PORTFOLIO ARC HIT E C TU RE | I N TE RI OR
Nandita Warrier 2012-2023 selected Works
| Introduction
THE NEXUS being.beloning.becoming Academic Work Project type Role Site Location
Masters | Sem 01 | Group of 3 Renovate exisitng Senior residence + Public space proposal Public space design Austin, Texas
The NEXUS takes you on a journey through our vision for the future – a vision where age isn’t a limitation but an opportunity for vibrant living. As per WHO “The life expectancy of human beings will exceed 90 years for the first time and by 2050, the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years will nearly double.” What does this mean for future generations? As human lifespans increase, a spectrum of challenges and opportunities emerges. This shift encourages extended careers, exploration of new activities, and the possibility of career changes, fostering increased interaction with younger generations. Our design aims to address the core issues of isolation faced by seniors by providing a platform for pursuing passions and embracing career transitions. We seek to harness the wisdom and experience of seniors, benefiting both society and younger generations by creating an environment that goes beyond comfort – it’s dynamic, engaging, and inspiring. This not only ensures financial independence but also promotes physical well-being through an active lifestyle for seniors, ultimately reducing feelings of isolation and positively impacting psychological well-being. For our design proposal we have chosen to breathe new life into the Rebekah Baines Johnson (RBJ) building in Austin, Texas which was initially designed for low income seniors in 1970’s. It’s not just a structure, its a piece of history, a part of a neighborhood that’s evolving and witnessing change with young professionals moving into the locality.We are not just designing, we are revitalizing. Think of it as a nod to the past, a step into the future, all while surrounded by the dynamic pulse of Austin. 1 | The NEXUS
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| Site development ADAPTIVE REUSE STRATEGY
Existing Building Residential units : 250 Domestic Public space The existing 16 storey structure has only with 5% Public space for residents with each floor to ceiling of 8’ clearance. GF&FF:5(1BHK)+5(Studio)+ Public space 3-8 Floor:8(1BHK)+9(Studio) 9-16 Floor:10(1BHK)+6(Studio)
Connect through Levels
3 | The NEXUS
Minimal Structural Changes Strategic Omission of floor slabs is focused on enhancing the public spaces to create more spacious volumes while retaining the floor plane in residential floors. Thoughtful alterations to floor slabs introduces double heights near elevator lobbies, optimizing spatial dynamics for an interconnected and expansive design.
Increased Public space Residential units Residential amenities Public space Strategic Spatial Flow: Public floors thoughtfully situated at the base gradually transition into private residential units through domestic public zones. This intentional layout ensures a seamless and purposeful progression from communal to more private spaces.
Proposed Building - Connect to outdoor: The extended third floor slab to highlight and strategically employed to accentuate and disrupt the uniformity of the brick facade. This innovative addition forms a terraced seating area that wraps around, providing residents with a scenic view of the lake and downtown skyline in the background from the comfort of the residential lounge.
Building program | NEXUS OF LIFE Our design is rooted in the three fundamental domains of the Quality of Life (QOL) profile: BEING Maintaining one’s physical, psychological and spiritual quality
BELONGING A profound connection with one’s environment through physical, social, and communal ties.
BECOMING Achieving one’s personal goals, hopes and aspiration
Hence the term NEXUS is chosen for its meaning as a connection or a central point where these three attributes converge. BEYOND ISOLATION: LEVELS OF CONNECTIVITY Levels of connectivity shows the varying levels of spatial programs addressing different levels of user group interaction from public to private which are employed to facilitate intergenerational exchange and community building. RESIDENTIAL UNITS : FLOOR 4-12 BEING + BELONGING
RESIDENTIAL AMENITIES : FLOOR 3 &13 BELONGING + BEING
PUBLIC SOCIAL HUB : FLOOR 1 & 2 BELONGING + BECOMING
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| Design features
being . BELONGING . becoming
A profound connection with one’s environment through physical, social, and communal ties.
a. Entrance to Cafe b. Learning stairs c. Retail space / Interactive exhibit space d. Cafe bar e. Work-Ez table f. Communal couch g. Outdoor seating h. Residential Entrance i. Reception j. Elevator lobby k. Fire Staircase l. Recreational zone m. Restrooms n. Storage
THE CONNECT: Belonging Through Brews and Bonds
connect
collab
Earn
Interior Layers as Assistive technology for Ageing Body: Work-Ez Cafe table
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Recycled Plastic
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FSC Certified Plywood + Green-guard Gold- Certified Laminate
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ADA Compliant standards
4. Magnetic Strip to hold the cup is sandwiched between the plywood sheets 5. Aluminium metal beam for support
1. Pop-up Screen: a.Adjustable Monitor, b.Integrated lamp, c.Charging point, d.Self-Illuminated controls
5 | The NEXUS
Anodised aluminium powder coated
2a.Plug-in Split ergonomic Keyboard tray & dual side Mouse tray for neutral hand & wrist position
2b. Magnetic Cup holder to prevent spillage.
2c. Portable Book/ Tablet holder for ease of reading.
3. Bag hook
Proposal render |
“The Connect” Cafe Hub, bustling with people of all ages and professions socialising and career networking where the seniors experience a Sense of belonging by providing a safe and inclusive space to evolve through learning, creating intergenerational relationships, and developing new interests.
The public and the residents sharing the Learning Stairs, a versatile platform for sharing experiences and knowledge, also serve as an event space. Managed by active seniors, the retail space underneath the landing is an income generator to the community where they showcase senior works and achievements, fostering community pride. “The Nexus” branding, offers senior-friendly electronics for borrowing, enhancing inclusivity and functionality.
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| Design features
being . belonging . BECOMING achieving one’s personal goals, hopes and aspirations
Networking
a. Mentor-ship corners b. Flex zone c. Collaborative work lounge d. Innovation Hub e. Co-Connect pod f. Skill Workshop Studio g. Digital learning Lab h. Retreat zone i. Restroom j.Elevator lobby K. Fire staircase
Personal Growth
Knowledge transfer
Earn
Interior Layers as Assistive technology for Ageing Body: Co-Connect Pod
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A versatile space equipped for Zoom calls, meetings, online classes, small group discussions. Main feature: Two individual private pods is partitioned with a frosted glass technology, enabling communication via connected speakers and the ability to view and converse, transforming into private work pods as needed.
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1. Acoustical Glass Divider with Frosting Technology 2. Cupholder with Powerless charging station + easy to reach Power module in the front end 3. Folding table with grab bar below, function as Bag holder 4. Touch Screen Monitor for easy viewing 5. Room Connecting Speaker for conversation between the two private workpods 6. Foldable chair along with Armrest to accomodate wheelchair 7. Neck and back support cushion with warmer to ease muscle fatigue 8. Laminated acoustic glass door with easy to operate handle integrated with concealed automatic swing door system 9. Motion Sensor LED Lighting with Dimmer & Ventilation system
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Lightly textured fabric woven entirely from post-consumer recycled plastic
7 | The NEXUS
Anodised aluminium powder coated
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Design features |
Acoustic false ceiling panel (EURO SPAN)
Acoustic Wall panel ( CONWED) has a 1/16” copolymer sheet hidden beneath the fabric has high-impact resistance is fixed by Z bars on to the plywood backing fixed to the wall.
1.25” thk. Moulded Bio based thermo plastic elastomers (TPEs) fixed by 2 course epoxy adhesive to Plywood Skin 0.75” thk. Plywood skin screwed to plywood framework supported by Metal bracket fixed to the concrete slab
Seat is covered in a Biodegradable Fabric backed by 2” thk. Foam on a plywood frame attached to the Divider wall
COLLABORATIVE ZONE with Work-Ez Table for individual or group workspace with tailored Pods for Acoustic benefits.
COLLABORATIVE ZONE with different sizes of booths for discussions with comfortable seating options.
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| Design features
9 | The NEXUS
Proposal render |
BEING . belonging . becoming LEVEL 13- RESIDENTIAL AMENITIES Gym Game Lounge Theater Kitchenette Reading Sun Room
LEVEL 4-12 RESIDENTIAL UNITS 5 One Bedroom Suites 5 Studio Suites Community Kitchen Shared Laundry Common Lobby
Maintaining one’s physical, psychological and spiritual quality
The residential floors promote the essence of being. It has a biophilic design which is supportive of cognitive function, physical health, and psychological well-being. In addition, the community spaces on each floor are open to each other to avoid any sense of loneliness amongst the residents.
STUDIO UNIT
ONE BEDROOM UNIT LEVEL 3 - RESIDENTIAL AMENITIES Reception/Staff Common Lounges Community Dining Community Pantry Mail Room
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| Introduction
THE SANDWICH HOUSE Professional Work Project Year Role Location Type Site area Total Built up area
Design Head, Atelier Nord Jan2021-Feb2022 Design & Site co- ordination Chennai, India Residential 130.2 sq. m 193.1 sq. m
The site for the project is situated in a densely populated residential area, with no setbacks and maximum plot coverage resulting in houses that are wall-to-wall. The site is linear, measuring 20 ft by 60 ft, with the shorter side facing the road to the west, which is why it is called “The Sandwich House.” The client’s brief was to design a building that would house two one-bedroom rental units and a three-bedroom residence within the limited space available. Considering the site condition and the client requirement, the main constraint was to layout each functional areas efficiently in the given tight space while still meeting the basic standards for comfortable indoor living. The client did not have any specific style preferences for the interior, but emphasized the importance of creating a bright and airy atmosphere. A key advantage was the presence of government-owned land at the back of the site, which was being transformed into a public park around a natural lake. This feature was taken into consideration during the planning process and became a focal point in the design of the spaces.
11 | The Sandwich House
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| Floor Plan
01 Living Area 02 Island Kitchen with Dining Space 03 Staircase 04 Utility 05 Balcony 06 Passage 07 Common Toilet 08 Parents Bedroom 09 Master Bedroom 10 Walk-in Wardrobe
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
13 | The Sandwich House
Floor Plan |
11 Toilet 12 Guest Room 13 Living Seen Below 14 Terrace area 15 Skylight
MEZZANINE FLOOR PLAN
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| Details
Transverse section | Private Residence
Longitudinal section | Private Residence
15 | The Sandwich House
Site Photo |
Living area | White volume juxtaposed with black and warm neutral tones
Parents Bedroom | A subtle palette with a yellow twist
Skylight lighting up the space
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| Site Photo
A sleek modern minimalist kitchen finished in white glossy and a light wooden tone laminate to give a sense of warmth to the space. A satin finish marble like vitrified tile covers the back-splash and the Counter top is finished in mocca creme engineered quartz with a waterfall detail for the island counter.
17 | The Sandwich House
Site Photo |
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Closer view of the TV unit .1 Custom made sofa .2 Custom made Chaise lounge .3 A storage niche with an opening .4
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| Details
d. Marble floor
c. 12mm ply sheet
b. 18mm ply boxing on 4 sides
a. Metal frame
Detail | Stringer beam metal staircase with marble cladding and glass railing
This design aids in unhindered natural light and makes the area look more light and spacious 19 | The Sandwich House
A closer look
Site Photo |
A partial view of Wrap around balcony space
View of the passage leading to the private space
An evening view of the residence with artificial lights enhancing the ambiance of the space
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View from Kitchen towards TV wall of the living area
FRONT ELEVATION
21 | The Sandwich House
| Render Image
Interior working Drawings |
SECTION A
SECTION B
SECTION C
SECTION D
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| Introduction
THE TRANSITIONAL HOME Professional Work Project Year Role Location Type Site area Total Built up area
Design Head, Atelier Nord Ongoing Project Facade Design & Interior Design Thanjavur, India Residential 223 sq. m 280 sq. m (G+1)
The project site is located in a residential area on the outskirts of Thanjavur town that is currently developing. The site is rectangular and measures 40 feet by 60 feet, with its shorter side facing north towards the road. The client has requested a building design that can accommodate a three-bedroom residence with modern amenities while incorporating traditional essence into the interior design. The interior design of the residence is based on a traditional theme with a prominent use of wooden elements that contrasts beautifully against a light beige background. The play of beige tone marble and wooden laminates in the design scheme creates an overall atmosphere of elegance and luxury. The wooden accents are visible in various elements such as the furniture, doors, and ceiling panels, giving the space a warm and cozy feel. The marble flooring adds a touch of sophistication and provides a perfect base for the wooden elements to stand out. The careful selection of the colors, textures, and materials creates a harmonious balance that enhances the traditional theme while adding a modern touch to the overall design. The end result is a stunning interior that exudes comfort, luxury, and timeless appeal.
23 | The Transitional Home
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25 | The Transitional Home
Proposal render |
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| Plan
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01 Entrance 02 Foyer 03 Hall 04 Dining 05 Kitchen 06 Utility 07 Garden GROUND FLOOR PLAN 27 | The Transitional Home
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08 Vanity 09 Common Toilet 10 Parents Bedroom 11 Bathroom 12 Servant’s Room 13 Car Porch01 Entrance
Proposal render |
The dining area features a stunning folded staircase with a glass handrail, complemented by a garden area for warmth and serenity, while built-in furniture and false ceiling create a cohesive look.
In the kitchen area, the subtle beige and wood tone cabinetry is beautifully complemented by a striking marble like backsplash tile, creating a lovely contrast against the granite counter top.
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01 Terrace 02 First floor lounge 03 Masterbedroom doorway 04 Double height living space 05 Common balcony with staircase to terrace
29 | The Transitional Home
06 Garden 07 Dining space 08 Kitchen 09 Entrance Foyer 10 Setback space
details |
TERRACE FLOOR LVL
MASTERBEDROOM ROOF LVL GROUND FLOOR LIVING ROOF LVL
04 FIRST FLOOR LVL
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PLINTH LVL
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| Plan
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01 First floor lobby 02 Common Balcony 03 Staircase to terrace 04 Ground floor living seen below 05 Masterbedroom suite 06 Entertainment lounge 07 Walk-in wardrobe FIRST FLOOR PLAN 31 | The Transitional Home
08 Master Bath 09 Study / Library room 10 Master Balcony 11 Bedroom 03 12 Walk-in wardrobe 13 Bathroom 14 Private Balcony
Proposal render |
Subtle play of colors with combination of abstract geometry creates a harmonious symphony
Masterbedroom has a bit of modern twist from the traditional contemporary space below with more abstract geometry and muted brown tones Professional Work |32
| Introduction
A RURAL TWIN HOUSE Professional Work Project Year Role Location Type Site area Total Built up area
Design Partner, Atelier Nord Oct2020 - Jun 2022 Design & Site Co - ordination Munivazhai, Tamil Nadu, India Residential 2.5 acres (10117.1 sqm) 306.5 sq. m
The Rural Twin House is the result of a young working professionals decision to return to his home town from the city and start an organic farming business. He wanted to build a house on part of his land and use the rest for his livestock, poultry farming and organic farming. A comprehensive approach toward the overall development of the site with respect to the zoning of residence and other activities was a prerequisite. The design requirement was to integrate two residence as one with the primary residence for the client and his family and the secondary residence for his parents and brother. With a total of 5 bedrooms, the challenge was to balance separate functionalities while maintaining cohesion. Noteworthy considerations included providing open space for dogs without interfering with the second residence. Prioritizing practicality and functionality within budget constraints was crucial, particularly given the higher spatial requirements compared to the allocated budget. A conventional approach was not a solution with respect to the given budget so we decided to have load bearing construction. Additionally, considering the scarcity of electricity in the village, a key priority was to minimize dependence on electricity for thermal comfort. Overall total Budget for Residential development on site was about INR 70,00,000. 33 | The Rural Twin House
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| Floor Plan
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SCALE 1:150
GROUND FLOOR PLAN 01 Entrance Porch 02 Foyer 03 Hall 04 Dining
05 Kitchen 06 Utility 07 Store room 08 Guest Bedroom 01
The two residences wrapped around the courtyard. The primary residence was zoned towards the North side facing the road comprising 3 bedrooms with attached bath, a hall, a dining and a kitchen. The secondary residence, which included two bedrooms with connected bathrooms, a powder room, a living room, and a small kitchen, was situated to the south and faced the farmlands. The site has a moderate-hot climate, with the South and West receiving the most radiation. As a result, semi-private spaces are carefully planned to provide optimal thermal comfort while private spaces are allocated to the east. The stairwell of house 2 majority covers the south side and the west-facing
35 | The Rural Twin House
09 Wardrobe 10 Bathroom 11 Parents Bedroom 12 Powder Room
13 Corridor 14 Patio 15 Courtyard
Floor Plan |
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SCALE 1:150
FIRST FLOOR PLAN 09 Wardrobe 10 Bathroom 16 Terrace 17 Kids Bedroom
18 Master Bedroom 19 Office 20 Balcony 21 Guest Bedroom 02
semi-private areas have high ceilings for thermal comfort. Together, these two volumes serve as a thermal barrier to the courtyard. The courtyard’s west side includes arches with grills and a pool of water in front that serves as a fenestration and allows air to enter the building from the west The main entrance of both residence are aligned in same line on purpose to create a visual alignment with the garden area in-between. By adjusting the ceiling clearance of each specific space aided optimum material usage while creating intriguing levels in the facade. Thus, the Rural Twin house is an embodiment of a collage made from these local and recycled elements.
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The client’s brief left us with two train of thoughts; one is how it should be built and two is, what it should have. The former involves blending with the neighborhood, while the latter draws inspiration from the experiential charm of ancestral South Indian houses with a central courtyard. Our goal was to fuse traditional spirit with contemporary values. Located on the outskirts of Kallakurichi, the rural site benefits from scenic views, ample ventilation, and natural light. Observing local resources like a quarry, handmade bricks, and cottage manufacturing of clay products, we opted for a non-load-bearing structure inspired by Architect Laurie Baker’s cost-effective construction technique. The design embraces a rustic aesthetic with exposed bricks and stones, reflecting the rural surroundings. Spanning 4 acres with agricultural fields to the east and south, the site featured a 100-yearold ruin. Demolishing it, we repurposed rubble for the foundation, utilized sand for land filling, and incorporated salvaged elements like columns and roof tiles into the new residence.
1. SECTION - B
37 | The Rural Twin House
| SCALE 1:150
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Site & Elevation details |
View from southwest depicting the intriguing levels with Bay windows jutting out supporting on a corbel
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1. Entrance to Residence 1 2. Foyer of Residence 1 3. Central Courtyard behind Jalli partition 4. Entrance to Residence 2 5. Living Room of 2nd Residence 6. Staircase hallway 7. Kitchen
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| Site Photo
Double height open plan living with kitchen space of Residence 2
Staircase hallway opening towards the central courtyard and leading to the bedrooms of Residence 2
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SECTION - A
39 | The Rural Twin House
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SCALE 1:150
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1. Residence 2- Bedroom 2 2. Residence 2 - Bedroom 1 3. Staicase Hallway 4. Residence 2 Kitchen
Site Photo |
The images showcases how each volumes are decorated with various application of materials like the exposed brick walls with reclaimed teak wood windows adding warmth, floorings adorned in vibrant colors of custom made Athangudi tiles, manglore and pot fillers slabs creating a drama in contrast to normal ceiling, with custom built ins and upholstery creating a cohesive and cozy home.
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| Site Photo
View of Corner Bay window supported on brick corbel
Custom made Main doors for House 1 & 2 and a statement is made by a large fixed glass opening in foyer 1 emphasis the thoughtful alignment of both entrances creating a visual treat.
41 | The Rural Twin House
Details |
A Stone Coping B Parapet Wall 225mm C Filler Slab 140mm D Manglore Clay Tile 80x80mm E Storage Space F Rat Trap Bond Brickwork 225mm G Bay Window RCC Slab 100 x 100mm H Wooden & Glass Panel Window I Brick Corbel J Flemish Bond Brickwork 225mm
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House 2 | View from courtyard towards corridor shows the reclaimed teak wood French doors,
43 | The Rural Twin House
Site Photo |
rustic cement finish cantilevered staircase and a open shelf unit in semi polished granite.
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| Introduction
A DREAMY ABODE Professional Work Project Year Role Location Type Total Built up area
Design Partner, Atelier Nord Jun 2022- May 2023 Interior Designer Cuddalore, India Individual Residence 1300 sq.ft
This home is a haven of style and comfort, without compromising on functionality or quality. It showcases a stunning living room that blends contemporary aesthetics with elegant architecture. From the unique staircase railings to the artistic wall decorations, every element of this space reflects a passion for creating harmonious and serene environments that suit client’s lifestyle and personality. The space is transform your space into a modern masterpiece. This interior trend is suitable for spacious rooms with white walls and ceiling, as it enhances the brightness and airiness of the space. It also requires minimal decoration, as the architectural elements are the focal points of the design.
45 | A Dreamy Abode
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| Plan
GROUND FLOOR PLAN
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01 Entrance foyer 02 Living 03 Kitchen 04 Pooja 05 Parents bedroom 06 Bedroom02 07 Bathroom 08 Patio
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FIRST FLOOR PLAN 01 Staircase Hallway 02 Common Balcony 03 Masterbedroom 04 Private Balcony 05 Bedroom 04 06 Bathroom 07 Terrace
47 | A Dreamy Abode
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Design render |
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Hand drawn sketch of CDC building & the Office during Internship period at COSTFORD | semster 05
THANK YOU nanditawarrier.n@gmail.com | +1 (602) 299 2652