JULY 2018 by Iab Editorial

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 92 MUMBAI ` 200 JULY 2018 VOL 31 (11) ARCHITECTURE KBS House, JTCPL Designs Corporate Office for Team Thai, STAPATI Portico Design Concepts Office, Portico Design Concepts INTERIORS Bound, MYVN Architecture Bajaj Finserv, NCUBE Planning & Design Pvt. Ltd. Z S Associates, DSP Design Associates Pvt. Ltd.

industry news

Chennai Lighting Company K-LITE BagsWorld’s Greatest Brands & Leaders 2017-18 Award

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Dr. Akima Umezawa, The Consul General of Japan & Mr. Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director (SAIF Zone) presenting the award to Ms. Sharmila Kumbhat, Director Business Development & Mr. Joseph Brooks, Director - International Operations, K-LITE INDUSTRIES.

-LITE Industries, Chennai, has been conferred World’s Greatest Brands & Leaders 2017-18 Award that was given away in due recognition of Chairman & CEO, Mr. Dilip Kumbhat’s commendable leadership in helping the brand emerge not only as segment’s leader but also grow as a familiar brand internationally. Ms. Sharmila Kumbhat, Director – Business Development and Mr. Joseph Brooks, Director - International Operations of K-lite industries, have received the award on his behalf from Dr. Akima Umezawa, the Consul General of Japan in Dubai. The magnificent award function highlighted by the presence of Chief Guests His Excellency Mr. Vipul, Consul General of India in Dubai, Mr. Vinod Adani, Director, Adani Group and many other dignitaries was witnessed by over 300 attendees from all over Asia.

Awards, and Top Women Achievers of the Year 2017-18 Awards were among other award categories. Dilip Kumbhat, CEO of K-Lite who is also the National President of the Indian Society of Lighting Engineers (ISLE) expressed his happiness on winning the award. He considers this award as recognition to K-Lite’s contribution towards lighting industry in India and across the globe. K-Lite Industries, an ISO company, is one of the leading manufacturers of indoor and outdoor luminaires. The Chennai-based company has emerged as a trendsetter in outdoor and architectural lighting.

The 4th edition of the award event was part of the Indo-UAE Business & Social Forum 2018 organised by URS-AsiaOne Magazine and URS Media Consulting P.L. Knight of Honour Awards, AsiaOne Person of the Year Awards, Guest of Honour Awards, AsiaOne 40 Most Influential Leaders Under 40 2017-18 [Asia & GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council)], Asia’s Greatest CXOs Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

For more details visit our website: www.klite.in

industry news

CERA’s impressive triple launch of designer tiles and designer Sanitaryware for architects ↑

Ar Hafeez Contractor, Ar Divya Kush, Ar S Gopakumar, Ar N Mahesh, etc. taking a visit of the display of tiles.

also in Tiles. Also, CERA’s position in the premium and luxury spaces is also cemented with this launch.

The new launch, aptly called Royal Collection from CERA Tiles consisted of over 1000 designs in various categories like:

Many renowned architects like Ar Hafeez Contractor, Ar N Mahesh, Ar S Gopakumar, Ar G Shankar, Ar Sangeet Sharma, Ar Divya Kush, Ar K R Raju, Ar Hiren Patel, Ar Gyanendra Shekhawat, etc. to name a few, appreciated the huge collection of designs of CERA.

ERA Sanitaryware Limited, the fastest growing premium home solutions company, launched an impressive range of new offerings from CERA stable at a glittering event held in Fairmont Hotel, Jaipur in which over 300 architects from all over India attended.

1. Refinito (double charged vitrified tiles) in 600x1200mm, 1000x1000mm, 800x800mm and 600x600mm. Also full body tiles and step tiles. 2. Lucido (digital glazed vitrified tiles) in 600x1200mm in high definition, in matt travertine, in matt tobacco, same punch concept, matt crossline, and 600x600mm in matt romano, wood, single tile bookmatch and 3D. 3. Panache: (vitrified wall tile highlighter concept) in 300x600mm in polish, single tile bookmatch, sugar lappato, matt sugar, matt, matt butter, matter corporate. 4. Digitale: (high definition digital tiles) 300x600mm in high gloss polish, single tile bookmatch, glue, TR coating, vitrosa, mica, matt sugar, matt lappato sugar, corporate, 300x450mm in gloss, matt, 300x600mm in elevation. 300x450 in elevation and 200x800 in wood planks.

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Display of Senator by CERA.

These tile designs are exclusively conceputalised by the team of designers for CERA, considering the current and future trends in India. SENATOR by CERA, the premium offerings of sanitaryware, faucets, wellness and mirrors too were launched at the same event for architects. SENATOR, which will cater to the premium segment, is conceived by CERA’s own core team consisting of designing, manufacturing, sales and marketing and is curated by the famous Italian designer, Mr Ettore Giordano. He is based out of Milan and runs a successful design company. ISVEA, the Italian luxury designer Sanitaryware, exclusively brought to India by CERA too were showcased for architects. ISVEA is internationally acclaimed for its designer collection of Sanitaryware, Faucet and Cabinets. Mr Atul Sanghvi, Executive Director, CERA said that the launch event was a great success and the response was overwhelming. CERA has become a force to reckon with not only in Sanitaryware and Faucets, but Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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Display of ISVEA.

For more information, please contact: P K Shashidharan, Senior Vice President Marketing Mobile: +91 9327674111, Email: pks@cera-india.com

industry news

Godrej Interio launches exclusive product ‘Motion Chair’ to enhance wellness & productivity amongst workforce

n a scenario where employees work long hours to achieve tight deadlines, the work posture adopted is mostly static sitting which has an adverse effect on user health. Static posture induces prolonged pressure on muscles which leads to restricted blood flow and muscle fatigue causing poor spine health and loss of productivity. MOTION by Godrej Interio is based on a unique concept where the product is responsive to the natural postural change needs of the user and enables active sitting and dynamic body movements for overall wellness and efficiency of the user. MOTION has a unique synchronous flex system enabling dynamic body movements in sitting condition. The seat and back are firmly connected to the base frame and are cantilevered in a way that gives a threedimensional movement just with a simple lean on the sides or back, without need for complex manual adjustments. MOTION Chair’s back tilt with variable limit adjustment up to three positions can be used based on nature of activity performed. The unique

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

flexing of the chair is a result of the complex design construction and Hi-tech Compounded Engineering Plastics. Through its active sitting properties, MOTION reduces the chances of a static posture. This releases pressure from muscles at regular intervals and promotes better blood flow. The result is healthier and more productive employees and the making of an efficient organization. MOTION has an easy to use, easy to adapt product range that fits well into any office workspace zone or a Home-Office. For more information, please contact: Contact Person: Ms. Manjiri Jamadagni Godrej Interio Registered Head Office Godrej & Boyce Manufacturing Company LimitedPirojshanagar, Vikhroli, Mumbai - 400 079, India Tel: 022 - 6476 2467 Email: interiooffice@godrej.com, Website: www.godrejinterio.com

EXPLORE

VOL 31 (11) | JULY 2018 | ` 200 | MUMBAI RNI REGISTRATION NO. 46976/87, ISSN 0971-5509 INDIAN ARCHITECT AND BUILDER

Chairman & Editor: Maulik Jasubhai Shah Printer, Publisher & Chief Executive Officer: Hemant K Shetty Sub-Editor: Shriti Das Writer: Sharmila Chakravorty Design: Mansi Chikani Subscription: Dilip Parab Production Team: V Raj Misquitta (Head), Prakash Nerkar Email: iab_editorial@jasubhai.com Head Office: JMPL, Taj Building, 3rd Floor, 210, Dr D N Road, Fort, Mumbai - 400 001. Tel: + 91-22-4037 3636, Fax: +91-22-4037 3635 SALES Brand Manager: Sudhanshu Nagar Email: sudhanshu_nagar@jasubhai.com MARKETING TEAM & OFFICES

ARCHITECTURE Telling a story through design JTCPL Designs brings to life a structure for KBS Group that embodies the brand’s ethos and personality.

Mumbai: Sudhanshu Nagar Taj Building, 3rd Floor, 210, Dr D N Road, Fort, Mumbai 400 001. Tel: + 91-22-4037 3636, Fax: +91-22-4037 3635, Mobile: +91 9833104834 Email: sudhanshu_nagar@jasubhai.com

The corporate artwork The Corporate Office for Team Thai by STAPATI consciously incorporates a sense of ease and colour; blurring the boundaries between in the interiors and the exteriors.

Delhi: Suman Kumar 803, Chiranjeev Tower, No 43, Nehru Place, New Delhi – 110 019 Tel: +91 11 2623 5332, Fax: 011 2642 7404 Email: suman_kumar@jasubhai.com

Reworking the blank slate The Portico Design Concepts own architectural office accomplishes most parameters of sound and contextual design; its narrative from conceptualising the building in an assumed idealist surrounding versus how it emerged from an obstinate precinct to a proficient workspace.

INTERIORS Of sobriety turned to vivacity The design scheme of The Fortune Group’s head office reception by MYVN Architecture is focussed around what was once an insipid staircase.

Modern spaces, traditional sensibilities Bajaj Finserv by NCUBE Planning & Design Pvt. Ltd creates an ideal mix of spaces for focused individual work for collaborative efforts and for partnering with clients, in relaxed a yet formal environments.

Emphasising the relevance of conscious design The Z S Associates Office by DSP Design Associates Pvt.Ltd. creates an experience for its young employees to not only shape careers but also build cordial relationships and memories; enabling positive influence on the workforce.

Cover Image: © JTCPL Designs

Bengaluru / Hyderabad / Gujarat: Sudhanshu Nagar Mobile: +91 9833104834, Email: sudhanshu_nagar@jasubhai.com Kolkata: Sudhanshu Nagar Mobile: +91 9833104834, Email: sudhanshu_nagar@jasubhai.com Pune: Sudhanshu Nagar Mobile: +91 9769758712, Email: sudhanshu_nagar@jasubhai.com Chennai / Coimbatore: Princebel M Mobile: +91 9444728035, +91 9823410712, Email: princebel_m@jasubhai.com

Indian Architect & Builder: (ISSN 0971-5509), RNI No 46976/87, is a monthly publication. Reproduction in any manner, in whole or part, in English or any other language is strictly prohibited. We welcome articles, but do not accept responsibility for contributions lost in the mail.

Printed and Published by Hemant K Shetty on behalf of Jasubhai Media Pvt Ltd (JMPL), 26, Maker Chamber VI, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021. Printed at The Great Art Printers, 25, S A Brelvi Road, Fort, Mumbai 400 001 and Published from Mumbai - 3rd Floor, Taj Building, 210, Dr D N Road, Fort, Mumbai 400 001. Editor: Maulik Jasubhai Shah, 26, Maker Chamber VI, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021.

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industry news

Honeywell Introduces Electronic Air Cleaners for Commercial Buildings and Offices in India

oneywell (NYSE: HON), a leader in Connected Building technologies, today introduced Electronic Air Cleaners (EACs) for commercial buildings in India. The new line expands Honeywell’s comprehensive range of indoor products that help purify air in environments where people spend most of their time – at home, in cars, and now, in buildings like office spaces. “A healthy and productive work environment is a key element of any green, sustainable building,” said Sudhir Pillai, general manager, Connected Living Solutions, Home and Building Technologies, Honeywell India. “The long-term impact of clean air goes beyond enhancing occupant well-being, health and safety. Clean air keeps the air-conditioning system clean, reduces wear and tear, and improves energy efficiency and savings.” Studies show that air pollution can significantly impact productivity, costing India and its companies lost revenue. Good indoor air quality, along with a comfortable climate and balanced levels of light and noise, all play vital roles in creating a healthy and productive workplace. Honeywell’s range of solutions for commercial buildings and office spaces includes Electronic Air Cleaners and UV lamps that are designed to improve the air inside. Honeywell EACs are installed at point of air intake in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, and enjoy low total cost of ownership due to low requirement of consumables such as filters. In addition to the health benefits of cleaner air, Honeywell EACs lower energy consumption by reducing the pressure drop through electrostatic precipitation technology, which uses an electric charge to remove impurities – either solid particles or liquid droplets – from the air. The EACs apply only the energy needed to remove the particulate matter, and accomplishes this through use of smaller air handling unit fan motors. As a result, the EACs use less energy without significantly

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

impeding the flow of air compared to conventional media-type air filters. The Honeywell EAC solutions are easy to install, making them ideal for retrofits, property upgrades and new construction. Honeywell EACs have been independently tested and verified by LMS Technologies Inc, a reputable third-party testing laboratory in the United States, to meet Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) 14 rating, which means Honeywell EACs can effectively remove particulate matter as small as 0.3 micron. The Honeywell EAC solution meets the stringent requirements as prescribed by Singapore IAQ Code SS 554:2009 and received the GreenPro certification from CII-Green Products and Services Council. For more information about the Honeywell range of indoor air purification, please visit: https://www.honeywellsmarthomes.com/.

industry news

CenturyPly Launches ‘Sainik 710’ to Strengthen its Economic Segment

n a bid to reiterate its position in the plywood industry, CenturyPly, the innovator in the wood panel industry in India, has launched ‘Sainik 710’. This is an addition to its existing economic plywood segment, ‘Sainik’ MR Grade commercial plywood. Sainik 710, a marine grade and boiling waterproof panelboards are designed to withstand all harsh weather conditions, providing a perfect solution for all kinds of furniture needs. Manufactured using selected eco-friendly timbers and bonded with high-quality BWP grade modified PF resin, ‘Sainik 710’ plywood and blockboards come with CenturyPly’s patented Glue Line internal protection and ACC treatment. These features give complete protection to the panels against borers and termites. This revolutionary product from the house of CenturyPly is one-of-its-kind in the plywood industry and will be available at a uniform price range across the country. ‘Sainik 710’ plywood and blockboards are 100% borer and termite proof, and come with 5-years of warranty with an aim to provide more finesse to homes and peace of mind to the consumers. Offered in large format panels, available in thickness ranging from 4mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12 mm, 16mm,19 mm and 25 mm to suit the varied requirements of the consumers. The superior quality in economic range and increased durability make ‘Sainik 710’, an ideal choice for a wide range of applications. Commenting on the launch, Mr Navarun Sen, Executive Business Head, Panels, of CenturyPly, said, “CenturyPly has always been the torch-bearer for innovative products and marketing in the Indian wood panel industry. With the introduction of GST and enforcement of tax compliances by unorganised sector manufacturers, we see a huge growth potential for organised plywood manufacturers like us in the mass market segments. Consequently, we have come up with a mass market product like ‘Sainik 710’ that will be available at one price across the country. Also for the first time in the industry for Sainik 710

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

it will be ‘One India, One Price’. We are confident that ‘Sainik 710’ has the potential to create a new market in itself in the organised sector”. Some salient features: USP: • Manufactured using selected eco-friendly timber • High resistance to all climatic conditions • Bonded with BWP grade modified PF resin • Glue Line Protection and ACC treatment • One India, One Price Specifications: • Manufactured in accordance with IS : 710 • Boiling Water Proof Grade plywood and blockboard • Borer and Termite proof with 5-year warranty About CenturyPly: Century Plyboards (I) Ltd. (CPIL), the first ISO 9002 Company in India for plywood and veneer, started its operations in 1986; CPIL also received ISO 14001 Certification in 2004. The company was formed by Sajjan Bhajanka and Sanjay Agarwal. In a very short span, it has created a niche for itself and is the market leader in this sector. CPIL has its manufacturing units at Kolkata, Chennai, Guwahati, Karnal, Kandla, Myanmar and Laos. CPIL today manufactures the entire range of commercial, marine, shuttering and decorative plywood. Other products are Laminates, Veneers, Doors, MDF, Prelam, Fibre Cement Boards, PVC sheets, Faceveneers, Exteria exterior laminates. ‘Construction World’, one of the most definitive business journals, has adjudged it as, “the Fastest Growing Company with the Highest Turnover” five times, for the years 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. It has featured in the Super Brands India Top 500 in 2015, and the top 100 list published by Dunn & Bradstreet for 2014-’15. As the pioneers in Borer Proof Plywood and Boiling Water Resistant (BWR) the company, has successfully created a niche in the highly competitive lifestyle segment.

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 104 MUMBAI ` 200 DECEMBER 2017 VOL 31 (4)

MUMBAI NOVEMBER 2017 VOL 31 (3)

` 200

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 88

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 136 MUMBAI ` 200 OCTOBER 2017 VOL 31 (2)

IN CONVERSATION Patrik Schumacher, Zaha Hadid Architects

ARCHITECTURE Celebrating Mimar Sinan: An exhibition of selected works Mausam: The House of Seasons, Zero Studio Design Studio of Architect Dhananjay Shinde, Dhananjay Shinde Design Studio

ARCHITECTURE Salerno Maritime Terminal, Zaha Hadid Architects Retreat in the Sahyadris, Khosla Associates INTERIORS The Bengal Rowing Club, Ayan Sen Architects Urban Designers and planners The World Resources Institute, Biome Environmental Solutions The Matt House, Studio Course

INTERIORS Mobile Retail Space, I-Con Architects and Urban Planners Artist Zoë Le Ber’s Residence, Sophie Dries Architects

RESILIENCE Building resilience, essay, Architect Abin Chaudhuri

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 96

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 92 VOL 31 (6)

VOL 31 (7)

FEBRUARY 2018

MARCH 2018

` 200

MUMBAI

MUMBAI ARCHITECTURE Twin Houses, Spasm Design The Pool House, IORA Studio Haveli Dharampura, Spaces Architects@ka New headquarters for Société Privée de Gérance, Giovanni Vaccarini Architetti

INTERIORS Versatile Decadence, Hsc Designs White Edge Architects’ office, White Edge Architects Cream Affair, Architecture_Interspace Pitchers Cafe Bar, Architecture Basics

ARCHITECTURE 15°, .warp The Pavilion, ARUR Vikarna Basement, Studio 4000

INTERIORS Baradari at City Palace Jaipur, Studio Lotus Apple Kids Play School, NAAMS Architectural Workshope

INSTALLATION Time Machine, Studio acrossZero

ARCHITECTURE INTERIORS CASA LUX, Studio WhiteScape Phantom House, UDAI

PRODUCT DESIGN GoT Window, MyInnoSpace

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 90

SONAM WANGCHUK

MUMBAI

YAMA KARIM PREM CHANDAVARKAR SANJAY PRAKASH

MAY 2018

RAHUL SRIVASTAVA MATIAS ECHANOVE AMIT PROTHI

For the next 100, we need architects who believe in architecture

VOL 31 (8)

APRIL 2018

SHAUN KILLA

VOL 31 (8)

We have modernists, deconstructivists, situationists, new-media interpreters, post-modernists, neo-brutalists, rationalists, minimalists and revivalists… they have defined the past 100 years of architecture!

` 200

MUMBAI

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 90

RESILIENCE Building resilience within Indian craft clusters and communities: Kashmir

SUSHANT VERMA YASHWANT PITKAR G. V. SREEKUMAR ISHAAN DIXIT S. VISHWANATH GLENN BERRILL ASHOK B LALL AROMAR REVI

TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 104 MUMBAI ` 200 JANUARY 2018 VOL 31 (5)

POST EVENT Third Edition of Structure & Architecture Conference, New Delhi

RESILIENCE Imagining a Resilient City: Varanasi, essay, Architect Ritu Deshmukh

Presents

Resilient City Powered by

CAMPAIGN A perspective by Julian Treasure on acoustically designed spaces

SHUBHENDU SHARMA PRASOON KUMAR

ARCHITECTURE Muraba Residences, RCR Arquitectes Skewed House, Studio Lagom Artrovert: Conversations in Grey, Anagram Architects The SHACK, The Side Lane – Design Co.

SANJAY PATIL

INTERIORS Terracotta, tHE gRID Architects

Editorial Inquiries: iab_editorial@jasubhai.com Subscriptions: subscription_iab@jasubhai.com

industry news

K-LITE Introduces LED Landscape – Redefined

he Essence of lighting is one of the most important things in our lives.

At K-Lite we are passionate about creating a distinctive atmosphere that improves the quality of life in the cities and towns by exploring the many potential facets of lighting that supports the wellbeing and safety of all. Founded in 1977 in India, K-Lite has grown to be the leading manufacturer of outdoor luminaires and decorative poles. K-Lite’s proven performance in the landscape segment is because of its ability to stylishly convey the identity of a space with a blend of efficiency and modularity to maximise the visual comfort that is best suited to each specific space. Our Landscape range includes : Linear Wall Washer, Up-Down Lighters, LED Strips/Neon flex, Promenade Lighting, Bollards, Under Water Lighting, Post top luminaires, Bulk Heads, Path finders, Polar lighting and newly added series of Facade Lighting.

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Ajna Bollard.

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Landscape Luminaire.

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Up Down Luminaires.

For more information, please contact: K-LITE INDUSTRIES D-10, Ambattur Industrial Estate, Chennai – 600058 Tel: 044-26257710, 48581950, Fax: 044-26257866, Mobile: 95000 79797, 95000 85511 E-mail: info@klite.in, Website: www.klite.in ↑

Pathfinders.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

industry news

Presenting 3D Walls by Insta Build Instant Make-over of Walls with Insta Build’s Insta Walls

nsta Build will be dealing with any and every interior product which is Instant, their debut to the industry is with Insta Walls which is a 3D Foam Wall Cladding. This comes in as a fresh and innovative product to instantly have a make-over of your interior space. Insta Walls brings to the fore, some extremely important benefits that cannot be ignored. The Foam Cladding sheets come in comfortable sizes starting at 71 cms x 38.5 cms upwards and has an adhesive layer that can be stuck on applied to any dry and smooth surface, be it walls or ceiling.

Some of the key advantages of using the claddings are as follows: • It has the actual 3D Look and feel • Impact & Noise Resistant • Water & Stain Resistant • Insulative • Quick Application - extremely viable option for Commercial/ Retail Spaces • Budget Friendly • Multiple Designs & Textures • Opportunity to use Creatively

Case 2: A nursery wanted to ensure that kids do not get hurt when they are playing and accidentally fall. They tried various materials, but this took away from the look and feel of it being a nursery. Moreover, kids would time and again damage the soft material, needing a makeover once in every 2-3 months. Result: They tried Insta Walls and have been using the same for a while now. They now simply need to replace the damaged portion as compared to the entire wall. Even if this is a different colour, it looks more like a design.

Case 1: A retail shop having 17 outlets across the country wanted to launch its stores on the same day and with the same look and feel of the store. They procured the sheets centrally and distributed to the 17 stores across the country and were able to get the highlighted Wall up and ready on the same day. Result: 17 stores across the geography was able to cut the ribbon on the same day all having the same look and feel!

INSTA WALLS THE INSIDE STORY, IN 3D

3D FOAM CLADDING FOR INTERIOR SURFACES

Brick shaped Insulating Foam Interior, thermal insulation with shockproof functionality PE Adhesive Layer Insulating Foam Thermal insulation with shockproof functionality PE Adhesive Layer Aluminium Foil Layer Prevents electromagnetic waves and mold with thermal insulating functionality PE Adhesive Layer Releasing Paper

For Further Information: Email: info@instabuild.co.in No. 5, Meenakshi, S. V. Road, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai- 400056 Tel: +9122- 2671 5762 / 4645 / 6103

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

Telling a story through design

There is a lot that the practice of architecture shares with that of jewelry making; both rely heavily of aesthetics and design. Deftly combining the principles of practical office space design with the intangible magic of what the jewelry symbolizes, JTCPL Designs brought to life a structure for KBS Group that embodies the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ethos and personality, where each space tells a tiny tale that eventually adds to the Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story and journey so far. Text: Sharmila Chakravorty Images: Prashant Bhat Drawings: JTCPL Designs

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

architecture

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

â&#x2020;&#x2018;

KBS House by JTCPL Designs.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

esigning office spaces is a complex process. Unlike residential spaces that are expected to ideally reflect the personality and preferences of the inhabitants, office spaces have a number of variables. Firstly, they have to be designed in a way that suits the functions and activities of the business. Then, the employees need to be comfortable, relaxed and inspired by the space they inhabit for most of the day, or night in case of shifts. The space also has to reflect the culture of the organization. Moreover, it must clearly mirror the ethos and vision of the business. And lastly, it must inspire the client’s trust and willingness to conduct business with the organization. Any discrepancy in any of these complex variables could often lead to dissatisfied employees, or worse, unwilling clients. Needless to say, both these situations can be massively damaging to the organization or business. This is especially true for business that cater to the aspirational needs of clients. Such businesses rely heavily on creating and maintaining credibility amongst their clients. Their brand perception and image are thus extremely important, and at times for the classic ‘first impression is the last impression’ principle. Thus, for architects designing spaces for such businesses, the challenge is compounded even further. For JTCPL Designs, the creation of KBS House in Andheri, Mumbai for the KBS Group too posed a similar challenge. KBS Group is a renowned name in the diamond and jewelry industry, with over four decades of industry leadership to their credit. To commemorate four decades of existence and leadership, they envisioned a flagship headquarters that would embody their brand, its legacy of high quality materials, creative designs, and impeccable execution. For this, the clients had identified a site in Andheri, a former industrial precinct in West Mumbai that is now a prominent business district. The area has undergone considerable changes in the last few decades and is now one of the prime locales for corporate offices. Perhaps this rise that Andheri has experienced – from a humble industrial precinct to one of the most prestigious business districts of contemporary times – found resonance with

the KBS Group that has evolved over the last 40 years, and thus, locating their headquarters in an area that has, much like the Group, grown to enjoy a place of pride seems apt. The idea was to develop an innovative, world-class space that would house inspiring workspaces for employees and experience centres for clients that would showcase KBS Group’s values, heritage and the future growth trajectory the brand expects to embark on. The brand prides itself on being a one-stop shop for bridal diamonds. This 360-degree, holistic approach involves a flawless end-to-end process right from sourcing stones, product manufacturing, polishing, product design, marketing and execution, with precision, focus and quality-mindedness deeply entrenched throughout the process. Thus, to ensure that this quality is also present in the design of their headquarters, KBS Group was particularly keen on the architects also involving a seamless, single-source delivery that involved visioning, workplace strategies, architecture, interiors, MEP design and construction services. Thus, mirroring the KBS brand’s connection with a 360-degree vision and flawless execution the architects took on the project on an end-to-end basis. The building has about 65,000 square feet of space that includes 7 floors and 2 basements. The design is a juxtaposition of different zones that come together to form a holistic picture, much like pieces of a puzzle. Some areas are stark, grey while others are a riot of colours. Some areas provide spaces for contemplation and introspection, while some showcase the brand’s ethos and products with pride. Some space channel Bollywood, while some resonate the environment of a pub-café. And yet, throughout these seemingly disjointed spaces and ideas runs a central theme – of love, and rings. As the brand deals in bridal rings, diamonds and jewelry, the central theme of rings is a brilliant choice, reinforcing brand recall wherever you go within the building. Even the façade has an abstract of two rings, a hallmark of the KBS logo, set within a network of interconnecting nodes, representing the company philosophy and global connectivity. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

â&#x2020;&#x2018;

KBS House by JTCPL Designs.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

Having complete control on the interior can often be a disadvantage, especially if the architects are unable to incorporate restraint in their design. Often, in such cases, one tends to go overboard with accessories and artefacts, deviating the focus from the brand. Yet, the KBS House is delightful in this sense. Though there are several rooms, or so to speak, with several design themes, the central theme keeps them connected. There are quirky inclusions like swings, and tree trunks used as seating or tables, meeting rooms where the walls are punctured with showcase-like voids, typography and quotes as highlights on several walls, quirky chairs and artifacts like an ‘icegola’ machine and auto-rickshaw meters… all add to the charm of the spaces. Not only does it delight the everyday employee, but also visiting clients that are enticed with the sense of discovery as and when they enter a new space, and discover something new. The casual yet classy treatment is what relaxes the clients, who might already be overwhelmed by important shopping decisions – we all know how stressful wedding jewelry shopping can be! To have successfully added a fun, informal element to an important shopping event that doesn’t trivialize the brand and its products is perhaps what the design does best here. It is also to be noted that Sushil Choksey, Nirav Shah and Devanshi Shah, were key members from the client’s team were also invested deeply in the design, productively adding to the process. If jewelry design is an art, designing structure that houses such artistic talents is a bigger challenge. It requires the practicality of office space design, with the flexibility of an art studio that not only inspires creativity, but also fosters the brand’s vision into the subconscious of the inhabitants – whether semi-permanent such as the employees, or transitionary or temporary such as the clients who visit. The visual vocabulary of the KBS House does this, and more. And in doing so, it also infuses efficiency into the process by using the brand’s single-source delivery model, thus cutting costs and streamlining the execution to achieve flawless results, much like KBS does with wedding jewelry.

FACT FILE: Project Location Architect Team Client Project Area Civil contractors Developers Initiation of Project Completion of project

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KBS House MIDC, Andheri, Mumbai Ninad Tipnis, Vipul Tapke, Vikas Chodankar, Abhishek Manerikar, Janhavi Nargolkar, Aakanksha Tayade KBS Creations 65000 sft JTCPL Designs Atul Projects April 2015 Dec 2017 Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

The corporate artwork Corporate Office for Team Thai, Calicut, Kerala There is, perhaps, a notion of seriousness associated with spaces designed for work. The Corporate Office for Team Thai seems to consciously break away from the aforementioned and incorporate a sense of ease, colour, blurring the boundaries between in the interiors and the exteriors by bringing the landscape indoors and even a playful vibe While the said features are secondary to the design that is conceived in adherence to the site and climatic conditions, it goes a long way in establishing newer expressions to sombre corporate buildings. Text: Sukanya Bhattacharjee Images:Praveen P Mohandas Drawings: STAPATI

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Conceptual sketch.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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Corporate Office for Team Thai by STAPATI. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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Detail of the trellis on the faĂ§ade.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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A large vertical plane is created on the west to provide protection from the sun.

The main functional areas of the building are deliberately housed on the higher floors, leaving the ground floor to be utilized as a free flowing multipurpose area.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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The ground floor consists of an informal waiting area surrounded by lush greenery.

The outer landscape continues into the building and also onto the raised portion on the rear.

he Corporate office for Team Thai is located in the city of Calicut which is known for its humid and hot climate. Moreover the site faces the south west, exposing the structure to the excruciating western sun. The office is set on a linear sloping site, beside a busy highway in Calicut defining the context for the design. The planning of the office is carried out in accordance with the existing site conditions to optimise the usage of the plot. Dealing with the

harsh sunlight is prioritised in the design. Certain design elements are adapted to be able to accomplish this aspect in particular. In addition to this, factors such as ventilation and natural light are worked out simultaneously. A large vertical plane is created on the west to provide protection from the sun and comprises of breathing spaces in between to Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

shield the functional areas from glare. An interesting screen wall is incorporated on the front and side to further articulate the office spaces while adding an extraordinary aesthetic to the appearance of the office. To ensure ventilation of various areas of the office, triple height spaces are introduced. The concept of a terrace garden and lounge is adapted, adding another layer of protection to the hot tropical climate. This adds to the cooling of the interiors as well. The design is oriented along the slope of the land by creating interesting level differences. The main functional areas of the building are deliberately housed on the higher floors, leaving the ground floor to be utilized as a free flowing multipurpose area. The outer landscape continues into the building and also onto the raised portion on the rear. That portion is enunciated as an informal extension to the building. The landscape moving in and out of the building breaks the verticality, while adding numerous levels and

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adds fluidity to the space. The greenery forms the backbone of the office around which various functions are designated. Creating spaces which blur the boundary between inside and outside, thereby bringing in the landscape is one of the striking features of the design. The facade treatment is developed in the form of an interesting pattern of trellises to reduce the glare, while providing ventilation in abundance into the space. The bright yet subtle colour scheme used for the front elevation manages to catch attention immediately while crossing the highway. The composition of the built structure along with the greenery and various elements breaks the concept of the stereotypical attire of an office building. The planning of the interior symbolizes the flexibility, comfort and openness of the office environment and also forms an overwhelming, positive and vibrant working space.

The open ground floor rises up along with the contours of the site, reducing the intervention on site to a minimum.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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Basement floor plan.

Ground floor plan.

First floor plan. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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Second floor plan.

Terrace floor plan.

Sectional elevation.

Section.

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Exploded view of the building.

The use of exposed materials such as polished concrete flooring, cement board partitions and exposed concrete ceiling give a rustic theme to the building. There is an in-built truthfulness in the use of such materials. The modernity of glass creates a contrast with the rustic theme of exposed materials creating a suitable ambience of working amidst nature.

FACT FILE: Project : Location : Architect : Design team : Client : Project Area : Completion of project :

Corporate Office for Team Thai Calicut STAPATI Tony Joseph, George Seemon, Anupama, Priya Pillai, Ankita Team Thai Office space-28365 Sq.ft Basement-6740 Sq.ft 15-06-2015

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

Reworking the blank slate Portico Design Concepts Office, Aurangabad, Maharashtra When architects embark to devise a project of any scale; be it cities, buildings or even products; an ideal site and surrounding condition is desirable. Especially when the said project entails the architects’ own office. The architect’s office is a canvas, a reflection of their design principles, ambitions and finally a reproduction of their ideas and an embodiment or a starting point for clients’ to understand their work. But in reality, the ideal canvas, the perfect site, is often far from aspiration. However it is aspiration, and even a utopian foresight, that lays the foundation to fruitful endeavours. And the Portico Design Concepts office accomplishes many parameters of sound and contextual design; its narrative from conceptualising the building in an assumed idealist surrounding versus how it emerged from an obstinate precinct to the proficient workspace that it evolved into.

Text: Shriti Das Images: ©Photographix | Sebastian + Ira Drawings: Portico Design Concepts

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Portico Design Concepts architecture and interiors’ firm – The architects’ office designed by the architects themselves.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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Upper level plan.

Lower level plan.

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The entrance at the north encompasses a height of 12 feet followed by a short passage that opens onto an 18 feet atrium.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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The atrium-cum-midlanding detail - the entrance leading to the spacious atrium and stairwell assumes the spatial element of a staircase mid-landing. This â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;midlandingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which is often a transition space takes precedence as a key design detail.

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The wall showcasing play of light and shadow resulting in interesting sciagraphy.

he Portico Design Concepts office gives zilch indication of its location being an antithesis to the architects’ vision of their new office. Perceiving the aesthetic of the building, the efficient layout and circulation; it is almost assumed that the office building emerges promptly from an ideal precinct. And that perhaps is one of the many intents of good architecture; to dissolve undesired differences in terrains and environs, to render them an almost or as close to perfect whole and equivocally serve the function of creating a space and intervention that presides over the former natural habitat. Portico Design Concepts is an Aurangabad-based architecture firm. To accommodate the expanding office, the principal architects Gopal Tanwani and Shruti Tanwani sought a standalone building with a minimum footprint of 3000 square feet enclosed by abundant verdure. But the architects opted for, owing to lack of a desirable land, “a narrow plot with modest dimensions”, as they put it. The acquired plot possessed a corner position, much to their delight. However, settling for a modest land did not entail settling on the quality of space that they would carve for their studio. While there was no scope for landscape or exploring green-scape on the horizontal expanse, the architects chose to explore verticality and imbibe the flora over it. While verticality is often the purview of creating utilitarian and practical living spaces, the Portico Design Concepts office prioritised the notion of greens being interwoven into its built-fabric. The verticality was also the starting-point of designing the structure. The spatial programme entailed devising

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

levels for different uses. This led to creating sections that were dovetailed to plans. The entrance at the north encompasses a height of 12 feet followed by a short passage that opens onto an 18 feet atrium filled with indoor planters. The green is enhanced by an additional layer of sciagraphy. The space hosts large windows with mild steel (MS) screens that filter sunlight and illuminate and illustrate the volume with light juxtaposed with shadows. The MS pattern on windows is mirrored on the floor that ensures visual connectivity. The stairway present in the atrium space creates a striking visual. Hereon, the floor drops to a lower level, a rest room for the architects’ daughter. The other half of the steps lead up to a bridge-like walkway to a discussion area and eventually to the design studio. The interesting segment that transpires at this junction is the realisation that the entrance leading to the spacious atrium and stairwell assumes the spatial element of a staircase midlanding. This ‘mid-landing’ which is often a transition space takes precedence as a key design detail. And its ingenuity is revealed only after the user makes their passage from the passage, experiencing the space and eventually realising the play of levels. This is, perhaps, an illustrating insight into the architects’ workings of space, form and visuals. This staggered articulation of the plan doubles the usable area. Sightlines are created, that keeps the principal architects connected to their entire office.

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The discussion area in the foreground with the principal architects’ cabin at the far end.

A view from the discussion area that overlooks the studio area and the ground floor. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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The play of patterns, lights and shadow on the wall.

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The principal’s cabin.

The studio area. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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Portico Design Concepts office building.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

While the main design draws from conceiving a play of levels from sections, the resultant plan borrows from the shape of the trapezoidal plot. Being a corner plot, the building has two sides free for fenestrations. The other sides, the south and west sides are abutted by walls of an adjacent plot. These walls are rendered as dead walls. The walls sans any openings limits heat gain of the building. The interior and exterior of the building is finished in a single shade of grey tempered with black outlines. This emphasises and draws the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attentions to the green of the plants that juxtaposes it. The project when comprehended in its entirety, the built-form with patches of green; the seamless connect of levels in the interiors and the efficient planning; hardly make room for doubts over how feasible or challenging the site was for the architects. Or, on the contrary, that the building navigated through many restraints to achieve the seemingly flawless building.

FACT FILE: Project : Location : Built-up footprint : Carpet area : Seating capacity : Architecture and interior design firm : Principals : Design team : Structure : Plumbing : Electrical : Painting : Flooring : Furniture manufacturer : Photographs :

Office for self Aurangabad, India 900 sq ft 1,650 st ft 8 staff Portico Design Concepts Ar Gopal Tanwani and Ar Shruti Tanwani Ar Snehal Mangate Anil Datar Narsing Bharti Govind Chitgirikar Vicky Sonkar Suwalal Yadav Subhash Chourasiya ÂŠPhotographix | Sebastian + Ira

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

Of sobriety turned to vivacity Bound: The Fortune Group reception, Bengaluru, Karnataka The Fortune Group is an organisation that works in healthcare, infrastructure and so on. The design scheme of The Fortune Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head office in Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru is focussed around what was once an insipid staircase. Their office being located in an old building didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reflect the work and their company profile. The entrance entailed a flight of steps that lead to the office. Devoid of any perception of an arrival even, the uninspiring entryway with the staircase became the starting point of design at The Fortune Group head office. Text: Shriti Das Images: Sujan Suresh Drawings: MYVN Architecture

YVN Architecture, at the onset of the project comprehended that the reception designed and created for The Fortune Group had to reflect the ideologies and values that the organisation upheld. The architects wished to stress upon the aspect that the organisation is a progressive infrastructure company. A flat monotonous staircase leading to the reception, which is also the entrance to the office, was hardly an indicator of the same. Design development commenced from revamping and emphasising this staircase. Cues from thereon lead to the office overhaul. While the staircase had a clear height of 16 feet, the office ceiling encompassed a relatively smaller ceiling height of 9 feet. Hence the experience of walking up a lofty height is rendered repressed and hindered as the user enters the office from the staircase. The first intervention in this space was to create an installation above the staircase that would not only underline the entrance but also continue the experience of the high ceiling onto the office with the low ceiling height. The installation encompasses fluid geometry; of a ribbed curved ceiling that envelope the staircase. The ribbed ceiling is made from plywood panels wherein the ribs follow the sequence and rhythm of the steps. The ply panels are affixed to the ceiling by threaded rods. However, metal rods that function as the railing appear to hold up the ribbed ceiling. The railing in discussion here is a suspended metal string that partitions the stairwell and the reception area.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

The ribbed ceiling that is suspended in a vault shape over the staircase is levelled with the ceiling as it continues onto the workspace ceiling. This continuation of the ribbed installation ensures that the experience of the lofty height that is created as the user walks up the flight of steps is sustained in the workspace with low height. The installation also draws the attention to the ceiling making the user forego the fact that the area has a low height. The ceiling installation was developed on computational software that enabled the architects to not only develop the vaulted ribbed form but also compute the best method to cut the plywood into segments with minimum wastage. Plywood is available in fixed sizes of 8 feet X 4 feet. For organic and curvilinear shapes, the material is usually cut into segments and deployed. The computational software devised a prudent and judicious division on the plywood of the aforementioned fixed size to reduce excesses. The plywood was then laser-cut and assembled together by tongue and groove joint. The same installation that encompasses the staircase, resembling a vault ceases to diminish its 3-dimensional form when perceived from the office floor as opposed to when one is climbing up. Standing adjacent to the staircase, its overhanging installation is perceived as 2-dimensional pieces, vertically hung in line with the railing. It merges with the clean lines of the railing. Even while the aesthetic continues on the ceiling, the user is offered a different visual of the same as it fuses with the railing.

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The entrance to Bound: The Fortune Group Head Office By MYVN Architecture. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

BOUND: The Fortune Group Head Office By MYVN Architecture. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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Plan.

Section.

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The stairway that is also the entrance to the office. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

The ribbed installation that encompasses the staircase, resembling a vault ceases to diminish its 3-dimensional form when perceived from the office floor. Standing adjacent to the staircase, its overhanging installation is perceived as 2-dimensional pieces, vertically hung in line with the railing-cum-partition. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

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The reception.

For the aesthetics of the space, the architects restricted the colour and material palette to wood, cement and white. The ceiling installation, while crafted in plywood was painted in gold with a hint of bronze. This was done since polishing ply renders its joints a prominent presence. The paint draws attention to the overall form and its impact. The floor is finished in micro-concrete. Unlike floor-tiles or even stone flooring, micro-concrete has no joints but a seamless finish, almost akin to a concrete carpet on the floor. The base of the reception table is also finished in concrete. To offset the grey, wood and white painted walls; planters are strategically placed for visual relief and texture. The office offers a holistic experience of being a complete whole. The design scheme that evolved from a single source of discontent of a sombre staircase transformed to a light and life filled environment. Each element takes on from a former and continues to create new narrative of its own. In theory, it is almost like the attitude and outlook of successful mode of work, to value the systems of predecessors but also innovate with originality and independent identities as the practice progresses.

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The meeting room.

FACT FILE: Project Location Architects Lead architect Design team Client Project area Civil contractors Carpentry contractors Electrical contractors Project Estimate Initiation of Project Completion of project Photographer

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Project Bound Bengaluru, India MYVN Architecture Elayaraja Mayavan Guruprakash Govindaswamy, Aashay Thakkar The Fortune Group 700 sq. ft. The Fortune Group Interiors Espania The Fortune Group 12 lac 10th Feb 2018 10th March 2018 Sujan Suresh

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

interiors

Modern spaces, traditional sensibilities Bajaj Finserv, Pune, Maharashtra The headquarters of Bajaj Finserv in Viman Nagar, Pune designed by NCUBE Planning & Design Pvt. Ltd. creates an ideal mix of spaces â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for focused individual work, for collaborative efforts, and for partnering with clients â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in relaxed yet formal environment; perfect for an industry that is modern in its outlook, but traditional in its approach. Text: Sharmila Chakravorty Images: Prashant Bhat Drawings: NCUBE Planning & Design Pvt. Ltd.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

he financial services industry is often said to be the most reluctant to change. Be it technology adoption, or office space design, the industry remains largely behind the curve and very traditional and cautious in its approach. And one can’t really blame them. There is a lot at stake if technology, or design, fails to put their employees, or clients, at ease. But there is progress, slow and steady. FinTechs are now commonplace, as are relatively modern office spaces. A few years ago, an American global design, architecture, engineering and urban planning firm released a benchmarking research report that focused on the design and work-style trends of leading financial services firms. This report provided key insights into recent trends that the industry was faced with, adopted, or ignored and an indepth analysis of how organisations of the industry used office space. What were glaringly obvious were the gross underutilization of space, and a lack of mobility strategy. While the report looked at countries like New York and London, the realities of the findings are also applicable to us in India. There is indeed a strong push for ergonomics, employee comfort, and realization of how office space design affects productivity, with more and more organizations opting to actively look towards design to enhance employee output. Open-plan offices are perhaps the most obvious and visible result of this. But even though financial services firms have a reputation of being more conservative and traditional in their tastes, it only takes the right architect with the right sensibilities to ensure that

a financial services office doesn’t get bogged down by boring design. The headquarters of Bajaj Finserv in Viman Nagar, Pune is one such fine example. Located in a rapidly developing locality that houses a number of global and Indian corporates that seem to be embracing the new principles of office design, the Bajaj Finserv office too makes an attempt to create a workplace that no doubt awes its employees and clients, but also takes care of their safety and security – something that is absolutely vital to a financial services provider. The brief was to create an office space that was close-knit yet provided the freedom and flexibility for its employees and clients to feel comfortable and relaxed. The space where one enters at the lift lobby bifurcates at the reception. Informal zones like the Library, cafeteria, and recreational spaces are placed to the right; while formal spaces such as meeting rooms, conference rooms, and director’s cabin are placed on the left. Placing a strong emphasis on centrality and segregation of movement, the workstations are located at the centre of the space, while the cabins and meeting rooms line the periphery. This perhaps creates a buffer from the outside world for the central workspaces, creating spaces for focused individual work, collaborative work, etc. without being disturbed. The high raised ceilings further enhance the space and maximize the internal volume. The spaces are flexible – a formal environment can be created as and where required, while also being capable of opening up to accommodate large team meetings or informal celebrations. Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

The cabins and meeting rooms look inwards, thereby retaining visual integrity. Together, they set the stage for communication and interaction that is key for transactions in the financial services world. Further, breaking the monotony, the cage-like meeting pods not only provide an interesting element to the otherwise plain open-space office, but also create spaces of intrigue and curiosity for visiting clients. The use of bright orange, yellow, and blue at random intervals adds a necessary touch of color within the office space, making it open, welcoming and fun. This creative expression translates into spaces that are more a kind of coffee-shop-casual than strict-financeoffice, striking an ideal balance between traditional and contemporary. Thus, as indicated in the benchmarking research report mentioned earlier, the design of Bajaj Finserv takes into account both the optimal utilization of space and mobility. Another instance of this is the creating of a meeting room with a 4-way partition â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a spacesaving method that opens the meeting room up to transform it into breakout zones when required. Such kinds of partitioned spaces dot the entire workspace. Modern office designs have a lot to consider. While some industries can do with projecting their ethos and their culture on the design, others have to focus on the clients they service and their comfort. A financial services office that looks like an ad agency will perhaps never inspire the trust of its clients, and vice versa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one would be weary of an ad agency that looks like a public sector bank! The design of Bajaj Finserv wins in this aspect â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it takes the best of modern office design principles and customizes it to make its clients and employees comfortable; comfortable enough for the clients to conduct business and the employees to be at their productive best.

FACT FILE: Project Location Architect Design team Client Project Area Initiation of Project Completion of project

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Bajaj Finance Limited HQ, Pune Viman Nagar, Pune Debora Emert - Design director Debora Emert, Kunal Velankar, Nisha Mahadik, Vikrant Parkar Bajaj Finance Limited 48000 square feet 01.12.16 15.02.17

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

Emphasising the relevance of conscious design Z S Associates Office, Pune, Maharashtra It is challenging for companies to anticipate the imminent changes in the business industry. Technology evolves and businesses follow suit. The setting of a corporate space requires avid attention in order to improve the complete scenario of the business sector. With time it has almost become mandatory for the newer workplaces to give importance to the space planning and aesthetics to keep pace with the growing standards. Text: Sukanya Bhattacharjee Images: Photographix | Sebastian + Ira Drawings: DSP Design Associates Pvt. Ltd.

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Plan of Z S Associates by DSP Design Associates Pvt. Ltd.

ontemporary companies and workspaces need spaces and furniture that can be modified according to the constant changes in team size, new equipment and can easily accommodate the changes in a team’s functional requirement. Consequently, flexible and adaptable furniture have become the trend setters and the obvious choices for many offices.Designing a space in the anticipated time frame is the need of the hour. It requires an innovative foresight, conscious planning of the space and investments in the right areas. The ZS campus at Pune exemplifies the same.Designed by DSP Design Pvt. Ltd., the ZS Associates workspace comprises of a bunch ofoffices under one roof, with over 2500 employees and campus amenities such as large cafeteria, gymnasium, gaming area and of course the client-employee spaces.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

ZS campus was designed consciously with an attempt to incorporate modern space divisions, a stimulating material pallete and most importantly to break away from the mundane concept of “I” spacing. The intention was to create a setting which could be flexible for the users allowing team sizes to expand and contract as per their project requirements. Having a high concentration of entities, the office required a strategic approach towards the space utilization. The conceptual planning began with ruling out the stereotypical seating pattern in an office environment. The planning followed “Activity Based Design- ABW” whichdesigns settings for users to work from anywhere at any given time which included closed rooms with various settings and formats, work cafes, collaboration huddles and access to quiet/ phone rooms from their work-desks.

interiors The fundamental difference which this project achieved as compared to the other office designs was completely giving up of the individual work desk and replacing it with a large platform for various teams. The platforms were housed in a bay to bay module such that each team would be allotted a particular baywith individual lockers and tags instead of distinct seats. The platforms being wide and open with a recessed under structure designed without any privacy screens or “I” space divisions, made it extremely flexible and team oriented. Creation of these innovative platforms ended up being the ultimate solution for the smooth efficiency of the entire campus. These platforms increased the functionality of the space by creating malleable seating capacity, optimizing the efficiency of the design. As a result, the working bays became extremely collaborative, well-connected and created a positive impact on the overall work environment. The entire arrangement of the office represented transparency and co-operative working ethics which the company vouches for. The massive workspace is divided into tiny clusters defining each bay while enhancing the privacy of the teams and employees at the same time. The bay wise division also caters to the acoustics of each module. To infuse the natural elements within the cooperative zone several planters have been included as landscape features within the office in order to add dynamism to the closed space.

Instead of the ‘I’ space personalization, a bunch of team display units were integrated for the employees in every neighbourhood. These display units were majorly utilized for displaying personal and team mementos. The bays were planned towards the external wall in order to avail maximum natural light into the working arena. The glass walled closed rooms facing the working bays also captured a portion of the light. The work zones were further developed by adding two large “work cafes” or social points on every floor. The company’s requirement was to be able to identify with the presence of India as well as the global reach. Hence, the concept of having four themed cafes on every floor representing the major city locations of San Francisco, London, Chicago and Shanghaiwere incorporated. Each of the cafes had a unique material and colour pallete representing their highlights, life style and working environment. The San Francisco themed café adopted a garden and bay area concept with an interesting wall. The wall art included the famous Golden gate bridge and the vertical towers which suggest the spirit of San Francisco. An informal step seating is created along the wall décor. The yellow furniture, the scattered dash of green on the flooring and the overhanging planters from the ceiling together create a blissful milieu. It also symbolizes the carefree lifestyle of the people.

Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

Whereas, the London café represents the theme of a sports bar. A monochrome colour combination was embraced. The café was majorly divided into two portions defining the formal and the informal seating space. The use of minimal colours, retro design furniture and a welcoming environment signified the sophistication and culture of London. The Chicago themed café was inspired by the Chicago blue music, indigenous to their culture and to the city in particular. It included a lively colour scheme around which the entire design revolved. The setting of bright coloured furniture, interesting flooring patterns and the ceiling design created the vibe of their culture.And lastly, the Shanghai themed café was designed using a simple colour palette of white and brown and screen design inspired from Asian detailing. The café included a formal as well as an informal seating space. The minimalistic set up of the cafe signified the blend of the Western and the Chinese culture which represents Shanghai. The other four cafes were designed on corporate themes. Moreover, the project also included the concept of a ‘vertical campus’ on the top two floors which connect the Client Experience Floor with the Candidate experience floor as both these activities are very close to ZS-ers and the management. The internal stairwell made the experience for the candidates, client interface and the employees very comfortable and interesting. The two floors were based on complementary design themes resonating with the activities of the given space. Vertical green walls, organic seating, water fountain, conference planning, media and town hall flexibility to various aspects for the candidate experience were absorbed in this interconnecting space.An office building is not just an enclosed space housing equipment and furniture. It’s an experience for Indian Architect & Builder - July 2018

the young employees, who enter this arena to shape their career, explore the possibilities and nurture their future. It’s also a lot about the overall development of an individual, building cordial relationships and creating memories making it imperative to have a positive influence on every individual.

FACT FILE: Project Principal Architect Team Client Project Area Initiation of Project Completion of project

: Workspace Interiors Location: Pune, Maharahstra : Bimal Desai : Shweta Grover, Anamika Chatterjee : ZS Associates : 302,000 Sq. Ft. : 2017 : 2017

8400+

201+

attendees till date

lectures till date

700+

11+

professionals in each edition

editions

India’s Biggest Architecture symposium ICON LECTURERS OVER THE YEARS Dr B V Doshi, Pritzker Laureates, 2018

India

Richard Meier, USA Pritzker 1984 Laureate

One of the oldest and most respected design forums in India, the 361° Conference is an initiative by Indian Architect & Builder, under the aegis of Jasubhai Media, to inspire a truly relevant discussion on architecture. The Conference establishes a thought – exchange program with lectures and discussions chronicling a multitude of ideas and innovations that have had a significant impact on our habitats. Through the years, the conference has connected various disciplines of design, by offering dialogue opportunities across essential themes like Architecture and the City, Architecture & Identity, Architecture of Purpose, New Spirit in Architecture, Design & Informal Cities, Earth Matters, Imagining Urban Futures, Material Innovations & Discourse, Intuition & Syntax in Architecture.

Fumihiko Maki, Japan Pritzker 1993 Laureate

Late Charles Correa, India Padma Vibhushan, Padmashri, RIBA Gold Medal

Massimiliano Fuksas, Italy Crystal Globe IAA Grand Prix 2015

Peter Rich, South Africa Building of the Year award at WAF

Toyoo Ito, Japan Pritzker 2013 Laureate

Sir Peter Cook, UK Royal Gold Medal of the RIBA

“India is diverse economically, socially, culturally and climatically. We need to stop talking about buildings and talk about a sense of community. That is what identity stems from.” “I think, any work of architecture that has, with it, some discussion, and some polemic, is good. It shows that people are interested and people are involved.”

“Time was able to give us the ability to reflect on what we had done and became the mediator between the city and its architecture.”

“Place represents that part of truth that belongs to architecture.”

“Architecture is probably the easiest and simplest interpretation of art and culture.”

“You cannot reinvent the wheel with architecture; it has all been done before.”

“Asian Architecture and cities have inherited the culture of integrating with nature and are opened to nature.”

“History of architecture seems to be preoccupied by the form of the window, the decoration of the window, the acknowledgement of the window.”

RNI No: 46976/87 Registered with Register of Newspaper of India, ISSN 0971-5509. Publishing Date: 1st of every month. Postal Registration No: MCS/183/2016-18. Posted at Patrika Channel Sorting office, Mumbai 400001, on 7th & 8th of every month. Total Pages = 92