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Latest developments in the escalators and elevator industry;A look at how facades improve a structure’s environmental performance The definitive guide to successful commercial spaces and facilities management
Total pages 52 Volume 5 | Issue 6 | February 2018 | `50
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS RECOGNISING THE POTENTIAL IN MSMEs, RAHEJA DISTRICT II BY RAHEJA UNIVERSAL HAS CREATED A PERFECT ECOSYSTEM FOR THE NEW WAVE OF INDUSTRY PLAYERS
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Editor’s note
Aiding growth According to the estimates of the Indian government’s Ministry of MSME, the sector generates around 100 million jobs over 46 million units across the country. With 38% contribution to the nation’s GDP and 40% and 45% share of the overall exports and manufacturing output respectively, it is easy to comprehend the salience of the role they play in social and economic restructuring of India. Besides the wide range of services provided by the sector, it is engaged in the manufacturing of over 6,000 products ranging from traditional to hi-tech. The manifest capacity of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) around the world for driving economic growth and development cannot be overemphasised. As India gears up to retrace the high growth path, the MSME sector assumes a pivotal role in driving the growth engine. Despite its strategic importance in the context of industrial development and economic growth of the country, the MSME sector experiences several constraints and challenges. Several key issues remain to be addressed properly and measures to be taken in the interest of sustainable industrial development. Though we’ve seen the abundance of commercial parks for the MNCs and top corporate, there aren’t many planned complexes in India that cater to the needs of this critical segment. Which is why the development of Raheja District II by Raheja Universal is such a significant stride for the sector. It’s one of few commercial parks that meet international standards in design and functions. Our cover story for this month walks us through the project and its development in entirety.
Rashmi Naicker Editor rashmi.naicker@itp.com
February 2018 | VOLUME 5 | ISSUE 6 ITP MEDIA (INDIA) PVT. LTD Notan Plaza, 3rd floor, 898 Turner Road Bandra (West), Mumbai – 400050, India T +91 22 6154 6000 Deputy managing director S Saikumar Group publishing director Bibhor Srivastava EDITORIAL Editor Rashmi Naicker T +91 22 6154 6041 rashmi.naicker@itp.com Contributors Anamika Butalia, Shristi Nangalia ADVERTISING Director Indrajeet Saoji T +91 22 6154 6024 indrajeet.saoji@itp.com Executive-Advertising Sales Roopal Mishra T +91 22 6154 6021 roopal.mishra@itp.com STUDIO Head of design Milind Patil Senior designer Vinod Shinde Contributor Saili Bandre PRODUCTION Deputy production manager Ramesh Kumar CIRCULATION Distribution manager James D’Souza T +91 22 6154 6006 james.dsouza@itp.com
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WRITE TO THE EDITOR Please address your letters to: The Editor, Commercial Design, 898 Notan Plaza, 3rd floor, Turner Road, Bandra (West), Mumbai - 400050 or email rashmi.naicker@itp.com. Please provide your full name and address, stating clearly if you do not wish us to print them. The opinions expressed in this section are of particular individuals and are in no way a reflection of the publisher’s views.
4 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
Published by and © 2018 ITP Media (India) Pvt. Ltd RNI No. MAHENG/2013/52810
Contents
FEBRUARY 2018 Volume 5
Issue 6
12 18
8 BULLETIN
A roundup of the latest industry news from across the country.
12 COVER STORY
Recognising the potential in MSMEs, Raheja District II by Raheja Universal has created a perfect ecosystem for the new wave of industry players
TRENDS 18 Aside from aesthetics, the choice of facade systems
significantly improves a structure’s environmental performance
24 Commercial Design looks at the latest technological developments in the escalators and elevator industry
30 FEATURE
Commercial Design rounds up five popular mobile design apps
CASE STUDY 34 Architect Vistasp & Associates designed the 1.5 lakh sqft office for Epilson India charting through a peculiar theme
40 Dubai-based Lulie Fisher Design Studio creates a
stimulating Sixth Form Hub for Dubai English Speaking College
45 COLUMN
Philip Michael Wolfson, the artist, designer and architect speaks on running Zaha Hadid’s studio in the 1980s
24 6 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
50 OPINION
Forecast on co-working spaces
ADVISORY BOARD Our distinguished advisory board has been assembled to help guide Commercial Design to become even more representative of its community. Members have been invited from the highest levels of the industry to ensure that the magazine continues on its path of success.
Jagvinder Pinny Mann Sr Portfolio Manager, Microsoft India
Bhupesh Pathak Director, IFM & Asset Services, Cushman & Wakefield
Ajay Bhatt Assistant VP and head, Facilities and Estate, Godrej Industries
Joanna Gomes Proprietor, Designers’ Guild
Ar. Reza Kabul Principal, Architect Reza Kabul
Rajat Malhotra Sr vice-president, IFM, Jones Lang LaSalle India
George Mckay South Asia director, Office and Integrated Services, Colliers International
Deben Moza Joint CEO, Knight Frank Property Services Private Limited
Ar. Swapnil Sawant Director and co-founder, Worksphere Architects
Sameer Saxena Group manager, Property Administration, Mercer
Ar. Ninad Tipnis Principal, JTCPL Designs
Deepak Uppal President,Vatika Enviro
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Commercial Design | February 2017 | 7
Bulletin
Aludecor launches Systems, redefines ACP facades
T
he recently introduced Aludecor System is a pathbreaking technology that redefines aluminium composite panel facades in India. Silicone sealant used to fill the grooves of a typical ACP facade has been a major pain point for architects. With the new launch, the sealant is completely removed from the process. This new system provides framework and accessories set-up that ensure low or zero maintenance. With the absence of silicone, there are no worries about leaks and stains. Some of these systems also provide ventilated facades that provide comfort to inhabitants and are cost-saving too, while taking the building’s aesthetics several notches higher. The Pressure-Equalised Rainscreen (PER), Hanging Rainscreen (HR) and Male Female Rainscreen (MFR) systems facilitate rainscreen cladding, which provides an exterior cladding layer that reduces the force of winddriven water movement, preventing it from getting into the breaches. “Although the initial cost of installing ACP with the help of these systems is higher, it is cost effective in the long run as it requires negligible maintenance,” asserts Aludecor’s CMD Ashok Kumar Bhaiya.
H&R Johnson awarded ‘Consumer Superbrands’ India certification
L
ast month, H&R Johnson’s engineered marble and quartz business Johnson Marble & Quartz received the prestigious Consumer Superbrands 2017 award certification, acknowledging its strong consumer connect and brand strength. Inspired by the unprecedented beauty of natural marble, the productline bridges the gap between nature and technology by maintaining the look and feel of natural marble, while eliminating the inherent problems prevalent in natural products. Johnson engineered marble and quartz products are impervious, non-porous, homogeneous and suitable for virtually any interior application such as flooring, wall and pillar cladding, countertops, vanity tops, stair treads, risers, etc. With its reputation for fair play, Superbrands is the world’s foremost authority on brand management practices, recognising brands that have built exceptionally strong sustained relations with consumers. The company won after taking into account the views of over 19,000 consumers.
8 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
Groke launches thermally insulated aluminium profile doors
G
roke has introduced front entrance doors made from thermally insulated aluminium profiles that fulfill the requirements of Energy Saving Ordinances. Solid fabrication and attractive design of the doors as well as long-lasting functional safety and value maintenance are some of its features. Manufactured in accordance with strict internal standards and representing over 100 years in metal construction, the optimum thermally insulated three-chamber profile system with extra insulation helps conserve energy. Three circumferential sealing levels provide high wind and weather resistance as well.
Bulletin
GBCI launches first LEED Lab in North India at the Amity University, Haryana
G
reen Business Certification Inc, the organisation that certifies all LEED green building projects worldwide, joined hands with Amity University, Haryana to launch the first ever LEED Lab in North India. LEED Lab is a multidisciplinary immersion course that utilises the built environment to educate and prepare students to become green building leaders with
a focus on sustainability. The lab’s course helps students assess the performance of existing facilities on campus and choose a building to facilitate the LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance (LEED O+M) rating system with the goal of certifying the facility. Students undertake the complete certification process and are responsible for
Siemens to manufacture new generation of photovoltaic inverters in India
S
iemens India’s Sinacon PV, a new generation of photovoltaic (PV) central inverters with an output up to 5,000 kVA, is part of the company’s electrical Balance of Plant (eBoP) solution for PV power plant installations. This state-of-the-art inverter will now be produced and manufactured at Siemen’s Kalwa plant near Mumbai for the domestic market as well as for export. The Indian renewable energy sector is the second most attractive renewable energy market in the world. Crossing 14GW of already installed solar capacity, the government is firm on its ambition of 100GW of installed solar generation by 2022. Harald Griem, executive VP and head of Energy Management for the company, said, “Siemens is committed to partner with the government in its endeavour to increased use of clean energy sources. The National Solar Mission aims to establish India as a global leader in solar energy and Siemens aspires to contribute to this with local value-addition in line with Make in India.” A solar PV inverter converts the variable direct current output of a PV solar panel into a utility frequency alternating current that can be fed into a commercial electrical grid or used by a local, off-grid electrical network. The Sinacon PV is equipped with three-level IGBT modules, has an outdoor design for harsh environments with fluid cooling, and can operate at up to 60°C ambient temperature.
leading all documentation and lastly submitting the project to GBCI for review. At the close of the semester, students are well equipped to take the LEED AP O+M professional credential exam that signifies their green building experience and knowledge. “To create a more sustainable world for all, we must arm today’s students with the knowledge and skills needed to affect real change. These are our future leaders and they hold the power to change the world for the better,” said Mahesh Ramanujam, President and CEO, US Green Building Council and Green Business Certification Inc. “The course meets the demands of the industry by equipping students with career-ready skills and knowledge that can be quickly deployed upon graduation. Higher education institutions, such as Amity University, provide an engaging environment that give students first-hand experience integrating sustainable practices into daily campus operations and maintenance using LEED.”
India’s first app-operated chipon-board spotlights by iBahn Illumination
T
he first company in India to specialise in Smart LED lights, iBahn Illumination, announced the launch of its Prima and Elite Series of spotlights. It is the country’s first app-operated chip-on-board (COB) lighting solutions. Prima offers reflector-based spotlights with fixed and adjustable spots, while Elite is a lens-based spotlight with a modular design of four different reflector attachments – fixed, swing, angle and curve. Priced between Rs. 2,000-5,000, the products are available in 8W and 16W, bright and dim (Prima), and warm and cool (Prima and Elite) lighting options, allowing customers to have complete control. Compatible with Android and iOS, the spotlights provide exceptional indoor lighting and can be applied in residential as well as commercial spaces such as corridors, showrooms, cafeteria, restaurant, hotel lobbies, reception areas and in recessed gypsum ceilings.
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 9
: vikashr@comacindia.com,
: www.comacindia.com or www.comac.it,
: Board No.-011 41867700 | Toll Free - 18001039164 | Mobile: +91- 9821495797
Consumer Connect
C
omac SpA is a worldwide leader of mechanised cleaning machine providing cleaning solution since 1974. A well established company within the Indian markets, they’ve been providing equipments since the last ten years to various commercial enterprises, corporate offices, hotels, institutions, retail buildings, airports, railway and metro stations, manufacturing plants and major core industries like steel, cement, power, auto-mobile plants, etc. to keep their premises clean and hygienic. But it was all through distributors. In 2016, Comac India Pvt. Ltd. came into existence and what stands out about the company is that it has its own independent sales and service team in 15-plus locations across the country, which is unique in its own way. In
just two years of conducting operations in India, the company has gained the trust of 1000-plus stakeholders and has already been regarded as one of the top five players in the industry. The modern technologies implemented by Comac helps one provide quality cleaning and hygiene services while drastically reducing labour costs. Comac machines are designed and built to be simple and intuitive to use, without the need for skilled personnel. They all offer solutions that enable an optimisation of resources and increase in productivity in the cleaning perspective. Comac, as an entity, is committed to playing an active part in shaping the future of India as a CLEAN GREEN nation.
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 11
12 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
Cover Story
Best of both worlds
Recognising the potential in the newly emerging sect of players, Raheja District II by Raheja Universal has created an ecosystem for the new wave of micro, small and medium enterprises in the country, shares the company’s MD, Ashish Raheja BY RASHMI NAICKER
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 13
Cover Story
S
ince its inception, Raheja Universal has created a reputation for itself through a robust portfolio of projects. Its vision of the future is an approach that marries architectural design and spatial elements to reinvent the meaning of functional and creative intervention. In conversation with the man at the reins of its development, Ashish Raheja, MD, Raheja Universal, talks about the group’s latest project, Raheja District II, a project that continues in the same vein, where conventional typologies are tuned out, to develop contemporary strategies within the strong context. Sprawling across 27 acres, Raheja District II is an international standard industrial park in Navi Mumbai conceptualised, designed and developed as an office complex
PROJECT FACTFILE: Architect: K Thomas Associates Project area: 27 acres Initiation of project: 2014. Completion of project: Phase 1 Edison to be completed in 2018
14 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
Cover Story
for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that are sprouting across the country. Despite its strategic importance in the context of industrial development and economic growth of the country, the MSME sector experiences several constraints and challenges. Several key issues remain to be addressed properly and measures to be taken in the interest of sustainable industrial development. Though we’ve seen the abundance of commercial parks for the MNCs and top corporate, there aren’t many planned complexes in India that cater to the needs of
The commercial park represents a strategic opportunity tailored to meet the growing needs of MSMEs and their diverse range of industrial activities.”
Ashish Raheja, MD, Raheja Universal.
this critical segment. “MSMEs today represent diverse types of businesses and, thus, Raheja District II is focused on creating an establishment that offers a range of services. These include space, dimensions and facilities that are vital for supporting the creation, expansion and modernisation of the sector, along with infrastructure, common service facilities and economies of scale at all stages. With a large labour force residing in the nearby areas, the project was aimed to mould and serve the potential that it offered.” Raheja adds, “Navi Mumbai, being one of the best planned and fastest growing townships in the last decade, has demonstrated a substantial growth with more to come. Connectivity, affordability and good social infrastructure have
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 15
Cover Story
INFRASTRUCTURAL ELEMENTS • Loading and unloading bays in each building • Provision of weigh bridge • DG for common areas • Rain water harvesting and solid waste management • Column-free units with floor-to-floor height of 16ft, including loft • Slab strength of five ton/sqm for ground floor; 1.75 ton/sqft for other floors; 0.5 ton/sqm for loft • Sleeve provision for HVAC, etc.
16 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
led to an excellent trajectory for the market. The commercial park, therefore, represents a strategic opportunity tailored to meet the growing needs of a diverse range of industrial businesses in the city.” The project’s most distinguishing factor is its ability to establish an identity via the distinctive facade. With columnfree units and optimum floorto-floor height of 16ft, including the loft, it has been designed to define structural excellence at each step. Industrial, highstrength flooring tiles that can withstand heavy loads have been fixed across the property. After thorough research on the needs and requirements of MSMEs, the complex’s infrastructure is aptly designed to cater to each of them. It includes features to
facilitate business activities, from loading and unloading bays to transport vehicle lifts for speedy transportation, eliminating the time-consuming process of shifting goods from ground to floor levels. The project, thereby, addresses important issues faced by MSMEs such as poor adaptability to changing trends, lack of skilled manpower, inadequate infrastructure facilities, including power, water, roads and other environmental issues to achieve better efficiencies. Raheja District II goes beyond providing an industrial building that fits the needs of MSMEs. It also guides businesses through Indian customs, tax programmes, government incentives, and connects them to legal advisers to incorporate companies at the industrial park, as a turnkey service. The creative design of the project has embodied a unique identity for the sector that enhances the effectiveness of its workplace and also composes itself as a strong marketing and recruiting tool. Consistently resonating with the values of modern and efficient spaces through the use of technological advancements and building systems, the project delineates as modern, responsive and compelling structure.
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Trends
Building an image Aside from aesthetics, the choice of facade systems significantly improves a structure’s environmental performance
A
s important as appearances are, so is functionality of every element that goes into constructing an edifice. It is imperative that each addition, including the choice of facade, ideally balances aesthetic appeal
and function. Facades no longer just shield the interiors from harsh weather conditions; they act as a status symbol too. Like most aspects of architecture, they fuse art with science, providing inspiring concepts such as interactive/ moving, media, double skin
18 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
and living wall facades. Such innovations bring lay people and professionals together, in appreciation of architectural skins. The brilliance in these trends comes not merely from the visual appeal but also from clever use of technology to regulate daylight and ventilation as well
Trends
trends are emerging in cladding design and materials as well as systems. The requirement of adherence to the strictest energy and quality parameters and norms have given rise to more robust, energy efficient, innovative and adaptable systems such as dynamic louvers, energy efficient and facades such as rear ventilated, double skin, kinetic, etc. This is also encouraging the creation of complex facades ranging from geometric shapes and aerodynamic compositions to perforated designs that turn architecture into the nerve centre of the environment.” Adding to this, Kapil Chikodi, head of business development for Glass Wall Systems, states that some of the new system designs like double skin facade with basic window wall system on the inner and outer layers with aluminium louvers or with perforated aluminium sheet are trending across various sectors.
Kapil Chikodi, head of business development for Glass Wall Systems.
as to provide privacy. Significant improvements can be noted in the understanding of building envelope – with increasing forums and exhibitions, architects and professionals are putting in considerable thought in determining an architectural skin of a building. FunderMax’s marketing head, Niraj Borikar, explains, “Facade design is a continuous process of evolution, so much so that
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 19
Trends
Niraj Borikar, head, Marketing, FunderMax.
Creative facade solutions by FunderMax (above and below).
External Cladding Glass has been the foremost choice across the country, although bemoaned by many architects. But the understanding that glass as a complete facade solution may not be ideal, has paved the way for other trends as well. “With India becoming the fastest growing economy in the world, there is an increase in demand not only for quantity but also quality. And facades are gaining higher importance from Addressing the complexities in the industry, Rohan Keswani, director, Aluplex India, states that “Today, architects and clients are looking at designing building facades with geometric elevations breaking the convention of ‘flat glass box’ structures.” Emphasising on the environmental aspect, he mentions about the increased focus on sustainability and how facades are being designed to reduce energy costs, with the integration of various techniques – such as increased use of sunshades and low-emissivity glass to allow for natural lighting without loss of thermal energy; application of passive ventilation using double skinned facades, etc.
a design stand point, setting the tone for the rest of the structure,” comments Anuj Sangal, country head, Sales & Marketing, Laminate & CAA Business, Greenlam Industries. After glass, he says, the choices for cladding material include high pressure compact laminate, stone, cement boards, wood, metallic sheets like copper, etc. Aluminum is another material that has dominated this industry. Awanish Mishra, area sales manager, Renson, adds, “Design and aesthetics enjoy immense importance nowadays, together with sustainability – both in terms of energy-efficiency and materials used. Techniques have to fit in as subtly as possible.” Catering to this demand, Renson’s Linius and Linarte aluminium cladding systems are sleek and available
High pressure compact laminate facades are gaining higher importance from a design stand point.
Anuj Sangal, country head, Sales & Marketing, Greenlam Industries.
Rohan Keswani, director, Aluplex India. 20 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
Many just think, but we touched the sky. At Glasswall Systems, facade technology exceeds just engineering and design. It is a balance of knowledge together with practical solutions that gives us the edge and helps us redeďŹ ne the city skyline.
project : Indiabulls sky Client : Indiabulls Real estate
Trends
Living facades can maximise a project’s green space with a minimum-sized footprint.
ELT India’s living or green facades provide buildings with a four-fold insulation with the help of plant leaves, moist growth medium, shade and buffer space for air.
in multiple colours, finishing, and also provide technical requirements such as ventilation, acoustics, etc. For a seamless look, Dupont’s Corian makes for a good exterior cladding. Its appearance can be maintained by easily sanding and cleaning the surface. Even graffiti can be removed through standard pressure washing with mildly abrasive cleaning agents. Another benefit of Corian is its ability to adapt to any challenging shape. Striking illumination features too can be added to the facade using the translucent variety. Dupont also offers low moisture absorption and resistance to stains, environmental pollutants, detergents and humidity conditions. Additionally, with Corian solid surface, there is a possibility of engraving intricate designs to exact specifications using CNC machinery, since facades are also used as an effective means of advertisement and brand imaging. CURTAIN WALLS After making its mark in Europe, double-wall or double-glazed operable facades are gradually garnering popularity in India
Pradeep Barpande, MD, ELT India.
Debashis Roy, VP, Kaskal Facade.
for its ability to utilise natural ventilation and solar heat gain. It is made up of two layers: an outer curtain wall and an inner glass pane, with an interstitial space that provides a thermal buffer. The layers can be opened or closed depending on the time of day and season. For instance, in winter, the sun heats up the air in the interstitial space, releasing it into the building by opening the internal glazing results to receive free heating. During summer, the internal pane stays closed and the exterior glazing is opened, releasing heat outdoors and keeping interiors cool. On moderate days, both glass panes can be opened to optimise natural ventilation and minimise HVAC requirements. Also trending are green facades that provide better air quality,
22 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
Architecturally designed green facades usually boast eye-catching designs, while simultaneously improving the local environment and increasing the desirability of the building.”
noise damping and natural beauty. Living facades are low-cost and low-maintenance, and can maximise a project’s green space with a minimum-sized footprint. Architecturally designed green facades usually boast eye-catching designs, while simultaneously improving the local environment and increasing the desirability of the building. Pradeep Barpande, MD of ELT India, considers living or green facades as the buzzwords. “Buildings receive a four-fold insulation with the help of plant leaves, moist growth medium, shade and buffer space for air between wall and facade,” adds Barpande, “Among other recent innovations that provide an impetus are soil-less growth mediums and self-watering systems.” The ELT cladding system has modules, growth medium to grow plants, vegetation, and irrigation and drainage systems. Access is also necessary for the maintenance of vegetation, and provisions are to be made at the design stage. Given that maintenance is a critical aspect while selecting a facade system, Debashis Roy, VP, Kaskal Facade, sheds lights on self-cleaning facade solutions. He states, “Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is applied on both the solid walls and glazing system as it acts as a type of photo-catalyst. When exposed to sunlight, TiO2 activates its oxygen molecules to decompose germs, bacteria and organic matter. This helps
Trends
Rajeev Antony, MD, Schueco India.
reduce maintenance and cleaning requirements.” FENESTRATIONS “A building is as secure as its weakest link/spot and, hence, fenestration systems are an integral part of facades. Windows, just like louvres, are already vulnerable elements and, other than the burglar resistance of the product, its implementation and placement plays an equally important role,” says Renson’s Mishra. The required level of protection is determined by risk analyses, which could vary on a regional or national level. Several factors play a role such as the function and position of the building, and accessibility to relevant facade elements. For compliance with the designated risk category, all the installed facade elements are linked to minimum burglarresistant classes, which are certified based on the European standards EN1627:2011 to 1630:2011. These classes are indicated with an abbreviation ‘RC’ (Resistance Class) and numbered from one to six, in which the resistance class ‘RC6’ represents the highest resistance class against burglary attempts). Nowadays, RC2 is the most commonly used class for housing and buildings that are not considered to be very intrusion sensitive. Renson’s burglar-resistant louvers are tested and certified in compliance with current European standards. In addition to the 431RC2 surface mounted and 421RC2 and 423RC4 built-in louvres, the company also offers a 424RC2
To limit incoming solar heat in the rooms and emphasise on the elevational lines, the planners of this hospital building chose awnings and aluminum blades by Renson.
Awanish Mishra, area sales manager, Renson
Windows, just like louvres, are already vulnerable elements and, other than the burglar resistance of the product, its implementation and placement plays an equally important role.”
Renson Fixscreen shading systems for commercial buildings.
burglar-resistant window louvers amongst its wide range. With the growing need for high performing fenestration systems for building envelopes in India, KK Holding’s One-lite Low E2 with argon insulating glass is equipped with bronze handle, bare wood interior, extruded aluminum clad exterior (clad units), 2 13/32 inch and 4 9/16 inch jambs, DP40 performance rating, etc. Another company that caters to the demanding segment is Schueco. “The company’s TropTec range has been designed and developed especially for tropical
climate zones such as India, keeping in mind the local climatic and urban conditions. Offering wide flexibility in design and surface finish for the planners, the range of products are available for windows, facades and sliding systems, says Rajeev Antony, MD, Schueco India. These exciting trends are quickly changing city skylines, mostly for the good. While one can only hope for interactive and living-wall facades in our cities, illuminated media facades are expected to gain momentum in the near future.
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 23
Trends
T
echnological advancements have changed the way we design over the past 150 years. But, perhaps, none has had a greater impact than the invention of the passenger elevator. It’s been one of the critical aspects in rendering a distinctive skyline, marked with high rises and towers across many modern cities today. With the dearth of ground space, buildings are inevitably scaling the skies to unimaginable heights. As a direct consequence, the escalator and elevator industry has grown tremendously. As buildings are now responding to energy efficiency standards and requirements, this industry too is stepping up a notch to go ‘green’. Sebi Joseph, president of Otis India, says, “As urbanisation drives the increased need for infrastructure and buildings, the elevator industry plays an important role in supporting that growth. It will fuel the need for smart and efficient technologies to support urban growth.” With this commitment to energy efficiency, the industry is innovating and rethinking its technological inputs that increase the life, efficiency, safety and reliability of elevators and escalators. The past few years have seen many innovations. While existing elevator cables maxed out at approximately 500m in length before becoming unsupportable, UltraRope, a cable technology by Finnish elevator manufacturer KONE, allows elevators to travel up to a kilometre without stopping, essentially doubling the current distance. The company also offers a range of elevators, including KONE Monospace, an elevator with no machine room, and Minispace that requires a small machine room and consumes about 50% less energy over conventional geared technology. “At KONE, an IT-based tool studies and enables traffic calculation and suggests loads, speeds, capacities, etc, better. We
24 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
Sc upali ng Co m tec me h r esc nolo cial ala gic Des tor al ign s a dev lo nd elo ok ele pm s at va en the tor ts ind in t lates us he t tr y
Trends
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 25
Trends
The KONE InnoTrack is so flat that, unlike conventional solutions, it can be installed entirely on the floor level.
have been able to cater to specific requirements for infrastructure projects. Due to heavy usage of elevators and escalators, it is critical that equipment is always functioning, making maintenance a key part of projects and we provide life cycle solutions too,” says Amit Gossain, MD, KONE India. The company has also developed the world’s flattest autowalk technology, which makes designing locations for and installing autowalks considerably easier. The KONE InnoTrack is so flat that, unlike conventional solutions, it can be installed entirely on the floor level. To increase elevator capacity, ThyssenKrupp has developed its TWIN technology, which stacks two elevators within the same shaft (with an extra stop below the lowest level and above the highest floors, so one cabin can park at this spot to give access to the desired floor). The German company is also working on MULTI, an elevator system that eliminates the need for a cable, allowing elevators to travel independently, both vertically and horizontally through shaft loops within a building. In addition, to address the market with compact
Amit Gossain, MD, KONE India.
26 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
floor heights, it also launched the H300 elevators with no pit and headroom space requirements. “Another popular smart elevator feature is destination selection control (DSC), for which passengers enter their destination floor on input terminals in the lift lobby. Each passenger is then assigned to a specific lift that Hitachi’s TX Series escalator follows the same concept as the machine room-less elevator.
would travel to the respective floor in the shortest time with a minimal number of intermediate stops. Compared to conventional systems, DSC increases passenger handling capacity by upto 30%, minimises travel times and reduces crowding in lobbies. DSC also allows for more flexibility in elevator grouping, lift core layouts
Trends
and overall building design,” adds Bharat Vishnani, MD, Thyssenkrupp Elevator India. Catering to the need for faster vertical transportation that is sustainable and smart, Otis’ flagship technology, the Gen2’s components include coated steel belt, the ReGen drive, the permanent magnet machine and the Otis’ PULSE system – all of which, when combined, increase the life, efficiency, safety and reliability of the elevator. Of all the building categories in the commercial sector, healthcare facilities require the most efficient transport system, in terms of speed, capacity, stability of the carrier, promptness, etc. Addressing these specific issues, Fuji Sophus Elevators recently installed two units of Fuji MIYUHy series machine room elevators that have a carrying capacity of 12 passengers (800 Kgs), at a speed of 1.5 meters per second at the HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai. “All the elevators are
In conventional designs, parts of the frame covering the outer edges of the balustrade glass are prominently visible. The TX Series design minimizes these parts. The space available for installation of lighting fixtures had also been expanded, enabling enhanced lighting options for illuminating the entire balustrade surroundings.
Sebi Joseph, President, Otis India.
As urbanisation drives the increased need for infrastructure, the elevator industry plays an important role in supporting that growth.”
The Otis Gen2 elevator’s unique, patented flat-belt drive technology significantly reduces vibration, providing passengers and tenants a remarkably smooth, quiet ride and improved overall comfort compared to conventional systems.
backed with Fuji’s latest microprocessor 64-bit technology which completely optimises the elevator availability to the users – providing shortest waiting time, faster travel time, eradication of queuing during peak hours while conserving energy,” added KS Bansal, director, Fuji Sophus Elevators. Escalator requirements too have significantly increased, particularly in the retail industry, hospitals, hotels, airports, etc,
KS Bansal, director, Fuji Sophus Elevators
where a large flow of people needs to be managed. They cater to various unique needs
In comparison with conventional designs, the handrail intakes of the TX Series adopt a simpler shape with fewer irregular shapes or protrusions.
The side portions of the escalator steps are 8 mm higher than the central portion. The skirts are witted with brushes at foot level to alert users to their foot coming into contact with the sides.
The landing plates at the entrance and exit points of the escalator are finished with a special surface.
The span of the escalator is 150 mm shorter than that of conventional designs, enabling installation in more confined spaces.
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 27
Trends With the dearth of ground space, buildings are inevitably scaling the skies to unimaginable heights. As a direct consequence, the escalator and elevator industry has grown tremendously.
Bharat Vishnani, MD, Thyssenkrupp Elevator. India.
To increase elevator capacity, thyssenKrupp has developed its TWIN technology, which stacks two elevators within the same shaft.
28 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
DSC increases passenger handling capacity by upto 30%, minimises travel times and reduces crowding in lobbies.�
ranging from light to heavy-duty applications. With the positive growth in infrastructure, even public transit industries are turning towards escalators to provide better facilities. Catering to this increasing demand, Hitachi’s TX Series escalator follows the same concept as the machine room-less elevator. It adopts a functional design in pursuit of ease and comfort. Also, by shortening the span dimensions, the model has made it possible to install escalators in more confined spaces, where installation presents difficulties with conventional product designs. Although the retail industry has slowed down recently, the high flow requirement of transit industries is revolutionising the escalator industry steadily. Rapid increase in high-end residential, retail and commercial industry translates to the need for more efficient and faster elevators and escalators with customisation playing a key role.
a i d n I n i t n i r p t o o f r Ou MEDIA
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Feature
Best apps for architects Commercial Design rounds up five popular mobile design apps
T
he technological revolution is changing the way most industries operate and has had an immense impact on the interior, architecture and graphic design industries. With the popularity of smartphones and tablets, mundane tasks have become less time-consuming as advancing software continues to help with drawings, computation and site analysis. Apps also help
architects and designers with other fundamentals — from creating colour combinations to drafting floor plans. While looking at the latest advancements in design technology, Commercial Design has come across a number of mobile apps that are being lauded by architects and designers alike. Here are the top five of 2017. ARki A real-time augmented reality visualisation service for
38 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
architectural models, ARki produces architectural visualisation in-house and provides bespoke AP apps that are unique for each project. By incorporating AR technology within the architectural design process, it is able to visualise 3D models for both design and presentation purposes, creating an immersive visualisation technique with multiple layers of interactivity. The app can be used on iOS and android devices, and allows users to explore 3D data with an added
Feature
ARki
AutoCAD Although not particularly new, AutoCAD nonetheless remains one of the most popular apps for architects. Its mobile app tool is designed especially for CAD users on-site, enabling them to create, view, edit and share CAD drawings at anytime from anywhere. Available on iOS, android and windows, the app allows users to present projects to clients, enabling real collaboration between stakeholders through simple access. Moreover, some of its features are accessible even when offline. level of navigational freedom. ARki also visualises models in any environment, without the need for printed markers or floor plans. Concepts Self-proclaimed ‘the future of Self-proclaimed as ‘the future of professional design’, Concepts combines paper and pencil with powerful vector manipulation. Architects can make quick sketches, illustrations or precise drawings with ease. The app offers infinite canvas and layers, flexible multi-touch shape guides, vector manipulation with advanced transforms and the ability to export sketched to standardised formats like CAD. Its precision
Morpholio Trace
tools include multi-touch shape guides, automatic measurements and snap-to- sketching. Morpholio Trace Founded by four architects who wanted smarter mobile tools for all phases of the design process, Morpholio’s Trace is a drawing app for architects and designers that uses analog tools of trace paper, technical pens, rulers, triangles and stencils. Trace has also recently incorporated augmented reality, letting users uncover virtual perspective grids to scale.
PadCAD An easy-to-use application, PadCAD is designed for smallto medium-sized projects such as home additions, remodelling projects, cabinetry work and site surveys. With this app, architects can produce clean and clear CAD drawings at faster rates. Although not a full blown CAD application, it allows users to export their drawings into popular formats like PDF. Some of its main features include intuitive finger-based drawing and editing, fine-tune controls for precision, unlimited undo and redo, and the integration of your device’s builtin camera.
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 39
23rd March, 2018 Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel, New Delhi
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The objective of the 4th Smart Office India Summit, is to get all stakeholders in making and running of an office, from Developers, Project Managers, Architects, Corporate Facility Heads, IT Heads and Administration Heads under one roof, to dialogue and to debate on leveraging and implementing the best practices in office design, build, sustainability and energy efficiency.
SPEAKERS AT THE 4TH SMART OFFICE INDIA SUMMIT
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Chief Operating Officer, Integrated Facilities Management, West Asia, JLL
VP – Global Real Estate, American Express, Gurgaon
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Case Study
Shaping the “unpredictable� Architect Vistasp & Associates designed the 1.5 lakh sqft office for Epilson India charting through a peculiar theme
34 | Fabruary 2018 | Commercial Design
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 35
Case Study
A
t Architect Vistasp & Associates, the design philosophy is simple — “We believe that good design is by design.” However, hidden in this simple approach is a task that is no cakewalk. This quest for delivering good design has been going well for this New Delhibased practice. Take for instance
the fact that after successfully designing an office for Epsilon India in 2015, the architecture and design firm found itself with a new project in a completely unexpected way. At Architect Vistasp & Associates (AVA), the design philosophy is simple – “We believe that good design is by design”. However, hidden in this approach is a task that is no cakewalk. This
We deliberately chose the theme of ‘unpredictability’ for the new office to increase curiosity for this new expansion.”
quest can best be seen in this New Delhi-based practice’s design for Epsilon India’s office. “Because we delivered so well in Hub 1 for the company, we were rewarded the new office extension by default,” shares principal architect Vistasp Bhagwagar. As much as it was a testament to its skills and capabilities, AVA saw this as an opportunity to push the
The fifth floor plan.
- Vistasp Bhagwagar
The sixth floor plan.
36 | Fabruary 2018 | Commercial Design
Case Study
The seventh floor plan. A monochromatic setting was decided on, with splashes of colours departing from the scheme at regular intervals.
The first view of the office is past the entrance, where a free-standing wall in jagged monochromatic black Corian conceals lighting above it.
boundaries for good design. “We took a stand that we would design an office entirely from scratch with a new concept,” he adds. Besides being distinct in appearance from Hub 1, the new extension was envisioned to bring in a unique experience of its own. “We deliberately chose the theme of ‘unpredictability’ for the new office to increase curiosity for this new expansion,” the architect explains. The design was also going to be reflective of the corporation’s new black and white logo. A monochromatic setting was decided on, with splashes of colours departing from the scheme at regular intervals. Each of the office’s three levels are identified by their own colours — turquiose blue, fuchsia pink and blazing orange, with surprises and design elements that weave the theme of unpredictability. “The greatest challenge was to do better than Hub 1 and to come up with something that would be appreciated even more,” shares Bhagwagar. The first view of the office is past the entrance, where a free-standing wall in jagged monochromatic black Corian conceals lighting above it. A linear scheme draws attention
Case Study
PROJECT DETAILS Client: Epsilon India Project area: 150,000sq-ft Location: Hebbal, Bengaluru Project cost: Rs. 2,450 per sq-ft Creative team: Architect Vistasp & Associates Civil and carpentry contractors: Craft Interiors, Bengaluru Project initiation: November 2016 Project completion: February 2017
A linear scheme draws attention to a seemingly expansive space that connects both wings of the floor.
Each of the office’s three levels are identified by their own colours – turquiose blue, fuchsia pink and blazing orange (below & above).
38 | Fabruary 2018 | Commercial Design
Case Study
Break-out areas are interspersed with suspended ‘Indian jhoolas’ that allow for an unconventionally homely and engaging space.
A touch of Biophilic design elements, randomly placed within built-in troughs, add flourishes of green and warmth to the space.
to a seemingly expansive space that connects both wings of the floor. The combination of Grey William stone with white engineered stone runs along the floor matched with large flat-lighting panels that connect both wings. The visitor waiting lounge is kept unconventional with disparate seating options. A touch of Biophilic design elements, randomly placed within built-in troughs, add flourishes of green and warmth to the space. The meeting rooms have panoramic wraps that are engaging and enthralling, with large scribble surfaces and AV screens. Placed in clusters of broken geometry, the workstations maintain the unpredictable theme and yet stay functional with well-lit alternate rows of linear channel lights and circular pendants. While some work zones are marked by a clear false ceiling with acoustic panels disbursed randomly, others have fibreboard acoustic tiles on the ceiling with exposed ducting. This difference in ceiling levels across the spine, breaks the monotony and increases the spatial feel of the workspace. Enclosed bubbles of amphitheatre-like collaboration areas, ensure better usability of the spaces for group discussions and ideation. Break-out areas are interspersed with suspended ‘Indian jhoolas’ that allow for an unconventionally homely and engaging space. The ample use of graphics with various themes across the floors, makes the office expressive and offers surprises and accents at every turn. “All the modular furniture and chairs are high-specification based and ensure a fit and finish that is incomparable,” Bhagwagar specifies. The quest for good design, of course, goes beyond spatial quality and a theme that is attractive and functional. And with good design, AVA has also managed to receive LEED Platinum Green certification for the project.
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 39
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PHILIP MICHAEL WOLFSON
Case Study
BACK TO COOL
Dubai-based Lulie Fisher Design Studio creates a stimulating Sixth Form Hub for Dubai English Speaking College BY SHALAKA PARADKAR
40 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
Case Study
Walls and barriers were broken down to create large, communcal spaces.
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 41
Case Study
I
n a city known for its five-star school campuses, Dubai English Speaking College (DESC) has already been hailed ‘game changing’ by Which School Advisor, UAE schools-reviews portal. The school’s new 3,200sqm Sixth Form Hub, which accommodates up to 500, is the first of its kind. Lulie Fisher Design Studio (LFDS) stepped in and transformed an existing, neighbouring campus in just nine months, from start to finish, including the design time and fit-out. “The brief was to provide a grown-up environment for students to prepare them for university life and the independent study that will be expected from them,” says Lulie Fisher, design director and founder, LFDS. “We had to also provide them with a facility where they could thrive, both academically and socially.” The existing structure housed a kindergarten with long, low corridors with poorly utilised external light wells. LFDS succeeded in transforming the building into an open plan,
dynamic, light-filled environment, fostering a sense of community and civic pride amongst the students. “We designed the school around the concepts of community and collaboration — for both, students and educators. The learning experience is enriched through collaboration and the facility’s
Chill out lounges kitted out with modular Verpan seating and Hay side tables. 42 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
layout promotes and enhances this opportunity,” says Fisher. “Our design intervention included breaking down barriers and walls, both internal and external, to create large, communal and interconnected spaces for studying, eating and relaxing inside, in internal light-filled courtyards as well as outside, in enclosed
Glass fronted shower cubicles service the state-of-the-art gym.
Case Study
Freestanding banquette units for an outdoorsy feeling. The strength and conditioning gym with weight lifting and cross fit.
green and Zen garden spaces.” The central light well has now been enclosed with a roof structure and stretched fabric ceilings, backlit with daylightsimulating light sources. It has resulted in a luminous, enclosed food court and study area, reminiscent of an outdoor garden courtyard. Freestanding banquette seating units with timber louvered canopies further perpetuate the illusion of the outdoors. A second linear light well has been also been enclosed to create lounges for students. Full-height glass sliding and folding doors were inserted, so the lounges open into a grassed and planted external garden.
Various styles of study are catered to in the design.
Glass doors were introduced throughout the length of the flanking corridors, providing daylight, green views and direct access into the garden; with routes across the garden, connecting the study rooms on either side. Furnished with pool tables, fun and colourful Verpan modular seating, Eames rockers, bean bags, ottomans and Hay side tables, the lounges are a collegial, colourful break-out space. The partial enclosure of these light wells effectively added 30% to the gross floor area and yielded the capacity to meet the school’s future expansion plans. “The chill-out lounges are our favourite
design feature,” adds Fisher. The natural theme of the outdoor courtyards and gardens was continued inside with the choice of sunny yellows, muted greens and warm oranges. Commenting on the striking hues, Fisher says: “The colour and material palettes have been selected for their freshness, sense of fun and timelessness. The facility needs to look as relevant in 10 or 15 years as it does now, so current fads and trends were meticulously avoided.” Colour psychology played its part too. “Colours have a studied impact on education and learning experiences, and
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 43
Case Study
Glass doors let in natural light and provide a connection to the outdoors.
The bright school cafeteria illuminated by red Muuto pendants.
we were mindful of this when selecting the finishes and fabrics. Green, a low wavelength colour, promotes relaxation and reminds us of nature; it is also good for assisting long-term concentration. Orange, when used sparingly, can be welcoming and mood lifting, providing a sense of comfort and improved neural functioning. Yellows are known to be excellent for stimulating creativity and improving attention.” The rooms flanking the corridors are devoted to different types of learning spaces, ranging from communal and collaborative study to quiet, private study pods. “The durability of finishes and materials was obviously a key concern in such a heavily used environment. Quality European furniture was selected for its
44 | February 2018 | Commercial Design
aesthetic and its grown-up feel. Furniture not usually associated with schools was chosen to demonstrate DESC’s value and trust in the students, and to project them into a university-style environment, which comes with responsibility and mutual respect.” Furniture was selected to complement various study methods — from long communal bar-height tables with integral task lighting to pairs and groupings of high and low-backed easy chairs, with side and coffee tables, and acoustically separated study pods for solitary learning. Orangebox and Hay chairs and stools are upholstered in warm and bright colours, while the desking is fully enabled with power outlets and USB-charging points, and served by task lighting. The school cafeteria serves up a healthy selection of hot and cold options from polished black granite food counters, illuminated by red rubber Muuto pendants. The abstract backdrop image, made of colourful tiles, was inspired by tribal designs. There’s also a dedicated pantry for students, which incorporates work surfaces, sinks, microwaves and banquette seating; combined with high bar counters for
snacking and working. All are equipped with charging stations and dedicated lighting. The project cost was US$1,035 per sqm, including FF&E but excluding the specialist gym fit-out and the landscaping. Key suppliers included Amtico Tiles for vinyl floor tiles in the study rooms, Johnsons Tiles and Tile Line for porcelain and ceramic wall and floor tiles throughout, Kvadraat for fabrics, Stretch Ceilings Middle East for the backlit stretch ceilings in the food court; furniture and lighting came from Hay, Pedrali, Fritz Hansen, Verpan,Vitra, Muuto and Kinnarps (study booths). With students’ health and wellbeing being at the heart of the DESC philosophy, LFDS created a state-of-the-art strength and conditioning gym with weight lifting and CrossFit rig. Serviced by changing rooms with individual glass-fronted shower cubicles, the gym also has wet and dry vanity counters for hair drying and make-up. LFDS also accommodated a Wellness Centre with quiet relaxation areas, a yoga studio and suites for counsellors, wrapped around a shaded Japanese-style Zen garden, making it the perfect place of respite.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PHILIP MICHAEL WOLFSON
COLUMN
Looking back
Philip Michael Wolfson, the artist, designer and architect speaks on running Zaha Hadid’s studio in the 1980s WRITTEN BY RIMA ALSAMMARAE
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 45
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Some of the most famous architects today were just starting to teach there,” says Philip Michael Wolfson, as he recalled joining the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London in the late 1970s. A third-year student from Cornell University in New York, Wolfson’s move to London and his studies at the prestigious institution granted him an environment that was stimulating, exciting and creative. “It was a great period,” he says, “and the atmosphere was fabulous. Everyone hung out with each other, from the staff to the students – there was no segregation.You had studio spaces, where you could draw but they were basically just this mishmash of underground caves.” Born in Philadelphia to a NASA engineer, the multidisciplinary designer is known for experimental furniture pieces that are akin to fine art structures, made through his namesake studio, established in 1991. Working across Europe and North America,
Wolfson also delivered residential interiors and showcased his pieces at leading international art and design exhibitions, galleries and public venues. Inspired by 20th century modernist movements like constructivism and futurism, his designs are fluid, forceful and, at times, delicate. Before his solo career, though, he worked closely with one of the world’s most renowned architects – Zaha Hadid – and led her design studio in the 1980s when she was just establishing herself, her name and her work. “I noticed her at the association,” says Wolfson. “It was a small building and a small campus. And, at the time, she had been teaching with Rem [Koolhaas] but I was still in my third year, so I wasn’t yet working with her. The following year — my fourth year — I studied with her. And I just found out that the year I studied with her was the first year of her teaching on her own. The next year, she’d have an assistant helping. That introduced me to the whole scene, really.” Wolfson’s cousin had just
Wolfson standing with Hadid at the exhibition of the Peak Leisure Club, held at the Architectural Association
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A drawing by Zaha Hadid, courtesy of Wolfson
I had a memorable tutorial with Zaha on my thesis project, where we had an argument about the ideas behind the project. A few months later, she asked me to come and work with her, which I did in 1982.”
founded the Wolfsonian in Miami, a museum that exhibits the owner’s collection of decorative and propaganda arts – a wide range of furniture, paintings, books and prints. Occasionally, Wolfson would meet his cousin in Italy and tour antique shops, reviewing materials that originated anytime between 1850 and 1945. These were trips that drew Wolfson into a niche area of modern art history that would inspire his work as well as build a foundation for his impending friendship with Hadid. “I loved the works of early modernism,” he shares. “I was aware of them and excited by them all and so was Zaha. So it kind of started to come together but I chose not to study with her in my final year because she was an excitedly demanding tutor, and at the time, my thought process was that if I wanted to graduate, I needed to study my final year with someone else,” he laughs. “But in my fifth year, I had a
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memorable tutorial with Zaha on my thesis project, even though I wasn’t a student of hers. I had asked her to look at the designs that I had been working on, and that’s really when there was this breakthrough of sorts. We started having an argument about the ideas behind the project, and I think it was quite stimulating for both of us. A few months later, when I was graduating, she asked me to come and work with her, which I did in 1982.” Upon joining Hadid’s studio, Wolfson was part of a newly formed three-person team that included himself, a fellow graduate and Hadid. The previous team had left the studio because Hadid’s projects weren’t yet gaining traction and working from her small Mews house (“It was the size of a shoebox,” remembers Wolfson), likely started taking its toll. The new team, fresh with enthusiasm and ideas, began working on a proposal for the Peak Leisure Club competition in Hong Kong, which they won. The design reflected Hadid’s developing architectural style and explained itself through abstract sketches. The following decade saw more competitions and proposals,
and Hadid’s studio slowly but surely began building itself. When Alvin Boyarsky, then-chairman of the Architectural Association, sponsored Hadid to carry out an exhibition, he gave the team a space in the school. The studio moved there, and artists came and went. “It unfolded from there,” says Wolfson. Later, Hadid would get a space in Clerkenwell, where the office remains today – except now, Zaha Hadid Architects occupies the entire building, plus some. “I want to write a book on the early years and try to explain Zaha,” adds Wolfson, “which I don’t think anyone can do. She was an intense and complicated character, and that was the way our relationship was. We would have arguments, I’d storm out of the office and leave for six months but then come back again. Even after I set up my practice, I’d still go back to work on some projects like the Cincinnati Museum. “When I left, it was because I felt like I needed to — for the office to take that next step and for her to deal with people on a level that wasn’t ‘student-teacher’. She was always very intense with the people around her and that’s
Wolfson’s design ‘Origami’, made during his time with Hadid
what made working with her exciting.You were really involved and felt truly a part of it.” The last 10 years of her life saw a booming career, celebrity and a growing distance between herself and Wolfson. Stretched across their work and travelling the world over, few opportunities came up for the old friends to reunite. “At the time that she passed, we had been trying to get back together,” says Wolfson, “but that’s life.” Wolfson is currently looking forward to a number of events, including Lakes Sweden, a new installation in the US; the launch of TX Series, a new production design of table centre pieces for the Willer Gallery in London; and Art Miami 2017, where he’ll be exhibiting a few selected works.
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Products
New on the market COMMERCIAL BLINDS BY D’DECOR
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hrough careful research and development, D’Decor has developed aesthetically pleasing, technologically advanced blinds for workspaces. They come with both motorised and manual operating systems, efficient after-sales service and a five-year warranty programme. The blinds are antibacterial, flame retardant and water repellent, ideal to combat safety and hygiene issues in commercial spaces. With the largest range of commercial blinds, both in terms of numbers as well as design options, D’Decor also offers a fit-to-perfection service that allows complete
customisation from a choice of over 800 fabric variations including Sheer, Blackouts, Sunscreens, Translucent, to name a few. Website www.ddecor.com
SPIN
CORSA BATH
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eeping its Scandinavian ethos in place, Spin introduced a range of seating, beds and storage devices, crafted to complement the art of living well. The clearly differentiated product lines are a clever reinterpretation of classic design principles. Also included are wall accessories and coat-rack stands, among other utility solutions for modern homes. Website www.madewithspin.com
ractical design and green features define the Nexa Collection, a new Italian range of faucets from Corsa Bath. Featuring a distinct design element of adjustable flow-rate restrictors, it keeps in mind water conservation. When it comes to functionality, the pull-down and pullout models remain the most popular choice. Durable and easy to maintain, owing to its stainless steel finish, this range is suitable for all bathrooms. Its form and finish can be matched with the mahogany vanity, wall sconces or masculine mirrors. Website www.corsabath.com
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Products TARRANGEMENTS BY MICHAEL ANASTASSIADES
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ondon-based designer Michael Anastassiades recently presented his latest lighting collection titled Arrangements for international manufacturing brand Flos. An exclusive lighting collection, which made its grand debut during 2017 Euroluce, Salone del Mobile, is a modular system of geometric light elements. They can be combined in different ways, creating multiple compositions into individual chandeliers. Each unit simply attaches to the previous one as if resting, balancing perfectly as a part of a glowing chain. Flos collaborated with architecture and design studio SVENM to showcase Anastassiades’ latest creation. Website www.flos.com
FREESTILE BY OBJECT CARPET
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reestile is a 100% recyclable, robust carpet tile. An innovative flat weaving technique gives the floor covering its trim, modern and extremely hard surface. It still retains all the advantages of textile floor coverings in terms of acoustics, comfort and health. The tiles can be laid in a freestyle arrangement, without any visible repetitions to create a multidimensional effect, which emphasises and accentuates the patterns. Website www.object-carpet.com
METROPOL BY HANSGROHE
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he Metropol range by Hansgrohe has a precise, linear design. Numerous product variants (different handles, spout heights and lengths) enable a wealth of application and design options. It can be installed for wash basins, bidets, bath tubs or showers. Select variants are controlled intuitively, at the touch of a button. Metropol is also available as a bidet mixer or as a bidet set. Website www.hansgrohe.com
Commercial Design | February 2018 | 49
Opinion
Forecast on co-working spaces Co-working spaces will shape up the future of work culture in India By Arnab Ghosh, director, Synergy Property Development Services
The number of branded coworking spaces will grow fourfold to 400 centres by 2020.”
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o-working, as a concept, needs no introduction. And with the millennial generation working freelance or part of a new start-up, such spaces are undoubtedly going to shape the future of work culture in India. The potential market size for the segment across the country currently stands in the range of 12-16 million seats, with operators providing a designed work environment along with office equipment and amenities found in a typical office. Typical features of co-working facilities include: • Hot Desks • Cabins of various modules • Reservable/rentable conference rooms. • Wi-Fi and 24/7 access • Communal printer/copier/fax. • Shared kitchens, bathrooms and lounges These facilities follow various business models – some are cooperatively managed run as non-profit organisations, while others include flat-rate memberships and fee structures based on frequency and extent of access on single, weekly, monthly or annual usage. Bernie DeKoven first used the term “co-working” in 1995, however, the first co-working space opened in San Francisco a decade later, in 2005. The
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thriving start-up ecosystem across geographies, along with an overwhelming acceptance of unconventional work space among millennials, has created a huge demand for co-working spaces. As per a report by JLL and New York-based co-working company WeWork, the number of branded co-working spaces will grow fourfold to 400 centres by 2020. Conveniently located and innovatively designed co-working spaces are no longer a niche. Moreover, research suggests that monthly membership fees for a desk varies between INR 3,000-10,000, leading to significant savings that makes it another lucrative aspect. The report goes on to claim that a seat in coworking spaces costs anywhere between half to one-third of that of a conventional set-up. Though this has been around for a few years now, last year saw tremendous global growth. It’s gaining popularity not just among start-ups but also corporate enterprises and small businesses. Several large corporates are now focusing on consolidating businesses to maximise productivity, and are choosing co-working spaces. In India, with the entry of Wework, one of the fastest growing co-working brand last year, a sudden spurt of co-working places is seen across Indian metros. CoWorks, Awfis,
Springboard and Ministry of New are all known entities now and expanding rapidly. The change in the perception of desk jobs as well as the use of wearable tools and technology has led this metamorphosis. While employees look forward to a more adaptable office atmosphere, co-work places are designed keeping in mind their comfort. Co-working brands with greater visibility across geographies are placing their products as offline and online collaboration facilitators. Most offer apps that allow members to interact and collaborate with each other, providing a whole new networking aspect that’s attracting small and large companies to use these spaces. Workspaces have been redefined by this concept across the globe. The design and ambience co-working spaces provide is slowly but steadily influencing the way regular offices are being designed; interior specialists are getting larger say in spatial planning. Amidst all this excitement, however, it is vital to remember the engineering principles that will reinforce the space. Energy efficiency, occupancy variability design demands and flexibility in layouts determine how these spaces compete to make the business model successful.
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www.ciff.furniture
The 41st China International Furniture Fair (Guangzhou)
The 42nd China International Furniture Fair (Shanghai)
home/homedecor/hometextile/outdoor
September 2018
18-21 March 2018 28-31 March 2018
home/homedecor/hometextile/outdoor ofďŹ ce/hotel/commercial/materials&machines
China Import and Export Fair Complex & PWTC Expo
National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in Hongqiao
ofďŹ ce/hotel/commercial/materials&machines