The Inside Track August 2015

Volume 9. Issue 08 . August 2015 Rs. 25/-

THE

INSIDE TRACK CONNECTING THE DESIGN COMMUNITY Now view our web edition at www.theinsidetrack.in

Cover Story

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hen it comes to the material aspects of surfaces, innovation is the name of the game. It is only through the unique properties of certain materials that architects and interior designers can realise a brand new world of creative interiors. Hence the importance of the material

Path Breaking Surfaces We explore cutting edge materials that will change your perception of surface design. BY ALYSSA LOBO Luminoso is a patented material made by embedding fibre optics between layers of solid wood with a specially formulated adhesive

properties of surfaces is not to be underestimated.

With this in mind, The Inside Track explores the most innovative materials across the globe that can be used on various surfaces – from

floors to ceilings, and everything in between.

Luminoso – Wood + Light Luminoso is a patented material made by embedding fibre optics

between layers of solid wood with a specially formulated adhesive. The fibre optics transmit light through the panels, which allows static and moving images to be displayed through the wood.

The fibre optics allow natural or artificial light behind Luminoso to become visible on the other side. Blocking the light by using graphics (words, logos, shapes) behind Luminoso allows for the creation of customised effects.

The wood has a completely closed surface (there are no holes) that can be finished with a solvent-based lacquer, oil, or a water-based stain to match the tone or finish of other design elements.

It can be milled, cut and sanded.

Luminoso is an internationally awarded material, having been presented the 2009 Red Dot Design Award for Product Design and the Gold iF Material Award in 2011.

However the material is not suited for outdoor use and is intended for use in environments with relative humidity levels that are between 45%65%. It is thus ideal for indoor use in wall panels or floorings; particularly in commercial establishments like restaurants, theatres, retail, etc. continued on page 2

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

continued from page 1

Kirei Coco- tiles are made from reclaimed coconut shells BlingCrete combines the positive characteristics of concrete with those of retroreflectio

BlingCrete™– Light reflecting concrete BlingCrete heralds a new genre of materials which cannot be described simply in terms of the usual categories of heavy and light or form, construction, and surface.

The material, also known as lightreflecting concrete, combines the positive characteristics of concrete (fire safety, solidity and building methods) with those of retroreflection.

Retroreflecting surfaces send incoming rays of light (sunlight or artificial light) back precisely in the direction of the source. This

optical phenomenon is produced by embedding glass microspheres in the substrate material.

The BlingCrete surface is activated depending on the position of surface, light source, and recipient. The material allows one to transform any ordinary space into a highly immersive or interactive environment by low-tech analogue modes.

Despite their flatness, the two-dimensional surfaces made of this material create a threedimensional illusion. BlingCrete investigates the possibilities of enlivening materials by taking the surfaces as a starting point both conceptually and technically. It is a change of focus from the appearance of a material to the performance of surfaces.

The properties of BlingCrete open up various design possibilities in architecture, interior design and in transport safety areas. Potential applications are, for example, safetyrelated marking of danger spots in construction (stairs, sidewalks, platform edges, tunnels), as well as novel surface components (façade, floor, ceiling). continued on page 3

THE

INSIDE TRACK

CONTENTS COVER COVER STORY STORY

August 2015

Path Breaking Surfaces 1

Designer Walls 4 Cutting-Edge Floors 5 Scaling New Heights With Ceilings 6 Invisible Houses 7 The New Face Of Facades 8 The Wonders of Kalingastone 10 A Silent Metro Station? 11 Adding To Bathroom Culture 12 Reinventing The Kitchen Sink 13 Spreading The Re-Love 14 A Transformative Experience 16 Exhibitions and Fairs 18 The Latest On Recent Launches And Products 19 World’s First 3D Office 24

Owner, Publisher & Printer Mr. Anish R. Bajaj for Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd. Printed at Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd., B 62, 1st Floor, Cotton Exchange Building, Cotton Green Road, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033. Published at B 62, 1st Floor, Cotton Exchange Building, Cotton Green Road, Mumbai 400 033 Tel (022) 23736133/1 Editor Mr. Anish R. Bajaj THE INSIDE TRACK Volume 9. Issue 08. August 2015. English - Monthly. This issue contains 24 pages including both covers.

Creative Director Natalie Pedder-Bajaj Assistant Editor Shweta Salvi, Senior Sub-Editor Alyssa Lobo Sub-Editors Tasneem S. Pocketwala, Rehana Hussain Layout Design Asif Shayannawar, Darshan Palav, Snigdha Hodarkar Marketing: Mumbai Rakesh Kini (Head-Marketing), Ganesh Gurav, Vivek Jadhav B 62, Cotton Exchange Bldg, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033 Tel: (022) 32656823, 23736133, 32958501 Fax: (022) 23743069 Email:response@ marvelinfomedia.com Delhi Ms. Sumita Prakash, Flat F 304, Rajasthan C.G.H.S. Ltd,Plot No. 36, Sector 4, Dwarka, New Delhi Tel: 9899179540 Email: sumitabiswas63@gmail.com Chennai Mr. S. Venkataraaman, Flat No. 2, 3rd Flr, E Block, Hansa Garden, 30 Madampakkam Main Rd, Rajakilpakkam, Chennai 600 073 Tel: (044) 22281128 Mob: 9444021128 Email: svenkat@ marvelinfomedia.com Kolkata Mr. Subrata Mazumder, 2, Nabapalli (Bidhanpalli).

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

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continued from page 2 Kirei Coco – Coconut Tiles Kirei takes its name from the Japanese character signifying ‘beautiful’ or ‘clean’. The company’s name reflects the company’s dedication to sustainable design.

While the company has several products that are both eco-friendly and elegant like its Kirei board (made from reclaimed sorghum straw) and bamboo made panels; Kirei’s most innovative product is Kirei Coco- tiles made from reclaimed coconut shells and low or zero-VOC adhesives and finishes. The tiles currently come in two collections with 12 different styles, giving customers a wide range of choice in interior design.The tiles have many applications, such as wall coverings and architectural millwork.

CoolZone Ceilings Armstrong’s CoolZone are energysaving ceiling tiles incorporating phase change material, designed to absorb heat and minimise overheating in buildings. An effective way to maintain a pleasant temperature in summer is to

Oceanside Glasstile creates luxury glass tile using recycled bottle glass

are classified as latent heat storage (lhs) units.

CoolZone is ideally suited to climates that drop below 20° at night.

In the hot afternoon, the CoolZone cassettes suck up the heat and keep the room pleasantly cool. Overnight,

Myco Board, a bioplastic based on mycelium, can be grown into wood veneers, entirely avoiding glue

increase the thermal capacity of a structure.

By absorbing heat in walls or ceilings and releasing it at the right moment, thermal mass acts as a buffer against temperature fluctuations.

This is especially true for lightweight structures, which are more prone to overheating in the summer.

CoolZone incorporates BASF Micronal phase change material (PCM) into Armstrong’s plain metal ceiling tiles. The phase change material encased in the cassette stores and releases large amounts of energy, reducing cooling costs and maintaining a comfortable temperature.

PCM is a substance with a high heat of fusion which, melting and solidifying at a certain temperature, is capable of storing and releasing large amounts of energy. Heat is absorbed or released when the material changes from solid to liquid and vice versa; thus, PCMs

they release the energy throughout the room while using the cool night ventilation to change back to their solid state. The material meets the U.K.’s Priority Schools Building Programme Output Specification and is very popular with schools renovating their classrooms.

Recycled Glass Tile Glass tiles are a well-known material and a popular choice for mosaic work. A variety of modern glass tile technologies, including methods to take used glass and recreate it as ‘green’ tiles, has resulted in a resurgence of interest in glass tile as a floor and wall cladding.

Among the companies that have followed this trend is Oceanside Glasstile, a California based company that creates luxury glass tile using recycled bottle glass. The company is a pioneer of handcrafted glass tile with their mantra ‘From Curbside to Oceanside’.

All Oceanside Glasstile is made primarily from silica sand, with many colours also containing recycled content that may include pre-consumer or post-consumer recycled bottle glass from curbside recycling programs.

Glass tile is a very strong building material that is impervious to water and freeze/thaw resistant. This longlasting durability further adds to its sustainability. The company recycles over two million pounds of postconsumer bottle glass each year in their manufacturing.

Another company, Fireclay Tile, recycles Cathode Ray Tubes (CRT) from discarded TV and computer screens. CRT does not have any demand due to the switch to flat screens but there is a huge stockpile of this material in recycling plants.

This is an innovative way to create a durable and creative design material while recycling e-waste.

Varia Ecoresin Varia Ecoresin is a dynamic interlayer system with unparalleled design possibilities. This material by 3Form is a high-performance resin with multiple specifications including shape, colour (C3 palette), texture, opacity, pattern, and dimensionality.

It is heat-formable and available in custom sizes and gauges.

An award-winning product, Varia Ecoresin has the added benefit of being made from a specially-formulated co-polyester resin that combines performance with environmental responsibility.Ecoresin incorporates 40% pre-consumer recycled content without compromising aesthetics or overall physical properties, is compatible with one of the largest post-consumer recycle streams, and is Greenguard® Indoor Air Quality Certified. It can be applied in wall features, panels, etc.

Mycoboard – Mushroom materials Ecovative is a material science company developing a new class of home-compostable bioplastics based on mycelium (a vegetative part of fungus). Mushroom Materials are high-performance, environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional plastic foam packaging, insulation, and other synthetic materials.

Among their many products is Myco Board, a substitute for engineered wood and other structural materials that combines the benefits of honeycomb and particleboard into one, more functional product. This core material can be produced at several densities and is strong enough to hold fasteners at any point, with superior strength to weight ratios compared to MDF. Myco Board starts as Myco Foam and utilizes mycelium to bind loose agricultural plant particles together.

This material is then compressed with heat and pressure into boards or moulded shapes. No chemical resins are used. Myco Board can be grown into wood veneers, entirely avoiding glue.

As it is grown with agricultural waste and without synthetic resins, Myco Board is healthy and environmentally friendly. Due to its light weight and mouldable nature, this material has a range of applications from structural biocomposites to packaging and even as product materials.

Contact web:www.luminoso.at www.blingcrete.com www.kireiusa.com www.armstrong.co.in www.glasstile.com www.fireclaytile.com/crt www.3-form.com www.ecovativedesign.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Surface Spl.

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alls demarcate and enclose spaces. Traditionally erected to support the weight of roofs and floors, walls are essential structures in building constructions. Their surfaces pierced by windows and doors, walls are made weak. They necessitate careful planning on the part of the architect when it comes to determining where windows and doors are to be laid out.

Typically, there are several materials – from wall coverings and laminates to paints and wallpapers – used in order to adorn and fortify these structures. Produced out of the most advanced technology and riding on creativity and design, these materials have witnessed an upsurge in their demand over the recent years.

Laminates Several companies deal in laminates, producing specialised, decorative products that cater to walls and wall panels. Royale Touche, manufacturer of high pressure and compact laminates, takes lamination a step forward. Known to be a flexible, reliant layer put on countertops and walls, Royale Touche reinvents the laminate, imbuing it with texture, design and style.

The company’s iMark series makes use of the new ‘registered embossing technology’, which results in a surface that has all its details in place and presents a seamless conjoining of texture and design. Yet its most interesting product, however, seems to be its Compact Laminate.

Wall coverings are preferable for their quick and relatively hassle-free application

Designer Walls Whether it is wall coverings, wallpapers or

paints, what goes on the surface of walls needs to incorporate a duality of design and functionality in their make. BY TASNEEM S. POCKETWALA

The water-based range of paints

by Asian Paints creates a multitude of special effects upon the wall

Compact, a high pressure structural laminate, is created from several layers of Kraft paper to make a laminate ranging in thickness from 2-25 mm. It consists of a decorative face on both its sides and is very much suited to be used in areas that have high humidity.

Compact is damage resistant and immensely strong as it consists of a density of 14Kg/m2 (for 10 mm thickness).

Paints Slathered onto walls to take away their dullness and make them vibrant and aesthetically appealing, paints are essential to add definition and character to an interior space. Paints, however, have evolved beyond being merely about colours.

There is also a heightened interest in adding a something more than colour to walls via paints, an interest in adding the aspect of tactility, like texture and feel, to the walls.

Asian Paints, India’s largest paint company, offers a wide range of products that are much more than just paints. The Royale Play range of paints offers different and specific features along with colour.

Their range of water-based special effects paint creates a multitude of special effects upon the wall.

And these special effects go as far as the imagination is willing to take it: they include Seashell, an effect that endorses a calm and relaxing environment; then there

is also the artistic Canvas and the versatile Dapple.

Moreover, going green seems to be the new mantra, with several companies incorporating environment-friendly elements into their paints, while others launch a separate range of green products altogether.

A point in case is Asian Paints’ Green Assure, which is celebrated as being VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) safe. It is touted to be free from hazardous materials such as lead, heavy metals, APEO (Alkylphenol Ethoxylates) and other toxic materials.

Wall coverings Wall coverings are preferable for their quick and relatively hassle-free application. Users, however, contest that wall coverings are not sustainable, that they fade out and tear easily and that they offer very little chance for customisation.

Yet significant companies manufacturing wall coverings and wallpapers, such as Wall King and Marshalls, seek to produce their wall coverings such that they not only last long and look good, but also incorporate more features than other products for walls, such as paints, do.

Marshalls’ wall coverings consist of vinyl as an important element, which keeps off dust, is resistant to moisture and prevents termite infestation.

The wall coverings do not fade out as they are tested and certified for colour fastness against UV light by reputed laboratories.

Wall coverings also offer a wide range of choices for designs, textures and colours. These include wall coverings made of jute, bamboo, silk, glass pearls and mica chips.

Additionally, world-renowned designers including Zaha Hadid, Ulf Moritz and Karim Rashid are sometimes roped in to create signature wall coverings.

Contact web: www.asianpaints.com www.marshallswallcoverings.com www.royaletouche.com

A flexible layer put on countertops and walls, Royale Touche reinvents the laminate, imbuing it with texture, design and style

THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Surfaces Spl.

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ith the advent of multinational companies e n t e r i n g In d i a , t h e floorings segment has seen tremendous change; both in the range of products available, as well as in the needs of consumers. Indian companies have tied up with international producers to bring innovative new products to the market, while international brands have made their presence felt in the market.

With multinational companies setting shop in India, there has been a change in the kinds of flooring surfaces requested by commercial clients, leading to the acceptance of surfaces such as carpet tiles, etc.

The Inside Track takes a look at products and developments from the big players in flooring that successfully merge design and functionality in providing excellent flooring solutions.

Soluble Salt and Double Charge Nano Vitrified tiles – KMG Ceramics KMG Ceramics’ product basket now comprises of Double Charge and Soluble Salt Vitrified Tiles to cater to residential and projects requirements.

The Double Charge products are available in 800 x 800 and 600 x 600 mm sizes with stain-free nano finish.

Using this technology, layered multicolour powders are put together to obtain random veins and patterns that are similar to natural marble or granite. Double Charge Tiles are characterised by having better breaking strength, hardness and resistance to abrasion, thus making it suitable for commercial areas.

Soluble Salt products are available in 600 x 600 mm size with a stainfree nano finish. The Soluble Salt vitrified tiles make use of the latest nano technology which seals off the micro pores holes on the surface, resulting in stain free surface and long lasting gloss. These tiles are UV resistant with almost zero water absorption.

Rejuvenations™ – Armstrong Rejuvenations, a new sheet flooring line from Armstrong Commercial Flooring, offers a versatile range of designs that bring high visual impact and lasting performance to commercial interiors.

The three Rejuvenations collections include ‘Ambigu’, a more trendforward style, which includes tweed, pearlised and end-cut wood grain visuals; ‘StoneRun’, which features the look of travertine and concrete; and ‘TimberLine’, with realistic wood

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Cutting-Edge Floors From tiles to planks, companies offer a

wide range of options to meet any flooring specification. BY ALYSSA LOBO looks that range from traditional oak, maple and walnut to more exotic woods like merbau and bamboo.

Rejuvenations also features a durable, abrasion-resistant wear layer and a UVcured polyurethane coating, which may eliminate the need for polishes and spray buffing.

Rejuvenations features Design Continuum™ – a system of coordinating patterns designed to mix and match with Natural Creations® LVT (luxury vinyl tile). The floor’s appearance is protected and it allows for low maintenance cleaning methods.

Heat weld and flash cove options are available for spaces demanding superior infection control. Awarded the ADEX Silver, Gold, and Platinum for Design Excellence, Rejuvenations has many design options from exotic woods and concrete visuals to unique soft textile looks and striated textures.

Ninety Degree Stone - RK Marble RK Marble’s Ninety Degree Stone gives you the freedom to choose the stone finish, thickness and size you like. The range consists of variants such as Ocean Black, Granite, Sandstone, Quartzite and Marble.

The first offering, Ocean Black is a Phyllite stone that geologically evolved over a period of 500-800 million years. Thus it has a very high compaction and qualifies as a high grade metamorphic stone. The stone comes exclusively from RK Marble’s Phyllite quarry in India.

Ocean Black is non-porous, very uniform and inert, hence making it extremely resistant to weathering and chemical reactions. One can also choose from different finishes

Mammut combines the best features of other products in Kronotex’s 2015 collection

such as jagged, rustic, fine-rubbed and riven.

Maximus Mega Slab - RAK Ceramics Maximus Mega Slab with Porcelain+ technology expands spaces, reduces design interruptions and provides a modern alternative to traditional ceramics. Its super-size and practical thickness offers a wide range of application areas. The tiles are aesthetically pleasing, easy to install and highly durable due to its superior strength. These Porcelain+ surfaces are resistant to chemicals, stains, moisture, scratches and heat.

The tiles are available in multiple sizes and in two thicknesses – 12.5mm or 14.5mm. Maximus Mega Slab Porcelain+ tiles are available in a range of finishes including glazed models with matet or full lappato polish and unglazed models with matt or polished finish. Using advanced HDD printing technology, these tiles offer numerous design possibilities.

Armstrong’s Rejuvenations features a UV-cured polyurethane coating which eliminates the need for polishes and spray buffing

This product is available with RAK UAE and can be imported by RAK Ceramics.

Mammut- Kronotex Mammut from Kronotex’s 2015 collection combines features of other products within the collection such as Robusto, Dynamic, and Exquisit.

Thus Kronotex has attempted to develop a floor which can meet all requirements. Mammut is suitable for universal use, even for bearing extremely heavy loads. It has several design variations and can be usedto create a sophisticated or a natural look.

The panels are extra hard, extra-long and very practical. An intersting feature of Mammut’s patterns and hues is their country cottage character and authentic, natural wood look.

In addition to this, Kronotex laminates consist of at least four stable layers which ensure durability and quality to its floors. The top surface of the flooring consists of a specially resistant protective overlay film.

This is fused with a resinated decorative film into an abrasion-proof, hardwearing surface.

The method of installation is also very simple, with its ‘CLIC-System’, you simply unpack the panels, lay them, snap them ogether and the flooring is done. This system removes the need for tools in installation.

Contact web:www.kmgindia.net www.armstrong.co.in www.rkmarble.com www.rakindia.com www.kronotex.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Surface Spl.

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n entering a room, one of the first things you’d notice is the ceiling. Looming large over a room, ceilings have the potential to reconfigure its spatiality and transform its entire look. Ceilings also make for an excellent canvas for architects on which to display their talents.

In terms of practical purposes, ceilings screen electrical, plumbing and mechanical works and hide the lengthy, tangled ugliness of wires that trail behind fixtures. Ceilings also serve acoustical purposes, helping towards making the room sufficiently soundproof. Besides, they influence the lighting design of a room, and significantly affect its look and sense.

To be competent, it is essential that ceilings are made using innovative, sturdy materials produced with the help of advanced technology, and fashioned along the lines of innovative design.

Gypsum The durable, fire-resistant, flexible nature of the mineral gypsum makes it perfect for ceilings. Gypsum plasterboards are typically used in the construction of suspended ceilings, which are essentially secondary ceilings constructed so as to suspend from the main ceiling by the help of a metal frame.

Gyproc by Saint-Gobain offers a range of ceiling systems that are created using high technology. Its Gypsum Plasterboard False Ceiling System gives a seamless finish and lends a homogenous look to the given space.

Plasterboard, moreover, also allows for curves, steps and other design options for ceilings.

Several types of gypsum plasterboard are used, including Gyproc Moisture

Scaling New Heights With Ceilings A myriad of possibilities are unleashed as

innovatively designed ceilings are manufactured using the latest technologies, making them very much in vogue. BY TASNEEM S. POCKETWALA Resistant Board for spaces such as the kitchen and bathroom, and Gyproc Fireline Board, intended for fireresistant ceiling applications. The Gypsum Plasterboard False Ceiling System allows for the creation of bulk heads and to change levels.

Metal Of late, grid ceilings seem to be much in demand. A lightweight lay-in system available in hidden or exposed grid options, the grid ceiling system serve greatly in sound reduction and sound absorption.

Metal is one of the materials used to make up grid ceilings. SaintGobain’s metal ceiling tiles are both functional and durable. Its Gyproc Lay In - Plain, for instance, consists of plain panels which are powder-coated and produced from high-quality hot dip galvanised steel and ensure corrosion protection.

Armstrong’s range of metal ceilings presents lots of variety. Its Metalworks Open Cell Cellio, made of galvanised steel and aluminium, offers a monolithic visual with finished edges. It is made accessible to services like a regular modular ceiling system, and is quick and easy to install. The

Shaped in the form of baffle blades, Soundscapes Blades has high acoustic performance

Gyproc’s Gypsum Plasterboard False Ceiling System gives a seamless finish and lends a homogenous look to the given space.

lay-in type infill panels also enable the installation of sprinklers and lights. Armstrong Baffles, on the other hand, provides a linear ceiling system that hides the open plenum.

Its baffles are made from durable extruded aluminium. The flexible design of the ceiling system allows for a perimeter to core or a fully discontinuous solution.

Metalworks Open Cell Cellio is made of galvanised steel and aluminium and is quick and easy to install

Soft Fibre Offering the highest levels of acoustic absorption, soft fibre ceilings are ideal for open plan environments and noisy areas. Armstrong’s Soundscapes Blades is made of soft fibre and is durable, cost-effective and easy to install. This product combines design and technology in its make. Shaped in the form of baffle blades, Soundscapes Blades has high acoustic performance and is especially recommended for noisy environments.

Soundscapes canopies beautifully blend artistic design and sound absorption properties. The ceilings consist of pre-shaped arc planks that vary in colour to suit hill or valley style. The ceilings are adjustable to differing heights and contain, embedded, flush-mounted hardware system to give off a clean look.

Ceilings are structures integral to the way a room ultimately ends up looking. In their make and design, these ceilings reveal the current focus on innovation and technology.

Contact web: www.gyproc.in www.armstrong.co.in

THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Spot Light

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iving in a house that only you can discern, that is practically invisible to everyone else and that blends with its surroundings, seems something like a surreal dream.

Invisible Living The Casa Invisible camouflages with its

surroundings so well, it becomes invisible to the undiscerning eye. It also makes for an interesting holiday house. BY TASNEEM S. POCKETWALA

Thomas Lockwood, Jure Miklavc, Vincent Créance inspect a product The Casa Invisible reflects the surrounding environment back on its own facade

The Delugan Meissl Associated Architects (DMAA), however, has wrenched this on to reality. The Casa Invisible designed by them reflects back on its own façade the surrounding environment, so that we are left with a house

of the unit are assembled from prefabricated elements produced at the factory.

The open layout of the house is divided into three spatial units for individual design and use, structured by a chimney and a

The unit also contains several windows and even a patio.

Individual design and texture of the interior can be chosen from a catalogue

that visually becomes a part of its environment and ceases to be a distinct structure of its own.

T h e C a s a In v i s i b l e c o u l d change the way people holiday.

Easy to assemble, disassemble and reassemble, the house can take root anywhere in the world, in any environment.

It s t o t a l a re a o f 1 4 . 5 0 x 3.50 m means that it can be reasonably transported without much discomfort by lorry. The prefabricated wooden structure can be transformed into a house at any given site. Both the fittings and the mounting framework

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wet room. The unit also contains several windows and even a patio.

The company provides a design catalogue for the clients to choose their own, individual design and texture of the interior and façade from a list of options.

The costing of the entire unit is reasonable, and the ease of mobility means that the unit can be carried off and assembled anywhere.

A modular element construction made out of wood, the unit also leaves a minimal environmental footprint.

With its incredible ease of construction, which becomes more pronounced when compared to the time and effort taking for the construction of a conventional house, the Casa Invisible seems to indicate a path-breaking alternative as far as houses go. Which it may possibly be. Yet more than housing, however, it offers a unique alternative to go for a vacation

The prefabricated wooden structure can be transformed into a house at any given site

Easy to assemble, disassemble and reassemble, the house can take root anywhere in the world, in any environment

The unit’s quick assembly, easy transport, overall inexpensiveness and the irrelevance of location makes it an ideal option for a retreat

and makes for an interesting holiday house.

The unit’s quick and simple assembly, easy transport, its overall inexpensiveness and, most importantly, the irrelevance of location that the unit makes possible, makes it an ideal option for a short or long retreat. The customisable nature of the unit also allows for individual choices. Its reflective façade ensures privacy, comfort, safety and quiet.

The Casa Invisible, then, might just as well redefine the way people go on a vacation.

Contact www.dmaa.at

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Interview

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tylam is one of the largest manufacturers and exporters of high pressure laminates (HPL) since the last two decades.

The company is also recognised as an Export House by the Government of India. It has recently entered the exterior surfaces segment with its cladding and floor board brand.

The New Face Of Facades Stylam Industries adds new products to its offerings in its wall cladding segments. BY ALYSSA LOBO is our most popular product in the market. The decorative laminates, ‘Violam’ with anti-bacterial and antifungal properties, ‘Vioflex’, our post forming laminates and ‘Unicore’ laminates are also well accepted and earning great reputation in the market. Consumers are always interested in new patterns for which we introduce new vibrant colours and designs at regular intervals.

‘Fascia’ Exterior Cladding has several applications like facade and balcony claddings, fences, sports facilities and toilet cubicles

What are the innovations that Stylam has brought to the Indian market?

Ashish K Sharma, Head-Sales & Marketing, Stylam Industries

We speak to Ashish K Sharma, Head-Sales & Marketing at Stylam Industries about the company’s latest products, the growing wall cladding segment and their plans for expansion.

Could you tell us about Stylam?

Which kind of surfaces does you company specialise in?

Stylam was incepted in 1991 under the name Golden Laminates Ltd.We export to more than 70 countries worldwide, Europe being the major share.

All our products are HPLs of 0.5 mm to 20 mm thickness; whether it is anti-bacterial and anti-fungal decorative laminates, interior compact (interior wall surfaces/claddings) laminates, exterior wall claddings or exterior floor boards. We have also planned to enter in the segment of rest room cubicles by the end of 2015.

We are going through a massive expansion plan with an outlay of Rs. 60 crores per year by adding up additional production capacity of five lakhs sheets per month with highlight installation of state of the art press in the size of 14’X6’.

We aim to be largest manufacturer of laminates in the country by March 2016.

What are your most popular products in the market? What are the consumer’s preferences and demands?

The exterior cladding brand ‘Fascia’

We are the first Indian company to successfully launch and establish HPL exterior cladding with the brand ‘Fascia’ in the Indian market almost three years back and we are the first in India and second globally to successfully launch HPL exterior floor boards with our brand ‘Walkon’.

The latest, sophisticated moulds of various finishes from France and Germany are implemented in the production of our laminates.

The design and efficiency of the laminates have assisted the company in winning the award of CE Marking.

Could you tell us about your products in the exterior surfaces segment?

We provide two types of exterior surface solutions. ‘Fascia’ Exterior Claddings has more than 45 wood decors, 15 plain decors, two customised

decors in its portfolio and we are continuously adding to the decors to cater to the design needs of the architect community. It comes in both sided decor and with protective lamination on both sides and is totally fire retardant, impervious to moisture, UV resistant, graffiti resistant and resistant to scratch, chipping and impact damage. It has several applications like facade and balcony claddings, fences, outdoor furniture, playground and sports facilities, toilet cubicles, etc.

Our other product is ‘Walkon’ Exterior Floor Boards. It is the first introduction of Exterior HPL Floor Boards First by any Indian company.

They are beautiful, yet durable and hygienic and available in a number of colours, designs and grains.

Some of the prominent features of ‘Walkon’ are: a bottom-side NT, black/brown core, slip-resistance, frost-

resistance and environmentally friendly composition.

What is the mind-set of the Indian consumer with regard to wall cladding?

At present this product is still in the concept selling stage especially in nonmetros. We are creating awareness among consumers and sharing the benefits of this relatively new concept of wall claddings. Indian consumers are price conscious but also very open to explore and adopt any interesting new concept.

We just need to offer them the best value for their money in terms of beauty, durability, affordability and best after sale assurance, which we provide by offering 10 years warranty against colour fading and de-lamination on our exterior products. The scenario is changing very fast and HPL Wall cladding is here to stay for long time to come.

What do you feel is going to be the future trend in this segment? What are customers looking for ?

Stylam’s ‘Walkon’ Exterior Floor Boards are slip-resistant, frost-resistant and environmentally friendly

Future consumers will be more quality conscious and always in search for new trends and designs. Some other material may be invented in the future for claddings but at present HPL cladding is the most elegant and aesthetic answer for every consumer’s need.

Contact web: www.stylam.com email: ashish.sharma@stylam.com mob: +91-9811174385

THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Advertorial

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go Flooring Pvt. Ltd. (a part of Ego group) offers architects and interior designers a myriad of choices in imported wooden floorings solutions. It boasts of over 200 varieties of wooden floorings.

With an extensive range of laminated wooden floors, engineered flooring, solidwood flooring, deck and parquet flooring, the company offers the most comprehensive wooden flooring solutions.

Legno is the latest addition to Ego’s Natural Collection and allows customers to play the artist in their own homes. One can make a huge

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Endless Design Possibilities With Ego

Ego’s eclectic collection of flooring solutions and its strong partnerships with international brands make it the go-to flooring provider for designers.

Yet another achievement for Ego has been its tie-up with Kronotex– Germany for an extensive range of its laminate wood floors. Being the world’s largest manufacturers of laminate floors and backed by the German standards of manufacturing, Kronotex happens to be an obvious choice for any Indian company to tie-up with. Given Ego’s competitive and dynamic marketing strategies,

Flooring is also the first wooden flooring trading company in India to start a profile manufacturing unit to match its flooring shades. Along with pan India operations in 35 cities and its own profile manufacturing unit, it’s probably one of the most competitive and fast growing companies in India.

Its pan India presence, and robust dealer and distributor network ensures high brand visibility. Ego Flooring’s

Legno, the latest addition to Ego’s Natural Collection allows customers to play the artist in their own homes

difference in any space through the use of Legno’s artistic floors. The unique feature of this collection is that the designs can be customised to suit the size of the space.

On the other hand, Ego’s Deck Collection adds value and style to any outdoor space with a deck. Deck flooring is the ideal option to decorate the adjoining path between the home and garden. One can create a deck out of any outdoor space available.

Be it sundeck areas of cruises, pool sides, spas or balconies. It’s preferably laid on a flat concrete surface; but a well-drained pathway, ceramic tiles, compacted ground and other solid, hard surfaces are also suitable.

Ego’s latest achievement has been its tie-up with Dasso-XTR- China, for a superior quality deck wood floor solution which includes solid wood bamboo flooring, outdoor deck

flooring and outdoor wall cladding.

Green by nature, bamboo promises to be the Future of Decking.

In its endeavour to constantly innovate and bring in the latest international trends in the wooden flooring industry; Ego recently launched The Signature Collection, a limited edition collection that brings to the table fresh, new and innovative design concepts in wood floors. This collection is inspired by traditional and vintage floors and conceptualised

by Italian designers. The three types of laminate wooden flooring are available to buyers in original forms. The Signature Collection has something for every design need: be it an unpolished and rugged look of the Distressed Collection, or the selection of uneven floors from the Random Width Collection, or even the beautifully vibrant Beach House Collection.

Beach House from the Signature Collection is inspired by traditional and vintage floors

Kronotex joined hands with Ego to take the Indian market by storm.

A feather to its cap was a very recent JV with Esta-Parquet – Estonia for an exclusive range of natural engineered wood flooring collection. Needless to say, Ego is taking strides in capturing the global markets to constantly provide quality products to its Indian consumers.

Beyond its wide range, Ego

Legno’s Random Width Collection– Legno is inspired by traditional and vintage floors

Ego’s tie-up with Dasso-XTR-China includes solidwood bamboo flooring, and outdoor deck flooring

Ego’s Raghuvanshi Mills showroom in Mumbai

infrastructure in India consists of 6 branch offices, 35 distributors, 300 dealers, 30 franchisees, 36 retail stores, one central warehouse plus three zonal depots and a 97 member team in sales and backend. The company’s infrastructure further inspires confidence in the brand and helps to meet all the buying or installation requirements of designers and architects. Among its list of clientele include foremost brands in the hotel and real estate space, the likes of which are Unitech, J.W. Mariott, Sahara Group, Taj hotels, Triton, Radison, Holiday Inn, Royal Orchid and more. The wide range of floorings solutions and its widespread appeal ensure that the Ego brand is synonymous with efficiency, high quality and excellent performance, making it the preferred choice of designers worldwide.

Contact Ego Flooring Pvt. Ltd web: www.egofloor.com email: sales@egofloor.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Spot Light

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stone extracted out of nature and then developed technologically, Kalingastone lends itself to a wide application.

The designs and patterns of this stone, widely available in nature, are inspired by nature and also reflect it. Produced by the Classic Marble Company (CMC) which has been dedicated to sourcing

The Wonders of Kalingastone This engineered stone with synergised colours, designs and patterns, serves multiple purposes for both interior and exterior spaces.

Emperador Scuro

Calcutta Gold consists of a creamy background with gold veins floating in it

natural marble stones from over 20 countries, Kalingastone epitomises engineered innovation.

On a commercial basis, the production of this stone commenced in 2009. It started out as a green field project for manufacturing agglomerate marble and quartz, culminating into a production of Kalingastone by the Classic Marble Company, a stone that has since

is Emperador Scuro. Its background is dark brown in colour, and there are abundant white veins that run through it. This product gives an elegant look when blended with marbles of other, lighter colours such as white or cream.

The Kalingastone products are available in dimensions of 304 x 125 cm in standard thickness of 1.2 / 1.6/ 1.8 cm depending on their application.

been increasingly utilised for flooring.

Its development is reflective of the combination of Italian designs and advanced technology, for a standard of living that is at once stylish and elegant.

The company manufactures several products out of Kalingastone.

Under the collection of Esclusiva, the products include Calcutta Gold, Crema Nova and Emperador Scuro.

Kalingastone by the Classic Marble Company has been increasingly utilised for flooring

Features of the products include size and colour consistency, minimum wastage and low porosity. The products can also be re-polished

Calcutta Gold consists of a creamy background with gold veins floating in it. The regular grey-coloured spots on the overall whitish background lend a unique look to the marble.

As against spots and gold veins, the Crema Nova has quite a uniform background. It is beige in colour with medium grain. This product is most commonly applicable for interior spaces.

The most striking of the products in the collection however

They can be used for both commercial and residential projects, and applied for floors, facades, backsplashes, vanities, staircases, the fireplace, walls and bathrooms.

The other features of the products include consistency in size, consistency of colour, minimum wastage and low porosity. The products can also be re-polished.

Contact web: www.classicmarble.com

THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Spot Light

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he London-based firm Variant Studio’s proposal for the Novoperedelkino station in Moscow, Russia may at first strike as a paradox. Train stations, after all, are not expected to be quiet.

Trains chug in and out of stations making a tremendous amount of noise. And then there is also that uncontainable, exciting city-life bustle

A Silent Metro Station?

This one-of-a-kind proposal to build a

quiet metro in Moscow shows a fascinating possibility for public spaces where one can hear a whisper. BY TASNEEM S. POCKETWALA

The idea of installing acoustics and sound reducing elements in a space as public and as bustling with chaos and activity as a metro train station is fascinating

Carved in the form of three dimensional pyramids and prisms, the panels are made from porous ceramic

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to boot. Train stations are, almost by definition, unquiet.

But so are most public spaces, even those that allow for enclosure.

Yet Variant Studio has etched out a clever and efficient proposal for a silent metro station, possibly the world’s first such. Theoretically, the idea is to cover the station’s walls and ceilings with acoustic and sound absorbing elements.

Acoustics are concerned with the behaviour of sound within a room or an enclosed structure. Relevant to acoustics are aspects such as sound absorption, sound reflection, sound reduction, etc. It is installed with

The proposal does seem to have the potential to redefine public spaces – such as train stations – all over, however quietly

off the walls and ceilings, and also prevent from creating echoes.

Carved in the form of three dimensional pyramids and prisms, the panels, made from porous ceramic, absorb noise and also help in passenger navigation, pointing out by means of a pattern of arrows the way to the platform, nearest exits and the side from which the train is to arrive.

The pavilions at the entrance also follow the above design principles and include groomed bushes that are equipped with absorbing up to 40 decibels of noise from the roads around the area.

Its maintenance would be relatively low and rather innovative.

The platform walls are proposed to

The sound reduction elements will prevent sound waves from bouncing off the walls and ceilings

the intention of amplifying sound, improving its quality and volume, directing it towards a certain way, absorbing it, or reducing it. Generally, acoustics are set up in places such as concert halls, auditoriums, offices and recording studios.

Spaces of daily public usage are characterised by their excessive noise and chaos. Possibly, Variant Studio is the first to come up with the idea of installing acoustics and sound reducing elements in a space as public and as bustling with chaos and activity as a metro train station.

The sound reduction elements set up in the metro station would prevent sound waves from bouncing

be cleaned following the procedure of a car wash, with incorporated brushes moving along the wall and cleaning them from the accumulated grease during the night.

Variant Studio’s proposal, although unsuccessfully received at the competition to design the new Novoperedelkino station that it was sent to, reveals an interesting possibility for public spaces that are or can be enclosed.

Successful or not ultimately, the proposal does seem to have the potential to redefine public spaces – such as train stations – all over, however quietly.

Contact web: www.variantstudio.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Interview

V

itrA launched its first bathroom fittings stores in Mumbai in July at the VBCL store in Raghuvanshi Mills, Lower Parel and at the Asiatic Construction Company in Duncan Road, Bhuleshwar.

The Inside Track spoke to Mr. Serhan Ates Yagız, India Country Manager, Eczacıbası Building Products Division to find out how their new franchise showrooms fit in VitrA’s India strategy and what they hope to bring to the Indian bathroom market.

Adding To Bathroom Culture VitrA’s Serhan Yagiz is confident about the company’s future at its new showroom opening in Mumbai. BY ALYSSA LOBO in Bangalore by end August. The ultimate goal is to reach 95 to 100 all over India, within a year’s time.

The showrooms mean a lot to us as people will realise that VitrA has sanitary ware, faucets, and vanities in one specific location, or even in a separate room. We are also renovating our existing dealers.

Why is a showroom in Mumbai important for your India business plan? What is special about this specific location?

Serhan Ates Yagız, India Country Manager, Eczacıbası Building Products Division

How do you see this showroom impacting VitrA’s position in the Indian market? Are there plans to open more showrooms?

This showroom will definitely position us in the market. This is the first showroom in Mumbai after establishing our office so our expectation is quite high. The internal branding is yet to be done. Then we’ll have a better understanding of the showroom.

We will be opening more showrooms, both in Mumbai and across India. We will open two showrooms in Mumbai and one

Mumbai is the commercial capital and until now we were weak in this market. We know we can create value, not only in terms of revenue but also in terms of projects. It’s not just in selling one W.C. but adding a story to the bathroom, some taste.

That’s why our tagline is ‘bathroom culture’, to add something new. So we moved our head office from Delhi to Mumbai.

Lower Parel is one of the poshest areas for this industry and in India.

This is a well-known place for highend furniture.

What are the specific needs of Indian customers? What products are popular here?

They need good pricing. But even in India, customers are different from region to region. In the north, they

VitrA franchise showroom at VBCL store in Raghuvanshi Mills, Lower Parel

Mert Karasu, Sales Director, VitrA India; Serhan Ateş Yağız, Country Manager, VitrA and Mr. Mukund Patel, Head of Operations, VitrA inaugurate the Lower Parel showroom

prefer a brand that they know more, even though they acknowledge that the other product is technologically advanced. They will go with a known brand even for a single rupee change.

If you go south, people compare products more; they want to be more knowledgeable. In Mumbai it’s half and half. Value is important, but being a known brand is also important.

People here also acknowledge the properties of the product.

Has VitrA developed any products that are specially targeted towards India? What innovations have you brought into the Indian market?

We haven’t developed any special product for India. There are some demands from the market for specific products that are not in our product line, especially in our faucet group. It’s a clash with our global strategy because here the luxury segment is asking for high water usage products especially for showers. Whereas since we are selling to Europe and Turkey, sustainability is a hot topic.

The Metropole collection with its two technologies – Rim-ex and VitrAfresh are a big contribution to our business in India. There is a quick-clean tank attached that cleans the inside of the W.C. automatically.

This product along with its basin options were accepted very well, so we are investing in this collection.

What according to you is the scope for complete bathroom solutions in India?

From the clients’ or business partners’ perspective everyone would like to work with one company who can provide everything. But we haven’t brought everything – we don’t have our tiles, our bath tubs.

We have to test the market first. To do that we’re coming up with a display centre attached to our new main office in Andheri-west. Architects and clients will see the product groups we have and then we can understand how people will react to working with a company that can manufacture everything.

Could you tell us a little about your sales and distribution strategy for India? What are your revenue targets for the next three years?

Today we have 10 distributors and 75 dealers with showrooms across India.

These dealers are buying our products that are imported from Turkey from the distributors.

So we are not a sales office, we are here for marketing purposes. We have 15 people on the field doing the marketing for us. Since this is the initial year the target was around 30-35 crores. For the following year, the target will be more aggressive, mostly 60-65 crores. The next two years will be very aggressive.

Contact web: www.vitra-india.com

THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Interview

C

arysil, the kitchen appliance brand from Acrysil has ambitious plans for its growth in South Asia. The company is a pioneer in the kitchen sinks segment in India and gradually growing its range of kitchen appliances.

Mr. Sanjeev Dayal, Carysil’s Vice President – Sales & Marketing, India and South Asia tells us about the brand’s new post sales services and why it’s important for them to communicate with their customers.

Could you tell us a little about Acrysil and your brand, Carysil?

What sets it apart in the market for kitchen products?

Acrysil is based out of Bhavnagar,

Reinventing The Kitchen Sink Kitchen appliance giant, Carysil is driving

innovation in the built-kitchen segment with its growing product range. BY ALYSSA LOBO gas being spilled and causing an accident. In our hobs or cooktop we have a feature called FFD, which is Flame Failure Device. If the flame switches off and the gas is still leaking, the device is engaged and the gas is stopped immediately.

So there are no such accidents.

Our ice maker gives you the luxury to make fresh ice in less Carysil’s Skyline chimney

Do you offer complete kitchen solutions? What are the challenges when providing kitchen solutions and appliances to the Indian market?

We give everything except the modular kitchen wardrobes, so about 95% of kitchen solutions.

The only challenge that comes to mind is the reach of the product. If the company reaches out to the entire country, and if you have the best after sales service and the brand is relatively known, you hardly face any challenge because the industry and segment is growing.

What kind of services do you offer customers post sale?

Gujarat with business interests in kitchen sinks- both granite and stainless steel sinks. We are Asia’s only manufacturing company and second largest in the world, out of only four manufacturers across the world in granite sinks. We sell to approximately 45 countries. We have recently ventured into builtin kitchen appliances like electric chimneys, dishwashers, built-in ovens, microwaves, etc.

What sets us apart is the design of the product, the features that we bring to it; mostly the features in an appliance are customised. Also we are the only manufacturers of granite sinks, which means we believe in aesthetics, quality and hygiene.

W h a t a re s o m e o f t h e n e w innovations that your company has made in the kitchen products segment?

There have been a lot of injuries in the kitchen due to left over

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than seven minutes time. We have a chimney that costs about Rs. 6, 15,000, where you don’t have to put any duct; it works on our charcoal filter. We keep innovating as we mostly sell German products from our German factories. We have two factories from GermanyFrankfurt and Hamburg.

We try to give the best service and we try to do it in less than 48 hours once the complaint is noted. When a product is newly delivered to someone’s house, the moment it comes to the notice of the service team, it takes less than 48 hours to install the product and make it operational. We’ll soon bring in the mobile service van concept. Then the largest cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Chennai will have a mobile van going around the city along with A-Class components and a service technician

How has your company set itself apart with respect to kitchen sinks?

We’ve glorified the product of kitchen sinks. Normally if you visit any house, even if you were female, you would start appreciating only the modular kitchen wardrobe, the chimney or the hob. You’d seldom go and see what sink someone uses.

There was no such brand name in this category. Carysil brings in some design or glamour, so that you cannot ignore this product in the kitchen. Your attention would get attracted because of the exclusive look.

Carysil’s hobs and cooktops have FFD, which stops gas from leaking and prevents accidents

Sanjeev Dayal, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, India & South Asia, Carysil

inside. The moment we get to know about a complaint, the customer service technician would reach out to your home and in less than four hours, replace or repair the appliance.

What are Carysil’s most popular products in India? Do you have any new products that will be releasing soon?

Our chimney, hob, sinks and oven are very popular. Very soon you will see our barbecue, coffee maker and built-in refrigerators, wine coolers and more dishwashers.

What do you feel could be the future trends in this segment? What are customers asking for with respect to built kitchen appliances?

You have to redefine this category.

During our events, we get to know that people have a certain aspiration to own Carysil, provided we have certain special features in our products.

This is still a very niche category and most consumers are not aware of this product category. People get confused with the majority of our products - what is the difference between a free-standing and builtin microwave oven? They say, “For an oven, we pay 5000, and you are charging 50,000.” So these are things that need to be told. Till we get forums to talk to customers, how do we address these issues?

Contact web: www.acrysil.com email: sanjeev.dayal@carysil.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Spot Light

S

tudio Wood believes in designing ‘furniture not based on where it fits, but whom it fits for.’ The principle is best exhibited in its first collection, ‘Relove’- their attempt to reimagine vintage furniture pieces into new forms for their clients.

The collection includes curiosities such as drawers converted into sitting poufs and shelves, and reworked antique cabinets. The collective identified the potential of pre-existing structures and re-constructed them by shaping them with a new form, a new finish or a new function.

“Over the years, we have learnt that experiences are guided by the places we live in. So our design is not a derivative of the place but of the people who will inhabit it,” says Navya Aggarwal, interior designer at Studio Wood.

“Design should be accessible and therefore lay importance on balance; design that adds function yet has subtle aesthetic qualities.”

Their first design event- the #SWC Garage Sale where they launched the Re-loved Furniture Collection will always be a special one for the collective.

Spreading The Re-Love From breathing new life into old pieces, to

celebrating the spirit of Delhi, Studio Wood is reinventing furniture design. BY ALYSSA LOBO

Studio Wood provides design consultancy services for both residential and commercial spaces

You would notice the little details in the products with the drawer knobs and handles retain the charm of the old but with a completely new utility.”

The Delhi-based collaborative design hub houses everything design: from conceptualisation to the execution of comprehensive products and spaces- all under one roof. They provide design consultancy services

for both residential and commercial spaces, as well as bespoke furniture.

Hence there is varied expertise in the team consisting of architect, Sahej Bhatia; interior designer, Navya Aggarwal and product designer Vrinda Mathur. Studio Wood thus brings together a mix of good design enveloped with precise execution and an enhanced thought process.

28N 77E: Sunrise Mirror – This collection evokes Delhi’s cosmopolitan spirit

28N 77E: Stadder chair

The team worked on old furniture pieces which had been stored in their warehouse for over 10 years and saw great potential in reconstructing them.

The idea came about after understanding the consumer psyche and how people don’t easily part with their old furniture.

“Who would’ve thought of using drawers as lounge furniture? This range of drawers was re-designed to be used as poufs and mirror shelves,” says Mathur.

Since the form was so interesting and fun, the team decided to play with colours in the same manner.

Mathur elaborates, “Tangerine adds an element of spunk to the corner and makes it a warm, cosy place for leisure.

Re-love: White antique cabinet and half back chair

THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Studio Wood came about as an initiative where young design enthusiasts came together on a common platform in order to collaborate and create a collection of furniture.

The collective shares its infrastructure and manufacturing facilities with parent company, Cane Kriti. Established in 1999, the company has served various institutional, residential and hospitality projects in and around Delhi.

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with a different style and aesthetic.

Mathur says, “Our collection was a tribute to the city that has evolved this collective as individuals, entrepreneurs and designers.

The collection showcased the cosmopolitan nature of Delhi as a city from its concrete jungles to the old fort ruins and buzzing market places.”

The Studio Wood collective are constantly innovating and working on the fusion of newer materials.

They already have wood, metal,

28N 77E: Pattern sofa

Eames. Aggarwal says, “They have found the key to doing that and did it beautifully. Their ever-lasting creations are a source of inspiration for this very reason. Whether it was 1940s or it is the 2010s, what they created still motivates young minds and excites older ones.”

For similar reasons, they are i n f l u e n c e d by S c a n d i n a v i a n Re-love: Jenga Cabinet and Bench – Re-love came about after understanding that people don’t easily part with their old furniture

Studio Wood’s latest collection is named 28N 77E, after the coordinates of Delhi. 28N 77E evokes the cosmopolitan spirit of the city. Every range under this collection brought together a diversity of materials, forms and finishes put together

ink, concrete and resin on their list, and are currently experimenting with glass, cork and ceramics in their designs.

The team believes that design should stay alive. And their biggest inspirations driving this belief are Charles and Ray

28N 77E: Cubic lights

design sensibilities. “The pillar of Scandinavian Design: prioritizing functionality without eliminating grace and beauty, is what Studio Wood imbibes in all their creations,” says Mathur.

Contact web: www.studiowood.co.in email: hello.swc@gmail.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Spot Light

O

ver the years product design has leant towards furniture that is designed for versatility and spatial economy.

One has come across several chairs or couches that can collapse, fold out, slide or break apart in two; but never one that can do all of the above. The Exocet chair has changed that.

The new chair designed by Montreal-based designer Stephane Leathead is aiming to push the barriers of transformable furniture design.

Called ‘Exocet’ (from the French word for ‘flying fish’), the chair is the very first offering of design studio, Designarium.

The main materials used are Baltic birch and anodized aluminium. It is a multipurpose chair, simple and easy to configure, and can be used both inside and outside.

The chair is built from one basic slat shape. The series of identical slats are then simply slid over a cylinder while flipping them alternatively.

The user can transform it by releasing the pressure with the handle. The user can then move the section around the cylinder to create the desired configuration and then tighten the handle.

This allows users to change the shape of the chair to maximize comfort while sitting in various positions. With this innovative mechanism and carefully designed ergonomics, users can choose to sit in an upright position or lay down on the back while having their knees properly supported or even rest facing downwards without

A Transformative Experience The Exocet chair by Designarium is a sleek, versatile addition to the transformable furniture segment. BY ALYSSA LOBO

The Exocet allows users to change the shape of the chair to maximize comfort while sitting in various positions

having any strains on the neck and shoulders.

In addition to the ergonomic benefits, the soft and delicate cur ves of the Exocet inspire elegance and distinction. Its sleek and distinctive style demonstrates a perfect balance between form and function.

The Exocet chair is part of a two-piece set of sleek, modernist

The chair paired with a simple end table called Nyctale that includes both table and shelf storage space

furniture. It is paired with a simple end table called Nyctale that includes both table and shelf storage space. Like Exocet, the Nyctale table is designed with the same principle in mind. One single shape assembled alternatively on an axis.

Nyctale can fold and unfold into a variety of different configurations. The Nyctale

table opens up and doubles as a serving surface.

The Exocet chair won this year’s Golden A’ Design Award Medalist in the Furniture, Decorative Items and Homeware Design Category.

The chair and table are available in a limited edition through enquiry at the Designarium website.

Contact web: www.designarium.ca

THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Advertorial

C

ombine, arrange and organize your bathroom just the way you want it with Duravit.

Discover a wide variety of different possibilities for bathroom design and see how your dream bathroom could look.

With the Duravit Bathroom Planner you can use a modern, computer-aided 3D bathroom planning tool to transform your initial ideas into a dream bathroom online!

Your sanitary ware specialist will then

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Duravit’s Bathroom Planner Now start designing your dream bathroom

using the Duravit Bathroom Planner in the product section of www.duravit.in.

be happy to discuss all the details with you. A collage of materials or sample tile layouts, wood finishes and wall coverings give you an accurate picture of how your fully furnished bathroom will look.

Now plan your own dream bathroom by just following four easy steps: - Draw the shape of your bathroom.

- Add room elements.

- Select a washbasin, toilet, bathtub and bathroom furniture.

That’s all there is to it!

The Duravit bathroom planner is available with ten exciting series that include Vero, Durastyle, Happy D.2, Darling New, Starck 1, Starck 2, Starck 3, ME By Starck, P3 Comfort, Cape Cod. So start designing your dream bathroom now.

Contact Duravit India Private Limited tel: 079 66112300 email: respond@in.duravit.com web: www.duravit.in

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Fair News

The Big 5 Kuwait 2015 Date 14th-16th Sept 2015 Venue Kuwait Contact www.big5kuwait.com Kuwait’s largest construction event, The Big 5 Kuwait is a platform for manufacturers and distributors of construction goods to display their goods and products, get to know and network with other people in the sector and get a chance to trade with them. The visitor and exhibitor profile include architects, building consultants, main contractors, project managers, project developers, interior designers, etc.

The event is an excellent opportunity to showcase products amid a network of over 5000 people from the industry and its high-level decision makers. It also includes the chance to attend helpful seminars and workshops. There are over 20 free CPD Certified Workshops themed on subjects spanning from project management to BIM that will prove to be beneficial. A seminar about how to trade in Kuwait has also been organised to help visitors enter the market.

Tendence Date 29th Aug - 1st Sept 2015 Venue Frankfurt, Germany Contact www.tendence.messefrankfurt.com A trade fair for all involved in the consumer goods business, Tendence takes place in the second half of the year and attracts reputed brands and key decision makers from this sector.

Tendence also focuses on the mid to high-end segment and prospects for the summer and spring seasons. A platform for trade, this event also serves as an opportunity to gauge the latest trends emerging in the sector.

The fair is divided into two sections: ‘Giving’ which focuses on gifting and the Christmas trade, and ‘Living’ which deals with decoration and interior design. The ‘Living’ section will have exhibitors from around the world presenting products for interior design and accessories for the home. The products exhibited will include home textiles, furnishing ideas, furniture, outdoor items and garden accessories.

International Green Building Conference 2015 Date 2nd-4th Sept 2015 Venue Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Contact www.sgbw.com.sg One of the foremost green building events in Asia, the International Green Building Conference (IGBC) 2015 gathers over 1000 participants from all over the world. The IGBC is the anchor event of the Singapore Green Building Week where international green building experts, academics, tenants and end-users will convene to ideate, collaborate, partner and move a step forward in building a greener planet.

Architects, builders, interior architects, engineers, developers will all congregate in Marina Bay Sands in Singapore in a bid towards putting into action practical, real-world green building solutions. The conference will also be attended by policy-makers and important government officials to provide insight on green building policies, plans and solutions.

Researchers and academics will also present their latest discoveries in this field. The theme for IGBC 2015 this year will be ‘Build Green, Live Smart’.

This is a call for greener infrastructure and the need to live sustainably and responsibly.

Festival of Architecture and Interior Designing 2015 Date 25th-26th Sept 2015 Venue New Delhi Contact www.foaidindia.in The Festival of Architecture and Interior Designing sees the coming together of creative minds and key decision makers to understand and discuss the roles, responsibilities and other concerns of the design industry. The central theme of the festival this year is ‘Innovation’.

A two-day event, the festival will have over 85 speakers the likes of which include Canna Patel, Ajay Nahar and Anmol Warang. Its Design Arena is a platform for 40 design professionals from the world over to display their projects in a pictorial representation. The event’s National Conference section will incorporate panel discussions, presentations, design debates, etc. which will all revolve around the theme of innovation.

Fairs & Exhibitions Date 28th-31st Aug 2015 , India Furniture Expo 2015 Venue Mumbai Contact www.ifex.in In its third year now, the India Furniture Expo is a platform to showcase designs from India and abroad as well. The exhibit profile include design and consultancy firms, custom-made furniture, furnishings and décor, outdoor furniture, furniture for hospitals, art and artefacts and other commercial furniture. Trade visitors are bound to discover emergent trends and eco-friendly products here and also expand their network greatly.

This fair is an excellent opportunity for retailers, interior designers and architects to trade, make note of the latest industry trends and network with others.The fair promises to offer market concentration, an opportunity for clients to meet vendors, a chance for an intensive exchange of information about products, the product quality range, new designs and brands.

THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

It Products Homesake’s Range Of Votive And T-Lights For The Living Space

set off outdoor spaces such as a porch or the patio, but they suit well for indoor spaces such as dining room and the living room as well.

The products in the range are made from high quality glass material and wires, and are hand coated with mosaic work and embellishments. You can add a wax diya inside to let the magnificent glass pieces to shine out.

There are lots of beautiful pieces to choose from including mosaic, crystal, glass, silver, etc.

Some of the products on offer include mosaic melon votive, silver glass votive with jewel brooch, red frost pot votive

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Rumors Introduces Its Champagne Collection Rumors has introduced a new range of furnishings, the Champagne Collection, which are specifically designed to suit the changing tastes of a modern world.

The collection consists of dobby stripe patterns in fabrics such as cotton and polyester and multi-weft textured jacquards.

Available in the range of furnishings are upholstery and multipurpose fabrics in colours such as classic neutrals, lime green, cadet blue, carmine, pearl aqua and much more.

The dobby and jacquards, coming in a range of 30 colours, liven up the living spaces and brighten the areas. The range of plains and stripes look best when used for blinds and serve very

well as coordinates. While the collection goes well with Indian interiors, it is ideal for offices and hotels as well. The vivid colours and high quality of the fabric used make the living space look sophisticated and stylish.

Contact www.rumorsindia.in

Maishaa Unveils Its Ecstasy Collection Homesake.in’s range of Votive and T-Lights make for a perfect way to add a touch of vintage to homes. The lights can be used to

and mosaic flower and seed beads pot.

Contact www.homesake.in

Gulmoharlane’s New Cushion Range Gulmoharlane.com, the online destination for luxury furniture, has recently included a fresh range of cushions to its collection. The online shop is well-known for its design and hand-craftsmanship. The elegant range of cushions is intended to improve the décor of the room when paired with sofas and beds.

An array of natural, comfortable fabrics are utilised in making the cushions. Available in colours such as beige, indigo and flowery ikats, the cushion collection is apt for the monsoon season. More than being an add-

on, cushions are often used to transform the look of a bed or a sofa, and consequently the entire room.

Shweta Mewara, Creative Director, gulmoharlane.com, says, “We at gulmoharlane.com have received an overwhelming response for our natural fabric and leather upholstered sofas within a short span since our launch. Adding cushions to our portfolio was natural as we aim to offer more and more variety to our customers.”

Contact www.gulmoharlane.com

The luxury home fashion textile brand, Maishaa has recently launched its new bed linen collection in floral designs titled the “Ecstasy Collection”. The collection has been inspired by nature itself, and lends restful and peaceful look to homes.

There are plenty of colours and designs to choose from in the range, and you can mix and match designs and colours for a much more personalised look.

The plush bed linens with sateen weaves ensure comfort and softness and a peaceful sleep at night. For this range Maishaa has used high quality Egyptian cotton with 400 TC digital prints.

The bed linen is touted to be both anti-bacterial and anti-fungal.

The fabric is formaldehyde free, ensuring health and hygiene in sleep as well as a good rest.

Contact www.maishaa.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

It Products Return Focus Pod By Haworth xFriends

the soft walls. The material is used as thousands of layers in a composite in a bid to improve passive acoustic performance in the mid-frequency ranges such as those linked with voice related sounds. Moreover, the internally routed cable management also facilitates power and data solutions that are built into the work surface.

Contact www.haworthxfriends.com

A unique, efficient pod introduced by Haworth xFriends, the Return Focus pod is intended as a counterattack on environmental influences prevalent in open workspaces.

The product was developed in collaboration with the acclaimed firm Revolution Fibres.

The Return Focus pod comprises Phonix nanofibre, an acoustic material that helps in the absorptive features of

Junckers Launches Its Oak Collection Junckers, the solid hardwood flooring brand from Denmark, has recently launched a collection of oak floors. Junckers Industrier A/S is one of the largest manufacturers of solid hardwood floors in Europe.

Its new oak collection combines both style and comfort and promises to lend your home a stunning appeal. The range includes Oak Avenida, Oak Boulevard, Nordic Oak and Black Oak. The oak floors can carry any weight and at the same time, exude a beauty that is elegant and exotic and add to your

home décor. The collection is available in a thickness of 20.5 mm in singe plank with various width measurements. Mr Suresh Mansukhani, Country Manager –Indian subcontinent, Junckers Industrier A/S propounds, “The Oak Collection by Junckers has been exclusively designed for the modern day style connoisseurs who value finer things in life.

“The range is exotic and will add radiance to your decor with a classy feel. We at Junckers aim to deliver the best to our clients and guarantee complete satisfaction.”

Contact www.junckers.in

Gloob Décor Launches EleStro, Its Smart Office Solutions

Gloob Décor announced the launch of its workspace solutions comprising office furniture and business interior design. Called EleStro, it seeks to maximise productivity at work.

A company started by IITians, aims to redefine and change the way home and office décor is conceived of and viewed. With over 550 channel partners and spread over more than 180 cities, the company is a fast emerging force in the field.

As the Founder and Director of Gloob Décor, Kunal Sharma, says,

“The market for office furniture is vast, with our new range of office furniture we have tried to cater corporate needs of perfect work environment.”

EleStro divides the workspace into segments such as All Space (which is an open space), My Space (the personal space), Co Space (an interactive space), Save Space (a compact space), Play Space (which serves as canvas) and User Space (which deals with activity-based learning).

Contact www.gloobdecor.com

Address Home Introduces Its Collection of Table Lamps The luxury home décor brand Address Home has come up with a new range of table lamps for both homes and offices.

These quirky, trendy lamps promise to add a dash of style and character to your personal or work spaces.

On offer are a wide variety of lamps to go with each corner of your home or office.

The lamps include the Elveden lamp, with contours and patina that throws light stylishly and enhances the ambience of the room. The Hamilton table lamp goes beautifully on side tables, cabinets and mantelpieces.

Other lamps in the collection include the Mornay lamp made of gilt-inflected glass, the Quattrocento table lamp, the modernist Palladino table lamp, the cubist Praxis table lamp and the Deco table lamp, which

is inspired by the Art Deco movement.

Contact www.addresshome.com

THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

It Products Glass Sliding Shower Screen Systems By Ozone Ozone presents its new Glass Sliding Shower Screen systems which suit well for linear and corner entry. These shower

systems deftly separate the dry and wet areas in the bathroom.

They also make your bathroom look elegant and stylish and keep up and maintain its hygiene level. Additionally, they ensure optimum utilisation of space in the bathroom.

Also on offer is a collection of shower fittings including hinges and connectors, door handles and knobs, reinforcing bars and knighthead accessories, shower thresholds, seals and profiles.

The products are designed keeping in mind international standards and combine aesthetic and safety requirements in their make.

Contact www.ozone-india.com

Laminate Flooring By Notion

Notion has recently come up with laminate flooring for the living room to go for the look of a real hardwood. Laminate floorings are made using three principal layers compressed together using a high-pressure process, making the finished product durable.

Laminate floorings go well for both formal and informal living spaces. There is a wide range of wood visuals to choose from.

Different designs and patterns are also available which promise to change the way your living spaces look like, what with decors that mimic natural wood.

Haier Introduces Its Side-bySide Refrigerators Haier has recently launched a new range of refrigerators that compliments the modern

lifestyle of its customers while at the same time being stylish and adding elegance to the modern kitchen.

The SBS HRF – 618SS refrigerator features a 90 degree contoured door that enables the fruit and vegetables case to be pulled out with the door opened in line with the fridge chassis, thus making optimum use of space. The refrigerator is wrought keeping in mind Indian food habits and makes the most of the space available.

Some of the other features include the 360 degree air flow to keep food fresh, a smart digital control on the fridge door and bright LED lights inside the panels for good visibility. Haier’s new range combines luxury as well as high functionality in its design.

Contact www.haier.com

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The product ensures longevity and stain-resistant flooring.

As Mr. Akash Saini, Director of Sales, Notion, says, “Our Laminate flooring are made up of HDF (High Density Fibre Board) and has a special protective layers which protects them from UV rays that can discolor other flooring materials. They are resistant to stains and scratch and are environment friendly.

They are very easy to clean with a dust mop or a vacuum, and last long because of its flooring quality and low maintenance.”

Contact www.notion.net.in

Hardware Renaissance Presents Its European Series Hardware Renaissance has launched its European Series, a collection of authentic, stylish, hand-crafted door handles.

These are inspired by the European hardware aesthetics that go back five centuries.

Hardware Renaissance carves out masterpieces for both commercial and residential projects across the world, creating hand-forged hardware in solid bronze that become ornaments for doors.

The series comprise designs that take after European regions, for instance: Greco, which is inspired by Greek villas; Chateau, which exudes French style and elegance; and the Spanish Casa California that is adapted for today’s haciendas and urban retreats.

This series has been crafted using solid, high quality silicon bronze. The exquisite collection of door handles and accessories

promises to accentuate the appeal of any interior design and architectural project.

Contact www.hardwarerenaissance.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

It Products Wall Coverings

By Marshalls Leaking walls are a monsoon staple. You can hide these leaking walls and liven up the gloomy weather this monsoon season with the help of wall coverings by Marshalls. The

company presents to you a wide variety of wallpapers to choose from to make your room bright and cheery.

The wall coverings make the leaking wall invisible. An artificial wall that is placed in front of the leaking wall is created using cement sheet which is an inch away from the wall. It is on this wall that the wall covering is

installed. Your leaking wall is thus effectively hidden beneath a beautiful exterior. Wall coverings can be installed quickly and with minimum fuss and chaos. The coverings are vinyl coated and therefore secure against high humidity. The coverings are washable, colour fast and fire retardant.

The Director of Marshalls Wall Coverings, Mr. Karan Sharma, opines, “Wallcoverings are the best possible alternative for beautifying walls in the monsoon. The new backing of

Wallcoverings is non woven paper which requires very less of high quality German adhesive thereby making the drying process very fast. Because of this, installation becomes easy without any issues like peeling or cracking or fungal growth due to wetness etc.”

Contact www.marshallswallcoverings.com

Hosair Launches Its Advanced Air Purifiers

Hosair, a leading Air Purifier manufacturing brand, has recently launched two air purifiers. These air purifiers, named Air Health and Air Health Pro, ensure quick air purification and claim to provide a high percentage of clean, pure and fresh air. The purifiers are equipped with advanced technology and varied features.

Both Air Health and Air Health Pro air purifiers are equipped with the advanced iSix Acti VMS technology, a unique six layer filtration technique that destroys even the most diminutive of air contaminants.

These air purifiers sanitise the air against such minute particles such as allergens, bacteria, viruses, VOCs, etc. As Prince Jalani, the CEO of Hosair, explains, “At Hosair, we share a singular goal- making clean

Zynna Launches Its Monsoon Fabrics Collection To brighten up the bleak and gloomy weather, Zynna has recently launched its new Monsoon Fabrics collection.

The patterns are intricate and decorative and take their inspiration from the elegant and

The soft, natural shades lend a captivating ambience to the interiors. The collection contains curtains, cushions, bed lines, wall arts and wallpapers. As Mr. Retesh Sharma, MD, Zynna says, “This new range of Monsoon Fabrics ensures

classical styles of regions in the French and English gardens.

The collection comprises Toile style floral prints, luxurious jacquards, classic cotton stripes and woven trellis. The fabrics are available in varied soft, soothing colours that include berry, pink, lavender, canvas, blue and teal. The material used in 100% cotton, suitable for curtains, upholstery and soft furnishing.

bright interior accents teamed with floral prints inspired by nature to give refreshing and rejuvenating spirit brought by monsoon.

This new collection is inspired by decent and classical styling of regions in France and English gardens giving a comfortable and warm look creating a perfect ambiance suitable for monsoon season.”

Contact www.zynna.in

Diamond Glo By Dulux Velvet Touch

air accessible for all! And our dedicated team is committed to find new and innovative solutions to air pollution without compromising on speed, delivery and performance.”

Contact www.hosair.com Diamond Glo by Dulux Velvet Touch unleashes a new generation of interior paint that is aesthetically superior and also delivers high performance. The product imbibes a dazzling glow coupled with the strength of a diamond. This is an ideal product for those on the look-out for a unique combination of beauty and functionality.

On offer are over 2000 colours that include 10 shades that are exclusive, taking their

inspiration from diamonds from the world over. The shades include Young Red Diamond, Earth Star Diamond, Golden Jubilee Diamond, Regent Diamond, Perfect Pink Diamond, Sancy Diamond, Royal Heart Diamond, Chloe Diamond, Pink Star Diamond and Canary Diamond. There are three sizes available for the product: one Ltr., four Ltr. and 20 Ltr. Contact www.dulux.in

Postal Registration No. MCE/129/2014-16 RNI NO. MAHENG/2007/19853. WPP LICENSE NO. MR/TECH/WPP-266/East/2015. POSTED AT MUMBAI PATRIKA CHANNEL SORTING OFFICE, MUMBAI G.P.O. 400001. DATE OF PUBLICATION: 15th OF EVERY MONTH, dATE OF POSTING: 15th & 16th OF EVERY MONTH

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THE INSIDE TRACK August 2015

Spot Light

A

dded to the list of Dubai’s glorious buildings – that include the likes of Burj Khalifa – is soon to be the world’s first 3D-printed office. The result of a tie-up between Dubai and Winsun, a company from China pioneering in 3D printing technology, the office is planned out to cover 2,000 square

World’s First 3D Office Dubai’s plan to construct a 3D-printed

office signals an exciting future in building construction. BY TASNEEM S. POCKETWALA

The result of a tie-up between Dubai and Winsun, the office will cover 2,000 square feet of floor space and tower one-storey high

feet of floor space and tower onestorey high.

Everything from the structure to the furniture is to be constructed using 3D printing technology. A 20-foot high printer will be used to print out slim layers, which will then be assembled on site in a few weeks’ time into the structure that is to be the office.

The office will be made with a combination of reinforced concrete, gypsum reinforced with glass fibre and fibre-reinforced plastic. It is intended to serve as the impermanent headquarters

suggested to cut down on the time taken for traditional construction by 50-70 per cent, and reduce the labour cost by 50-80 per cent. This translates into a future where buildings could be made astoundingly quickly and extremely cheaply.

And with Dubai seemingly spearheading this new movement, the country will soon become a true centre of innovation and design. Interestingly, this is also one of the first instances in which 3D printing technology has been put to actual practical use.

With an entire office planned out to be constructed using this

This technique of constructing office buildings will cut down the time taken for construction and also reduce the labour cost

for the Museum of the Future, which is currently in the midst of construction and is expected to open in the year 2017.

Crucially, this technique of constructing office buildings is

modern, previously unimaginable new technique, it is incredible what the future seems to hold in store in terms of building construction.

Contact web: www.yhbm.com

With an entire office planned out to be constructed using this technique, it is incredible what the future seems to hold in store