April-May 2022
2-3-4, Sep 2022 Pragati Maidan DELHI
SR SPOTLIGHT
u Ar Samira Rathod Experimenting with Recycled Concrete u Ar Kamal Periwal Recreating Indus Valley
SR FOCUS
Artist Satish Gujral’s Burnt Wood Sculptures
SR METALAB u Lighting
beyond Illumination u Tiles & Sustainability
SR MATERIAL POETRIES u Ar Ayan Sen Kolkata u Inscape Designers Mumbai
SR Rising Star
Ar Aditya Agarwal Indore
Krupa Zubin Zubin ZainuddiN
ZZ Architects
The Luxury Bespoke Practice 20 years of Progressive partnership & projects
India’s finest
ARCHITECTURE, INTERIORS RETAILING, BUILDING MATERIAL EXHIBITION & CONFERENCES Architecture and Design Conference & Awards
Dealers and Distributors Conference & Awards
2-3-4 Sep 2022
Pragati Maidan, New Delhi Knowledge Partners
Exhibition & Conference: Pragati Maidan
Mega WADE ASIA Architecture Awards: Hotel Lalit, New Delhi
Download Layout & Exhibition Kit: https://bit.ly/3nCXwZS Queries: booking@matecia.com, +91-9310612998, 9867333972 | www.matecia.com
editorial More info!
Pg:53 WADE ASIA AWARDS 2022 SHORTLISTS TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON It's been a long wait. But as the saying goes, ‘Patience is bitter, but the fruit is sweet,’ WADE ASIA is coming back with its Mega Event, Conference & Awards in September from 2nd to 4th, Pragati Maidan and Hotel Lalit,
New Delhi.
The WADE AWARDS Committee is likely to announce the shortlists by the 2nd half of July. Final LIVE presentations will take place alongside WADE Conference on the 2nd of September in New Delhi while the gala awards night is on 3rd September. WADE Awards received close to 1500 entries from 2020 to 2022. Some of the categories are: v YOUNG WADE ASIA Emerging Architect v YOUNG WADE ASIA Emerging Interior Designer v WADE ASIA Residential Projects upto 3000 sqft v WADE ASIA Residential Projects above 3000 sqft v WADE ASIA Commercial Interior Project WADE ASIA Commercial Architecture Project
THERE IS A PLACE FOR EVERYONE IN WADE ASIA. CHOOSE YOUR ROLE. Though WADE AWARDS are only for women in design, there are ample opportunities for anyone in the design fraternity, irrespective of gender, to participate. I invite you to be a part of the 7th year of WADE ASIA and contribute to taking this important initiative further. Be a speaker | Conduct a workshop | Exhibit your innovative product designs | Be the Stylist for the Lounge | Become a volunteer | Moderate | Host | Write for WADE | Submit photography and painting for showcasing | Nominate and help us in identifying talent | Visit WADE ASIA and find your place. We are available for your queries. Last WADE ASIA had participation from 14 states. Let’s make this national gathering a greater success and a win-win for all. We become successful when you succeed!
v WADE ASIA Hospitality Interior Project WADE ASIA Hospitality Architecture Project Likewise for Institutional, Healthcare, Landscape, most sustainable design, and more… NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN FOR THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:
VERTICA DVIVEDI Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, Surfaces Reporter®
v WADE ASIA SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION
Founder, WADE ASIA, Women in Design & Architecture
v WADE ASIA SPECIAL CONTRIBUTION AWARD
Email: vertica@surfaces.in
v WADE ASIA LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD & some more categories April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 6
SR VIEWPOINT
UNCOVERING THE STORY BEHIND SURFACES REPORTER’S® COVER STORIES SURFACES REPORTER’S® COVER STORIES are curated with love and care. It often take months of pre-editorial research, monitoring of work, following of projects, news, and opinions of people about different firms we are interested in, even before we approach and interact with them, trying to find out stories that are several layers deeper than what’s available on the internet. When we interact, these are usually free-flowing interactions without any pre-decided agenda to reach any planned outcomes. The main idea is to bring out something which has not yet surfaced, something worth for the industry, and the fraternity to learn and document. So every SR Cover Story has several stories behind it. A collection of such stories sieved together in a smart and crisp way becomes a SURFACES REPORTER® Cover Story. When we believe entirely in the subject or people we are researching, we dive in to co-create the content with finer nuances of the journey. Vertica Dvivedi says, “I want to know everything about the firm before the interaction with the sole aim of knowing everything beyond those available information. There is no questionnaire for the cover story. The questions are set later while the title is written towards the end.” We enjoy the journey when there are people who believe in the process and engage in the process. Our cover stars of this issue, architects Krupa Zubin and Zubin Zainuddin were totally involved in the process even though neither we nor they had any idea of the outcome. Apart from their amazing work, what separates them from many is their self discipline. I wish to write more but let’s leave it for you to read!
Madhurima Chowdhury Executive Editor - SURFACES REPORTER® Email: madhu@surfaces.in April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 8
Vol. 10 Issue-09 April-may 2022
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Cover Image Courtesy ZZ Architects courtesy/credits
images & research are done by going through encyclopedias, industry experts, wikipedia, various blogs, research, some images from web, books & reference, research journals, interviews published in other media, surfaces reporter's published issues and others, all for the sake of dissipating information and creating inspiration on the subject of article, write-ups, mostly through direct interactions with the designers/ business owners. editorial & correspondence: f-1118, chittaranjan park, new delhi-110019 email: vertica@surfaces.in, printed at Modest Print Pack Pvt. Ltd. C-52, DDA Shed, Okhla Industrial Area Phase-I New Delhi-110020 and published from f-1118, chittaranjan park, new delhi-19 by vertica dvivedi on behalf of bigsea marcom (i) pvt. ltd. we accept all materials and publish with care. however, we do not take the responsibility for the authenticity of the same. The views expressed in the columns of surfaces reporter are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher & they accept no responsibility for them. We take care that colour is matched but take no responsibility for complete matching. Final decisions should not be done about colour without seeing real product/sample. Every design showcased is not about what is available in india-it may as well be for inspiration. No part of this magazine including advertisements' design, prepared by us or through us should be copied, reproduced or transmitted by anyone without prior written permission of the publisher. surfaces reporter and bigsea marcom wish to promote building material & product awareness in true & unbiased way. We do not claim to be experts so feel free to correct us if something needs correction. We are always eager to learn. All disputes to be settled in delhi (india) jurisdiction only.
Total Pages - 112
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Editorial: 6 & 8 Content: 10 & 12 Readers' Views: 14 16-29 SR Showcase An assortment of innovative products & designs for architecture and design 30-41 SR Cover Story A rendezvous with Architects Krupa Zubin and Zubin Zainnudin of ZZ Architects, Mumbai, The Luxury Bespoke Practice 42-48 SR Lights Lighting Beyond Illumination- A story shedding light on the industry 53-63 WADe Asia 7th year of celebrating Women-led Development & Design 2-3-4 September 2022, Pragati Maidan & Hotel Lalit, Delhi 64-66 Jury/ Speakers/ Guest - WADe ASIA 2022 Have you registered for WADe Asia 2022 yet? Jury/ Speakers/ Guest first list announcement 67-70- SR Focus Celebrating the dynamic life of Artist Satish Gujral 72-79 SR Sustainable Tiles What is the way forward for brands to adopt sustainable ways to manufacture tiles 80-88 SR Spaces and Material Poetries Inscape Designers, Mumbai Ayan Sen Architects, Urban Designers Planners, Kolkata 89-101 SR Spotlight v Ar Kamal Periwal, Maheshwari & Associates, Kolkata & Mumbai v Ar Samira Rathod, SRDA, Mumbai 102-109 SR Rising Star Ar Aditya Agarwal, Principal, OCA India, Indore
CONTENT in Visual
30
67
Celebrating the Dynamic Life of Artist Satish Gujral Krupa Zubin Zubin Zainuddin Cover Story
ZZ Architects Mumbai THE LUXURY BESPOKE PRACTICE
80-88 Spaces & Material Poetries
42
Ayan Sen Architects, Urban Designers Planners, Kolkata
Inscape Designers, Mumbai
SR SpotLight
LIGHTING: Beyond illumination
With inputs from Syska, Wipro, Havells, Tisva, Hafele, and more
89
102 Ar. Kamal Periwal
Maheshwari & Associates, Kolkata & Mumbai
Ar Samira Rathod
Principal Architect, Samira Rathod Design Associates (SRDA), Mumbai
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92
SR Rising Star Ar Aditya Agarwal, OCA India, Indore
readers reviews Kolkata designers, thank you for the responses! We can be contacted at hello@surfacesreporter.com
What people are saying about "Surfaces Reporter"
It's an honor to get featured in Surfaces Reporter. Thank you for considering our project to be a part of your esteemed platform. Looking forward to more such features. Ar Shivangi Shahane Phanse Founder / Partner, ANS Design Studio
Your efforts are much appreciated. It was a delight to work with you. 23DC ARCHITECTS Jalandhar, Punjab
Thank you! We are honoured to be featured in SURFACES REPORTER. Neha Srivastava
We really appreciate your mission to spread awareness about architecture and interior design. You inspire thousands of people to create their dreams into reality and execute their ideas easily. We appreciate that you are building a community where everyone can share their thoughts and communicate with each other to learn new things.
Sr. Design Architect, Synergy Corporate Interiors Pvt. Ltd
Ar Rachita Gupta
Jetsons, Mumbai
I could not be more than happy to see our work being published and thank you for reaching out to us and for including all the details of the project in the article. Jeet Soneji
MOHAN & ASSOCIATES, Meerut
Thank you very much Surfaces Reporter family for the interest shown in us. Ar Poyraz Emre BİNGÖL Founder, Esthetic Architecture, Istambul, Turkey
We are grateful to Surfaces Reporter to be a great platform for sharing our work with your audiences. Kirti Dodeja Multidisciplinary Designer/Interior Architect, Delhi
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SR Showcase
Why should lift lobbies be boring? Luxury Mosaic flooring TRANSFORMS the Lift Lobby Project: High end flat in Astoria, Kolkata Design: DJ Associates | Architect: Devyani Jaiswal This is a lift looby which provided the architect with an ample opportunity to create a magnificient first impression as soon as one enters. The bespoke floor has retained the building’s integrity on the periphery along with the glass mosaic which is laid like a carpet in the middle. The interesting flooring pattern is accentuated by the mirror-cladded wall to give a wider look to the lobby.
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SR Showcase
Architects Alfaz Miller & Aahana Miller’s FACADE DESIGN IS INSPIRED BY MUMBAI COAST The Lexus Mumbai with Eurobond ACP and marble from AGL Project: Lexus Experience Center Location: Mumbai Completed: November 2021 Area: 5300 sq. ft. Materials, Products and Manufacturers: Wall finishes: Textured paint (Shivam Interiors), Back painted glass (Saint Gobain) Façade ACP: Eurobond Flooring: Artificial marble from AGL Suspended Lights: Viroka Luce Landscape & Green wall: Green World Enterprises Principal Architect: Alfaz Miller and Aahana Miller Design Team: Sachin Chavan, Nikita Parwekar, Isha Mehta Contractor: ABSL Photographer: Studio Kunal Bhatia
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The ocean is an essential part of the identity of Mumbai; performing a role in every citizen’s life in more ways than one. The Lexus Mumbai in Juhu, takes its inspiration from the various features of Mumbai’s coast. At the very helm of it all, the facade mimics ocean waves with its ribbed parametric undulating surface. The ribs also create a sense of continuity and coherence with the showroom façade below. The polished granite wall reflects the texture of a coarse sand beach, thus together lending to the appearance of a coastline.
SR Showcase
LUXURY BOUTIQUE Facade composed of 3D Printed Ceramic Tiles and red bricks Produced in-house at the architecture firm According to the studio, The four and a half metre high plinth consists of three columns and an architrave. The shopping window is pushed back, creating a deep reveal. At street level, the facade is cladded in large 3d-ceramic-printed tiles of approximately 40 x 20 cm, glazed in pearl white, with a subtle shade of yellow. The ornamented tiles start out plain at ground level and become more expressive higher up. The facade of the higher floors is composed of 3d-printed bricks, which have been glazed in three different shades of red. The bricks are composed alongside the original masonry cross bond and have abstract ornamentation. These bricks are glued into laser-cut stainless steel cassettes, referring to the original flushes. The ornamentation of the bricks is most expressive at the bottom of this part of the facade. The design aims to inspire people around the world with a contemporary expression of digital craftsmanship, reinterpreting historical classics in new and exciting ways. The facade also refers to the collection of the nearby Rijksmuseum, where a large collection of ceramics from all over the world is stored. The highly differentiated and algorithmically designed details will be realized by using Studio RAP’s large scale 3d-printing technology, produced in-house at the architecture firm. This results in a luxury boutique that aspires to stand out amongst the surrounding buildings.
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Surfaces Reporter
Design: Studio RAP | Location: Amsterdam, NL Year: 2022 | Client: Warenar Real Estate | Co-Architect: Gietermans & Van Dijk Firing and glazing: Royal Tichelaar | Main contractor: Wessels Zeist (VolkerWessels) Contractor: Facade Cladding / 3D-Ceramic-printing Studio RAP | Visuals: Virginlemon
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SR Showcase
A facade IN KERALA inspired by Tetris game
Project Name: House of Ayoob | Firm Name: 3dorconcepts Principal Architects/Designers: Ahmad Thaneem, Muhammed Jiyad, Muhammed Naseem Location: Taliparamba, Kerala, India | Plot Area: 7830 Sqft. | Built-up Area: 4600 Sq.Ft. Start Year: 2019 | Completion Year: 2021 | Photo Credits: Prasath Mohan
Material: The firm used laterite as building blocks since it is locally and easily available. The design team created curves on concrete and laterite structures to give a unique touch. At a very first glance, the unique facade of this house catches attention. Cladded in white, the exterior of the ‘House of Ayoob’ features a canvas-like structure with curved edges resembling stadium blocks stacked one above the other in a Tetris game. Not only outside, but curves flow everywhere inside the house as well -in the stairs and even in the furniture. Designed by the creative design team of 3dor Concepts for a family of five, this two-storey house, located in a typical housing neighborhood in the town of Taliparamba in the southern district of Kerala, has a common 90s flat slab facade yet nothing in common. None of the houses stood out. April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 22
“We wanted the house to be unique in that neighborhood so that it kind of paves a way for future houses in that neighborhood to follow a character. It was challenging to come up with a structure that is out of the box yet settles well with the site,” says Principal Architect Ahmad Thaneem. The architects took cues from the Tetris video game for creating the unique shape of the building with round edges. One horizontal block stacks with two vertical blocks to form the structure. “The design serves two purposes- first is that it should be unique and the second is that the massing of the house shouldn’t be like a huge rectangle in that small plot. Hence, we split it into 3 blocks and placed them at different heights. The overall design was inspired by the Tetris game. Stadium blocks look cute!”
SR Showcase Biosphere will bring 350 bird houses to the renowned hotel
A facade of Bird Nests PROJECT DATA Name: BIOSPHERE Date: 02/02/2022 | Program: Hotel Status: Under Construction Size in m2: 34 Project type: Hospitality Client: Treehotel Collaborators: Ulf Öhman, Chairman of the Norrbotten Ornithological Association, Ateljé Lyktan, Vittjärvshus Location Text: Harads, Sweden
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In close collaboration with Treehotel and Swedish ornithologist Ulf Öhman, the new BIG-designed hotel room Biosphere will bring 350 bird houses to the renowned hotel. Suspended in the Harads pines, BIG’s experiential design is the eighth hotel room on the property and seeks to enhance the surrounding biosphere. By designing a treetop hotel room with a triple glazed façade of bird nests, the aim of Biosphere is to decrease the downward spiral of the bird population in the Swedish woods and instead strengthen the biosphere and natural habitat. By varying the individual sizes of the bird nests and expanding them outwards, and based upon the bird type and frequency in the area, light is able to enter the interior space whilst maintaining the outwards views. “Inventories in Norrbotten County, carried out both by us as ornithologists and by the County Administrative Board, show that a number of different bird populations are decreasing. Forestry has led to a reduced number of natural holes in trees where breeding bird nests. The installation of bird nests is therefore an important measure to take. Furthermore, climate change leads to the insect boom happening earlier in the year, and by the time the birds’ eggs hatch, the boom has already passed. Feeding is an important support mechanism for the birds that stay in Northern Sweden and require food during winter. Demonstrating the use of bird nests and feeding, not just at the Treehotel but for people to install near their own homes, is valuable. An initiative from Treehotel to take such measures may inspire their visitors to do the same,” explains Ulf Öhman, chairman of the Norrbotten Ornithological Association.
SR Showcase
Honeycomb Loop Structure with Brick Curves Project: Gadi House | Design: PMA Madhushala | Founder of the Firm: Prasanna Morey Partner: Divya Jyoti | Client: Chetan Khandge | Location: Talegaon dhabade, Maharashtra, India Project Typology: Private Residence | Project Cost: 2.1 Cr | Site Area: 4500 m sqm Built-up Area: 650 sqm | Year of Commencement: 2015 | Year of Completion: 2020 Design Team: Naresh Shivakoti, Darshan, Divya Jyoti, Prasanna Morey Built by: Chetan Khandge | Structural Designer: Subduction Zone Consultants Photography Accreditation: Hemant Patil | Stone Work: Dnyaneshwar Dhotre and team Brick Work: Shakeel and team The firm designed a distinctive structure on a 1.2 acre of land that originates with the idea of a ‘Gadi’ (land fortress), a thick wall made from stone and brick enveloping the house to offer security in the far lands but within itself. The combination of both materials is further enhanced with openings made like honeycomb loop structures with brick curves, giving the entire structure a crown-like appearance.
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SR Showcase
Light Kitchen Hood bags Good Design Award 2021
April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 28
Brand: Falmec Light Kitchen Extracter Hood has ultra-compact 10cm high suction element and comes with a Multi-Air technology that allows the suction power to be distributed between several small motors guaranteeing the same suction efficiency but within an extremely reduced volume. The large central body in tempered smoked glass is enhanced by two elements in black anodised satin aluminium, both equipped with LED lighting that extends along the entire lower perimeter Available in 120 cm or 180 cm versions. www.falmec.com
Surfaces Reporter - cover Story
Krupa Zubin & Zubin Zainuddin
ZZ Architects
The Luxury Bespoke Practice 20 years of Progressive Partnership & Projects Architect couple Krupa Zubin and Zubin Zainuddin of ZZ Architects, have hit upon a rare, exquisite sync that makes their partnership as magnificent as the projects they are called to helm. Vertica Dvivedi, Editor-in-Chief & Publisher, SURFACES REPORTER® gets talking to the duo, who agrees that life and work can often intersect and mean one and the same thing, but it pays to pursue both with a whole lot of love.
ZZA is one of the most consistently growing architectural studios based in Mumbai for the last two decades. The studio’s work is synonymous with quality and luxury, defined by passion, quality, and exclusivity. They design luxurious villas, streamlined corporate towers, residential high-rises, and contemporary interiors for restaurants, hotels, retail spaces, and private homes. The founding partners of ZZA, Krupa Zubin and Zubin Zainuddin believe in constantly evolving and adapting to change.
ZUBIN ZAINUDDIN ( ZZ ) The guiding light and principal force behind ZZA, Zubin’s work is a constant pursuit of a visionary aesthetic that encompasses all fields of design. A voracious reader and an architect with a keen eye for detail, Architect Zubin Zainuddin always wanted to create a firm of repute, known for the extent and quality of their work. His design process is intuitive; he believes that once the
April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 30
client’s trust is established and the concept is clear, everything else ideally falls in place.
KRUPA ZUBIN ( KZ ) The cornerstone and the belief behind the emergence of ZZA, Architect Krupa Zubin has been instrumental in defining the studio’s sleek and nuanced style. She is an indispensable pillar of the firm and brings rigor, passion, incredible energy, and experience to the table. Her extremely refined style, design sensibilities, and striking play of materials with a great deal of panache transform every project. Her idiosyncrasies, young zest, passion, and love for design and tech clearly reflect in her work, leaving an everlasting impression just like her persona. She often shares her experiences on social media in every field with the sole purpose of inspiring. There is always something to learn and pick up from the simplest of conversations with Krupa.
Surfaces Reporter The duo specialise in luxury projects and are behind some of the swankiest residences, corporate offices, celebrity homes, lifestyle centres, coming up all over India. Apart from designing beautiful spaces, Krupa has her own fabric line, which is available at 50 stores all over India. She is also building a lifestyle brand, and set to open a gallery space shortly.
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SR Cover Story
T
hey don’t just finish each other’s sentences; they pre-empt each other’s answers—not just scattered slivers but large unfiltered chunks of thoughts and feelings.
Architects Krupa Zubin and Zubin Zainuddin of Mumbai-based ZZ Architects have been married for 20 years and partnered a business together for a few months more than the same length of time. Despite building a flourishing roster of clients and moving into larger spacious offices over the years, the two share the same table at work “We have never had separate work stations. That has been our requisite since the time we started,” says Zubin. The pair specialise in luxury projects and are behind some of the swankiest residences, corporate offices, celebrity homes, lifestyle centres, coming up all over India. A focussed & commited team of our 75 architects & designers strive towards a unified philosophy at work. At present, their portfolio is packed with an array of top-league projects, including an office complex for a pharma major in Bangalore; a lavish boutique hotel in Pushkar; Villas across a dozen or more cities in the country, Asia’s largest experience centre for a lifestyle industry leader; an avantgarde lakeside retreat in Pune; a premium school in Jodhpur; and a pharma research centre, a landmark home by the Mumbai seaface for the most revered Diamond group, corporate headquaters for leading Indian & multinational groups. As much as they enjoy talking about all of it in great detail, they never fail to pull each other’s leg while they are at it. Their conversations on building and design make room for their shared passion for books, travels, and music. Their office is testimony to the life they have built together, where some things like work ethic, team spirit, friendship, trust and respect are imbued with a sacred value that is wholly non-negotiable. It is amply evident that they are out to build something that can survive the ravages of time. Zubin sums it up just right: “ZZ Architects is not a firm by chance. It is a firm that has purpose, and the purpose is not scale but design and quality.”
Excerpts from the interview:
Vertica Dvivedi: Tell us how and where you met each other. Zubin Zainuddin: We knew each other from our college days, though we grew really close only in the final year. Later, Krupa worked at Sanjay Puri’s firm and I joined Hafeez Contractor’s office. At some point of time, we got so close to each other that I had to be with her more than architecture itself. I think the whole story began then. We started our practice on January 01, 2002 and got married on June 17, 2002. I still remember the days when I would wait for her at the railway station. Krupa Zubin: I used to travel by train and wait eagerly to alight at Bombay Central. My life was only about going to work and meeting him at the station, and then going back home with him. Zubin Zainuddin: Years ago, when my salary was Rs 5,000 and Krupa was making thrice as much, she’d be the one to pay for cabs, dinner, etc Our connection was devoid of personal ego, and we made sure we always communicated with each other with full honesty. April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 32
Our goal was never to start our own practice. The only reason we started was to be together. We came from diverse backgrounds. It was important to us to make sure it works.
The strong bond that you share with each other is obvious. How do you sustain such an extraordinary connection? Zubin for Krupa: Krupa is somebody I have an incredible bond with. We prefer not to socialize after work as our work days are full of intense interactions. We feel that being with each other is our greatest pleasure. Perhaps, that is also because we are constantly trying to learn from each other. As we work together, we often get asked if that gets to be a struggle at times. However, for us, the whole experience has only proven to be symbiotic. Krupa for Zubin: In our house, we have a huge centre table— almost the size of a bed. On it, we have tons of books and collectibles acquired during our travels. Every morning, when Zubin sits with any book, you will find him tagging pages for me to go through later. What we started off years ago is about us connecting as people more than the idea of having a practice together. Zubin: Whether it’s music, books, food, travel destinations, we have always been attuned to each other from the moment we met. In fact, when we met for the first time, we exchanged music. I sent her a CD of an album; I thought that she’d love it and, luckily, she did. It was about this band that not a lot of people had heard about at that point of time. But I had a feeling it would connect with her. It feels wonderfully satisfying to have ‘that one person’ by your side to share your random thoughts with.
What led you to start your own firm? Krupa & Zubin: Our goal was never to start our own practice. The only reason we started our own practice was because we wanted to be together. We came from diverse backgrounds. It was important to us to make sure it works.
Surfaces Reporter
Zubin, there was a time when you wanted to quit architecture. What led you to come back to it? Zubin: I had decided to appear for the CAT because I had read far too many articles about people earning a fancy salary in management roles. My plan was to get into one of the IIMs, and restructure my whole education and work. But fate and Krupa intervened just in time! Krupa plainly told me that if I went ahead with those plans, I would probably make more money but I wouldn’t be half as happy. Krupa: I was sure there would be a sense of regret eventually— especially because I knew how passionately he felt about architecture and design. Though he did join a management college, he quit in the first week itself and returned to what he loved doing all along—architecture and design.
What do you think were the turning points in your firm’s trajectory? Krupa & Zubin: A few months after our marriage, we were designing a staircase in our house that we later submitted as an entry for the IIID Awards. When we won the Award, we were covered by some important publications. This publicity drew several inquiries for staircase design. We took those up, and though we didn’t get to do the rest of the space we’d still be deeply excited designing staircases. However, while all of it was fun in the beginning, we decided to ask ourselves if we were getting far too comfortable with our work. This tendency to step back and do a reality check remains a habit even now.
How have you balanced life and work, especially at the outset when both your practice and child were little babies? Krupa: Our first office was a 175 sq ft space with a small mezzanine that served as our cabin. The ground floor was more like an open conference area with a team of five people. In 2003, when our daughter Anaya arrived, we dedicated the cabin to her. I would go check on her and come down to work when she napped.
What makes ZZ Architects what it is today? Krupa & Zubin: From a tiny 175 sq ft house in the suburbs to a two-storied office area in the commercial expanse of Lower Parel, we have covered a significant arc of success. However, through all it, our philosophy has always been not to compete. Though we are not into numbers, we still end up doing 70 to 80 projects at a time. It sounds like a lot, but with our current team size and capabilities— everything gets well-distributed. We are very tech-driven, but we prefer to let technology do its work in the background. At our core, we hold on to that feeling that drives us when a client meets us after 15 years and tells us that the space we had designed for him 15 years ago is still so amazing, and if we can do something like that for him again.
The ZZ trophy is presented to anybody who has worked with us for more than 10 years. We have 35 to 37 people in our organization, who have received these trophies. It’s our biggest takeaway. We feel good to have built an organization like this.
Any special client story you would like to share? Krupa: Sometime in 2005, we happen to meet a gentleman in a train from Venice to Milan. At that time, we were busy designing multiple fashion studios and health clubs, and were contemplating the prospect of doing more work that required greater detail. The person offered us to get his large villa designed. From there on, we have designed various high-end residential projects. In fact, post COVID, the client has approached us again as he is planning to expand his villa. It is a great feeling to be trusted and having continued relationship with clients who become great friends over the years.
You believe in structure, process and discipline. Would you highlight key aspects of your personal life that fuel these values? Zubin: Knowing the goal is important, and being disciplined about it is critical. Since the last 15 years or so, we wake up at 4.30 am and we sleep by 10 pm. We seldom skip our morning exercise sessions. We also have the habit of reading and listening to some crazy music every morning. We reach our office by 9 am and make sure the team effectively clocks at 6 pm. Work life balance has always been an important ideology in the way we work at ZZ Architects. We have always been intent on being among the most leading firms in the country. The greatest part about building an organization is that apart from the great joy of designing, we enjoy the practice of setting up a firm of this caliber just as much. ZZ Architects is not a firm by chance. It is a firm that has purpose, and the purpose is not scale but design and quality. April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 33
SR Cover Story
There was a time when I wanted to quit architecture but fate and Krupa intervened just in time!
Could you share some of your learnings from your interaction with different clients? Krupa: It’s like a relationship, where everybody has to be committed and then you can do the best. We believe in being honest with a client about the potential of their space. There have been instances when we have persuaded clients to take decisions that they were not initially comfortable with. For example, we had a client who had a bungalow and he wasn’t too keen on having lawns around it because he felt it would compromise his privacy. But we explained the many advantages that the lawn could present—it’s a huge property. Later, during COVID when the world was holed up inside, the client realized what we had exactly meant back then. He called to thank us. Likewise, when we design a 500 sq ft bathroom for a client and they feel it would be far too extravagant, we explain that with the lavish scale of their house they will come to appreciate the bathroom space. Recently, we had a chat with them and they mentioned how they no longer find hotel bathrooms as comfortable because they are used to something a lot bigger! To sum it up, over the years, we have realized that it’s important to stand up for all the possibilities that any place has to offer.
What is the ZZ Trophy all about? Krupa: The ZZ trophy is presented to anybody who has worked with us for more than 10 years. We have over 35 to 37 people in our organization, who have received these trophies. Our daughter was given the first trophy for being with ZZ for the first 10 years. She has lived and traveled with us through all our different offices. I think it’s our biggest takeaway. We feel good to have built an organization like this.
Do you have any message for us, Surfaces Reporter® and WADE ASIA? Zubin: I think you all are doing a brilliant job. You know how to carry yourself really well which is very important. Just don’t change. Krupa: Over the years have seen the passion with which you have built this unique platform. Its admirable, so be who you are and continue on your path.
What are your favourite travel destinations and why? Zubin: We love Japan. We have visited it several times, but we still have not explored any place other than Tokyo because there is so much still left to discover in that city. We don’t go there during the highly popular ‘cherry blossom’ time because our trips are not motivated by tourism but a pure lover for so many diverse, little joys that the place has to offer—the stationery, the chocolates, the remarkable ethics of its people, and even how gracefully they greet each other. We also love traveling to Europe. By 2019, I made 14 trips to Milan! We can never have enough of the book stores in Europe. The reading capacity and evolution of their society is overwhelming. Krupa: In fact, every time we return from Japan, we are super calm. For about 2 to 3 days, our teams know that they can come and ask us anything, and we would say ‘yes’ [laughs]. On the other hand, it’s just the opposite when it comes to Europe. We return over energetic. We return with the feeling to do more.
What’s lined up for the near future? Zubin: There are different verticals. Krupa has her own fabric line, which is available at 50 stores all over India. She is also building a lifestyle brand, and set to open a gallery space shortly. Krupa: I think it’s a great opportunity to collaborate with other artists. Our goal is to build a bigger entity and also to showcase other talent, whether they are young or seasoned, from India or from overseas. Vriddhii Residential Project, Bangalore
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Surfaces Reporter SURFACES REPORTER | PROJECT BY ZZ ARCHITECTS
ELEVEN POINT TWO Category: Hospitality | Location: Panshet, Pune Area: 40 Acres | Project Type: Resort
We end up doing 70 to 80 projects at a time. It sounds like a lot, but with our current team size and capabilities— everything gets well-distributed.
‘Eleven Point Two’ is an upcoming avant-garde retreat nestled on the edge of Panshet lake, which reinvents the definition of a resort in modern times. Spread over 40-acres of the contoured site designed mindfully to captivate the essence of subtle luxury. The imposing haven allows one to get lost amidst an experience of calmness and serenity. The master plan of the site proposes various functions in integration with the landscape. It is now imperative more than ever to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for natural habitats. By designing accommodation within these natural settings, a stronger harmony and healthy relationship are achievable between both worlds. Each room pinion with a sandstone envelope that synergizes with the greens. The amphitheatre at the resort captures the essence of the context. The infinity lap pool facing the mountains leaves one mesmerized with the framed views of the lake and hills beyond. April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 35
SR Cover Story
SURFACES REPORTER | PROJECT BY ZZ ARCHITECTS
SATTVA SIGNATURE Category: Office Architecture Location: Hyderabad | Area: 5,00,000 sq.ft Project Type: Mixed-use (Commercial and Retail)
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Surfaces Reporter
Conceived as a high street retail scheme and a state of the art commercial building with large expansive floor plates, Sattva Signature has a total built-up area of over half a million sqft. This iconic mixed-use project coming up in the Banjara hills of Hyderabad provides premium office spaces and high-street retail. The facade is unique and has a clear visible character and can be viewed as a different composition from various vantage points around the property. The building skin is conceived as layered screens of complementing materials: glass, stone, and metal. The spatial and architectural design of this project draws inspiration from the surrounding context. Contours are integrated efficiently in the design of the building. The 2 levels of the basement have been designed in a way that it is very well connected to the existing road levels maintaining proper entries and exits for the smooth flow of traffic.
ZZ Architects is not a firm by chance. It is a firm that has purpose, and the purpose is not scale but design and quality.
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SR Cover Story
VRIDDHII Category: Private Homes
Location: Indiranagar, Bangalore Area: 25,000 sq.ft Project Type: Residential
The Vriddhii bungalow veritably evokes sophistication that blends with the natural palette of the surrounding. The house is a perfect interpretation of the contemporary and modern tropical home. The effortless arrangement of the indoor and outdoor spaces is clearly experienced when one enters this unique home. The elegant facade accentuated by strategic openings is an expression of the rich dialogue between the two different environments. The atmosphere of the house is flooded with natural light. The terrace has a uniquely engineered walk-able glass floor and is one of the most important entertainment spaces in the home. Facade is clad with imported White Linen finished travertine. Natural plants are spread through the home and the highlight is a specimen tree that is placed on the first floor deck which passes through a slab cutout on the second floor. Ultra luxurious interiors with the finest furniture and fittings sourced from various corners of India and Europe make this clearly a statement home for the family.
KOHLER EXPERIENCE CENTRE Category: Retail
Location: Mumbai Area: 20,000 sq.ft Project Type: Retail Kohler Experience Centre is Asia’s largest and most vibrant experience centre that acts as a cultural corridor to host various events. Located in the commercial hub of Mumbai city, spread over 20000 sq.ft space of an old mill, it spans across two floors. This sublime and compartmentalized centre is functional, efficient and stimulates the ultimate luxury experience. The layout creates a unique visual arrangement that elevates and revitalize the senses.
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Surfaces Reporter
SURFACES REPORTER | PROJECT BY ZZ ARCHITECTS
PUSHKAR RESORT Category: Hospitality | Location: Pushkar, Rajasthan Area: 80,000 sq.ft | Project Type: Resort
Located in the rolling topography of Rajasthan, this ongoing resort at Pushkar was conceived in a way that’s both architecturally impressive and harmonized with the context. The planning involved huge spatial context given the relationship of the resort to the surrounding area, which was critical in terms of physical and social impacts. The architectural language breaks away from the traditional fort and palace resorts, popular in the area, and follows contemporary vocabulary, unique and one of its kind. The free form of the building with gentle curves has taken its inspiration from the surrounding dunes. The project houses 47 rooms (40 luxurious suites, 6 one-bedroom villas and 1 two-bedroom villa) A stunning infinity pool with expansive decks is the main feature of this luxury property. The property has a banquet hall, terrace cafe, two restaurants, a decadent spa and many more such features to make it a luxurious boutique destination property.
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SR Cover Story
SURFACES REPORTER | PROJECT BY ZZ ARCHITECTS
HIMEDIA
Category: Office Architecture | Area: 1,00,000 sq.ft Location: Thane | Project Type: Commercial It is designed to be an office and research lab of the highest caliber and also to re-establish the brand value of this unique and highly passionate family of founders. After having created a smaller office facility for the family over a decade ago, it was a great opportunity to again collaborate with the Warke family and be part of this amazing project. The building stands out around its environment. As one enters the reception a sense of calm just sets in with the unique use of seamless terrazzo through the space. Even the reception desk just seems to come out from the floor. The helical metallic sculpture designed to camouflage a column behind the desk is a stunning feature. The workstations have been designed for maximum efficiency while also exuding unconventional lighting and the beautiful wallpaper breaking the monotony. The subtle beige backdrop with the bright contrast makes this reception dynamic and inviting. The flow of materials from flooring to furniture makes it feel so seamless and fluvial. The tropical wall cover helps in breaking the monotony of the material palette within the space. A subtle interplay of terrazzo and stained ash works effortlessly to create a calming environment for a board room. Lighting and comfort is key in such spaces to ensure well being in our work environments. Exploring materials and details for a seamless and expansive feel. With a presence in more than 140 countries HiMedia is amongst the top three brands in microbiology in the world.
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Surfaces Reporter SURFACES REPORTER | PROJECT BY ZZ ARCHITECTS
AMRUTA MANSION Category: Private Homes | Location: Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad Area: 37,000 sq.ft | Project Type: Residential
Luxury and elegance are synonymous with the work and lifestyle of ZZA that truly reflects in this private villa located in Hyderabad city. The house gives a sense of opulence with a clear affinity to contemporary spatial planning and aesthetic. The home acts as a sculptural and striking visual from the quiet street in the highly affluent Jubilee Hills. The main entry is approached by a ramp and once inside the front door, the home just unravels as an invitation to take a voyage within the generous spatial planning of the home. The refined palette politely enhances and adds a lot of character to each space. The house’s atmosphere is accentuated with monotones from the marble floor to walls and soft furnishings. The double-height living area with a glass facade on three sides offers a view of the beautiful garden on the longer side and a 150’ long green wall on the others while welcoming a lot of natural light that echoes the play of light and shadow. From the lawn, the living room gives such a stunning frame to capture with a phenomenal volume of the home. A melange of materials and finishes has always been a trademark of our work and this site is full of unique finishes and subtle details.One of the highlights of this home is clearly the infinity pool on the highest terrace that offers a gorgeous panoramic view of the city.
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Surfaces Reporter | Lighting
Lighting beyond Illumination:
A Market Report on the Lighting Industry Post COVID The lighting industry, powered up with new technologies and government support, promises to shine brighter than ever even in the post-COVID era. A study by SURFACES REPORTER.
T
he first thing on God’s agenda right after creating the world was light, edifies the Book of Genesis – something so extraordinary created even before anyone could notice. There on, mankind has come a long way, right from heavily relying on the sun and fire which were the only sources of light to the present artificial and smart lighting solutions that flawlessly mimic the qualities of natural light. Today, technology has made it possible to implant lighting into furniture, facades and other interior surfaces with the ease of varying its intensities and hues, thereby, endorsing light as an essential element in designing buildings. The advent of LED technology has completely transformed the market. As Mr Sunil Punia, Business Head-Lighting, Hafele India says, “Almost all products introduced and sold now come equipped with this technology. The lighting industry is moving towards intelligent light control, energy conservation and efficient light management. With growing emphasis on lighting automation, there is a solution available for every customer at all price points.”
The market trend Owning numerous advantages over conventional lighting, LED lighting has emerged as a powerful source of light. According to an IMARC report, the Indian LED lighting market reached a value of $ 2,754 million in 2021 and is further expected to reach $ 9,658 million by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 23.31 per cent during 20222027. Technology has revamped a plethora of new trends in the lighting business. Laying down a forecast of dynamic innovations in the lighting industry, Mr Rajesh Uttamchandani, Director, Syska Group informs, “IoT (Internet of Things) controlled smart products with multi-CCT and million colour options, wire and wireless operatable intelligent luminaires which are used in facade and architectural applications, DOB (Driver On Board) based products, value added (high efficacy up to 150 lm/w and best specification) April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 42
and value for money products, and fast/turbo charging solutions will be a big part of our lighting industry trends.” Highlighting current trends and their importance, Mr Meet Bhadra, Director, LED Alum Inc adds, “Human-centric lighting provides biologically optimised compositions of light to enhance concentration and productivity during daytime working and learning environments while encouraging relaxation and regeneration at night. Smart and contactless lighting has also provided a boost to the smart lighting ecosystem in India. Even though this technology has been around for a while now, its adoption has been fairly low. With smart lighting, each luminaire can be controlled remotely using network powered lighting controller and configurations of a specific area that can be adapted conveniently through an interface accessible on a phone, tablet or computer.” He points out that this new normal phenomenon of smart lighting also enables hygiene in a post-pandemic world due to touchless operation and promotes ease of usage, sustainability and energy savings. Adding to that Mr Prag Bhatnagar, Executive Vice President and SBU Head, Havells India points out a few other market trends that have redefined the lighting industry, beginning with contactless lighting, human-centric lighting, lighting for smart cities and solar lighting.
Redefining light The lighting market is moving toward light fittings that encompass better glare management. With human-centric lighting gaining popularity, Mr Punia cites, “Customers today are better informed and aware about technicalities including the importance of using the right colour, temperature or light intensity depending on the application. Penetration of multi-white LED lights has provided our consumers with more flexibility than ever before. There is also an increase in demand for asymmetric fixtures that offer better visual comfort.”
Surfaces Reporter
Lights from Hafele
Growth strategies Syska Group At Syska, we have incorporated a new sales and service approach that is pushing for more penetration into rural areas in addition to the tie-ups with big retail stores like D-Mart and Reliance for modern trade and online sales. We have invested in minimal inventory and effective supply chain management as material sourcing has become indigenous.
Latest launches
Rajesh Uttamchandani Director, Syska Group
Some of our new launches include PAG i-LED which is a DOB solution LED bulb, multi-colour ring solutions, LED sensor street light with sensor controlled dushdawn switching, waterproof Rope light for outdoor applications, COB down lights with SMD and COB technology, vale engineered panel lights, green environment protected street light with modular lens, all in one hybrid solar street lights and more.
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SR Lighting
Tisva Berizi
Sunil Punia
Business Head-Lighting, Hafele India Key growth strategies employed post COVID-19 We have, as a company, been focused on increasingly launching products that are well-suited for installation in India and are user-friendly keeping the technology in mind. Our plug-and-play Loox5 range of strip lights, profiles and drivers have been well accepted by our customers. Additionally, we have expanded our customer base in the last two years to make our products available in many more parts of the country.
Hafele Connect Mesh System This technology links the light fixtures within any interior space to a central communication system through which one can digitally control the light settings. At its core is the specially developed Hafele Connect Mesh Chip, which uses Bluetooth Low Energy technology to allow all system components to communicate wirelessly with each other by forwarding control information to other nodes via radio technology. This module is also integrated with all Loox lighting control components.
We have expanded our customer base in the last two years to make our products available in many more parts of the country.
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However, due to the coal scarcity in India, the country is experiencing power outages, to which Mr Uttamchandani points out that rechargeable or inverter battery bulbs are currently trending. “Additionally, COB concealed down lights and 2in1 and 3in1 LED panels, square battens and bulbs are also currently the leading lighting products.” Lately, luxurious chandeliers, elegant pendants, architectural and landscape lighting, and minimalistic wall lights or lamps have also witnessed a rise in demand. Other than designer lighting, Mr Vikas Gandhi, President and Business Head-Lighting (Tisva), Premium Fans and Water Solutions Business, Usha International emphasizes the rise in demand for sustainable lighting options such as solar and motion sensor lighting.
Competitive landscape of the Indian lighting market The lighting market is segmented into indoor and outdoor applications, where the indoor lighting segment has obtained the maximum revenue share due to the real estate boom, urbanization and customer awareness of energy conservation. But with cities transitioning to smart cities and the rise in commercial and industrial sectors, the demand for outdoor lighting has also accelerated. Maharashtra and the western states have emerged as the leading regions for LED products followed by the National Capital Region, notifies Mr Uttamchandani. Having the same opinion, Mr Bhadra adds, “Maharashtra and Gujarat are the largest markets for LED. Since both these states have a high disposable income, they tend to follow trends faster.
SR Lighting
Prag Bhatnagar Executive Vice President and SBU Head, Havells India
We aim to continue investing in innovations and new technologies to develop connected lighting solutions for B2B space and build a sense of well-being for customers.
Changes in Havells We saw a significant increase in sales following the first wave of COVID-19. Havells’ online presence and a strong distribution network spread across the country were critical contributors to the company’s growth. The crisis allowed us to go back to the drawing board, develop future-ready plans and align with the new normal trend. This entails analyzing cost structures, investing in technology, and expanding sales channels via the internet. We aligned our production, logistics and IT capabilities to meet the post-pandemic world’s end needs. We aim to continue investing in innovations and new technologies to develop connected lighting solutions for B2B space and build a sense of well-being for customers.
Havells Crossway Crossway is a unique lighting solution for creating a safe passage of commuters through zebra crossings on busy road intersections and squares. Havells’ Crossway’s dedicated optics for zebra crossings guarantees higher brightness (positive contrast) for pedestrians adhering to norms of the National Lighting Code: 2010, avoiding undesired glare to the drivers. Offered with a unique amber colour option and standard warm white and cool white CCTs, it helps create colour contrast, which ensures a continuous increase of driver’s attention throughout the night to create a safe passage through zebra crossings.
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Hence, have a higher demand for the products. Also, a lot of lighting industries are located in these states, Mumbai being a hub for imports, thus naturally becoming the big players.” On the contrary, for Mr Punia, the largest regional market is South India at the moment owing to their nature of business that caters to the needs of furniture lighting for which they have a strong network of franchise and OEM (industrial) customers.
Prevailing the COVID challenge The last two years of the pandemic gave rise to a trend that forced people to stay indoors and create an environment that would encompass the warmth of a home and the disciple of a workspace. The progress of LED was severely disrupted due to the shutting down of construction activities and restrictions on the movement of goods. Post pandemic, the disruption in the supply chain saw the emergence of Make in India initiatives as opposed to heavy dependence on China. Government initiatives and investment in smart city projects have propelled the advance of the lighting market. Mr Bhadra tells us, “The Indian Government recently announced
Surfaces Reporter The progress of LED was severely disrupted due to the shutting down of construction activities and restrictions on the movement of goods. Post pandemic, the disruption in the supply chain saw the emergence of Make in India initiatives as opposed to heavy dependence on China. Government initiatives and investment in smart city projects have propelled the advance of the lighting market.
Meet Bhadra Director, LED Alum Inc
Importance of timely service Adapting to new trends and giving simplified solutions to the end-users is very important for the overall growth of any player. Although it’s a productoriented industry, providing timely service is the key factor. Social media has played a significant role for us post-pandemic to reach out to potential customers as one-one meetings had drastically reduced. Connecting with architects and potential retailers from even different cities has become easier with this platform.
Latest launches by LED Alum Inc Specializing in technical lighting, our range includes track lights, spotlights, linear profiles, magnetic systems and outdoor grazers. Our USP as a brand is to provide bespoke solutions to our clients. We closely work with architects and interior designers and offer lighting solutions keeping in mind the other aspects of the interiors.
Social media has played a significant role for us postpandemic to reach out to potential customers as one-one meetings had drastically reduced.
Anuj Dhir
Vice President and Business Head, Commercial and Institutional Business, Wipro Consumer Care Recent changes in Wipro Recently, we have announced the creation of our new business unit Commercial and Institutional Business by merging our commercial lighting and seating solutions. By combining commercial lighting and seating solution businesses, we aim to offer wider solutions to our customers in B2B space and deliver more value. It will give us opportunities to make more investments in the existing markets, while opening up newer segments and markets.
Latest range by Wipro Lighting We have launched a stylish range of designer office space luminaire solutions called Aqua to brighten up workspaces and a new line of luminaire called Frostline, tailored to the needs of the temperaturesensitive cold storage industry.
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SR Lighting
Lights from Wipro Lighting
Vikas Gandhi
President and Business Head-Lighting (Tisva), Premium Fans and Water Solutions Business, Usha International Expanding the consumer base With a strong presence across key states in India, we recently opened our third store in New Delhi, and are further planning to expand our consumer reach through marketing expansion and retail growth strategies.
Latest TISVA range Our product portfolio boasts a wide and diverse range of handcrafted luminaires including bespoke chandeliers, crystal pendants, LED lights, ambient lights, table lamps, as well as architectural and utility lighting products. At Tisva, which is inspired by the concept of Tvisa (light) and Tattva (essence), we aim to go beyond ordinary lighting concepts and bring aesthetic luminaires designed with love to illuminate contemporary homes in India. Each Tisva light offers the perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality and is at par with international standards.
Lighting companies must consider strengthening their capacity to produce semi-conductor devices/electronic chips such as diodes, MOSFETs, various types of ICs and LEDs, as we are heavily reliant on the global market.
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plans to develop 100 smart cities by 2030 and granted approval to an investment of nearly $15 billion for this project.” For his part, Mr Uttamchandani shares, “We feel that the FMEG industry will always be as powerful as the FMCG sector as both are extremely strong in their own place. The increase in the lighting market was primarily due to demand recovery and replacement demand. However, Vocal for Local/Made in India aided many Indian businesses in competing in the international market with better quality and after-sales service.” The players see eye to eye toward government initiatives that have attracted investments and helped establish India as a global hub for LED and LED light fixtures. Meanwhile, Mr Bhatnagar reasons, “The government is doing its part by introducing the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for White Goods (PLIWG). It proposes a financial incentive to boost domestic manufacturing and attract significant investments in the White Goods manufacturing value chain. Its prime objectives include removing sectoral disabilities, creating economies of scale and creating a robust component ecosystem and employment generation. It covers AC and LED lights.” In Mr Uttamchandani’s view, this is insufficient and restructured taxation is critical as today’s lighting is also linked to energy savings. He urges lighting companies to consider strengthening their capacity to produce semi-conductor devices/electronic chips such as diodes, MOSFETs, various types of ICs and LEDs, as we are heavily reliant on the global market. The pandemic has revolutionized the world of business and how one operates as part of the ecosystem. In the postCOVID era, contactless products have become mainstream in India and worldwide due to consumers’ growing interest in them. “It is expected that smart, eco-friendly and IoT-based lighting technologies will increase in popularity in the years ahead,” asserts Mr Bhatnagar. In Mr Punia’s opinion, there is a lot of advancement in making LED light fixtures more durable and reliable. Today, modern luminaires are designed to be more appealing aesthetically keeping architectural spaces in mind and at the same time more efficient to offer utmost functionality. “The one positive trend that seems to have emerged from the pandemic,” according to Mr Gandhi, “is that people have begun to realize the importance of lighting and are now paying some much needed – and long overdue – attention to different aspects of home-design with lighting high up in the priority ladder. Despite the pandemic drawback, all in all, there is only one way to describe the future of this industry – Bright!
SURFACES REPORTER | BOOKS
DESIGN FOR WOW!
21 Secrets to jaw dropping design Ar. Badrinath Kaleru Excerpts from the ForEword BY Vertica Dvivedi Publisher & Editor-in-Chief SURFACES REPORTER MAGAZINE Writing is hard, even for authors who do it regularly, which makes it a golden milestone when working professionals decide to pick up the pen and make a difference with their words and work. I sit at my desk and meet a lot of architects on a day-to-day basis and even though I meet so many capable individuals, only those who capture a space in my mind with their talent, get imprinted in my memory. I am proud to say that Ar Badrinath Kaleru is one of these individuals. His fascinating ability to look for the soul in spaces, buildings, products, bricks, masonry, and even mundane things, along with his talent for architecture make him a man, destined for greatness in life. This turns out to be true as ‘Design for WOW’ is a bundle of knowledge. This book extends delightfully over the various stages and processes that one goes through as an architect or designer while designing their creation. It is a bible for the youth in architecture and interior design. It starts by busting some common myths and teaching you about project work and how to get it just right. The next part gives you a lesson in how to nail and deal with clients followed by a fabulous section based on the step-by-step process of design. The book gives you a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the field which helps you shave a strong base, and work towards success in life. My favorite section has got to be the first i.e. the debunking of the myths that a lot of architects seem to carry even after having massive experience in the field. It is bound to help the young and seasoned ones to navigate their approach with the right mindset. I am not finding the right word to express the degree of valuable insights and wisdom this book has brought to light. The only word that comes to my mind is WOW!
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ABOUT THE BOOK Quick and easy information readily available on internet ignites the creative minds and widens their vision. Such ideas lose lustre as they’ve been tried by many. To this rescue, it is this book. WOW. For every architecture enthusiast, or if you are planning to design your house or office, this book will help you with smooth navigation through all the processes leading you towards your dream project. ABOUT THE AUTHOR A product of IIT Roorkee, Badrinath Kaleru before found Studio Ardete, has been mentored by Glen Murcutt, Dominique Perrault and Jean Micheal Wilmotte. His award winning projects not only find him published on internationally acclaimed magazines and other forums but inspite the budding architects as well. Besides, 11 years into architecture and his passion towards the work, about which he now holds workshops and his office-a boutique and a design studio which lets him and his team ideas materialize into magnificence.
The book is available at www.amazon.in
7
th
year of celebrating Women-led Development & Design
WADE ASIA
2-3-4 SEPTEMBER, 2022 Pragati Maidan, New Delhi GALA AWARD NIGHT: HOTEL LALIT
Knowledge Partner
2022
national Architecture conference & AWARDS
SURFACES REPORTER®
WADE ASIA, the largest event in the world celebrating the lives and works of women in design, architecture, art, construction, product design, engineering, is back with a bang. Block the dates for an engaging & immersive time with the fraternity, while enjoying knowledge sessions, innovations, exhibition & project showcase. Register for the event at www.wadeasia.com and book your tickets for Delhi. Here are some details about the event.
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WADe Story
2-3-4 SEP 2022 DelhI
Purpose What women need is a community where ideas are heard, connections are made and talents are shared. In 2016, WADE was born to make a change. One of the first and largest in Asia, WADE is a networking platform for celebrating Women-led developments in the field of Architecture, Art, Design, Engineering, and Construction. It was created by two sisters Vertica Dvivedi and Madhurima Chowdhury. The idea was to build a common space where creative women can meet, network, learn and grow. The progress of these talented women is documented and appreciated through WADE. WADE ASIA was created with the following objectives: > Ensuring visibility of Women-led projects > Bridging Mentorship between Leading & Aspiring > Standing by those who want to return & restart > Encouraging, Sharing & Learning through Research > Celebrating their Life, Work & Achievements > Recognising and Rewarding Creative minds Celebrating WADE ASIA since 2016 through conferences, exhibitions and awards had led to a huge response and participation from more than 20 states of India. The age range of participants ranged from 16-84 years. Guests and representatives had joined from Sri Lanka, London, Australia, Nepal, Bhutan, and more! April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 54
WADE ASIA has connected with thousands of women and inspired people across the world. The WADE Awards have recognized over 5000 women from 15+ states in India. Speakers from Nepal, Indonesia, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh have been a part of this movement. There are more than 50 awardees every year who receive the WADE AWARD through competition. The top most award every year is the WADE Lifetime Achievement Award. It is given through nomination and research. Didi Contractor and Ar Namita Singh from India and Ar Yasmeen Lari from Pakistan have received this coveted award so far. Among the Sustainability champions are Ar Sheila Sri Prakash and Ar Neelam Manjunath. WADE ASIA has a top award for contribution by women in design & architecture in different fields of society. That’s a special category award. Ar Neera Adarkar, Ar Pratima Joshi, Ar Madhavi Desai, and Ar Gita Balakrishnan received this award in the last few years.
WADE ASIA Award Categories There are two categories of WADE Awards, i.e., through competition and nominations. Competition category includes, Student Award, Young WADE India Emerging Award, Excellence Award, Artist award, Best Use of colour in architecture or interior design project and Product Designer Award.
Surfaces Reporter In the Nomination category, these are the following sub categories of awards- Role Model of The Year, Special Contribution, Academia, Sustainability Champion of the Year, Art Maestro, WADE Lifetime Achievement Award and WADE India Women in Engineering award. Full Schedule of WADE ASIA 2022 will be announced soon. For Speaking Opportunities /Queries, write to madhu@wadeasia.com
Meeting the objectives... Many women architects and designers have been vocal about the role of WADE ASIA in their career. Pratima Joshi, a founding member of Shelter Associates (Pune) has been able to come out of a bubble and connect with her peers. She says, “I was interacting with so many women peers for the first time in the last 25 years. It was such an enriching experience for me as I have been mostly working in my own silo for years without much interaction with the fraternity. You put together such a fine event with every little detail worked out and coupled with outstanding hospitality. Congrats to Vertica, Madhurima and WADE team.” Women like her and Tanvi Jain have been able to drive inspiration from a diverse group of architects and designers. Many have understood the true power of a community through WADE. Men and Women come together to celebrate the strength and recognition of women in Design. Architects from diverse backgrounds with rich minds come together to share their stories of how they did it. Let us look at what these women had to say about WADE. “What you have created- the space, the energy, the team, the immense possibilities of exploration and exchange- all of this incredible. May you go from strength to strength.” - Sumana Chandrasekhar, India Foundation for the Arts, Bangalore “WADE ASIA is a platform to perform the Art in architecture. It helps me a lot to criticize, research, and improve more on it. This has given the opportunity to network with the fraternity.” -Shana Fathima Kondotty, Kerala “The profession of architecture needed a platform like WADE ASIA to encourage women architects to pursue their profession in their own right and not as a supportive professional to the male fraternity. Thanks and all the best! We are and will be there at all times to support you fully in all your ventures!” - Neelam Manjunath, Manasaram Architects, Bangalore
I am delighted to see so many people from South Asia in WADE. More power to you so that this forum grows and I’m sure only women will do it. - Shri Rajeev Sethi
Padma Bhushan Awardee and celebrated art curator
WADE has seen proud fathers bringing in their daughters to actively participate in the creative Industry. Sons have helped their mother to come back to the profession by networking at WADE. The energy is awesome, that of possibilities.
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WADe Story
‘WADE is an opportunity to make a difference and I strongly encourage you to collaborate and highlight the talents of women in Asia.’ - Ar Yasmin Shariff, London Honorary Secretary, Architectural Association and National Counsellor RIBA
influenced and changed his life. From Barbara Ward to Jaquline Tyrwhitt, he mentioned the important contributions of women and how their words inspired his projects. To WADE team, he said, “You should be proud about what you are doing.”
Men in WADE ASIA
WADE has seen proud fathers bringing in their daughters to actively participate in the creative Industry. Sons have helped their mother to get the much deserved recognition. Even partners have supported and inspired each other.
The Success of WADE however, has been largely influenced by men as well. Immense support and enthusiastic contributions from them has led to a huge difference. Their contributions bring about changes in the society, mindset and the lives of people around the world. WADE ASIA has received numerous messages from their male peers, supporting the initiative and standing by this to cheer the contribution of women in design. The Guest of Honour from WADE ASIA 2019, Rajeev Talwar mentioned in his special address: “It is a great privilege for me to be here. I think it is a great breakthrough. If you can sustain a show for 4 years with women Architects, Designers, Artists and Engineers to recognise the contribution of women, I am quite sanguine WADE ASIA is set to increase geometrically and become more significant in skill development among women.” Rajeev Talwar, Chairmain Emeritus, NAREDCO and Whole Time Director of DLF Ltd. Ar Christopher Benniger is the founder of the School of Planning at Ahmedabad (CEPT University) and the Center for Development Studies and Activities (CDSA) at Pune. The award-winning American-Indian Architect and planner was a speaker in WADE ASIA 2017. He spoke about all the women who have April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 56
Some of the positive sentiments received from males for WADE ASIA ‘WADE ASIA is one of the most memorable events I have attended. Infact, it felt more like a close family function where you literally feel sad while leaving. Didn’t feel like an Architectural event for even a minute. Best part was seeing all Asian women Architects on the same stage with a superb array of works.’ -Neilesh Kenkare, Co-founder, Arch Aid, Mumbai The positive energy of these people have led to the growth of the movement. Here are a few more encouraging and insightful words from talented men across Asia: ‘WADE ASIA event was designed with great skill and handled with immense grace, warmth and professionalism.’ -Dr. Chatterjee ‘WADE event is a great initiative and such kinds of events are needed!’ - Ar. Rajendra Kumar
Surfaces Reporter
2-3-4 SEP 2022 DelhI
What to expect from WADE ASIA 2022 Being the 7th year of WADE ASIA and 5th year of WADE ASIA AWARDS, this year is special. Also becasuse, it is happening after two years, lost to the pandemic. The fun-filled three days will consist of various architecture and design events, talks, seminars and of course, the much awaited award ceremony. Alongside WADE ASIA, there is an exhibition dedicated to materials specially panels, surfaces and interior products, called ‘MATECIA.’ Expect fun time, networking, knowledge, exporation of products and projects and a lot of learning from WADE ASIA 2022. Have you blocked your dates from 2-4 September 2022? Visit the website www.wadeasia.com to register for the event.
It is a great privilege for me to be at WADE ASIA. I think it is a great breakthrough. If you can sustain a show for 4 years with women Architects, Designers, Artists and Engineers to recognise the contribution of women, I am quite sanguine WADE ASIA is set to increase geometrically and become more significant in skill development among women.
Mr Rajeev Talwar Chairman Emeritus, National Real Estate Development Council and Whole Time Director, DLF Ltd
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WADe Story Some opinions from women who attended WADE ASIA
“I was impressed to see the depth of thinking that has gone into WADE ASIA.” - Sonali Aggarwal, Chandigarh
“I met my mentor at WADE ASIA!” - Yashashree Purohit, Kohlapur
Being a part of WADE has made it easier to network among contemporaries as well as higher ups.” - Sethulakshmi Mohandas, Calicut “I recommend every lady photographer to attend WADE ASIA to understand what a difference it can make in her life personally and professionally.” - Yamini Krishna, Thane “WADE ASIA provides a unique stage to share stories, struggles and achievements of life.” - Anagha Patil, Nasik
“Creating a world record by WADE ASIA for the largest number of Women standing together for Water awareness as a cause this year was amazing. WADE is here to tread paths which have not been taken before.” - Bhadri Sonpal, Ahmedabad
“WADE ASIA is sure to grow in numbers and respect in terms of spread, reach and popularity! I had been following it for the last couple of years and felt compelled to participate this time.”- Jasleen Manrao, Pune “The energy I felt at WADE awards felt truly dignifying and comforting.” - Prerna Kaleru, Panchkula
“The open juries at WADE ASIA and the interactions between architects and designers helped me to expand my vision.” - Deepali Meni, Ahmedabad April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 58
“A flower does not think of competing with the other flowers in the garden, it just blooms. WADE ASIA, I believe is doing the same.” - Ritu Dua, Pune
“WADE champions the cause of women supporting women to make a more inclusive work environment.” - Keta Shah, Ahmedabad “WADE ASIA gave me the opportunity to meet many high achieving women. I now understand that I am not alone in the struggles of being a woman in a competitive industry specially while we are trying to balance motherhood along with our careers.” - Anjali Mangalgiri, Goa
Surfaces Reporter
“I welcome all of you to WADE ASIA 2022, not limited to women. Come prepared to work with me and my team in various capacities to make WADE ASIA one of the biggest learning & networking ground for professionals in architecture & design. What we can learn from eachother’s experiences is priceless. Let’s make the coming together meaningful!” Vertica Dvivedi
Founder, WADE ASIA Chairperson WADE FOUNDATION
vertica@wadeasia.com
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WADe Story
2-3-4 SEP 2022 DelhI
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Surfaces Reporter
WADe InternationaL The WADE ASIA Conference gave me the opportunity to reconnect with many long lost Indian friends through my journey in life. I was surprised at the number of person who came had said that that they enjoyed my presentation. Thanks to Madhu & Neha for so skillfully conducting the WADE Conference! - Nela De Zoysa, Sri Lanka “We applaud the efforts of WADE to build up a platform for women in architecture and design.” - Studio Gang, New York Dear Vertica and Madhu, it was one of the best conferences I have attended. Love from Bhutan. – Ar. Dorji Yangki, President, Bhutan Institute of Architects, Bhutan WADE ASIA event was designed with great skill and handled with immense grace, warmth and professionalism. – Dr. Anuradha Chatterjee, Sydney "I really enjoyed meeting some stellar creatives during WADE ASIA" - Pallavi Dean, Design by Roar, Dubai "WADE is an opportunity to make a difference and I strongly encourage you to collaborate and highlights the talents of women in asia." - Ar Yasmin Shariff, London "WADE is quite a platform! doing wonderful job of supporting and nurturing many talented women in architecture, design, art and photography in Asia! It was inspiring to listen to some of Asia's leading creative women.” - Janie Airey, London
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WADe Story
Some of the past Speakers/Jury/Guests
@WADEASIA
Shirish Beri Kolhapur
Chandrashekhar Kanetkar Mumbai
Rajeev Talwar
Amla Ruia
Padma Shri Prathibha Prahlad
Martand Khosla
Delhi
Mumbai
Delhi
Chitra Vishwanath Bangalore
Nela DE zoysa Sri Lanka
Delhi
Sangeeta Wij
Gian P Mathur
Sheila Sri Prakash
Nilabh Nagar
Dipen Gada
Vijay Garg
Delhi
Mumbai
Delhi
Vadodara
Chennai
Delhi
Puran Kumar
Neelam Manjunath
Srilata Ramkumar
Pushpa Bector
Abha Narain Lambah
Suparja Rao
Ashwin Lovekar
Tony Joseph
Yatin Patel
Nitin Saolapurkar
Ravish Vora
Annkur khosla
Sangeet Sharma
Bhavya Kenkare
Rupande Shah
Brinda Miller
Mumbai
Calicut
Kolkata
Rajiv Khanna Gurgaon
Bangalore
Mumbai
Mumbai
Seema Kohli Delhi
Delhi
Delhi
Bangalore
Delhi
Mumbai
Mumbai
Richa Bahl
Prashant Sutaria
Babu Cherian
Tejal Mathur
Tushar Sogani
Sanjay Agarwal
Mumbai
Mumbai
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Mumbai
Jaipur
Kerala
Bangalore
Hyderabad
Chandigarh
Pune
Noida
Anshuman Sharma GITA BALAKRISHNAN Jaipur
Kolkata
Prof Veena Garella
Anupam Mittal
Delhi
Delhi
Surfaces Reporter
2-3-4, Sep 2022 Pragati Maidan Delhi
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WADE Jury/ Speakers/ Guest
Have you Registered for
WADE ASIA 2022? 2-3-4 Sep 2022 Pragati Maidan New Delhi Quickly Register at
www.wadeasia.com/visitor-registration (FREE for limited period)
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Surfaces Reporter
Keynote/Speaker
Shimul Javeri Kadri Founder, SKJ Architects, Mumbai
Born in 1962, Ar Shimul Javeri Kadri is a much-celebrated veteran Indian architect. She studied architecture in Mumbai at the Academy of Architecture, and Urban Planning at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor. In 1997, Ar Kadri founded her own architectural firm, SJK Architects, in the business capital of India. Today, the firm has a repute of over two decades for designing spaces that are aligned with every natural element. With the motto and dedication towards building new India without preconceived notions, Ar Kadri nurtured SJK Architects as the founder and principal architect towards its present glory. The architectural firm is famed for its value of culture and building respective to the climate. Ar Shimul Javeri Kadri has responsibly made a portfolio on the ethos of natural and light construction and supporting equality through education and feminism. The occasional writer, jurist, speaker and teacher is compelled by her overwhelming passion and desire to present, engage and discuss about it.
1st List Speakers/Jury/Guests @WADEASIA 2022 2-3-4 Sep 2022, Delhi
JP Agrawal Agrawal and Agrawal Architects, Kolkata
Prem Nath Principal, Prem Nath and Associates, Mumbai
Anil Bhaskaran Chief Architect and Urban Planner, Managing Director, IDEA Centre Architects Pvt Ltd, Bangalore
Raman Sikka Founding Principal, Sikka Associates Architects, Delhi
Ponni Concessao Founder and Principal Architect, Oscar & Ponni Architects, Chennai
Ravindra Kumar Principle Architect, Pragrup, Bengaluru
Dr Arun Kapoor Senior Architect, Gunjan & Associates, Lucknow
Anjan Gupta Design Principal, Anjan Gupta Architects, Kolkata
Sunil Patil Principal, Sunil Patil and Associates, Pune
Hiren Patel Principal Architect, Hiren Patel Architects, Ahmedabad
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WADE Jury/ Speakers/ Guest
Snehal Shah Principal Partner, EssTeam, Surat
Dimple Mittal Director and Design Principal, mayaPRAXIS, Bengaluru
Babu Cherian Principal Architect and CEO, Babu Cherian and Associates (BCA) Architecture, Calicut
Minnie Bhatt Principal Designer and Founder, Minnie Bhatt Design, Mumbai
Behzad Kharas Chairman and Managing Director, The BNK Group, Mumbai
Santha Gour Co-Founder & Principal, Infiniti Design Studio, and Director, Planet-3 Studios Architecture Pvt ltd, Mumbai
Akshay Beuria Council Member, Indian Institute of Architects, Designers Forum, Bhubaneswar
Anshul Choda, Principal Architect and Founder, Sanctuary Architects and Designers, Bengaluru
Sabeena Khanna, Founding Principal & Director, Studio KIA, Gurugram
CS Raghuram Partner, Trilogue Studio, Chennai
Mandeep Manchanda Principal Designer, D’Zine Forum, Kolkata
Amber Chandgothia Founder and Principal Architect, Amber Creations, Kolkata
Sunil Maniramka Principal, Maniramka and Associates, Kolkata
Tushar Desai Principal Architect, Tushar Desai Associates, Mumbai
… and many more dignitaries. Stay updated with www.wadeasia.com Anshuman Sharma Principal Designer, Design Inc, Jaipur
Monica Khosla Bhargava Founder and Principal Architect, Kham Consultants, Kolkata
Dilbir Singh Bhui Director, Cosmic Design, Lucknow
Tushar Sogani Founder and Principal Architect, Tushar Sogani Designs Pvt Ltd, Jaipur
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2-3-4, Sep 2022 Pragati Maidan DELHI
(Free for limited Period)
www.wadeasia.com
Surfaces Reporter | Focus
Celebrating the Dynamic Life of
Artist Satish Gujral
Art of Silence
If there is one word that can describe Shri Satish Gujral’s art, it is emotion. He executed a large number of partition paintings that metaphor the violent separation of 1947. These artworks depict his state of mind. His opus boasts a rare and exceptional portrayal of the partition of India. His prolific career across diverse genres reflects independent India’s initial phase and its trajectory. Undeniably the foremost virtuoso of the art, he was conferred the Padma Vibhushan in 1999. He received several accolades not only in India but also abroad. The King of Belgium awarded him the ‘Order of the Crown’ to design the Belgian Embassy in New Delhi, making him the first non-Belgian to be honoured with this prestigious award. The New York Times once called him as the ‘Leonardo da Vinci of India.’
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SR Focus
T
he charm of Shri Satish Gujral’s Burnt Wood series of sculptures can be witnessed through the flock of art connoisseurs who visited the India Art Fair (IAF), held on NSIC Exhibition Grounds, Okhla, from April 28 to May 01, 2022. Two years after the death of artist Satish Gujral, nine rare pieces from his Burnt Wood series were displayed at the ‘In Memoriam’ space of IAF exhibition to commemorate his work. The exhibit was hosted by his wife Kiran Gujral and designerarchitect daughter Raseel Gujral Ansal under the Kiran Gujral Art Initiative. This is the first Art Fair after his passing away in March 2020. Well-known art critic and curator Gayatri Sinha spoke at length about his work and threw a spotlight on the artist’s iconic works. SURFACES REPORTER’s (SR) publisher and editor-in-chief, Vertica Dvivedi loved the slides presented that showcased the artist’s art, sculpture and architecture. Aptly titled ‘Art of Silence,’ Shri Gujral used a rare combination of wood, leather, glass, cowrie and ceramic beads in his Burnt Wood series. The event was attended by close family members and friends of the family.
Artworks Etching the Artist’s Emotions If there is one word that can describe Shri Gujral’s art, it is emotion. His canvasses always brim with emotion, resuscitating the pain and helplessness of one of the greatest catastrophes endured by humankind. He executed a large number of partition paintings that metaphor the violent separation of 1947. These artworks depict his state of mind. His opus boasts a rare and exceptional portrayal of the partition of India. Using burnt wood, the artists distinctively demonstrated his anger and protest. First displayed at the Dhoomimal Art Gallery in Delhi, the sculptures crafted in 70s look rigid in their appearance as they capture the artist’s fury at the time of Emergency. The charred carvings feature irregular specks of disturbing reds formed by the burning of leather. However, after 10 years, these pieces emanate a unique stillness where the sculptural form emerges as a divine figure. These sculptures articulate the suppressed feelings of April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 68
Surfaces Reporter
He lived in silence and created in silence. And I don’t think he could have created such masterpieces if that silence hadn’t been there. Raseel Gujral
confinement and rage, resembling angry deities. Shri Gujral burnt leather and wood, which he never did earlier in his life. The leather turns red, like blood, when it is burnt. Ornamented with keys and ropes, these statuettes represent oppression. The anger of the imprisonment of his several friends can be perceptible through the arts created by the artist. Later on, these angry God-like figures became a divine expression where one figurine resonates with Shiva, while another appears like Ganesha.
The Leonardo da Vinci of India Shri Gujral was a rare polymath who left us with his amazing creations and collections for the connoisseurs of art to treasure forever. He excelled in many areas, including sculpting, mural painting, drawing, writing and designing buildings. He was also distinguished as one of the foundational figures of Indian Modernism. Despite his inability to hear, he made sure that his work spoke volumes. In fact, while paying tribute to him for his iconic works, The New York Times once called him as the ‘Leonardo da Vinci of India.’ Shri Gujral established himself in the post-independence era, when the nation was seeking its identity. His prolific career across diverse genres reflects independent India’s initial phase and its trajectory. Undeniably the foremost virtuoso of the art, he was conferred the Padma Vibhushan in 1999. He received several accolades not only in India but also abroad. The King of Belgium awarded him the ‘Order of the Crown’ to design the Belgian Embassy in New Delhi, making him the first non-Belgian to be honoured with this prestigious award.
Portrait of the Artist Born in Jhelum in undivided Punjab in 1925 to a respected judge, Shri Gujral spent his childhood reading Urdu literature. Unfortunately, he lost his hearing when he fell into the rapids while crossing an unsteady bridge in Kashmir. He was only 8 then. Despite undergoing several botched operations, he lost the ability to hear. However, this obstacle did not overshadow his talent, and eventually he emerged as one of India’s top artists. That is why Raseel Gujral titled the show ‘The Art of Silence’. According to Raseel, “He lived in silence and created in silence. And I don’t think he could have created such masterpieces if that silence hadn’t been there.” The artist regained his hearing after 62 years through a surgery performed in 1998.”
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SR Focus
Shri Gujral was enrolled in the Mayo School of Art in Lahore in 1939, after which he got admission into Sir JJ School of Art in Mumbai, where he encountered members of the Progressive Artists Group including SH Raza, MF Husain and FN Souza. He was inspired by India’s traditional arts and crafts over Western art subjects and techniques. During his time at JJ School of Art, he created artworks to evoke, stir and inspire passion against the injustice that was happening during the ongoing partition. His works depict the plight and suffering that ordinary men and women faced during the fight for independence. He earned a scholarship to study at the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City in 1952, where he did an apprenticeship under the pioneering muralists Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. This paved the way for him to craft large fresco murals, many of which adorned the exteriors of significant buildings of Lutyens Delhi. His most notable works are the textured paintings that he did on canvas. But he was deft in using burnt wood, granite and bronze to create masterpieces and ramping up his art in murals.
Celebrating the Art of Silence Shri Gujral took his last breath in March 2020. Instead of giving into grief, his family decided to commemorate his life and work by starting an initiative to showcase his commendable achievements in arts, films and sports. Jaya Asokan, Director, India Art Fair says, “Satish Gujral was one of the most multi-dimensional and notable artists of the postindependence generation, who shaped the Indian artistic language. It is important that we introduce his works to the younger generation that deserves to know his greatness.” Raseel Gujral adds, “This is a Kiran Gujral Art Initiative in honour of my father and the very first kick-off is with India Art Fair 2022, a memorial display at the fair, and a talk with Gayatri Sinha. The Burnt Wood exhibit is the first of many and we are yet to unfold various such associations.” Apart from Shri Gujral’s Burnt Wood series, the event witnessed seven other Indian galleries, highlighted remarkable works of around 77 Indian and global artists, and welcomed debutants from the country and overseas.
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Surfaces Reporter | advertorial
Amulya Mica Organises Women Architects meet at Baroda
Amulya Mica successfully arranged a very special eminent Women Architects Meet at Baroda on 10th May 2022 in Kabir Farm -Hotel & Spa. A well-known woman architect Ar. Sonali Lele Desai was the Chief Guest of the event. Mr. Sunil Thakore VP-Export, Mr. Rajagopal Pillai VP-Sales (West & South region), Mr. Rahul Oza, Regional Manager-West Zone and Mr. Praful Brahmbhatt (Sr. ASM) from Amulya Mica greeted more than 45 eminent women architects of all age groups. Mr. Thakore, Mr. Pillai and Mr. Oza had briefed Amulya Mica’s different ranges of products about Laminates, Plywood, WPC/PVC Lead free Board, Cladding & PVC Laminate & WPC Door Frame etc. Mr Oza had explained why Amulya Mica’s premium products like Synchronized Laminate, Seven Wonder, Exotic veneer are premium, its USP and benefits, which differentiate with others. He also explained Lead-Free WPC/PVC board, Rainbow WPC/PVC Board collection and about SGS certificate which is rare within panel trade. At the same time, narrated details of stylish & durable WPC Door Frame “HYGINO”, a health-friendly surface & complete substitute of Wooden Door Frame. They had detailed company’s CSR activities and award & recognitions. All women architects took active involvement in going through products and post presentation discussion. All of them appreciated Amulya Mica for arranging such first of its kind meet specially for women architects. All invitees gained a lot of product knowledge through this event and enjoyed dinner post event arranged especially for them. Text: Amulya Mica April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 71
What’s the way forward for Tile Brands to adopt
sustainable ways to manufacture tiles The onset of the 21st century saw a surge in the construction industry that demanded humongous building materials. This led to massive consumption of natural resources and the generation of solid waste. While Ceramic tiles waste itself doesn’t pollute the environment, it stays dormant for a long a time filling the landfills becoming hard to decompose. Additionally, the ceramic tiles industry is facing challenges regarding what to do with production rejects and how to sustainably produce. Eco-friendly options are the new core design ideas as consumers have started leaning toward a sustainable lifestyle. Sustainability is not just a trend these days but it is the need of the hour. Many companies are committing to eco-friendly production. This has led sustainability to move one step ahead by reshaping design and materials. In this article, SURFACES REPORTER® (SR) delve into the world of Tile production and brought out how responsibly the manufacturers are amending their ways to produce tiles and create a product which is sustainable and doesn’t harm the environment.
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Surfaces Reporter
The big picture Many known brands have started venturing into the sustainable tiles market by using upcycled materials and promoting local manufacturing. Such companies have stopped relying on raw materials to create new products. One such example is that of the Spanish-made TileBar’s Swim Collection which features a line of upcycled glass tiles. By sourcing colourful remnants of a local glass factory, which are molten into fresh mosaic patterned tiles, the Swim Collection is made with 98 per cent of waste glass. Similarly, Wausau Tile used glass as a new concrete aggregate in their terrazzo tile range. Sonoma Tilemakers is another tile manufacturer that embodies environmental responsibility. For instance, its Dakota series incorporates recycled content from roof tiles into the earthy, clay body. Most of the Indian tile brands are now-a-days manufacturing new tiles using the old tile waste sometimes upto 70%. This not only reduce the cost of raw material to a great extent but also reduces the overall wastage of the plant helping in curbing the further cost of storage and dumping of waste materials while saving the cost. The age-old kilns have also been modernized to curb the energy cost. Talking about the same, Anil Beejawat, CEO, RAK Ceramics says, “At RAK Ceramics, we try to minimize our impact on the environment, reuse our resources to prevent the unnecessary waste of materials and greater recycling, and compliance with Environmental Laws and Regulations, by adopting of sustainable governance practices and embedding environmental management and compliance across our business. We have adopted a waste segregation scheme and recycling program to minimize the
Ceramic tiles natural origin makes it totally recyclable. All Somany tiles are made with natural recyclable material. Pollution during the supply is minimal, since the factories are close to the sources of raw materials. It’s manufacturing process is efficient, reducing the consumption of energy, water and raw materials, reusing and upgrading wastes, and co-generating electricity. - Abhishek Somany Managing Director, Somany Ceramics
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SR Sustainable Tiles
A project done by Ar Anika Mittal Dhawan
In India, tiles have a very long history. Other than the industrial productions, there are some variants of tiles, that are not only eco friendly but provide a major source of livliood to many people as they are made from hand. One such example is Athangudi Tiles which are also known as the Heritage tiles. They are not mere ceramic. Rather they are made of Cement, Baby jelly and Sand along with synthetic oxides for the composition of tiles. They do not require mechanical polish and gives a unique aesthetic appeal to your place.
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Surfaces Reporter
While we are talking about the sustainable manufacturing of tiles, Ar Anika Mittal Dhawan, Director, Molds Design Studio, gave us an insight on the eco-friendliness of tiles. She says, “As a designer, I feel it is important that we recommend and educate the client about the relevance of using eco-friendly, sustainable building materials.
disposal of waste materials. We recover and reuse 60-80% of our scrap tiles, powder and sludge and reuse in production.” Having an opinion on the same, Abhishek Somany, MD, Somany Ceramics says, “Ceramic tiles’ natural origin makes it totally recyclable. All Somany tiles are made with natural recyclable material. Pollution during the supply is minimal, since the factories are close to the sources of raw materials. It’s manufacturing process is efficient, reducing the consumption of energy, water and raw materials, reusing and upgrading wastes, co-generating electricity.”
Digital Printing- another feather in the cap Tiles brands are continuously innovating to refine the tile manufacturing and printing process in order to get the best product out in the market. With the onset of digitization, the printing process has got hugely refined paving way for tiles whose appearance gives the natural materials a run for their money. Tiles are being manufactured in many designs and finishes including wood, stone, terrazzo etc making customers spoilt for choice.
It is increasingly becoming more relevant to use materials that are recyclable and reduce the negative impact on the environment. The factors to access an eco-friendly product would be – renewable/ recyclable/ lifespan & environmental impact. Terrazzo tiles / concrete/ ceramic tiles/ reclaimed wood/ cork flooring/ engineered wood/ carpet/ bamboo products are some of the options that can used to create a more eco-friendly interiors.
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SR Sustainable Tiles Earlier the printing process used to be cumbersome and energy consuming while the rejections were higher as the prints were not always up to the mark. This has changed a lot. Subrata Basu, Vice President- Marketing, Nitco Tiles says, “Digital printing process is the most advanced development in the field of Tile making and NITCO has been mastering the craft with multiple printing processes in layers to achieve an extraordinary range of tiles. The most significant material for a tile is clay which is available in abundance and is a clean source of raw material.” Dinesh Vyas, Head of Marketing, H&R Johnsons says, “As far as digital-printing is concerned, it has basically contributed to create more choices (as batch sizes could be very small) and better, high resolution image printing, lesser rejections. At H&R Johnson, recycling of material wastage and rejections at every stage is sustainability measured apart from energy efficiency zero discharge objective.”
Sustainable tiles- the innovations In addition to refining the manufacturing process, the brands have rolled out products with specifications of temperature control in order to reduce the overall energy cost of the building in summers and winters alike making them a perfect choice for the customers.
Aaron Collection by RAK Ceramics
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For instance H&R Johnson’s cool tiles, which are thinner and robust, feature superior technical performance parameters and intervene less in nature by replacing the natural stone. Joining the league is Asian Granito India with its solar reflective EcoBianco roof tiles which reflects and emit solar heat instead of absorbing it making them a good choice for roofs. Similarly, Somany Temp Shield tiles are specially designed to make the Roof/Terraces, Pavements, Balconies, Exteriors facades, temperature friendly. Due to its high reflectance and emittance this tile will effectively reduce both surface temperature and inside room temperature thus not only it protects your building from damages due to high heat and saves energy thereby reducing high electricity cost due to low room temperature but also helps reducing carbon footprints by contributing to the environment.
A small, progressive shift Alongside big players, the government is also playing its part in the fight toward sustainability. Early last year, Uttar Pradesh welcomed its first-of-its-kind C&D Waste Manufacturing Plant that makes tiles and bricks from construction waste that lies unused on the roads. Constructed at a cost of Rs 5.5 crore, the plant has the capacity of recycling 50-100 MT of construction waste per day.
Surfaces Reporter
Tiles manufacturing process
In addition to this, the Indian Institute of TechnologyRoorkee (IIT-R), in collaboration with Roorkee-based engineering service unit YB Scientific R&D Solutions has developed cement-free wall tiles from waste polythene. Reports suggest that these tiles cost less than regular tiles but have the same tensile strength, better interlocking and aesthetic looks and a longer lifetime. Unlike regular ceramic tiles, these tiles are non-breakable and have a resale value.
We have adopted a waste segregation scheme and recycling program to minimize the disposal of waste materials. We recover and reuse 60~80% of our scrap tiles, powder and sludge and reuse in production. - Anil Beejawat, CEO, RAK Ceramics
Many start-ups have also ventured into sustainable practices to curb pollution. One such is a Mumbai-based startup called Carbon Craft Design that is turning polluted air into carbon tiles. With a three-step, zerowaste manufacturing process of harvesting carbon emissions, Carbon Craft Design launched its patterned tiles inspired by the unique identities of cities and the natural elements that define these cities. In 2020, it also retrofitted an Adidas store in Mumbai, covering the walls and the floor with its carbon tiles. Delhi’s Shayna EcoUnified India Pvt that uses plastic waste to make colourful floor tiles designed The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation’s (GHMC) dog park with their bright blue-green-pink tiles. The early tile manufacturing process comprised distribution, disposal, raw material extraction and installation phases which affected the environment by causing climate change, human toxicity, fossil and metal depletion. However, tile manufacturers have evolved over the years where they have started identifying the process, phases and materials carefully only to know that the best is yet to come. As Dinesh Vyas H&R Johsons, humbly concludes, “Manufactures who have gone for modernization of plants and equipment are not only benefitted on cost side but also on sustainability; kilns and presses consuming lesser power and fuel, zero liquid discharge from factory, etc. are some sustainable measures. Replacing natural stones by thin but mechanically very strong tiles, contributes a lot on the point of sustainability.” April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 79
Surfaces Reporter | Spaces & Material Poetries
Chaitali Parikh-Mehta & Sejal Parikh Principal Architects, Inscape Designers
Mumbai
Chaitali graduated from Parsons School of Design, NYC in 2007 with a BFA degree in Interior Design. She then worked with the prestigious Manhattan firm ICRAVE before moving back to India. Working with firms in Mumbai gave her the experience to start her own design practice, Inscape Designers, based at Worli, Mumbai with her mother, Sejal Parikh. She was also a visiting faculty member at ISDI, Parsons Mumbai, from August 2014 to April 2017. Sejal studied at National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad and then freelanced as an interior designer in Mumbai before setting up her practice with her daughter. Besides art and design, travel is their other passion, which has led them to explore over 30 countries, of which many were explored together as a mother daughter duo team.
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Surfaces Reporter
Entrance area: The live edge dining table was customised and pieced together on site. A niche above the built in dinette, which became the focal point of this area. We emphasized it by customising a large Satish Gujral inspired bas-relief mural in plaster of Paris made and painted by artist Madhavi Mehta. The main entrance is finished in a distressed yellow paint colour to offset the mural colours.
Pastiche of Patchwork An artistic Mumbai home that celebrates the luxury of Indian design and art
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haitali Parikh-Mehta & Sejal Parikh, Principal Architects of Inscape Designers layered this bespoke private residence with Indian materials, handcrafted details, arts, furniture, interesting colours, and a whole lot of personality. Nestled in the Napeansea Road of Mumbai, the abode is enriched with art, souvenirs and artefacts that Dr Deepak Parikh, a cancer surgeon & Mrs Sejal Parikh had collected over the years on their global travels. All of these collectibles narrate a personal story to document their experiences. “Since it is my parents’ own home, there is a lot of emotion and passion behind each corner and piece, which makes the home more unique than a generalised design!,” says Chaitali Parikh. Take a walkthrough of this home from the entrance to all rooms and explore all its hidden surprising and sculptural elements.
Designers upcycled and reused as much of the existing furniture, wood etc. from their previous home in order to give a fresh appeal to the interiors.
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SR Spaces & Material Poetries
Living Area showcases the use of Indian designed furniture and materials. Customised ceiling is made by mixing different patterns in Plaster of Paris.
The studio promotes Indian designers and stores with the use of local indigenous products such as the banana fibre light from Oorja, Magnolia armchairs etc. Further, the studio supports local craftsmen by decorating the house with local furniture like the carved headboard from Orissa etc instead of opting for importing furniture from Italy or China.
Vertical wooden fins separating the living area from the dining area. On this panelling is a 300 year old Bihar school pattachitra of Jaganath Puri temple. April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 82
Surfaces Reporter
Den: The flooring is herringbone wooden laminate flooring. The black and dull gold backdrop behind the armchairs is jute wallcover. The hanging light made from banana fibre complements the jute textures behind. Bamboo chicks on the windows allow the soft light to filter through. Guest Bedroom. The concept for this room was geometry with a predominant colour scheme of black white and grey with a pop of orange. Pointillism artwork by Madhavi Mehta punctuate these lines and the orange insert. The panelling next to the mirror is a handpainted graphic black and white artwork done by Sejal Parikh, which is opposite the bed. The large white trunk with leather trim and brass studs was originally a traveling wardrobe in early 1900’s. The studio converted this into a storage trunk for the bed linens as the bed is floating without boxy storage below.
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SR Spaces & Material Poetries Den: The small study area was built on site in plywood and finished with handpainted figures on the shutters by inhouse artist Madhavi Mehta! The study chair was designed and fabricated locally with a carved teakwood back in a woven design.
Project Details Project Name: Pastiche of Patchwork Design Firm: Inscape Designers Area (in sqft): 1700 sqft Location: Napeansea Road, Mumbai Principal Architects: Chaitali Parikh-Mehta & Sejal Parikh Design Team: Chaitali Parikh-Mehta & Sejal Parikh Client: Dr Deepak Parikh &Sejal Parikh Photography: Pulkit Sehgal The guest bathroom is clad in sketchy printed wall tiles, and as a contrast the studio used a deep inky blue tile for the flooring. The mirror is again hand painted to complement the printed tile colours and the handmade ceramic basin. Watercolour effect on the laminate storage below the basin echoes the same language of the printed tiles.
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Surfaces Reporter | Spaces & Material Poetries
Ayan Sen
Principal Architect, Ayan Sen Architects Urban Designer Planner
Kolkata, West Bengal Architect Ayan Sen is a graduate from the School of Architecture, CEPT, Ahmedabad (1997). Post his professional training, he has worked with cutting edge Indian practices at Ahmedabad and New Delhi and in urban design and architecture firms in Washington DC and Pittsburgh, USA, where he managed large scale architectural and master planning projects. Later on, he set up Ayan Sen Architects Urban Designers & Planners (ASAUDP) in 2005 with the thought of providing collaborative, creative and international professional systems in the growing architectural environs of emerging India.
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SR Spaces & Material Poetries
From Traditional to Modernism
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Surfaces Reporter
The rustic colour palette imitates vernacular materiality with the wall painted in terracotta shades and texture finish along with grey tiles and black granite flooring. The space is given an animated character with the use of artwork and its curved form makes it inviting to users.
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ituated in Newtown, the site is surrounded by roads on three sides. The building is positioned on the site in such a way that it can be viewed in its entirety from the adjacent road. Emphasis has been given upon the use of interactive open spaces, articulated through traditional elements. The building program comprises of a banquet hall, guest residences, rooftop plaza and a multipurpose gathering space. The idea was to bring the essence of an urban space in contemporary architecture, while linking the roots of tradition to modernism. Focus has been given upon the depiction of local art through painted louvers and terracotta walls. The curved terracotta wall is making the intangible space tangible through its introvert design. The oval building forms the support facility which includes a cafeteria and a play area. The curved wall breaks the monotony of the rectilinear grid and creates an organic design merging with the landscape.
Massing And Volume Volumetrically, the structure can be divided into two blocksone for service and one for the primary function. A part of the volume is scooped out from the bottom to create a double height covered space, with the upper mass being supported by large circular columns. A curved wall rising from the ground is added to make the space more inclusive and inviting to users.
Community Space At the ground floor, a community space is carved out from the building volume. Figuratively, this space is a model of the courtyards in colonial bungalows, in a contemporary context. The rustic colour palette imitates vernacular materiality with the wall painted in terracotta shades and texture finish along with grey tiles and black granite flooring. The space is given an animated character with the use of artwork and its curved form makes it inviting to users.
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SR Spaces & Material Poetries A large corrugated ACP sheet is used as a feature wall display with Jamini Roy paintings. The faces of the corrugated sheet are 3D printed with UV resistant materials. Parallel faces are printed with the parts of the one painting, so that when viewed from one side, the parts come together to create a whole. At the same time the opposite faces are fixed with strips of another painting, creating an illusion effect, so that the user views two different illustrations depending on their position with respect to the building.
Project Details Project: Community Hall, New Town Kolkata Architect: Ayan Sen Architects Urban Designers And Planners ( A S A U D P ) Typology: Recreation And Hospitality | Location: Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal Area: 30,000 Sq. Ft | Status: Built | Date of Completion: 2021 | Structural Consultant: Er Soma Kazi Client: Newtown Development Authority, Kolkata
Feature Wall
Louvers
A large corrugated ACP sheet is used as a feature wall display with Jamini Roy paintings. The faces of the corrugated sheet are 3D printed with UV resistant materials. Parallel faces are printed with the parts of the one painting, so that when viewed from one side, the parts come together to create a whole. At the same time the opposite faces are fixed with strips of another painting, creating an illusion effect, so that the user views two different illustrations depending on their position with respect to the building.
The double height community space is shaded with louvers to prevent direct heat gain. A typical element in Calcutta’s colonial architecture, openings, was covered with louvers of wooden slats, which had a dual function - providing privacy and regulating the passage of light and wind in the indoor environment.
Pergola
The requirement of providing signage spaces on the building has been translated into a design element, by using large vertical fins fixed perpendicular to the face of the building to carry the said signages.
The rooftop plaza is accentuated with a large pergola running along the three edges of the building, creating a semi shaded area on the roof top.
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Signages
SURFACES REPORTER | SPOTLIGHT
A recreation of Indus Valley Civilization 3102 BCE Vedic Resort, Goa
Ar. Kamal Periwal Maheshwari & Associates, Kolkata & Mumbai Maheshwari & Associates (M & A) is one of the leading, creativity driven Architecture and Design Firms in India. It was founded by Ar. Kamal Periwal in the mid – 1990’s, in Mumbai, India. But in few years, Kolkata became the main hub for the firm’s projects. Ar. Kamal Periwal has been a part of the architectural fraternity from nearly 25 years. He has been recognised for his design excellence and unfathomable passion. Ar. Periwal has also been at the forefront, to share knowledge in seminars like Steel Summit, and has also been part of the jury in industry sector events. Presently, he is also the Chairman of Indian Institute of Interior Designers’ (IIID) Kolkata Chapter, which aims to stimulate and captivate budding minds in the interior designing field in Kolkata. April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 89
SR Spotlight
Location The site is located in a semi-urban setting of Goa, on the coastal plains. The place owing to its strategic location acts as a major catchment zone for tourists from both national and international level. The surrounding built form mainly features structures acting as temporary residences and amenities. With the current development, the local contextual boundaries are responding to synchronize with the human scale and the integration of built masses results into a place for tranquillity and serenity, a feature that is being erased in the rapidly April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 90
developing urban landscape of India. The first challenge was to understand the site with respect to its surroundings which played an important role in the overall functional zoning of the site and also to determine the feasibility of construction within the site. The site features a slope of 2.1 mts which is more or less gradual throughout the site. The slope terminates at the southern access road with the road on the east following a similar slope ascending northwards. The corner plot not only furnishes the exploitation of the strategic corner point by logical placement of functions and also acts a catchment for visitors coming from the city.
Surfaces Reporter
A one of a kind intervention covering all the major aspects to showcase the lost heritage of Indian culture through logical re-interpretation of vedic sciences and culture prevalent during the Indus Valley civilization which has been incorporated in the thematic activities and the thematic living furnished by the resort. April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 91
SR Spotlight
Modern re-interpretation of various planning principles common to that of Harappan structures are used like Central Courtyard (designed after the Great Bath from Harppan Civilization and over looking coutryards.
The design incorporates cantilevered balcony to cut down the use of FAR as per Goa by-laws.
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Surfaces Reporter
Vision The project envisions to furnish the propagation of the lost glory of the Indian culture, through tourism and related activities both locally and regionally. A one of a kind intervention covering all the major aspects to showcase the lost heritage of Indian culture through logical re-interpretation of vedic sciences and culture prevalent during the Indus Valley civilization which has been incorporated in the thematic activities and the thematic living furnished by the resort.
Design Details The project works in tandem deriving the language of pattern from the architecture of Indus Valley Civilization through reinterpretation of the tangible elements of built-form. Modern re-interpretation of various planning principles common to that of Harappan structures are used like Central Courtyard (designed after the Great Bath from Harppan Civilization and over looking coutryards. The design incorporates cantilevered balcony to cut down the use of FAR as per Goa by-laws. It also minimize the visual impact of the cantilevered balconies through strategic placement of ducts, also adding to the visual geometry of the exterior.
Entry/ Gateway The design reinterprets the traditional gateways inspired from the ones found in Dholavira. The design form also assigns
function to the Trapezoidal monoliths as guard’s room and toilet inorder to capitalize the spaces, thus covering the historical value and the functional value as well. Since communication of stories through the means of clay/ copper tablets was widely evident throughout the era, the hotel’s interior emphasis on a visual story telling through the exhibition of similar art forms like clay tablets, murals, paintings on walls etc.
Material & Finishes Taking direct inspiration from the existing material usage present in the Harappan ruins, one can observe elaborate use of clay in form of bricks and also for finishes. Deriving a similar material palate add to the thematic aesthetics of the intervention. Also, use of locally available materials in a sustainable manner increases the longevity and also reduces cost.
Building Elements The micro details are taken care of by recreating the same look and feel as that was found in the Harappan architecture; Edges play a crucial role when it comes to construction with adobe/ clay, hence proper treatment of corner and edges are done through smoothing and chamfering of surfaces. A uniformity in color is achieved in the overall finish. Small punctures are replicated in the facades to represent the small windows evident in the Harappan structures. April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 93
SR Spotlight
Interiors Thematic interior layout with central bed with wooden baithaks
Taking direct inspiration from the existing material usage present in the Harappan ruins, one can observe elaborate use of clay in form of bricks and also for finishes. Deriving a similar material palette add to the thematic aesthetics of the intervention. Also, use of locally available materials in a sustainable manner increases the longevity and also reduces cost.
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v Minimalistic interior v Major use of timber elements in the form of furniture & fixtures. v Use of themed fixtures in toilets signifying the use of bronze during that period.
Linear Stairway In every planning aspect of Harappan cities linearity was maintained for the ease of wayfinding, which is seen in the long unhindered roads, stairways, etc. A similar linearity is maintained in the design of the major staircase which is directly accessed from the sunken courtyard is open for public usage ensuring visibility from all parts of the hotel.
Custom Timber Look The look and feel of day to day elements are taken care of with extensive use of locally available timber/wood. The natural finish of wood or the roughness is preserved with proper treatment. The design has made use of batten doors to have a defined character. A strategic blend of finishes is achieved both in the exterior and the interior level causing the creation of a sympathetic contrast among different elements, thus prevent the feeling of monotony and prolonged blandness.
SURFACES REPORTER | SPOTLIGHT
Experimenting with Recycled Concrete Project Name: House of Concrete Experiments | Office Name: Samira Rathod Design Atelier Office Website: www.srda.co | Firm Location: Mumbai Completion Year: 2022 | Gross Built Area (m2/ ft2): 5000 sq.ft | Project Location: Alibaug Program / Use / Building Function: House | Lead Architects: Samira Rathod Team: Jay Shah (Project Architect) | Photo Credits: Niveditaa Gupta
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SR Spotlight
Ar Samira Rathod Principal Architect, Samira Rathod Design Associates (SRDA), Mumbai Samira Rathod is the principal architect and founder of Samira Rathod Design Associates (SRDA). Established in 2000 in Mumbai in the Indian state of Maharashtra with an uncompromising sense of ethics and passion for design, SRDA has built an enviable portfolio of a variety of architecture, interior projects, furniture designs and art installations. SRDA has won numerous awards over the years including the arc Vision Prize- Women and Architecture, Bergamo, Italy and the Spectrum Foundation Architecture Award.
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Surfaces Reporter
Every project is a response to several parameters- some physical, some metaphysical, some tangible and some intangible Today the idea of sustainability is imperative, but its definition has many interpretations. One such response and interpretation is this houss- House of Concrete Experiments.
The House of Concrete Experiments is a residential project, located in the coastal town of Alibaug, near Mumbai. Set on the foothills of Deotalai in Zirad, the house is amidst a mango orchard.
The idea
1. On the very onset of the design it was decided to place the house around the trees without disturbing any of them, which naturally led to a meandering fragmented form for the house.
Ar Samira Rathod says, “Any client would be hesitant to experiment with new ideas and materials for their home, but not the owner of this house. A true patron; himself having studied at MIT, a thinking progressive mind with an attitude towards innovation and an understanding that failure is only one of the many steps to success. He understands that the environment and its care is primary, that costs towards anything new is not quantified in its direct outcome, but in what it does for years ahead and that architecture is the highest form of art.” “I have been blessed, not once but twice with this patron, for whom this is his second home we built; the House of Concrete Experiments.” To avoid being pedantic over a detailed description of the house, below are its salient features
Concept and planning
2. An existing pit in the land has been made into a sunken courtyard on the edge of which the house has been located. It was planned to have trees within so as to bring the green foliage into the house. 3. The house is planned as a large studio space with just one bedroom for the couple. Two guest rooms are stacked in a separate building as an annexe to the main house separated by open courts.
Walls and Structure 1. Walls and structure are placed so as to become sculptural elements and not on a particular grid. The house is a large column free space, a seamless flat concrete ceiling with no internal walls that hinder this concrete volume. April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 97
SR Spotlight
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Surfaces Reporter
The house is true to one material; that is cast concrete. The thick walls of the main house in concrete are cast with debris from site to reduce the usage of material and render a certain rough texture when the walls are grinded and finished. The debris includes stone chips, broken bricks and at times large pieces of waste stone embedded in the walls almost like a relic.
2. Three large sloping, cantilevered overhangs defy concepts of structural stability. These are meticulously designed to offer shade to the external movement around the house but also add to an otherwise flat form of the house. 3. The walls of the house range from 450mm thick to 1000mm thick. 4. The thickness also allows opportunities to use the volume of the walls to accommodate storage within, recess windows for waterproofing and thermal pass of the walls allows for passive cooling within the house. 5. An active cooling method drawing its inspiration from ancient ways of catching cool breeze into spaces, this method of air conditioning uses the thickness of the walls to its advantage, carving out small ducts within them which carry this cool air and circulate it through the large volume of the house in turn also cooling the walls in concrete.
Materials- Concrete : Recycled : Experimental 1. The house is true to one material; that is cast concrete. The thick walls of the main house in concrete are cast with debris from site to reduce the usage of material and render a certain rough texture when the walls are grinded and finished. The debris includes stone chips, broken bricks and at times large pieces of waste stone embedded in the walls almost like a relic. 2. The tactile walls are all cast with different experiments in concrete that render specific textures to each of the walls.
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SR Spotlight
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Surfaces Reporter
The experiments include debris cast concrete; waterjet concrete and form finish concrete with pigments.
The floors are made by recycling waste stone pieces cast in concrete terrazzos. Black, white, pink stones and broken ceramic tile chips are all used in different areas in different forms to make the flooring as a large artwork.
3. The guest block is casted in pink concrete which is made by adding brick powder in it. This gives the concrete a blush. 4. The floors are made by recycling waste stone pieces cast in concrete terrazzos. Black, white, pink stones and broken ceramic tile chips are all used in different areas in different forms to make the flooring as a large artwork. 5. Light is a very important building material in all our work. The house has multiple playful skylights which literally “play” with light. The house of concrete experiments is in fact an experiment in all its aspects, its planning, construction, structural design, material usage, play of light and shadow and its services. The details incorporated in the architecture and interiors of this house create continual intrigue making the otherwise overwhelming space very intimate and livable. The house is one that is not easy to photograph. Its spaces need to be encountered and experienced.
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#SRRisingStar
SURFACES REPORTER’S
RISIng Star Aditya Agarwal, OCA India, Indore
Did you face any challenge in starting OCA India? What was your first project? One of the biggest challenges of starting an office in Indore was not having a direct connection with local people as my family is from Ratlam and my education happened in Mumbai & Melbourne. I started with an office building as our first project, where the fee structure was very low. Thereafter, I waited for almost 1.5 years before getting another project. While there were initial hardships but our second project (residence on 1500 sqft plot) did wonders for us and then there was no looking back. Learning while working on field is utmost important for me.
What was your inspiration? Ar Aditya Agarwal OCA India, Indore
“Office of Contemporary Architecture” (OCA) India, Indore is a brainchild of Ar Aditya Agrawal who started the practice in 2008 after returning from Melbourne, Australia. Innovative designs coupled with the precise application of technology have transformed the work starting from architectural practice to interiors, furniture, and landscape designing. The Firm’s philosophy, “Every Building Tells a Story” emphasizes one-of-akind design solutions and engages clients in a collaborative, teamoriented process.That’s why clients from several corners of India partner with this firm to design healthy and happy spaces.
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Self-belief is my biggest inspiration. I always believed that I would be able to move ahead as my main moto is my involvement in every work that I do. My confidence boosted as I did my Masters and subsequent jobs in Melbourne.
What goes into material selection and sourcing for your projects? Sourcing of loose Furniture happens from Italy, China, Turkey. I always do Material selection myself as it is the key part of the design language and philosophy which OCA delivers to its clients. Sourcing of materials happens from pan India.
Surfaces Reporter
Indore is a rapidly developing city which is getting all the latest developments in central India. As the city is centrally located and have very good connectivity with the metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, etc, it leads to keep city updated with the latest architectural fashion happening pan India.
Hotel in Ujjain
Design scenario in Indore?’ Indore is a rapidly developing city which is at the receiving end of the latest developments happening in the central India. As the city is centrally located and have very good connectivity with the metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, etc, we are always updated with the latest architectural fashion happening pan India. Most people here belong to business class background so they are welltravelled which makes the job of a designer very tough to deliver the best design. Rest, in Indore, design is more about luxury and glam with a sense of sustainability.
Tell us a little bit about client management? There is a phrase ,‘Client is God’. We respect this phrase and try to deliver the best to our clients. Our clients belong to varied backgrounds, business, and class with their respective opinions on design. We always give our best at all stages of design, and keep a tight track on time as to run things smoothly. Timely - submissions, site visits, client meetings and consultant management lead to a successful project and a happy client as we believe in making life time relations.
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SR Rising Star
Creating in depth presentations, reference images, 3D renders, and walk throughs help us in making client experience our design during the initial stages of design process. Even learning from vast travel experience around the world helps us to build confidence in convincing the clients.
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How do you get your ideas across to a client who may have differing ideas? Creating in depth presentations, reference images, 3D renders, and walk throughs help us in making client experience our design during the initial stages of design process. Even learning from vast travel experience around the world help us to build confidence in convincing the clients.
Working in both Delhi and Indore, is there a major difference or is it the same? We respect all our clients but particularly working in Delhi is easier as clients do not have much time due to tight schedule so he doesn’t involve much. Hence, we try to finalise things at the initial levels only. Rest, the client gets the final output, which equates to a happy client. However, Indore requires more time & energy involvement due to the pressure of a developing city state and a lot more involved client as compared to Delhi.
Surfaces Reporter
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SR Rising Star
Project Name: Residence Typology: Residential Area: 2,000 sqft Construction area: 4,500 sqft Built: 2020 Firm: OCA India Location: Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
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his project involved creating a simple, functional home for a small entrepreneurial family with an appreciable creative streak. The client runs a thriving business, but is also an avid God believer.
The Intent The home had to be built in a tight plot of 2000 sq.ft. The primary concern was to ensure a structure that would be protected from the harsh sunlight and heat. This became entwined with the desire to create an abode that reveled in a sense of space — a home that brought the family together but left enough space for the individual personalities to thrive and bloom. This meant that the architect had to ensure places of congregation and solitude separately in the spatial narrative. Additionally, they endeavored to pair enclosed volumes with open areas to amplify this sense of freedom and luxury. The architect also proposed that the home would mesh the intangible with the tangible — in effect, create diverse experiences within its physical form.
The Architectural Form Since the plot faces southwest, the balconies were placed on the west. Once the floor plan was frozen, the challenge was to control the sunlight coming in from the southwest. Architecturally, this concept was proofed by studying the sun-path. Additionally, the architectural envelope at this point looked too bulky and disproportionate to the scale of the home. To circumvent this, they sliced the rectangular box, and strategically ‘erased’ the bottom portion of the resultant portion to derive the slant. This resulted in a visually light, delicate structure with subtle overhangs that protected the fenestration from the sunlight and walls from heat gain.
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Surfaces Reporter
THE JAIN RESIDENCE I t’s a recently completed bungalow project in heart of urban Indore comprising of 12 large bedrooms, huge family gathering spaces, luxurious home theatre, a terrace garden to spend cozy evenings, Gym & Jacuzzi to unwind, home office for WFH, vegetable garden for fresh organic veggies & lot more. With total area spanning 14,000 sqft housing a family with 4 generations living together & celebrating each and every space we have designed to the fullest! The Jain residence is a house designed on a typical tight knit urban plot measuring 3000 sft. The client requirement was further distinguished into two kinds of spaces. Spaces that needed to be personal and intimate verses spaces that needed to be congregational in nature which encouraged interaction amongst family and friends. The building’s exterior and interiors was conceptualized as an assemblage of a series of episodes that seek ‘delight’ through architectural effects.
April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 107
SR Rising Star
April-May 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 108
Surfaces Reporter
It’s a recently completed bungalow project in heart of urban Indore comprising of 12 large bedrooms, huge family gathering spaces, luxurious home theatre, a terrace garden to spend cozy evenings, gym & Jacuzzi to unwind, home office for WFH, vegetable garden for fresh organic veggies & lot more. Project Name: Jain Residence Typology: Residential Area: 3000 sqft Construction Area: 14,000 sqft Built: 2021 Firm: OCA India Location: Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
The Living room This space connects the living, dining, kitchen, prayer room and the exterior deck into a cohesive whole. The space is further animated with a triple height stairs well and a connecting corridors overlooking it to establish connectivity with floor above. The fluidity in this space enables individual requirements to overlap with each other providing a cozy interactive space for the family. This space is rendered with an eclectic material palette, replete with color and texture that seeks warmth and delight.
The Façade The bold façade was conceptualized as an assemblage of different parts that come together to form a whole. The master bedroom is sculpted to create a figural void and is materially draped in wooden finish. The deck with its figural void negotiates the connection between the interiors of the house and street it overlooks. The balconies both sides further add a syncopated rhythm to this formal organization.
The Terrace The terrace sequestered from the busy street is an area where the family entertains and unwinds. The home theatre room, Jacuzzi and the family lounge open into an open space with an open green deck. The sky roof with the raised green wall provides the required privacy to the space from the neighbors.
April-May 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 109
RNI NO. DELENG/2012/44605; Posted Regd NO. DL(S) -17/3488/2021-23; Licensed to post without pre-payment No. U(S)-61/2021-23