enhance the appeal of any home. www.legrand.com

An intercom system is a type of home security device which is used to communicate with people outside and inside a building. These systems come with varied specifications and features. Different people opt for different systems according to their personal requirement and desired functions.

Home Review March 2014

139

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION

Smart Control Systems Smart control systems are defined as miniaturized devices that incorporate functions of sensing, actuation and control. The smart control system features a varied range of products, but the key function is to integrate manual functions into a digital interface or a remote control. EZSWITCH BUILDTRACK/SURMOUNT

EzSwitch is an elegant touch switch solution that can be operated manually or through a remote control. The manual touch switch and the remote control work interchangeably, like 2-way switches, where users can switch electrical devices ON/OFF. Soft LED displays on the switch provide convenient night time access and also provide the status of the load at all times and the low voltage design makes them safer than conventional switches The touch switch solution can be installed in both existing properties as replacement switches and in new properties as well. www.buildtrack.in

LIGHT MOTION SENSOR ANCHOR

A motion detector is often integrated as a component of a system that automatically performs a task or alerts a user of motion in an area. The Anchor motion sensor is user friendly and easy to install. The device works on infrared technology with room temperature detection. The sensor can be mounted on a standard ceiling height for lighting control in residential and commercial units. It allows for 360 degree detection and carries a watt load of 330 watts for CFL and 660 watts for incandescent. The energy saving device also allows a delay time ranging from 10 seconds to 30 minutes. www.anchor-world.com

EZREMOTE BUILDTRACK/SURMOUNT

The EzRemote solution (remote control switch) is unique in its ability to allow control of existing switches in any property using a remote control. EzRemote can be used in any home to turn ON/OFF, lights, fans or low current loads using a remote control without replacing existing switches. When used with existing switches, the remote works to turn device ON/OFF when manual switch is in OFF position. When manual switch is in ON position, it overrides the remote. It can be installed within an hour and requires no external wiring. www.buildtrack.in

140 Home Review March 2014

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION

UNIVERSAL MEDIA CONNECTOR BRIDGE LINKSYS

EZCONTROL BUILDTRACK/SURMOUNT

EzControl (Smartphone Control) is a unique solution that offers users the unprecedented flexibility to operate a switch through multiple modes: A physical touch switch, a remote control and a smart app. The smart app operates on local wi-fi or via internet enabling smartphone or tablet control. The solution offers control of lights, fans, curtains, projectors, projector screens or practically any other electrical device within a property, even ones with high load requirements. This solution involves some wiring from the touch switches to BuildTrack controllers which serve as the central hub of the EzControl system. This solution is often considered as a value adds during renovation. www.buildtrack.in

WIRELESS AC ROUTERS LINKSYS

The Linksys wireless AC routers were developed to optimise video streaming experiences. Providing Gigabit wi-fi speeds, it allows content to download faster and large video or music files to sync more quickly. With an increasing number of wi-fi devices in the home leading to greater internet consumption, this new wireless device will help you meet your digital lifestyle demands. www.linksys.com

With the new Linksys Universal Media Connector Bridge you can connect wired devices such as Smart TVs and game consoles to your Wireless-AC network and stream HD, even 3D HD video content wirelessly faster. The Universal Media Connector has been optimised to work with Linksys Wireless AC routers. The connector operates in the 5Ghz band offering less interference for a clearer signal. Additionally, with four Gigabit ports you can connect a variety of entertainment devices in the living room to the internet at incredibly fast speeds. www.linksys.com

The smart control device is a combination of software and hardware; the software is installed on the computer whereas in cases of phones, apps do the trick. Apart from apps which are offered by the company selling the product, the market is also packed with a lot of generic apps.

Home Review March 2014

141

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION

Smart Control Systems With smart control devices you can manage all of your devices according to individual time schedules and/or scenes. Additionally these devices are easy to install and intuitive to use, the wireless setup can be achieved quite comfortably sans big efforts and technical knowledge. The range of functions that can be

LIGHTING CONTROL LEGRAND

EZSENSE MOTION SENSOR BUILDTRACK/SURMOUNT

Sophisticated controls and simple to use. The RF Lighting Control system allows homeowners to control lights, ceiling fans and small appliances from anywhere in their home, providing the ultimate in living simplicity and energy savings. RF Lighting Control systems are easy to install because they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require master controllers, special wiring or complex training courses.

EzSense is a solution that is intended for convenience and energy savings in areas such as stairwells, bathrooms, passageways, pantries, kitchens, equipment rooms and other areas where lights need to be turned ON based on the movement. Ezsense turns the lights ON when movement is sensed and turns it OFF (with brief delay) when no motion is sensed. The motion sensor is based on Passive Infrared (PIR) sensing technology. It is a simple and practical solution for energy conservation not only for lighting but also for any other electrical devices that need to be triggered based on motion sensing.

www.legrand.com

www.buildtrack.in

SERENA SHADES LUTRON

Serena remote-controlled shades can be adjusted from anywhere in the room. The ultra efficient drive technology offers the beauty, luxury and quality of a motorised shade at a modest price comparable to that of other brandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; manual shades. The shades have a 3-5 year battery life, so replacing batteries will be a rarity. www.lutron.com

142 Home Review March 2014

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION LIVING LIGHT ANCHOR

Lighting control systems are widely used on both indoor and outdoor lighting of commercial, industrial, and residential spaces. Lighting control systems serve to provide the right amount of light where and when it is needed. The Living Light controller by Anchor leverages Panasonic’s expertise in automation solutions and adds a touch of ardour to your home; the efficient controller allows four preset scenes with a control panel and has a load capacity of 860 watts. The load capacity can be enhanced further with the help of an additional booster www.anchor-world.com

MAESTRO OCCUPANCY SENSORS LUTRON

Maestro occupancy/vacancy sensors by Lutron automatically turn lights on when you enter a space and off when you leave, making them a convenient way to save energy. They’re ideal for rooms where lights are accidentally left on, such as an office, or rooms that you often enter with your hands full, such as a laundry room or supply closet. Maestro occupancy/vacancy sensors are superior in-wall sensors featuring Lutron XCTTM technology. Its superior sensitivity recognises the difference between fine human motion and background noise and provides superior prevention of false-ons and false-offs. With 250,000 on/off switch cycles (30+ year switch lifetime), its smart ambient light detection auto-adjusts to turn lights on only if daylight is insufficient. www.lutron.com

EZCURTAIN BUILDTRACK/SURMOUNT

EzCurtain is a solution that enables automated opening and closing of window curtains and blinds. The movement can be initiated either from the EzRemote (Remote Control Switch) or from EzSwitch (Touch Switch), providing users with ultimate levels of flexibility. Multiple curtains can also be controlled from a single remote. The motion of the curtain is in the form of a smooth, continuous movement initiated by pressing and holding down the button on the remote or the switch.

controlled using such systems include audio/ video, internet devices and media, intelligent lighting systems, climate, window shades & drapes, security & surveillance, doors, entryways, gates, pool and spas and much more…

www.buildtrack.in

Home Review March 2014

143

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION

E-Homes Smart control systems have given rise to the concept of Ehomes. An Ehome is a residence where all the functions are driven by smart control systems. Ehomes are a preferred choice in developed nations and the trend is fast catching on in India too. A lot of ‘ready to move in’ apartments and houses designed in our cities are already making use of this novel concept.

THE UNITY HOME SYSTEM LEGRAND

The Unity Home System is more than just a home control solution. It’s a way to maximise your home’s potential by allowing it to respond to your lifestyle. Through a variety of intelligent individual systems from the Studio Collection - such as lighting, intercoms, cameras and multi-room audio - Unity places the power of control right at your fingertips. Cameras and intercoms help you monitor loved ones and protect against intruders. Onetouch lighting control sets the perfect scene for any occasion, while multi-room audio lets you enjoy the sounds of your favorite artists inside or outside the home. Cutting edge mobile access keeps you connected and in control of your home regardless of location. The Unity Home System comes along with the Unity firmware, the Unity 2.3 firmware update adds the ability to internet enable any of the cameras connected to the system. This allows the user to view any of the cameras from a Mac/PC or most web enabled smart phones. The update is a free update. www.legrand.ca

144 Home Review March 2014

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION TAHOMA BY SOMFY

Somfy innovates with TaHomA, a new home automation system that gives you total control over the critical energy-management devices in your home like motorised interior and exterior window coverings, lights and thermostats. With TaHomA, you can manage the balance between natural light, artificial light and temperature to maximise your home’s energy savings with the convenience of one-click control . TaHomA uses Z-Wave, an interoperable 2-way RF mesh networking technology. Because this system communicates wirelessly, your home can easily be retrofitted with Somfy’s TaHomA-optimised lighting controls, thermostats, and interfaces that communicate with your Somfy-powered motorised products. The system can include as many Z-Wave devices as you like. Best of all, TaHomA connects to your home network, offering you secure access to the system anytime, anywhere, from any computer with an internet connection, as well as your smartphone or tablet.

TaHomA’s web-based interface is accessible from any computer with an internet connection. One simply needs to log into the controller zone at www.somfytahoma.com with the username and password created during installation. The controller provides access to all of TaHomA features and functions such as activating devices, creating and editing scenes, and creating and editing schedules. There are currently apps available for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. As TaHomA’s web-interface is based on Adobe Flash, any Flash supported tablet can be used at www.somfytahoma.com www.somfytahoma.com

Ehomes offer you not only super comfort and convenience but also pays you back by way of reduced electricity bills and zero maintenance.

Home Review March 2014

145

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION

Smart Locking Solutions With digital door locks you are no longer constrained to use your regular key to unlock your doors. The key is not a physical key but an electronic key configured specially for this purpose; the key wirelessly performs the authentication needed to automatically unlock the door.

PIN CODE RF CARD KEY & REMOTE CONTROL YALE

This high tech Proximity Card Digital Door Lock comes with a remote control (optional) and features pincode or RF card key access, smart touchpad, automatic locking, break-in/damage alarm, low battery alarm and emergency power supply. This rim lock can be locked with a pin code of 6-12 digits. The model is available in black colour and is suitable for 45-55mm steel and wooden doors. www.yale.co.in

DIGITAL DOOR LOCK YDR 333 YALE

The Yale Digital Door Lock Collection is a smarter solution for your home. With Yale Digital Door Locks you are no longer constrained to use a mechanical key to unlock your front door. Instead you can choose if you want to use the quicker and secure electronic key, a remote controller or PIN keypad for a completely keyless solution.

I SERIES INTELLIGENT FINGERPRINT LOCK MDI

The I series Intelligent finger print lock comes along with a black body and chrome-plated frame, The smooth sliding cover functions seamlessly and activates the automatic sensor. www.myradigitalindia.com

146 Home Review March 2014

The YDR 333 features various accesses such as RF Card and PIN Code. It has a silent button and missing key card invalidation. The YDR 333 comes with features such as operation status notification, automatic locking, breakin/damage/fire alarm, low battery alarm and emergency power supply. This rim lock can be secured with a pin code of 6-12 digits, is available in white colour and is suitable for 35-45mm door. www.yale.co.in

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION SMART AIR MUL-T LOCK

SMARTair, Mul-T-Lockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friendly access control solution upgrades your security to an entirely new level - with very little effort on your part. All you need to do is mount SMARTair directly onto the existing mechanical lock â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no wiring required! It fits almost any lock in just about any type of door - including glass doors, interior doors, emergency exits with panic bars, lockers, cabinets and more. Once installed, SMARTair protects you with state-of-the-art access control that is simple to program and easy to use. Its smart capabilities include authorisations, time schedules, event logs, instant cancellation of lost or stolen electronic cards and more. A keyless electronic lock specially designed for lockers may be conveniently integrated into the SMARTair system installed on the premises. www.mul-t-lock.com

DIGITAL DOOR LOCK YDD 1212 YALE

Yale YDD1212 has two access solutions, pin code and mechanical key for your convenience. The lock comes along with an illuminated touch screen for convenient night time entry. The lock makes way for tiered management by pin codes; one master code is used for registration and lock setting and one user code for normal usage.The YDR 1212 is available in black colour and is suitable for 35-55 mm doors(35mm with special thin door gasket). www.yale.co.in

RESIDENTIAL FINGERPRINT LOCK ADEL

The perfect match of fingerprint and RFID technology, this lock comes along with multi-deadbolt mortise which enhances flexibility and provides higher security. When voltage is insufficient for a fingerprint to unlock, a password can be used instead. www.adellock.com

A number of smart locks come with keypads which allow you to control the locking and unlocking mechanism via a password. Biometric locks which also fall in the same category personalises the locking parameters further since the lock can be locked and unlocked only by authorised individuals registered in the device.

Home Review March 2014

147

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION

Smart Storage Solutions In case of Digital Safes the most basic model allows access by PIN codes that may be changed by users and administrators. Safes generally also allow multiple users with different PIN codes. A higher stratum of safe quality allows PIN access, but may also require key cards as well. Requiring two access tools enhances security as PIN codes may be passed to unauthorised users. Also, key cards may be lost or stolen. Combining the two greatly reduces the chance of illicit access.

ELECTRONIC RHINO GODREJ

Incredibly strong yet compact, Rhino safes can be easily accommodated in all residences. The electronic access system is also quick and easy, making this safe as secure as a bank. The Rhino safe comes with feature of a heavy plate door hinged on strong pivots in solid-steel bearing block with 2 shooting bolts behind a rebate which act like a continuous vertical bolt. The lock and vital parts of the bolt work are protected with a drill-resistant armour plate.

E SWIPE GODREJ

E-Swipe safes are electronic safes with a technologically advanced swipe reader that can be locked and accessed by the use of debit/credit cards. It not only enhances your security, but also adds to the elegance of your well done interiors. E-Swipe safes are ideal for homes, financial institutions, offices, shops, hotels, hospitals etc. It has a heavy duty push-button keypad with a magnetic swipe reader and the keypad freezes if a wrong password is entered or a wrong card is swiped consecutively. E-Swipe has dual password levels for enhanced security and a nonvolatile memory prevents password erasure. A mechanical override is also possible in case the password is forgotten.

The Rhino safe opens only with a Godrej high-precision 6-lever key as also has digital keypad for keyless opening with 2 user passwords which enable confidential operations. It has a locker with a flap door and lock provided to facilitate the storage of items which need additional security. Additionally it also features a 7-step process that imparts corrosion and scratch resistance, auto freeze to prevent opening by trial and error and a heavy, plate-hinged burglary resistance door. The Rhino safes have a dignified and lasting look with an elegant handle that compliment any dĂŠcor and is available in gold and silver facia. www.godrejsecure.com

FIRE PROOF SAFES OZONE

Stylish and spacious, Ozoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fire proof safes are extremely robust. These safes support a two-way locking mechanism, viz. digital codes and mechanical key and are also embedded with internal deadbolts on the hinge side that further secures the safes against any burglary attempt. www.ozonesafes.com

www.godrejsecure.com

148 Home Review March 2014

SECURITY AND AUTOMATION MATRIX ELECTRONIC WITH I-WARN GODREJ

Matrix is a high quality fire and burglary resistant safe that offers high level of security to apartments, homes, businesses and executive offices. It is most suitable for commercial application. Sleek, compact and easy to operate, the Matrix comes in a range of four models to suit every need. The Matrix safe has a strong double walled construction with an armoured plate in the door and body for drill protection. It has multi-level passwords with two 6 digit passwords available (namely the master and the user password). The master password holder may create, disable or delete the user password. An alarm goes off in case there is an attempt to tamper with the safe. The user also receives a phone call alerting him of a break-in attempt on the safe. The safe gets deadlocked for 5 minutes if the wrong password is entered 4 times consecutively. The safe comes with a swing bolt mechanism that locks when the handle is turned into the locking position. It also has a shooting bolt mechanism and comes with adjustable shelves and an interior carpet. www.godrejsecure.com

E-BIO GODREJ

STEEL SECURITY HONEYWELL

The Honeywell Steel Security safe provides safety and security for your essential documents and most valuable possessions while affording you peace of mind. The programmable digital entry and motorised door lock provide you with additional protection against theft.

Using the latest technology, the E-Bio safe locking system ensures that your valuables are protected with the most intricate key design using advanced optics - your fingerprint. It has a fast and accurate verification for authentic access and can store up to 30 fingerprint templates. It comes with an interior carpet and an audit trail facility. Mechanical override is possible in case the password is forgotten. The E-Bio safe is ideal for homes, financial institutions, offices and shops. www.godrejsecure.com

www.honeywell.com

Home Review March 2014

149

Home Review Now on Apple and Android

All you need to do is download the free â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Magzter app. Apple users can download Magzter from the App Store.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Android users can download Magzter from Android Market. Try it out today.

150 Home Review March 2014

THE MARKETPLACE Fisher & Paykel’s 60cm Built-in Combination Microwave Oven Fisher & Paykel, the New Zealand based innovators of household appliances have recently introduced a combination microwave oven catering to all the essential needs of cooking! A microwave is no longer just a reheating device. A multi-tasker that can cook, bake and thaw, it can satisfy all your needs. The Fisher & Paykel combination microwave oven is all that and more. Fast cooking is the primary advantage of the built-in combination microwave oven. This oven merges the traditional crisping and browning benefits of the convection oven with the speed of a microwave. It offers 10 different cooking modes including grill high + microwave, grill high, grill medium, grill medium + microwave, heat circulation, microwave + heat circulation, microwave by levels, microwave max and warm.

Forget soggy defrosted foods or uneven heating. This oven incorporates the best of convection and microwave technology and eliminates the need for two separate appliances for reheating, defrosting, baking and grilling. There is a choice of 10 cooking modes including fan forced. A full width dual variable grill combined with a powerful 1000W microwave with 19 power levels gives you the best of microwave and conventional oven technology.

Taking the concept of minimalism to the next level, Grohe offers a complete range of cubic shaped faucets, showers and shower systems, accessories, flush plates and thermostats.

www.fisherpaykel.com

The Eurocube line of fittings sets a new standard for cubic bath design with its pronounced edges, plane surfaces and consistently parallel lines. Be it the basin, the bidet, the shower or the tub, the extensive Eurocube range offers just the right faucet or fitting for the bathroom. Grohe also offers Eurocube as a functional kitchen faucet to coordinate this modern look across the home.

The smooth enamel interior with a glass inner door, drop down grill and removable side racks, along with a turntable, makes cleaning easy. An easy-to-use, intuitive display gives you all the information you need, including a cooking guide with 12 pre-selected automatic cooking modes.

Eames Lounge And Ottoman From Herman Miller When the Herman Miller Eames Lounge and Ottoman set was introduced in 1956, there was nothing like it. Like all classics, the Eames Lounge and Ottoman just gets better with age. It is hand-assembled with great attention paid to the details. Shells are 7-ply veneers, cushions are individually upholstered, replaceable and the back cushions are interchangeable.

Grohe Offers 100% Cubic Bathroom Design

Available in two different varieties of high-quality leather and two different finishes for the wood, the quintessential modern classic is now available in an expanded range of materials, to suit any interior and every taste. Perfect for today’s lighter, airy interiors, the Lounge and Ottoman is offered in an all-white version too - pearl MCL leather and a white ash shell that complements the white leather. The ash veneer is finished with a process that arrests the wood in its natural, freshly cut state, a creamy white that will not turn yellow or golden over time.The metal components of the chair have been updated to a white finish that highlights the polished aluminium accents on the base. In keeping with our environmental commitment, the Eames Lounge and Ottoman is made using 24% recycled materials and is 29% recyclable. It’s much more likely, however, that you will recycle the entire Lounge and Ottoman by passing them on to another generation. www.hermanmillerasia.com

Bundling the square-shaped Rainshower 230 Allure head shower and the purist Euphoria Cube stick hand shower with the new Grohtherm Cube thermostat combines all the benefits of a head shower and hand shower in a single product engineered for maximum comfort and dependable safety.

Square handles and matching rosettes complement the slim body of the Grohtherm Cube thermostat. The distinguishing feature of the tub filler is an extra-wide spout shaped as a seamless extension of the body. For greater convenience, both the bathtub faucet and the shower fitting can support the Grohe EasyReach tray to create extra space for shampoos, shower gels and soap. www.grohe.com Home Review March 2014

151

THE MARKETPLACE Pinakin Retail LLP Introduces The Safari-Chic Collection

Wave By Bravat

The Pinakin Store unveils a whole new range of options on interiors and allied accessories, reiterating them a one-stop solution for all interior needs. Their latest offering, the ‘Safari-Chic’ collection is young, fresh and fairly affordable. The collection offers a holistic mix of furniture ranging from book cases, butler trays and coffee-table trunks to mirrors, writing desks and dressing trunks. The collection is an amalgamation of intrinsic designer details and modern-day comfort solutions, catering to the tastes of the young generation. Each piece is handcrafted and assembled using the most luxurious leather, wood and canvas. The highlight of the collection is the colour palette; with the pieces clad in muted safari tones, the furniture will complement any room setting or effectively stand out if used as a statement piece. Located in the mill district of Mumbai in an expansive double ceiling loft space, the store carries a wide array of furniture that is truly “India Modern”, best known for its distinctive interpretation of contemporary design based

on the classics. The brand, ‘Pinakin’ is at the forefront of the furniture industry, constantly offering new-fangled ideas and designs, with great value for money throughout their range. www.pinakin.in

Deck Your Halls With The Relaxing Rolf Benz Grata!

Rolf Benz Grata is a sofa with soft upholstery which offers you a wealth of comfort, calmness and relaxation. It has a finely curved seat surface and the beautifully crafted piped seams are certain to attract envious glances. The relaxed design of this attractive sofa supplies the growing demand for ultra-casual seating. Highly customisable, you can accompany an upholstered bench along with the sofa

152 Home Review March 2014

with a piped backrest pad. Three seating widths, two seating heights, two side piece heights and various foot designs mean you can create a Rolf Benz Grata that completely reflects your own personal tastes. Rolf Benz Grata is available in 230 different fabrics and 80 different types of leather upholstery. www.rolf-benz.com

Wave by Bravat originates from the movements of the waves to show the perfect curl of metal at instant solidification. With the co-existence of passion and calmness, this mixer creates the interaction between the product and the water. Bravat uses the latest technologies to procure world class bath furniture that meet or exceed the most stringent international quality standards. The USP of Bravat is trendy designs, state of the art technology and impeccable quality at affordable prices. Bravat in India aims to be the trendsetter in affordable design and luxury.

The unique features of Wave include the temperature limit cartridge as a safety feature, self cleaning aerator, 2 stage water saver cartridge and low and high flow to promote water saving. www.bravatindia.com

THE MARKETPLACE

Home Review March 2014

153

THE MARKETPLACE

154 Home Review March 2014