THE
Volume 13. Issue 12. December 2019 Rs. 25/-
INSIDE TRACK CONNECTING THE DESIGN COMMUNITY Now view our web edition at www.theinsidetrack.in
Cover Story
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h e G y a a n Pr o j e c t h a s invited 12 renowned creative individuals to support the CITTA Foundation, India which aims to build the Gyaan Center for women in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The project which includes a school, women’s cooperative, a market and exhibition space is aimed at enabling economic development, education and skills training for girls and women residing in the Jaisalmer District. This initiative also hopes to provide a means to enhance gender parity in the region. Rooshad Shroff has been able to stitch together an ensemble of artists, architects and fashion designers who are each contributing a design scheme which has been translated into an 18 inch marble plate (circle or square) hand-crafted in Agra using the technique of marble inlay that celebrates Indian craftsmanship. Each design will have a 10 plate edition which is available for purchase and auction; benefits of which will go towards t h e c o n s t r u c t i o n o f C I T TA Foundation’s Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls’ School in Jaisalmer. The Rajkumari Ratnavati School will be offered to girls below the poverty line residing in the Thar
A Helping Hand With Gyaan Architect Rooshad Shroff is spearheading a
unique fund-raising initiative to help build a center for women in rural Rajasthan.
The Gyaan Project has invited 12 renowned creative individuals to support the CITTA Foundation, India which aims to build the Gyaan Center for women in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Desert region of Jaisalmer District. Running a state- based curriculum, the facilities will include classrooms, a library, a computer center, and a bus facility to transport girls from neighboring villages. The school will provide education for an estimated 400+ girls from kindergarten through class 10, who will learn to read and write and develop traditional skills unique to the region. The school will also provide a midday meal program to ensure proper nutrition for the students as well as lessen families’ financial burden. The creative individuals who are participating in this unique drive include the likes of Architect B.V. Doshi and Bijoy Jain, fashion designers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, Sabyasachi, Anamika Khanna, Manish Arora, interior designer Sussane Khan and artists Tanya Goel, T. Venkanna and continued on page 2
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
THE
INSIDE TRACK
CONTENTS
December 2019
COVER A Helping Hand STORY With Gyaan 1 India At The World Architecture Festival 4 Ikea’s Swe-Desi Collection 6 Cera Now Enters Modular Kitchens 8 Häfele Opens Its New Design Showroom 10 SpaceTale Design 12 Welspun Aims To Floor The Market 14
continued from page 1 Atul Dodiya. Rooshad Shroff has also enlisted fashion heavyweights Olympia Le-Tan and Christian Louboutin, whose high-end stiletto footwear
incorporates shiny, red-lacquered soles that are a favourite with his celebrity clientele from around the world. Rooshad Shroff ’s career graph continued on page 3
Duravit In The Bauhaus 16 Kohler Inaugurates Exceptional Experience Centre 17 Maison&Objet’s Designer Of The Year 18 Kajaria Eternity Unveils New E-Shield Vitrified Tiles 20 Steelcase Introduces Its Latest Workplace Solutions 22 Women in Design 2020+ 23 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, 23743069 Editor Mr. Anish R. Bajaj THE INSIDE TRACK Volume 13. Issue 12. December 2019. English - Monthly. This issue contains 24 pages including both covers. C r e a t i v e D i r e c t o r N a t a l i e Pe d d e r - B a j a j A s s i s t a n t E d i t o r S h w e t a S a l v i . L a y o u t D e s i g n D a r s h a n Pa l a v, Snigdha Hodarkar M a r ke t i n g : Mumbai, Kamini Kamble Mob: 9833301852, B 62, Cotton Exchange Bldg, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033 Tel: (022) 23736133/1, 23743069 Email:response@marvelinfomedia. com.
REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE Recycling old magazines and newspapers is one of the easiest ways to help the environment. To increase the supply of recoverable wood fibre and to reduce the demand on the world’s landfills, THE INSIDE TRACK urges its readers to actively participate in recycling efforts.
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
continued from page 2
Christian Louboutin’s Design Scheme
is indisputably impressive, with his conspicuous devotion towards anything design. Ever since he started his firm in 2011, his studio has stretched the boundaries of architecture and design. He has effortlessly embraced and developed a unique narrative, where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary brilliance.
It comes as no real surprise that Rooshad has made an early and a definite mark in the design world by creating unique expressions, undertaking meaningful research and spearheading design initiatives such as this fund-raising program that allows design to be relevant to even the underprivileged. Contact email: gyaanproject@rooshadshroff.com web: www.citta.org
Each contributing design scheme has been translated into an 18 inch marble plate (circle or square) hand-crafted in Agra using the technique of marble inlay that celebrates Indian craftsmanship
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Event
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he World Architecture Festival (WAF) held in Amsterdam this year, is an annual festival and awards function committed to excellence in architecture and the development industry. It is the only event where around 550 shortlisted architects present their projects live in crit-rooms to a judging panel. Several categories honour winners, but the crowning glory is the award for the World Building of the Year title. This year the World Building of the Year went to LocHal Public Library in the Netherlands, designed by Civic Architects, Braaksma and Roos Architectenbureau and Petra Blaisse. Commended for its adaptability by a committee of almost 150 architects, designers and academics, LocHal is a locomotive hangar from 1932 that has been converted into a public space, now housing a library, arts organisations and coworking facilities. Fro m h u n d re d s o f i n i t i a l entries a shortlist was created comprising of winners in 18 separate award categories, spanning residential, public and commercial architecture. Finalists included Lindis Lodge, a ‘wavy’ luxury hotel in New Zealand and the curved wooden arch terminal at Mactan-Cebu International Airport in the Philippines.
India At The World Architecture Festival The World Architecture Festival (WAF) held in Amsterdam this year, is an annual festival and awards function committed to excellence in architecture and the development industry. BY NATALIE PEDDER-BAJAJ LocHal in the Netherlands which was the winner of World Building of The Year was praised by the judges for its ‘strong, sustainable approach’
Charged Voids was the ‘highly commended’ Indian entry at WAF in the Completed Buildings Housing category
This wooden-arched airport terminal in the Philippines, by Integrated Design Associates, won the awards’ transport category
THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Another ‘highly commended’ entry at WAF in the Completed Buildings Office section was Studio Lotus with Krushi Bhawan in Bhubaneshwar
Studio Link-Arc’s pavilion for children, called Lokadhatu (The World), was named Small Project of the Year, while Future Project of the Year, an honour acknowledging upcoming or proposed buildings was awarded to Oberbillwerder, The Connected City in Hamburg, Germany. One of our winners was ROCKWOOL Student Charrette Winner: AMSA, Bridging the Disharmony - A case of Fishing Community, Penthakata Village in Puri, Odisha, School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal, India, while ‘highly commended’ in the Completed Buildings (housing) category was a student hostel for Chandigarh group of colleges in Mohali, India. Done by the Architectural firm, Charged Voids, it emphasised the quality of living spaces. Another ‘highly commended’ entry in the Completed Buildings
Office section was Studio Lotus with Krushi Bhawan in Bhubaneshwar, India. Built as an institutional space for the State Government department, Krushi Bhawan now houses a learning centre, a library, an auditorium, training rooms, a garden and public plaza, while offices have been placed on the upper floors. The design team worked together with local consultants and craftsmen, purposefully using local materials and integrating regional craft in a contemporary environment. Architect Sanjay Puri, one of the two jury members from India, the other being Sonali Rastogi from Morphogenesis, explained that the top three criteria for judging was contextually, path-breaking aspects of the project, and sustainability. Thirteen Indian projects made it to the final list, four of which were entries in the Future Projects category, while the remaining were in Completed Project category.
Lindis Lodge, by Architecture Workshop, is an undulating luxury lodge on New Zealand’s South Island
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Three of Sanjay Puri and Associates’ projects, two in the Future Projects category and one in the Completed Projects category made it to the final list, along with Bangalore based Shibanee and Kamal Architects (SKA) who also had three projects, all in the Completed Projects category Think Design, Bhau Institute of Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Leadership’ and The Magic Faraway Tree. Indian entries interested in WAF 2020 which will take place in Lisbon can register now. Be the first to know when early bird award entries and delegate tickets are on sale. Contact web: www.worldarchitecturefestival. com India’s entry list in the 2019 WAF
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Spot Light
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K E A , t h e Sw e d i s h re t a i l furniture giant made a major breakthrough in the industry with its flat-pack furniture. A large credit of self-assembled, mass produced, affordable furniture going mainstream goes to IKEA. So words like customised, limited edition don’t really fit in IKEA’s business model, yet social entrepreneurship going the IKEA route is exactly what the market needs. Social entrepreneurship fills two needs with one deed - it marries commerce with a social cause and this business model holds immense potential in societal transformations. Though social enterprises have been around for a while now, they have always remained in the shadows of commercial retailers or brand dominance and hence have failed in market impressions. Now, IKEA brings both the above mentioned factors to tie-up with the social goodwill under one umbrella through its latest limited edition collection, HANTVERK. HANTVERK is a handcrafted collection that celebrates the craftsmanship from 3 different countries. For the collection IKEA collaborated with social enterprises from India, Thailand and Jordan, and with the help of Finnish designer Iina Vuorivirta, IKEA could bring recognition to traditional crafts from remote regions. The design expression is
Ikea’s Swe-Desi Collection
IKEA collaborates with social entrepreneurs around the world to create hand-crafted collection Hantverk, inspired by traditional crafts and rooted in Scandinavian design. BY SHWETA SALVI IKEA’s HANTVERK collection is a handcrafted product line that celebrates the craftsmanship from 3 different countries
essentially Scandinavian; however, the products emerge from traditional crafts and local materials available
Collaboration with Industree Foundation led to a collection of handwoven baskets made from sustainable banana fibres
in the collaborating regions. HANTVERK, meaning handicraft in Swedish, comprises of handmade baskets, ceramics, textiles, and more. Each item speaks of the success story of empowering artisans - which significantly reflects a whopping 85% female demographic. The venture opens up opportunities for developing and showcasing skills and offering them in the global market through an established brand like IKEA. Additionally, all materials are locally sourced, natural sustainable materials like banana fibre, handmade paper, ceramic and cotton. Since past couple of years, IKEA is putting efforts in building long-term partnerships with social entrepreneurs around the world. Since 2013, more than 20,000 artisans get a steady income through collaborative ventures with IKEA. In India for the Hantverk collection, IKEA has joint hands with two organisations, Industree Foundation and Rangsutra. In d u s t re e Fo u n d a t i o n , i s a Bangalore based non-profit organisation which strives to provide
sustainable livelihoods and empowers artisans, while, Rangsutra, bridges the gap between rural artisans and global consumers in order to revive India’s rich craft heritage. IKEA India’s Communication & Interiors Manager, Mia Olsson sharing her thoughts on this collaboration stated, “The collection has helped us create sustainable livelihoods and provide economic empowerment to the local communities that we operate in. If IKEA can be part of making social business mainstream and sustainable in the long run, it’s fantastic. IKEA actively collaborates with skilled artisans from social entrepreneurs regularly because it not only brings the modern and the traditional together but helps us to create a direct connect with our local customers, who have shown much interest in our Swe-desi (Swedish and Indian) range of products.” Industree has collaborated with IKEA on several occasions and this time around for HANTVERK, Industree engaged with local artisans to create handwoven baskets made of sustainable banana fibres that were inspired by the traditional Scandinavian birch bark baskets.
THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
The IKEA collaboration with Thailand’s Doi Tung DP resulted in unique ceramic products
Neelam Chhibber, Co-Founder & Managing Trustee at Industree Foundation said, “It’s a great opportunity to work alongside IKEA in creating such beautiful collections. This collaboration has helped our artisans to grow and earn a livelihood for themselves, which makes them financially independent. The best part about HANTVERK is how we got to marry modern Scandinavian design aesthetics with local Indian manufacturing sensibilities.” So far their collaborations have led to seven collections manufactured by producers in areas like Madurai, Erode and Bangalore and sold in stores in Europe, Japan, and Korea with the participation of over 1500 artisans in the production. Whereas, artisans at Rangsutra have weaved handmade cushion covers and throws which come with interplay of warm earthy shades of red, blue and white. Talking about this design collaboration IKEA’s inhouse designer Iina Vuorivirta stated, “I had sent a sketch to Rangsutra and when I got the prototype back it had two different kinds of lines instead of
Place mats from HANTVERK collection
Artisans at Rangsutra have weaved handmade cushion covers and throws which come with interplay of red, blue and white shades
The Industree baskets are inspired by the traditional Scandinavian birch bark baskets
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Banana Fibre Basket
the one that I had in mind. I actually think the final products look even better because of it” Speaking about the impact and overall morale boost this venture has established, Sumita Ghose – Founder and Managing Director, Rangsutra, said, “The Hantverk collection enabled the handloom weavers and women artisans to get the much-needed work in their own villages. It was also an encouragement for other artisans who showed increased interest in working at the village centres instead of migrating to the city in search of work.” IKEA with its stronghold on the retail industry provides these enterprises an open access to a global marketplace which otherwise is a struggle, while creating a stable future and a strong foundation for steady income. HANTVERK also features products created by Doi Tung DP from Thailand and the Jordan River Foundation from Jordan. The collection is now available at IKEA’s Hyderabad store. Contact web: www.ikea.com/in/en
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Co. Profile
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era unveiled its kitchen brand Senator Cucine spread over 2,000 sq ft at the ACE Tech Mumbai exhibition recently. With this foray Cera who already has a leading position in the sanitaryware, faucets and tiles, entered the modular kitchen’s market. The Senator Cucine kitchens are truly Italian, made to measure in Italy. Cera has tied up with Spagnol Group, an Italian company with over 50 years of experience in kitchens and furniture to bring their range of bespoke modular kitchens to India. “CERA’s entry into kitchens further consolidates its position of total home solutions provider” says Mr. Atul Sanghvi, Executive Director & CEO of Cera. “We plan to open 30 studios for Senator Cucine in the first year, across India”. Each of the kitchens have a definite individual design philosophy. The latest trends of glass and ceramic finished kitchens are also available. The modular kitchen solution is focused on personalising projects by allowing distinctive elements and a unique selection of materials to create a bespoke kitchen. Manufactured by using hydrorepellent materials with the lowest formaldehyde emissions, up to five times lower as compared to European market standards. IDROLEB board which is used to manufacture Senator Cucine is a unique engineered wood and is considered as the lowest ever emission board. Each Senator Cucine Studio will have well experienced kitchen designers, who will help the consumers in designing the kitchen as per their individual needs through the latest cloud based designing software.
Cera Now Enters Modular Kitchens
With the Senator Cucine brand launch Cera makes its foray into kitchens. Cera has been on an aggressive expansion drive by stepping into new categories and growing its footprint with dedicated style studios.
The Senator Cucine kitchens are truly Italian, made to measure in Italy. Cera has tied up with Spagnol Group, an Italian company with over 50 years of experience in kitchens and furniture to bring their range of bespoke modular kitchens to India
In addition to the Senator Cucine roll out Cera has also been on an extensive drive to expand its Cera Style Studio footprint across the country. Recently the brand has opened studios in Bangalore, Morbi and Thiruvananthapuram. “The expansion is necessary,
Cera opened its company display centre, Cera Style Studio in Morbi, which is considered as the ceramic hub of India. The Cera Style Studio at Morbi was the 10th one inIndia. Followed Axor MyEdition Single Style lever Studios basin mixer by new and renovated in Bengaluru and Thiruvananthapuram
looking at the increasing product portfolio from Cera stable” says Mr Atul Sanghvi, Executive Director & CEO of Cera. Cera’s product range includes sanitaryware, tiles, faucets, wellness, mirrors, sinks and water heaters. Its premium offering, Senator, has
sanitaryware, faucets, wellness and mirrors, while its luxury brand Isvea has sanitaryware and cabinets. The full range is only display at the Cera Style Studio. Contact email: pks@cera-india.com web: www.cera-india.com
Cera opened a spanking Style Studio in Bengaluru on the upscale 100 feet road in Indiranagar. The inauguration was done by Cera’s Vice Chairman, Mrs. Deepshikha Khaitan. The new CERA Style Studio, spread over two floors, admeasures over 8,000 square feet
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Spot Light
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his extensive 8,000 square feet showroom amalgamates global trends along side avantgarde utility, through its interactive displays that conjure design dreams into reality. Present at the launch were Sri Mr. Jayesh Ranjan, IAS Member and Principal Secretary of Industries and Commerce (I&C) and Information Technology (IT), and renowned architect Nanda Kumar Birudavolu who inaugurated the new showroom, along with Mr. Jürgen Wolf, Managing Director, Häfele South Asia. Mr. Wolf explained, “Hyderabad is one of our growing markets in India and to successfully cater to our customers we felt the need to move to a bigger premise.” He further expounded on the Häfele Showroom Concept, where customers can handle and see the elegant hardware fittings and make a choice that suits their functionality either for their businesses or residences, rather than imagining what the accessories might actually look like when selecting from a catalogue. This new Häfele design showroom has been purposefully designed so customers can fulfil their inspirations by interacting with live displays that let them experience the functionality of the products first hand. Also, with real estate prices on the up and the shrinking of living spaces, the call for ingenious space-saving solutions has become the need of the hour among city-dwellers. Häfele has thus come out with a range that optimises space, along with a sustained commitment to ‘more life per meter square’ solutions. Häfele believes that design concepts and new ideas can be better comprehended when they are
Häfele Opens Its New Design Showroom
Häfele, the global force in interior functionality has opened its new state-of-theart design showroom in Hyderabad.
Häfele’s new design showroom in Hyderabad
encountered in a ‘live’ set-up. This credo is what drives the company’s vision to launch ultra-modern showrooms that encourage customers to touch and feel their world-class products that are inspired by the latest global trends. Häfele is also a firm believer in ‘form following function’ and this adage is what guides their functionality combined with aesthetics. Following
this maxim, Häfele also provides a designing service for kitchens and wardrobes helmed by an team of experts who exclusively operate from their showrooms. Customers can now come and interact with a number of the company’s latest launches that include main doors that have five digitally smart security features that provide controlled access and indubitable safety.
Customers can choose ergonomic convenience in their kitchens as Häfele offers five new innovations from Blum that simplify movements within the kitchen, including organised storage within cabinets, while five latest concepts for the perfect shower experience are also available. Häfele’s smart furniture lights from the 5th Generation of Loox
THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
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Customers can choose ergonomic conveniences in their kitchens after interacting with it
This ultra-modern set-up encourages customers to touch and feel the world-class products
Lighting Systems in synthesis with Häfele’s five latest space optimisation ideas through its (Space)2 range are also things offered to its customers for a total home solution. This year Häfele took inspiration from the many facets of the number five and applied it to the ‘5 x 5’ rule at Acetech. They designed a theme that introduces 5 creative, practical and functionally feasible ideas for each of the 5 main areas in a home. At the Häfele booth people could experience their main door solutions, kitchen innovations, bathroom solutions and smart furniture lighting along with their (Space)2 range that are on display in their showrooms. Häfele’s design showrooms have been created as a hub with cutting edge designs presented in a worldclass environment, where customers can see home solutions in their inherent applications. Contact web: www.hafeleindia.com
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Interview
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eaded by designers Subi Suman and Poulami Biswas, SpaceTale, a Kolkata based furniture studio, crafts unique yet perfectly functional furniture pieces that blend the precision and beauty of Indian craftsmanship with their contemporary designs. The emphasis is on allowing the handcrafted pieces to narrate a story pulled from the memories of the client’s past, present or the probable future. The studio has won several prestigious awards and continues to win accolades for their meticulous and unique work. Subi and Poulami tell The Inside Track why it’s so important for them to craft personal stories through their furniture collections.
SpaceTale Design Spacetale Design, a Kolkata based furniture studio spins memorable tales through their bespoke furniture pieces.
Would you briefly tell us about your background and training? Subi Suman is a graduate of architecture and following his passion for interiors and space products, he joined NID in 2007 in Post Graduate Diploma Programme in Furniture and Interior Design. Being in a multidisciplinary environment, Subi pursued his interests in graphic design, toy design, light design, photography and other inter-disciplinary subjects. Poulami Biswas, a born artist, dancer, an architect, and an urban designer joined SpaceTale as a creative coordinator in 2012. Her paintings
Tell us about the inception and intent behind SpaceTale Designs
Mola, The Seat
Poulami Biswas
Sonar Tori
Everyone has a story. Sometimes we are the lead of that story, and sometimes we just witness them. Sometimes it’s just boring, while some are utterly fascinating. These stories hold memories of our childhood, and our present. They may be folklores or mythical legends that were passed on for centuries or just stories of our daily lives. These little tales make our lives
interesting and worth living. SpaceTale products are about such stories that have been such an integral part of us. These stories are inspired by the great cultural heritage of India as well as the stories of our lives. Furniture and products from SpaceTale are meant to reflect a personality that is an extension of a quintessential Indian.
Hexa Pattern
Subi Suman
THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
and art on furniture transform the pieces into art objects.
We value the diverse craftsman skills of India. The studio consistently perseveres to develop our crafting style and we collaborate and train our community craftsmen. We often try to blend our design sensibilities with Indian crafts.
Your collections are sensibly crafted and celebrate the beauty of storytelling. Is there a conscious thought behind customizing and developing of all your products?
Take us through the manufacturing process. Are the objects handcrafted in your studio workshop or machine-made?
Yes, all of our products tell a story or portray an event in a frame. Even when it’s about bespoke furniture, we try to put some effort on storytelling and somehow in most cases the clients also love them. So, in a long run we have established this as a signature style of our brand.
We believe in handcrafted design as we think our furniture pieces are functional sculptures. We have our own design studio and workshop for production. For the basic cutting and structural job the workshop has a wood working machine and power tools, rest of it is totally handcrafted.
Tell us about the entire scope of work undertaken by SpaceTale Designs. We have three verticals now Spacetale Signature collection: Where we have our furniture collection, anyone can buy them. We allow limited customisation in terms of material and finish, but in this case minimum order quantity is required.
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What are the materials you essentially work with? Any plans to explore new materials?
Cosmos Sofa
The main material is solid wood and engineered wood. We explore different verticals where wood is the main material but is treated in a different manner to create completely different aesthetics. For instance, we have developed wooden motif which looks like a full ceramic body, since we found wood is more effective as it is not fragile like ceramic. Does SpaceTale Designs take any special measures to counter environmental deterioration? Yes, we try to ensure minimal material wastage in all out production. Our design aesthetics draw inspiration for nature too. Our products like Rosa, Lotus, Burgeon, shoot-up, bird coaster set have taken cues from the nature. We also gift our customers and clients seed boxes, so that they can throw them over vacant land to allow trees to grow organically.
Burgeon Arm Chair
What are you currently working on and any plan to expand you’re work portfolio in future?
Spacetale Bespoke: Where we do customised projects. Sometime we collaborate with renowned Indian architects and designers. We do design consultancy along with production for the same. We are coming up with limited edition collection where the design will not be mass produced. Our buyer will get a signed certificate for the product along with declaration about the produced number of copies. Some of them will be single piece designs as well. What role does India’s extensive craft heritage and craftsmanship play in your own signature style?
Definitely, we have lots of expansion plan. Every year we try to initiate new ventures to add to our body of work. Where can people buy your products: in-store/online/directly from you?
Nest Bird Coaster Set
Our furniture is ordered on request. People connect with us through our social media pages and email or call us directly for furniture booking. Contact email: info.spacetale@gmail.com web: www.spacetaledesigns.com
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Co. Profile
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ne the sidelines of the A c e Te c h e x h i b i t i o n Mukesh Savlani, the CEO of Welspun Flooring Limited, talked about the bullish future of the new flooring vertical he heads. The ambitious greenfield project by Welspun Group in Hyderabad, Te l a n g a n a h a s a s i g n i f i c a n t investment of 1200 crores and aims to deliver a portfolio of unique and first-of-its-kind products which are currently not manufactured by any industry player in India.
Welspun Aims To Floor The Market
Welspun, a leading conglomerate, has now rolled out its flooring solutions as a fully integrated and independent flooring vertical. It aims to expand its product portfolio and become a one-stop flooring solutions provider for the country and to the world.
Mr. Mukesh Savlani, CEO Welspun Flooring is extremely bullish about the future of the new flooring vertical he heads
Designed and manufactured keeping the Indian customers in mind, along with having global ambitions, the products thrives on three key pillars - Design, Performance and Convenience. One of the unique attributes of the tiles (SPC, Carpet tiles) comes in the form of the material from which it is made - made up of plasticized PVC fused with limestone content for better durability. The tile also happens to be one of the thinnest tiles available in the industry. Using patented technology and made in a factory which is extremely proud of it green and sustainable endeavoursWelspun Flooring Solutions has opened its innings with two product categories - Carpet Tiles and a designer Click-N-Lock flooring solution. The Welspun Carpet Tiles are easy to customize and even easier to manage. Available in a variety of hues and graphics, these Carpet Tiles come in the form of modular nylon tiles that have the flexibility to mix and match different designs, colours and textures; Primarily used in large corporate spaces Carpet Tiles are very effective in reducing noise
The Click N Lock tiles are light and sturdy and available in wood and stone finish which can be placed together for a fresh look in a matter of hours
THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
The Click N Lock tiles are waterproof, termite-proof, UV-resistant and scratch resistant, giving a seamless look. They aim to challenge the status quo of vitrified tiles considered to be the most commonly used flooring solution
The Welspun designer flooring solution also has a tandem solution of Carpet Tiles and a Click N Lock flooring solution for a quick distinctive look
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With this new roll-out Welspun Flooring Limited aims to challenge the dominant market position of ‘carpet tiles’ currently serviced by expensive imported products
and is fade and stain resistant. Welspun Carpet Tiles comes in two sizes, 50cmx50cm and 25cm X 100 cm. The Welspun designer flooring solution Click N Lock tile is a play of distinctive design, creating an alluring experience. These tiles are stone polymer composite t h a t c o m e s w i t h i n n ov a t i v e technology that allows the tiles to be laid on existing floors with minimal effort. The Click N Lock tiles are waterproof, termite-proof, UVresistant and scratch resistant, giving a seamless look. These light and sturdy tiles are available in wood and stone finish which can be placed together for a fresh look, that too in a matter of hours. With this new roll-out Welspun Flooring Limited aims to challenge the status quo in the flooring m a rk e t by o f f e r i n g d e s i g n e r products that can challenge the dominance of vitrified and ceramic tiles at one end while making a play for a dominant market share in the corporate ‘carpet tiles’ market which has so far been serviced by imported products. Contact web: www.welspunflooring.in
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Spot Light
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pened this September, its design rightfully echoes the fundamentals of the Bauhaus style, while also embodying the progression of the twenty-first21st century. The building itself which stands in the heart of Dessau, houses an ample area specifically designated for an in-depth exhibition that traces the history of the celebrated Bauhaus school. T h e Ba u h a u s , o n e o f t h e foremost institutions to persuade the amalgamation of art and craftsmanship, is rightly viewed as the 20th century’s most prominent school in the area of architecture, art and design. The new museum provides an understanding into the collection of the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation, which consists of around 49,000 exhibits, the world’s second largest collection of all things Bauhaus! The design of the new museum building can be credited to Addenda Architects, a young firm from Barcelona that defeated 830 entries in a global competition. The building is an unpretentious twelve meter high structure clad in an imposing glass facade, which catches different reflections and views depending on the outside light. The glass outer shell accommodates another building, with an upper storey made-up of a reinforced concrete cube. The architects were apparently inspired by bridge building, as the cube plainly sits on two staircase cores that are 50 meters apart. The staircases then ushers visitors into the exhibition
Duravit In The Bauhaus
The new Bauhaus Museum in Dessau, opened just in time for the hundredth anniversary of the Bauhaus, choosing Duravit products in their new special building.
The museum traces the history of the celebrated Bauhaus school, through 49,000 exhibits
area within, which is a space of over 1,500 square meters. The room has been protected from daylight and is air-conditioned, the ideal environment for conserving the displays. The light-suffused area in the lower storey has a café, shop, an open stage and temporary exhibitions that entice visitors to come again. In speaking the language of the minimalist Bauhaus style, the design
The design of the new museum building can be Axor MyEdition SingleArchitects, lever basina mixer credited to Addenda young firm from Barcelona
continues to the sanitary facilities as well. The Darling New wallmounted toilet from Duravit has a smooth, closed outer form with a comfortable rim, while inside, the toilet interior features a modern open flushing rim that enables the perfect water flow. This produces a dynamic, powerful flush for optimal cleansing of the inside of the bowl, ensuring perfect hygiene, even with smaller volumes of water. A unique
product for a unique building! Founded in 1817 in Hornberg in the Black Forest, Duravit AG is the leading international manufacturer of designer bathrooms. The company operates in more than 130 countries and represents innovation in the fields of signature design, comfort-enhancing technology and premium quality. Contact web: www.duravit.in
Rooms are protected from daylight and are air-conditioned which is ideal environment for conserving the displays
THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
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he new Kohler Experience Centre in Shakti Mills, Mumbai is a melting pot of art and design in the city featuring bathroom inspirations from seven prominent architects. Spread across an expanse of 16,000 sq. ft. over two floors and hosting four distinct zones, the Experience Center serves as a source of inspiration for bath space decor and providex for an elevated, immersive retail experience. Offering Kohler’s best-in-class designs and technology on display,
Kohler Inaugurates Exceptional Experience Centre Keeping with its commitment to provide exceptional luxury bath and kitchen solutions, Kohler launched a spanking avant-garde experience centre in Mumbai.
The zones in the Experience Centre highlight Kohler’s journey of product innovation and performance stories with interactive and live product displays
the sprawling Experience Center has been designed by the Mumbai-based architecture firm ZZ architects. “Our Kohler Experience Centers signify a paradigm shift in our retail experience globally. With the new Kohler Experience Center in Mumbai we aim to further elevate our retail experience for consumers by bringing to life the exclusive range of Kohler products. The center also celebrates creativity and will bring to life, stateof-the-art designs from distinguished architects and designers in India. With this experience center we seek to inspire architects, designers and consumers with an interactive and immersive experience, said Mr. David Kohler, President & CEO, Kohler co. at the launch event. A key highlight of KEC Mumbai is a unique inspiration zone featuring design suites of seven top Indian and global architects. These were conceptualized to showcase the endless possibilities in luxury bathroom spaces by some of the top architecture and design talents, each of which feature Kohler’s finest products under a distinct theme. The suite by Pinakin Design titled Pale Rose has been inspired from the elements of nature while the design by Studio Lotus has been designed
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as a tactile, monastic space with hand - painted artworks. The suite by Ar. Ashiesh Shah named Wabi Sabi, is an experiential journey, amalgamating the senses of sight, touch and texture. The South African architect firm Ommni design in their suite bring in strong elements of African design, with patterns and motifs used by Malawian tribes. The exotic retreat, Andaman, designed by the Italian designer Paola Navone, creates an aquatic atmosphere with subtle handmade pieces and contemporary furniture made in India. The suite designed by K2 India is a work of art rooted in tradition and is
A key highlight of Kohler Experience Center Mumbai is a unique inspiration zone featuring design suites of seven top Indian and global architects. These were conceptualized to showcase the endless possibilities in luxury bathroom spaces
inspired by the architect’s day to day discoveries and interests. The multi award winning firm, ZZ architects in their suite have translated their vision using contemporary design. The zones in the Experience Centre highlight Kohler’s journey of product innovation and performance stories with interactive and live product displays, a fully equipped co-Working space and a warehouse area with a dedicated modular space that helps customers pick the right products for their projects. The center also entails a product area that houses - Kohler Artist Editions, Kohler’s range of connected
“With this experience center we seek to inspire architects, designers and consumers with an interactive and immersive experience”, said Mr. David Kohler, President & CEO, Kohler co. (Left) at the launch event
products, the Kohler-Manchester United co-branded products and Kallista all under one roof. Speaking on the new store launch, Mr. Salil Sadanandan, President, KOHLER K&B India, Middle East, and Sub Saharan Africa, added, “The new KOHLER Experience Center will see innovative designs and technology from India’s finest architects and designers converge under one roof. The state-of-the-art facility will take retail experience up a notch, featuring the best of Kohler products and finishes. The experience center will also feature our premium brand Kallista and our limited line of products in partnership with Manchester United.” Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin, KOHLER Co. is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies comprised of more than 30,000 associates. With more than 50 manufacturing locations worldwide, KOHLER is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products; engines and power systems; premier furniture, cabinetry, and tile; and owner/operator of two of the world’s finest five-star hospitality and golf resort destinations in Kohler and St Andrews, Scotland. Contact web: www.kohler.co.in
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Event
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aison&Objet is the global influencer for home decor, interior design, architecture and trends, amassing a huge following through its shows, events and digital platform. Inspired by its 2020 theme (RE) GENERATION!, the trade show will analyse the consumer habits of the new generation and their impact on the lifestyle sector. Besides the other amazing design, products, trends, talks and events to look forward to at the fair, we would like to acquaint our readers with Michael Anastassiades and his work, philosophies, design, etc. When Michael Anastassiades created his stunning lighting brand in 2007, the first fair at which he launched his new designs was Maison&Objet. Now, most fittingly, he is coming back as Designer of the Year. In the twelve year interim, he has become one of the most expressive and inventive lighting designers in the world today. In his work, the Cyprus native employs simple shapes and volumes, like a sphere, a line, a circle, to create a deep texture where uncertainty and imbalance are welcomed. The illusionary quality and clarity of his designs is a labour of love, which is not something to come by easily. In his eyes, designers are there to build relationships and interactions between people and objects.
Maison&Objet’s Designer Of The Year
To be held in Paris January (17-21) 2020, Maison&Objet has announced Cypriot designer Michael Anastassiadesm as its Designer of the Year.
How do you see your role as a designer? I am constantly questioning my role as a designer, always asking myself if what I am doing is relevant. Is my contribution to design really positive? Am I developing a new idea? I notice
When Michael Anastassiades created his stunning lighting brand in 2007, the first fair at which he launched his new designs was Maison&Objet. Now, most fittingly, he is coming back as Designer of the Year
a lack of originality. A lot of copying. For me, it is important to always show something different, make sure that what I design explores a new idea, uses new technology in a poetic way. I try to approach the practice with generosity and with an awareness of what came before. Lighting is my passion but I don’t feel limited in what I do as a designer, so I am happy to be surprised and have the opportunity of designing different things. “Things that go together” is the retrospective you had this year in Cyprus, showcasing the work you did in the last 12 years. What was it like to present your design process through your collection of objects and finished works?
THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
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Every time you start a new project you are faced with the anxiety of a blank page, that this time around you will learn from the time before and what you will draw, will most probably be better. It is obvious to think that practice and knowledge are part of an evolving process and that placing your work in a chronological sequence would reveal this process clearly. It is only when you place every-thing randomly that you understand that the creative act extends beyond evolution and that instinct and spontaneity can surpass knowledge. Maison&Objet was the first fair at which Michael Anastassiades showcased his work. It was a poignant time for him and an opportunity for him to stream line and develop the ‘personality’ of his brand. This January he wants to offer an experience. For the very first time, all sixteen of his mobile chandeliers will be showcased together - in a dark space, the lights, propelled by motors, will move like planets. Once more, Anastassiades wants to explore the qualities and conditions of darkness and light. Contact Maison&Objet Raj Anand & Associates 46/2,SindhiSociety, Chembur, Mumbai 400071 Email: raj@rajanandassociates.com web: www.maison-objet.com Tel: +91-22-25224081 Cell:+91-9833685256
Mobile Chandelier Collection
Tube Chandelier
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
IT Products
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uniquely developed antimicrobial glaze introduced during the manufacturing process gives these tiles the ability to stop the build up of infectious germs, bacteria and fungus, making them the go-to option for today’s health conscious consumers. These full body vitrified tiles hold their colour throughout their thickness, making them perfect for areas that have heavy footfalls. Even after an extended period, their colour remains intact making them ideal for malls, airports, etc., while their adaptable anti-skid properties
Kajaria Eternity Unveils New E-Shield Vitrified Tiles
The E-shield is a first-of-its-kind original product made from a distinctive glaze that has an anti-microbial treatment. what the newly launched E-Shield Glazed Vitrified Tiles collection by Kajaria Eternity is all about. Available in 60X60 cm with two finishes Premium Matt & Super Matt. Contact web: www.kajariaceramics.com
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These vitrified tiles hold their colour, making them perfect for areas with heavy footfalls
gives these tiles a zero slippage result on slopes of up to 25. Because of their anti-skid quality, they can be utilised in areas where safely is a concern like hospitals, schools and even homes
and offices and other commercial spaces where longevity and hygiene are paramount. Innovation, long lasting finishes, chic designs in beautiful natural textures and bold colours are
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THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
Event
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teelcase, the leading brand in innovative workplace solutions, furniture, and technology products, unveiled i t s l a t e s t p ro d u c t l i n e s a n d introduced its family of brands in Hyderabad recently. The ‘Connecting Hyderabad’ pop-up showcased an array of designs by Steelcase and Orangebox - a Steelcase company - as well as its portfolio of brands and partners such as m.a.d, PolyVision and Taiga Concept, helping organisations in India reshape their workplace and gear up for on-the-horizon business transformations. “As the city continues to thrive, companies are growing and putting more focus on reshaping their workplace to optimise productivity and creativity. We are very pleased to bring our latest workplace insights and solutions to this vibrant city and look forward to helping organisations in India create workspaces that disrupt the way their teams work and collaborate, unleashing people’s potential,” said Uli Gwinner, President of Steelcase Asia Pacific. According to Steelcase’s ongoing research, businesses and their people are under more pressure than ever, expected to untangle complex problems, deliver fantastic results and do it all faster than their competitors. High-performing teams are working differently. They are “hyper-
Steelcase Introduces Its Latest Workplace Solutions
A Steelcase pop-up in Hyderabad showcased its new range of furniture, collaboration technologies and tools that can help businesses in India.
Uli Gwinner President Steelcase Asia Pacific, Raam Mohan, Business Head South India, Praveen Rawal, MD India
The ‘Connecting Hyderabad’ pop-up showcased an array of designs by Steelcase and Orangebox - a Steelcase company - as well as its portfolio of brands and partners such as m.a.d, PolyVision and Taiga Concept
collaborative” and constantly moving projects back-and-forth - akin to a soccer or basketball team - turning to practices like ‘design thinking’ (a method for creative problem solving) and ‘agile’ (a process for quick execution) to structure how their teams work together. These practices require rapid shifts between diverse activities and support for team collaboration whilst nurturing the needs of individuals. At the pop-up, Steelcase unveiled its Flex Collection, winner of Gold award in Best of NeoCon for Furniture Collections for Collaboration, and Orangebox Air3 acoustic pod - both designed to enable hyper-collaborative teams to quickly switch between teamwork and individual-focus tasks. “Since more of our time in the office every day is spent collaborating, the workplace is experiencing a reboot as well,” said Mr. Praveen Rawal, Managing Director, India. In addition to the new Flex Collection and Orangebox’s Air3 acoustic pod, Steelcase showcased a wide range of workplace furniture and tools from its portfolio. Steelcase has a growing footprint across India, including offices in Bangalore, Gurgaon, Hyderabad and Pune, as well as a WorkLife Center in Mumbai, offering customers an opportunity to experience first-hand the workplace for the future. Contact web: www.steelcase.com
THE INSIDE TRACK December 2019
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he HECAR Foundation is organizing the “Women in Design 2020+” International Conference with leading architects, urban conservationists, urban planners and designers of multiple and diverse disciplines from India and the World. The conference is scheduled to be held on 8th, 9th and 10th January, 2020 at the Nehru Centre Auditorium in Mumbai. This three-day conference will feature more than 35 women speakers and panelists sharing their stories, thoughts and ideas with the audience of some of the most respected designers and cultural practitioners. The conference is now open for
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Women in Design 2020+
This international conference organised by the HECAR Foundation will see leading women architects, urban conservationists, urban planners and designers sharing their stories, thoughts and ideas. registration with limited seats for women and men across the architectural and design fraternity.
The opening day of the conference will present discussions, keynotes addresses and presentations from
professionals from diverse cultures, nationalities and vantage points. The WID 2020+ conference is scheduled to start at 10:00 am. The opening discussion titled “Retrospective - then and now” include eminent architects; Brinda Somaya, Abha Narain Lambah, Shimul Javeri Kadri, Hirante Welandawe, Eli Giannini and Neera Adarkar as a reflection on the past twenty years. This discussion will be moderated by Asad Laljee and will touch upon the changing patterns of design practice in India and globally. Day 2 will open with a keynote lecture by the Architect Annabelle Selldorf founding principal of Selldorf Architects. This keynote lecture will be followed by two panel discussions. The first discussion will focus on the ‘role of community in conservation’ and the second will be a discussion on ‘professional practices In India and beyond.’ The final day of WID 2020+ international conference will begin with a keynote lecture at 10:15 am delivered by Architect Brinda Somaya who is the founding principal of the award-winning firm Somaya & Kalappa Consultants. This lecture will be followed by presentations by seven inspiring women practitioners in the disciplines of sustainable architecture, urbanism and activism, starting at 11:30 am. WID 2020+ is curated by the panel led by Brinda Somaya, Founder Trustee of The HECAR Foundation along with the organizing committee that includes Nandini Somaya Sampat, Ruturaj Parikh and Mary Norman Woods. The HECAR Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1999 to celebrate Mumbai’s multifaceted historic tradition. The foundations is an acronym for Heritage, Education, Conservation, Architecture and Restoration. It recognizes architecture as a product of historical movement and that the essence of life is growth and change; and as such must make allowances for both. Contact web: www.wid2020plus.org/schedule
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