The Inside Track January 2017 by The Inside Track

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Cover Story

esigning a house, office or any space has always been a cumbersome task due to the whole lot of planning and effort that it requires. Right from the selection of materials, to the designing of the products to their placement, every minute detail has to be taken utmost care of. With this, it is imperative to keep up with the latest trends which offer an exquisite look to your space. Though a few products and concepts have always been synonymous with home décor designing, there are design trends which have evolved over time and have become a rage in the ever-growing concept of home designing. While 2016 was largely a year of pastel hues, geometric designs, marble accents and stainless steel products, 2017 is based on the paradigms of freshness and innovation in design. Here we present you with a list of products, materials and trends which are poised to take the centre stage this year. Upholstered Beds This is a common trend in celebrity abodes and luxury resorts. It is high time you update the boring beds in your house with plush upholstered beds. Giving the room a luxurious and soft feel, upholstered beds are slowly replacing timber bed frames as they not only provide you with comfort but also give your bedroom a classic and elegant look. Talking about the trend of upholstered beds, designer Kunal Mehta of Kanchi by Shobhna & Kunal Mehta says, “Nowadays, the bedroom is not just a space for sleeping. If the room is large enough, then one can create a sanctuary for relaxation and private time. Upholstered beds are making quite a statement today. They come with a comfortable head-stand which also adds a timeless and dynamic appeal to your space. Also, neutrals tones have become exceedingly trendy. Since upholstery can be designed in lighter neutral fabrics (instead of dark tints as wooden dark tint, brown cherry, or deep

New Design Directions 2017 promises to be a year filled with dark shades, mixed patterns, eclectic designs, and innovative products - all with unexpected twists. BY SNEHA LUKKA & ANINDITA GANGULY

This Mumbai penthouse, designed by Abraham John Architects with Alan Abraham in the lead was conceptualised with an open plan concept to integrate indoor and outdoor spaces

espresso finish), lighter-coloured upholstered beds and headboards can make a small room feel warmer, brighter and less cluttered.” Open Plan Living It is all about going back to the good old times when the concept of living was dominated by the ideals of simplicity. The concept of open living is expected to be in vogue this season. Defining the concept of open plan living Priya Lakhotia Shah of Chicago Studio says, “Open-plan living is an expression as a whole to know and is something a significant number endeavour to accomplish. Upholstered Bed setting in a house designed by Noorein Jumani

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THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

THE

INSIDE TRACK

CONTENTS

January 2017

COVER STORY New Design Directions 1 Copper products by Rayden Design Studio

continued from page 1 Having the capacity to augment the floor space in our homes without bargaining on the common sense, is something that can be accomplished in even the littlest of spaces. While there can be a couple drawbacks to open-plan living, if arranged effectively, then open-plan living can be an awesome approach to get the most out of your home”. Lighting For indoor lighting, chandeliers, hanging lamps and pendant lamps

are in vogue in 2017. These lamps guarantee a pleasing accent to your living space and refresh the look of your home like never before. Floor lamps are also expected to be in trend this year as they are ideal for decorating living as well as work spaces. Copper Products Shiny in appearance and beneficial for health, copper products slowly are to replace stainless steel utensils in the kitchen. Though, not for continued on page 4

Pinklay: Adding Colour To Life 6 Aesthetic Roofing Solutions 8 Liebherr Launches Its First Experience Centre In Mumbai 9 Studio Mumbai’s Handmade MPavilion 10 Shelf Life: A Book Honours India’s Female Architects 11 ISH Frankfurt: The Tomorrow Of Bath Solutions 12 Affecting Energy - Environment Balance in an Office Space 14 An Architectural Homage To A Socialist’s Spirit 16 “The Hygiene Factor Is Of Utmost Importance” 18 VC Shield Keeps Pace With The Evolving Tile Market 19 The Latest On Recent Launches And Products 20 IDAM - Putting Concept To Practice 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, 23743069 Editor Mr. Anish R. Bajaj THE INSIDE TRACK Volume 11. Issue 01. January 2017. English - Monthly. This issue contains 24 pages including both covers. Creative Director Natalie Pedder-Bajaj Assistant Editor Shweta Salvi. Sub-Editor Sneha Lukka LayoutDesign Asif Shayannawar, Darshan Palav, Pooja Modak, Snigdha Hodarkar Marketing: Mumbai, Ganesh Gurav, Vivek Jadhav. B 62, Cotton Exchange Bldg, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033 Tel: (022) 23736133/1, 23743069 Email:response@ marvelinfomedia.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. Europe 282, Rue du Noyer, bt 16, 1030 Bruxelles, Belgium. 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 January 2017

continued from page 2 cooking food, but for drinking water from copper vessels is said to be beneficial for the body due to its anti-bacterial properties. Moreover, copper is slowly replacing other décor items as such products add a natural touch to the concept of healthy living. ‘We feel there is a growing trend for using pure materials like - copper, stone etc. which bring the beauty and purity of the material to our everyday objects. We not only see a growing number of designers using them but they also they seem to be hitting a chord with the consumers,’ says Parul and Mooshir Vahanvati of Rayden Design Studio which deals in the production of an array of copper and ceramic products.

promise of class and sophistication. It is expected to have a wonderful comeback by incorporating itself with such products as flooring, surface of tables and home accessories like serving platters and decorative vases. Colour The colour of a space reflects the owner’s personality; hence, accentuating your room with the right colour is of utmost importance. A riot of colours is expected to dominate the scene inb 2017. “A palette mixed with mysterious earthly colours and deep jewel tones like Mineral grey, earthly grey with green undertones, antiqued aqua, coral. These colours make an excellent backdrop for layering and to showcase

Colours like mineral grey, earthly grey with green understones make an excellent backdrop for layering and showcasing says Architect Kavan Shah

Tea Light Candle Holders by Gomaads add class and elegance to home decor

Concrete Concrete gives a bold and industrial look to any space, therefore, it is becoming increasingly popular in chic interior designs. This material is the right choice for furniture, appliances, wall furnishings and décor products for a classy appearance. Increasingly, concrete as a material is extensively used in combination with other materials like wood and steel to create an innate juxtaposition of functional accessories that are eye-catching, beautiful and functional. Interestingly, Gomaads is one such product design studio in India that designs life style products sculpted in concrete.

other colours in accessories. A palette of sophisticated neutrals have the quality to subtly change in different light conditions, giving a greater flexibility on how a space looks and feels at any given time”, says Architect Kavan Shah of Kavan Shah Design Studio.

Marble Marble has the amazing advantages of cooling and durability besides the

Low-E-Glass Glass is one of the most popular and essential building materials

used today. A Low-emissivity glass is a type of energy-efficient glass designed to prevent heat from escaping through your windows to the cold outdoors. The glass has a transparent metallic coating that reflects heat from radiators or fires back into the room, rather than allowing it to escape through the windows. At the same time, it allows free heat and light from the sun, which is known as passive solar heat gain to

stainless steel. Black stainless steel is less reflective with more of a matte look and feel. Kitchen Aid’s premium range of black stainless steel appliances includes a wide range of refrigerators, oven and other kitchen ware. The black stainless suite fits with any modern or classic kitchen layout, while taking your entire décor design up a notch. Terracotta Tiles This year will witness the influx of

Patterns Escapism, abstract and ambiguity will become increasingly popular extending to cover such prospects of design as tiling, roofing, furniture and furnishings. Besides this, bold prints and pop art will also duly make its presence felt. Terracotta gives a welcoming, timeless and environment-friendly advantages, says Urvi Shah of Urvi Shah Associates

pass through the glass, warming your home and further contributing to the energy-efficiency of the facades. Brands like Saint Gobain and Asahi India deal in selling low-e-glasses in India.

A Low-emissivity glass is a type of energy-efficient glass designed to prevent heat from escaping through your windows to the cold outdoors

Black Stainless Steel Instead of the gleaming stainless steel appliances, black polished stainless steel appliances are going to make their way in your kitchen as slowly they finish as a softer, warmer alternative to traditional

natural and sustainable materials like Terracotta tiles. A great way to add charm and personality to your homes, Terracotta tiles can enhance the look of any space. Talking about the use of Terracotta tiles, designer Urvi Shah of Urvi Shah Associates says that in contemporary architectural practice, people are looking at using more timeless and sustainable materials which give an excellent look to any space. continued on page 5

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

continued from page 4 Terracotta means ‘Fired Earth ‘It is durable, sustainable, fireproof, strong and can be moulded into virtually in any shape and is also available in a variety of designs, colors and finishes. Terracotta is an ancient material that was used in art and sculpture earlier and later on in bricks and roof tiles. More recently terracotta has been appearing in contemporary design, being used as tiles on both interior/exterior either as floor, wall or roof tile or for new purpose like screens to deflect sunlight in hot climates. It gives a very classic appeal and can make any kind of building feel welcoming, timeless and also environment friendly. Banana Fibre Paper Another move towards sustainability

Washlets: For the new levels of comfort and cleanliness

A palm at the corner of your bedroom, hanging planters in the living space to add some drama or just a small planter on your coffee table plants are the easiest way to style any space. They’re also a great way to break monotony and bring some freshness. Put them to break the space on a book shelf or on a bathroom window and you will not help notice the difference it makes,” says Saanwari, FounderCEO of PoppadumArt.

Aquasense shower by Graff

in design would be the use of banana fibre paper, dyed and woven on a handloom. The lighting products from Purple Turtle ideally illustrate this wonderful venture. Multipurpose Banana fiber is spread all across the world and has countless applications. It has its own physical and chemical characteristics that makes it a fine quality fiber. Talking of using banana fibre paper in the products, Radeesh Shetty, the owner of Purple Turtle says, “The paper we make in our studio is used to make a range of lights, stationery and home accessories. It has the long silky fibers from the trunk of the banana tree. The inherent strength and beauty of the paper it produces , is a delight to work with. With light it’s sheer poetry. It seems to invite the light in and envelope it with warmth and sensuality. The magic of paper and light lies in the eloquence of shadows. We have created interesting pieces with shadows, both, within the paper, using various wet and dry techniques, and in the design of the lamps, books and accessories”.

Planters Another approach to sustainability would be renderinging the ‘green’ touch to homes, living spaces, kitchens, bathrooms and even workplaces. Colourful and beautifully designed planters will occupy a place everywhere, “Plants can add life to any part of the home instantly. You don’t even need to choose flowering plants, just the greens can bring ample warmth to a room.

Doodhwala Planter by PoppadumArt

Washlets Designed to provide new levels of comfort and cleanliness, Toto’s signature product Washlet created quite a buzz with its ear cleansing, dryer and a heated seat function. The Washlet is an electronic bidet seat that cleanses you with warm water after toileting and provides an exceptionally clean feeling. Washlets are specifically designed to give you a more hygienic, eco-

friendly and hassle-free experience. With advancement in trade practices, selling technological products online has become a trend and is assumed to dominate the scenario in 2017. Trend of selling technological products online Talking about selling technological products online, Ms. Emanuela Tavolini, Director of Sales Europe, Graff for your kind perusal says, “Graff technological products offer a full sensorial experience. With chromotherapy, music and several different shower jets, the best way to appreciate these products is to view and test them inside the showrooms. For this reason Graff promotes the ‘instore’ experience of products more than on-line selling.” We look for ward to 2017 with bated breath expecting innovation in design and excellence in performance!

Pendant lamps are set to be in trend in 2017

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

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furnishing brand that creates exclusive designs inspired by natural elements, fusing traditional and contemporary work to craft stunning pieces. Pinklay currently offers an entire range of home décor with over 400 unique products spread across categories such as quilts, dohars, cushions, bedsheets, bedcovers, rugs, bath linen, table linen, infant and kids bedding, plush toys, and centre-pieces to name a few. Daisy Tanwani, the founder and driving force behind Pinklay, calls it, “a welcome pause, away from the humdrum”. Pinklay has a small team of designers. However, Daisy still closely guards the design process - right from idea inception to product sampling on the factory floor, she ensures that every Pinklay product stands by the brand ethos and philosophy. As someone who doesn’t have a formal design degree, she affirms feeling less restricted and more willing to push the design boundaries, bringing forth an array of refreshing designs and perspectives.

Pinklay is one-word for ‘Pink Clay’. The name of the brand ‘Pinklay’ materialized with ‘Pink’ from its powerful visual appeal and ‘clay’ owing to its extraordinary ability to mould into anything effortlessly. It’s a creative hands’ delight. Pinklay’s designs are crafted to convey stories - often inspired from natural elements and diverse crafts and cultures from around the world. The idea behind Pinklay was simple - “to create a more accessible, aspirational, lifestyle brand to cater to the house-proud in all of us”. Colour is at the heart of their art.

Pinklay: Adding Colour To Life

A home décor and furnishing brand, Pinklay, magically manifests creativity with colours, patterns and prints. BY ANINDITA GANGULY

The brand has frequently collaborated with interior designers and other brands to design spaces and events. Most recently, they partnered with a new restaurant in Kenya to visualize and design their table décor. They have also designed visual merchandising for a multinational company for display in their stores and kiosks across the country. Pinklay is extremely popular in the gifting and wedding circuit, providing décor solutions to corporates and wedding planners. They never compromise on quality - all their products are produced using the best quality materials available and are rigorously tested to ensure they meet and exceed the customers’ standards.

Daisy Tanwani - Pinklay, Founder

At Pinklay, they emphasize on retaining authentic art and design sensibilities of various regions and are dedicated to upskilling and employing underprivileged women in India. Their designs, inspired from crafts and cultures from around the globe, and their bold use of colour, that is tasteful and authentic, is what sets them apart from other brands. In the coming years the brand sees itself growing

in double digits has been growing in double digits and significantly increasing its presence through store affiliations and exclusive Pinklay retail stores across the country. They are also looking at expanding their portfolio by foraying into kids, bedding and décor segment. Contact: web: media@pinklay.com tel: +91 99 8775 2369

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

Co. Profile

rass Monier Building Group is one of the leading roofing companies worldwide offering an array of roofing solutions, products and technical guidance to customers all over the world. With offices in 33 countries, continental technical centres and over 100 manufacturing facilities, the brand made its entry into the Indian market in 1997 and since then has been one of the leading names in the roofing segment of the country. Turning every roof into a masterpiece, Ashok Ninan, Managing Director, Monier India talks to us about the emerging trends in the roofing segment of India.

Aesthetic Roofing Solutions Managing Director of Monier India, Mr. Ashok Ninan talks to us about the emerging trends in the roofing segment of India.

What are the emerging trends in the roofing segment in India? Over the last few years, with easy access and use of internet, people have started to research about the products that they intend to buy. And with internet being a place which constantly updates us with all the latest offerings, we as a company too try to keep our customers happy by introducing them to all the latest roofing products that are slowly creating a niche for itself. As people’s housing style is evolving so is the roofing segment as they are now gradually opting more for flat roofing tiles in comparison to the traditional curvy roof ones. Also, in terms of colour, more people are now opting for subtle colours like grey or a combination of grey.

Plano - Special-dark-grey

Elabana Vintage Orange tiles used at Grand Hyatt,Goa

What kind of roofing accessories do you provide? We, at Monier, always believe that providing our customers with proper roofing solutions is of utmost importance. We not only provide the roofing tiles but also complete roofing solutions that complement the durability and effectiveness of the tiles. Our product range consists of Plano and Elabana range of concrete roof tiles and Roman12, Plana and Coloroof Plus II clay roof tiles, while our roofing components provide roof ventilation, waterproofing and protection against heat and bring in the natural light.

Coloroof Plus II - Maroon

Mr. Ashok Ninan, Managing Director

Though, there are many other roofing companies coming in, what makes us different is the quality of tiles we produce, the multiple tile profiles that we have to offer to our customers and a huge production capacity in India. What do you think is missing in the current roofing segment in India? How do you think you can improve it? Luxron - uPVC rainwater gutter system

We have Underlays products like Veltisun® which is laid under the tiles to reduce the effect to the heat and make the roof watertight. Our other product Skylight is a transparent tile which reflects natural light inside the house. Currently, one product that is receiving maximum appreciation is the Rainwater Gutter system which is a critical component for roofs to channel the rain water from the roof to a desired location. How is Monier competing with other Indian and International brands? Times are tough, but having almost 100 years of experience globally and being in the Indian market for almost 20 years, and with strong technical support makes us stand out amongst the rest. Our basics are very strong and we have a good after sales service which lets us keep upper hand in the business.

In India, currently what’s missing is the availability of professional roofers who are well-known with the art of laying good products. So we at Monier understand this and have a team of technical experts who guide roofers and organize special workshops for them to understand the aesthetics, innovation and performance of the whole roof setting system. In the next five years, where do you see the brand? I see in the future, Monier brand is going to be stronger. We are looking to expand our business across India and having a panIndia presence. Contact Monier Roofing Pvt. Ltd., 143/ C3, Bommasandra Industrial Area, Phase 1, Bangalore 560099. web: www.monier.in email: contact.india@monier.com tel: 080 41268116/7 +91 90 1911 0303

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iebherr, one of the largest and leading construction machine manufacturers marked its presence in India in 1980s. Since then, the brand has been a frontrunner in providing world-class appliances, refrigerators and other cooling appliances. Liebherr has further strengthened its presence in the Indian market with the launch of its first experience centre in Mumbai. A first of its kind showroom houses cooling appliances built on Liebherr’s world-class standards with a key focus on innovation, allowing customers to get a firsthand experience of the integrated high-end features intrinsic to the brand’s branded appliances. The centre showcases cooling and freezing combinations of products, side-by-side appliances, built-in appliances as well as wine cabinets. “The inert characteristics and unique demand of the Indian market offers a huge potential for the cooling appliances industry not merely for the present, but also in the future”, said Guenther Sproll, International Head of Marketing, Liebherr Group. He further added saying, “Industry research tells us that the market for such products in India is slated to grow at the rate of 11.4 percent by 2025. This, coupled with higher disposable incomes and changing consumer preferences, makes India an extremely relevant market for us. With our first ever experience store in Mumbai, we are excited to bring in a revolution not just in terms of refrigeration, but also in the way such high-end products are bought and sold.” Articulating his views on the launch of its first ever Experience

Liebherr Launches Its First Experience Centre In Mumbai Patrons in Mumbai can rejoice as leading equipment manufacturer Liebherr offers a first-hand experience of its branded appliances.

Liebherr has further strengthened its presence in the Indian market with the launch of its first experience centre in Mumbai

Centre, Radhakrishna Somayaji, Chief Sales Officer, Liebherr Appliances India Pvt. Ltd. said, “The launch of our first ever Experience Centre in Mumbai is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to deliver customer satisfaction with our unique array of innovative products. We are implementing a selective sales strategy in India

The showroom gives you a first-hand experience of the integrated high-end features intrinsic to the brand’s branded appliances

based on the foundations of definite market research, and the new store is a stepping stone towards developing a strong pan-India dealer network. We are extremely optimistic and excited to offer our premium cooling solutions to Indian customers.” With over 130 offices in more than 50 countries, the Liebherr group is all set to invest Rs. 500 crore

for setting up a production plant in Aurangabad. With the objective of producing high-end refrigeration appliances tailored to suit the Indian market, the company looks ahead to manufacturing 500,000 cooling appliances each year from 2018. Contact web: www.liebherr.com tel: 022 - 6176 7500

Liebherr showcases cooling and freezing combinations of products, side-by-side appliances, built-in appliances as well as wine cabinets

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

As he says himself, “It allows us to be; you know you are looking at Bamboo but you experience everything but the bamboo”. With bamboo used extensively for scaffolding purposes in India, it became an imperative choice to use this material to create a cultural space that is temporal in nature and flexible in programme. They have included Indian classical dance performances, talks on architecture and urbanism, yoga sessions along with bio-diversity workshop for kids and pet-friendly activities.

Photos By Kunal Bhatia

The 2016 MPavilion is not only the first time that an Indian architect has created a public space in Australia, but it is also the largest Bamboo structure to be built in the country. The pavilion sits on a bluestone floor sourced from a quarry in Port Fairy, Victoria besides the slatted roof panels shaped from `sticks of the Karvi shrubs put together in Maharashtra and sent across to Melbourne. The MPavilion design features an opening at the centre of the roof which sharply dips towards the ground at the

Photos By Kunal Bhatia

Photos By Kunal Bhatia Photos By Kunal Bhatia

Celebrating its third year now, the MPavilion was originally designed by Bijoy Jain of Studio Mumbai. Now in its third year, the MPavilion was designed by Bijoy Jain of Studio Mumbai, whose pavilion exemplifies his practice’s firm belief and experimentation with hand-made architecture. Encapsulating handmade architecture, 7km of bamboo, 5000 wooden pegs and 26km of rope was used to create this extraordinary 16.8 m square summer pavilion. Jain chose to work with Bamboo because of its robustness, versatility.

belief and experimentation with hand-made architecture.

Photos By Kunal Bhatia

he MPavilion is an annual architecture commission and design event curated by Naomi Milgrom Foundation supported by City of Melbourne and the Victorian State Government. Every year, a temporary summer pavilion is designed by a leading international architect for the Queen Victoria Gardens in the centre of Melbourne’s Southbank Arts Precinct. Each year from the month of October to February, the space becomes a cultural hub for talks, workshops, performances and installations.

Studio Mumbai’s Handmade MPavilion The pavillion exemplifies Bijoy Jain’s

Photos By Kunal Bhatia

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four corners, providing a strong sense of enclosure whilst offering dynamic views of the surrounding gardens. Bijoy visualizes this as a factor connecting earth to sky. Below it sits a golden well signifying the importance of water to place and community. An elaborate ‘tazia’ entrance tower, as used in Indian ceremonies, sits next to the pavilion as a welcoming gesture. The MPavilion was designed by British architect Amanda Levete in 2015 and by Australian architect Sean Godsell in 2014. Contact web: www.studiomumbai.com

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hen a country goes through a period of great flux, be it wars, revolutions, or economic depression, a unique set of opportunities arise within it. Women all over the world and across varying decades in history, have often benefited and brilliantly capitalised on such opportunities, denied as they are in calmer times. Mary N. Woods dwells on this dichotomy, among many others, in her book ‘Women Architects in India: Histories of Practice in Mumbai and Delhi’. It is an important piece of research in a literary pool that is missing many pioneering female names.

Shelf Life: A Book Honours India’s Female Architects ‘Women Architects in India : Histories of Practice in Mumbai and Delhi’ by Mary N. Woods, highlights the stories of pioneering Indian architects and how they succeed in unwelcome environments. BY SHRUTI NAMBIAR

Sunita Kohli, and so many more remarkable women who are re-writing the Indian modern architectural study book. The pages will reveal that this hard-fought journey for recognition and opportunity began in the 1930s, and will continue in the decades to come.

L-R: Brinda Somaya, Revathi Kamath, Sheila Sriprakash, Sunita Kohli

In her book, Woods, a historian of architecture at Cornell University, gathers up names and personal histories, and places these architects’ works against the era they lived in and the typically gendered limitations they grappled with. The story arc traces the feverish period of construction activity that followed India’s independence in 1947, to the current landscape, primarily of the two metros mentioned in the title, where a crop of famous names represents India’s female architectural identity, so to speak. The book is a great chance to look back and fortify one’s understanding of how much of the India we see today started and was realised with the ideas and efforts of women builders and designers. As the decades flew by, the feminist narrative within the architectural narrative of India got washed out, only to find a gradual revival in the post-1991 liberalisation era. Wo m e n a r c h i t e c t s h a v e spread their wings across every

arena of architecture in India, be it commercial, residential, conservation, urban planning, public buildings, social housing, and more. But it still is an environment where inspite of female students outnumbering the male in professional institutes, women remain unsung and underrepresented at all levels of the playing field. Woods’ research brings out facts, fascinating personal stories, and photographs, as well as the more abstract paths to success these female professionals often have to navigate to manage a successful career in a largely patriarchal set-up. “If the mother-in-law was supportive, it made a big difference,” Woods mentioned in an interview. What also made a difference: complying to a constant pressure to think up unusual ideas. A book like this one is essential reading if you have, and especially if you haven’t, heard of Anupama Kundoo, Brinda Somaya, Sheila Sriprakash,

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he leading trade fair in the world - International Sanitary and Heating (ISH) Trade Fair is a biennial event that conglomerates the Bathroom Experience, Building Services, Energy, Air Conditioning Technology and Renewable Energies. With over 2,400 exhibitors, including all market leaders from home and abroad, launching their latest products, technologies and solutions onto the world market at ISH, the event is an international rendezvous for trade. ISH 2017 is scheduled to take place from 14th March, 2017 to 18th March, 2017 in Frankfurt in Germany. The major themes for this year will be directed towards water and energy. Enhanced scope will be allocated to the concept of ‘bathroom for people’ which will highlight the health-promoting, comfortable, individual, digital and responsible bathrooms. A d d i t i o n a l l y, n e t w o r k e d water management systems for a comfortable and safe environment, sustainable systems for domestic hot water heating and water conservation for environmental awareness and economic efficiency will also be accounted for. In the precinct of energy, application of double strategy of heating and renewable electricity and CO2-neutral woodfired heating systems will be focussed on. Moreover, technical challenges for air-conditioning and ventilation technology, eco-design directives 1253 and 1254 for ventilation units, modern energy-efficient domestic ventilation systems and digitalisation of the construction sector with BIM building information modelling will also be addressed.

ISH Frankfurt: The Tomorrow Of Bath Solutions ISH Frankfurt, an international biennial trade fair organized by Messe Frankfurt, will showcase the largest group of visitors for sanitation, heating and the air-conditioning installation trade.

The product groups have been distinctly outlined by the ISH. The bathroom experience, for instance includes baths, shower cubicles, bathroom furniture, accessories, ceramic wares, swimming pools, saunas and water treatment.

The building and energy technology section includes boilers, burners, heaters, flues, heat pumps, solar energy systems, use of rain water, traditional tiled stoves, fireplaces, fittings and components for heating equipment, MSR technology and home automation.

The efficient systems and renewable energies encompasses solar thermal energy, photovoltaics, biomass, heat pumps, wood and pellet burners, solar-energy systems and traditional tile ovens. The aircontec - air-conditioning, cooling and ventilation technology comprises of installations, equipment, components and systems for centralised and decentralised v e n t i l a t i o n t e c h n o l o g y, a i r conditioning units, split, multisplit, VRF systems, cooling, heating systems incorporated into the building fabric, fire and smoke protection and domestic controlled ventilation systems. The world of Installation Technology consists of Appliances and systems for surface mounting, pipes, fittings, fastenings, plumbing techniques, tools, and workshop equipment, office, IT and communications technology. The events at ISH Frankfurt 2017 includes a comprehensive programme of special shows, lecture forums, competitions, meetingpoint future for innovations, joint areas of exhibitors and Intersec Forum - a Conference for networked security technology. The ISH Partner Country for 2017 is Turkey which, according to Wolfgang Marzin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Messe Frankfurt, “reflects the growing involvement of Turkey in ISH”. The ISH has firmly established its leading market position and further extended its status as a top international trade fair and this year, it hopes to uphold the success that it has been for the last five decades. Contact Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH Ludwig-Erhard-Anlage 1 60327 Frankfurt a. M. web : www.ish.messefrankfurt.com

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lanned to be the Research and Development centre f o r Ad o b e Sy s t e m s , a n American multinational computer software company headquartered in California, United States, the campus is conceived as a highly utilitaria, functionality-driven, energy efficient and sustainable office space. With an extensive experience of over 30 years in the building industry, SWBI architects rendered a multi-dimensional endeavour and approach to designing the Adobe Campus. The office campus sets out to achieve new benchmarks for workspaces in the rapidly developing work culture in India. The design team led by Sanjay Wadhwa, carried out an integrated master planning for the entire campus, keeping in mind phased occupation and construction by means of phasing in a manner that creates a unified campus. The two Phase Blocks placed in a T-shaped manner are sensitively located within the site, linked through a walking street running through the entire campus connecting both the phases through landscaped courts and streets. The main spine designed on a grand scale running through the entire campus overlooks the water and landscape, connecting both the phases through landscaped courts and streets. An extensive horizontal parasol is provided above to cut out the high altitude south sun in summers, while allowing for the low altitude winter sun, and at the same time enabling an uninterrupted view of the extensive landscaped gardens. An expansive sloping landscaped area in the front acts as an excellent forecourt space for the building comprising of feature walls that support the roof parasol that shades the glare-free faรงade glazing and creates a clear vision from offices,

Affecting Energy - Environment Balance in an Office Space The Campus for Adobe Systems in Noida has been astoundingly designed to be energy efficient and environment friendly.

The main spine is designed on a grand scale running through the entire campus and overlooks the water and landscape

The office campus sets out to achieve new benchmarks for workspaces in the rapidly developing work culture in India

enabling excellent views of the landscape from the interiors of the work hall, while minimizing the heat gain from the wall of the building. Moreover, terracotta has been used as the primary material expressed in a modern contemporary style using geometric designs & compositions. A bio wall traps air pollutants and aids in lowering the surrounding airtemperatures and reducing cooling loads. Shaded pedestrian walkways are planned in the campus through the use of terracotta-tiled screens and a covered roof parasol. The Atrium is provided with a skylight for enhanced penetration of daylight in workspaces to create a live atmosphere. The campus encourages people to use stairs, hence encouraging a healthy life-style and conserves energy too. The north-lit Atrium is a very delightful & lively space in the campus. A LEED Platinum-certified project, true to its inherently green nature, an efficient, effective and expressive, and above all a sustainable design solution provides a unique identity to this state-of-the-art Research and Development facility. Contact web: www.swbiarchitects.com

A sustainable design is crafted to provide a unique identity to the office

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

Spot Light

he Jayaprakash Narayan Interpretation Centre in Lucknow is a tall, simple but unconventionally-shaped building. The monolithic structure features clean lines and an even red terracotta coating that lends it a brooding gravitas. The Centre presents itself as a visage of the titular freedom fighter, a facet brought alive by a skylight located on the slope of the structure. In its neighbourhood is the lovely Ram Manohar Lohia Park. Designed by Noida-based Archohm Consults, the centre is actually a gateway to The Jayaprakash Narayan International Convention Centre, the buildings standing face-to-face with a central void separating them.

An Architectural Homage To A Socialist’s Spirit The Jayaprakash Narayan Interpretation

Centre in Lucknow is dedicated to a simple man of complex thoughts. It is also a structure that heralds a new future of public architecture in India. BY SHRUTI NAMBIAR

Kinetic ideologies

The project design works a dexterous balance of ideas and symbols to achieve the best representation of J P Narayan, the person, while also establishing a monument that could inspire the city’s modern architectural future. While the more elemental feel of the façade communicates simplicity, the scale of the shell (with a 20 mt.wide and 9 mt.-high arch) is meant to represent boldness of thought. “It best diagrammatically represents the triad of objectives of socialism as conceived by J P Narayan - freedom, equality and brotherhood. These three words are celebrated and etched in multiple languages on the terracotta panels,” states the team. The wedge-shaped building’s first impression is of calm solidity, but it is just a triple-leveled envelope for a far more complex interior layout. The exhibition swathe follows the rule of theme-specific sections, but breaks the rules of an expected layout with the help of a network of spiral stair-wells, intermittent arched walls, and ramps. “Volumes are inserted within volumes to add layers of complexity and as surprises to the experience of space-making,” adds the team.

Striking an ideal balance of ideas and symbols

The entire space has been carefully designed to be a playground for natural light, which is sometimes let in unguarded and is at other times sent through a diffusion filter. The idea was to let every visitor pass through a prism of dim to bright light while moving from a place of information and absorption to, ultimately, contemplation and collective introspection facilitated by an open-air theatre hugged by a green landscape.

“The pavilion sits in a body of water in the sunken courtyards. Consequently, it seems to float and gifts itself a surreal character, a lightness that makes light of the massiveness,” explains the team. The water also helps create a cooler micro-climate inside, perfect for a cerebral escape from the heat outside. Helping along is the dryclad skin of the façade made of customdesigned perforated terracotta tiles; it is separated from the inner main wall by a buffer zone filled with rock wool.

Aside from the main exhibition galleries that are filled with photographs, notes, memorabilia, and other items relating to JP, the building features an atrium, a library, a fun children’s section, and two cafeterias. “The two cafeterias named ‘Namak’ and ‘Chawal’ after the items consumed by the Hazaribagh jail breakers on the run. A shop called ‘Char Anna’- the amount the fugitives lived on, sells memorabilia as takeaways from the museum,” explains the team.

The wedge-shaped building presents an amazing instance of architectural excellence

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

Dealer Speak

n today’s time, a house reflects the personality of the owner. People no longer restrict themselves from just opting for a luxurious look for their living room or bedroom. Now even a bathroom is considered an equally mportant space in a house. Therefore, it is essential to opt for products that not merely suffice your basic utility, but also provide the much needed comfort and care. We interviewed Mr. Rohit Kumar of Om Trading Company who talked to us about the upcoming trends in the sanitary ware segment in India.

“The Hygiene Factor Is Of Utmost Importance” Dealing mainly in the retail market, Om

Trading Company sells products by brands such as Hindware, Oyster, Aquilo, Qutone, Cielo, Grohe, American standard, Bongio and Tece. Today there is a concept of ‘complete bathroom solutions’ offered by brands. Are consumers opting for these concept bathrooms or are they still mixing and matching?

Mr. Rohit Kumar, Partner

Could you tell us about your business? We are into sanitary ware business since 1958 started by Shri Ghanshamdas & Shri Ramandas in Secunderabad area in Hyderabad and now have slowly expanded it to the whole city. Dealing mainly in retail market, we sell products by International and Indian brands like Hindware, Oyster, Aquilo, Qutone, Cielo, Grohe, American Standard, Bongio and Tece. There are many international sanitary ware companies that have entered the market. How are they performing? How are they competing with Indian brands? Today in the market, consumer hygiene plays an important role. More than anything, it’s necessary to supply products which would ensure complete hygiene while maintaining its basic utility. And when it comes to sanitary ware products, even today people prefer one-piece and two-piece toilets by Indian brands, while wallhung toilets by International brands have gained global prominence. Also, International brands are having more presence in metros as compared to Tier- I and Tier- II Cities. So people are mainly going for Indian products.

Brands today offer complete b a t h ro o m s o l u t i o n s a s t h e y understand that customers go for innovative and hygienic products which ensure their complete safety while also fullfilling their basic needs. Indian and International brands today are offering ‘complete bathroom solutions’ but consumers today mix and match the products by various brands as each product has its specific utility and consumers too have different requirements. While, retail customers prefer mix n match style; builders opt for complete bathroom solutions as they have to bargain with one vendor (single source solution) only for a better deal. Which companies are providing high quality water saving bath fittings today? Is there a great demand for such products?

Today, every company is offering water saving products. But such products are in great demand for green projects only as they get exemptions, but not in retail segment. Also, in a city like Mumbai where water is a rare commodity, demand for such products is increasingly high. There has been an increase in the premium segment in the sanitary ware industry. Which brand according to you is the leader in this segment and which are some of their bestselling products? Over the years, many products have entered the market, but Kohler in sanitary ware segment and

Grohe in faucets segment is doing exceptionally well. What do you think could be the trends in this segment in the coming year? Do you see any new ideas product-wise? Today, people lead a busy lifestyle and are more inclined towards p ro d u c t s w h i c h re q u i re l e s s maintenance and at the same time are hygienic. So in the future, you will see products with zero maintenance and innovative features. Contact email: otc1958@gmail.com tel: 040-27541656 , 27540243

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

Spot Light

omany has introduced its patented revolutionary Veil Craft Shield Hard Coat technology to combat a key issue like glaze abrasion; it balances true functionality with brilliant aesthetics and also gives the floor a lifelong durability. The technology provides a protective layer on the tile shielding it from weathering, wear and tear as well as stains and scratches retaining freshness and novelty of the tile for a considerably long time. T h i s t e c h n o l o g y, f i r s t implemented by Somany,has

VC Shield Keeps Pace With The Evolving Tile Market Somany Ceramics hopes to accomplish new heights with the innovative VC Shield tiles.

VC Shield technology provides a protective layer on the tile shielding it from weathering, wear and tear as well as stains and scratches

The tiles are available in various sizes, colors, textures and designs which are suitable for all surfaces especially floors to cater to the taste and preference of the contemporary and the conventional individuals. The tiles are manufactured from the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newly built state-of-the-art plant in Kassar, Haryana, which has a marvelous production capacity of 3 million square metres.

Somany Ceramics has received The American Ceramic Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (AcerS) Corporate Technical Achievement Award 2014 for the development of VC floor tiles. Somany aims to scale new heights in innovation in design and excellence in performance and durability with the VC Shield tiles. Contact www.somanyceramics.com

VC Shield Hard Coat technology uses nano-polishing on the top of the tile surface accumulates the micro pore holes reducing the effect of stain

outperformed PEI Grade V tiles, which itself is a worldwide benchmark for high abrasion. VC tiles are ideal for high traffic areas such as shopping malls, airports, hospitals, offices, etc. VC renders a specially treated coating that protects each tile against abrasion, scratches and stain ensuring timeless elegance. The VC tile can take up to 50,000 revolutions which make it practically abrasion-proof and the most durable tile to exist in

the Indian market. Besides being abrasion resistant, the tiles are also stain impervious. Stain is caused because of micro pore hole on the top of the tile surface. VC Shield Hard Coat technology uses nano-polishing on the top of the tile surface accumulates the micro pore holes reducing the effect of stain. The tiles are made using superior quality terracotta instead of marble or granite, thus reducing the effect of radiations. The glaze of the tiles remains the same over the years.

The tiles are available in various sizes, colors, textures and designs

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

It Products GRAFF Presents Targa, The New Faucet Collection

Redefined by the design philosophy of ‘less is more,’ Graff presents Targa, a new original and enigmatic collection of faucets for bathroom and shower.

TARGA series includes washbasin and vessel mixers, freestanding, widespread and wall-mounted washbasin elements, a wall-mounted shower system including a hand shower and a showerhead, a freestanding bathtub filler as well as deck-mounted bathtub and bidet mixers. The luxurious assortment is available in polished chrome, steelnox (satin nickel), black and white finishes. Modern and refined, the Targa collection feature smooth and slightly convex handles graciously matching the spout in the widespread version. All elements of this collection are premium design products, with an impressive level of quality standards. Utilizing the latest manufacturing technology and thanks to a tradition of oldworld craftsmanship, GRAFF’s commitment to creating cutting-edge, premium-quality collections is evident in each and every product which has made the brand globally recognized producer of luxury faucets for the bathroom. Contact www.graff-faucets.com

VitrA Introduces Juno Collection Embellished With Swarovski VitrA, a leading brand of Eczacıbaşı, a prominent Turkish industrial group recently introduced the enigmatic Juno Collection which offers a splendid bathroom experience. Complementing the look of your bathroom interiors, the collection offers a lavish bathroom interior ambiance created with original Swarovski crystal joysticks and faucet rings enhanced with fine details. The simple form and function are enhanced to incredible effect with PVD coatings, a state-ofthe-art process of vaporising and depositing metal powder onto a surface, which remains corrosionfree and scratch-resistant. The Juno series is available in gold and chrome shades that add texture, depth and a unique identity rarely seen before in bathroom design.

With its stylish aesthetics, sophisticated details and infinite product range, Juno Series is the choice of people who are on a lookout for a bathroom series to complement prestigious households. Contact www.vitra-india.com

Hindware’s Rimless WC

Introducing Napshell-Your Space For Relaxation Considering the kind of fast paced life style we live in, power napping is important and is currently gaining a foothold in the corporate philosophies and health management systems of innovative companies. And to let you take a power nap amidst your busy schedule, Napshell provides you a space for relaxation. The Napshell perfectly reconciles an employee’s need for quality of life and the company’s need for productivity. It is a place that creates a balance between performance and simply being.

It doesn’t come with a manual, all you need to do is just lie down in it, relax and benefit! The product intends to bring about 3600 brain enhancement, creativity, concentration, satisfaction, motivation and performance. The product lowers 34% risk of heart attack, 30% increase in performance, 16% faster response capacity and 50% improvement in decision making capacity. Contact www.vertueuxworks.com

Epitomizing innovation and excellent craftsmanship, Hindware’s rimless water closet comes in a square shape elegant design. Ensuring quintessential hygiene with effective flushing, the rimless WC offers an efficient solution that helps in rinsing the entire inner surface throughout the flushing process. The Hindware Rimless WC ensure efficiency in cleaning and maintenance that not only guarantees hygiene standards and maintainece, but also saves time.

Ushering in a new era in flush technology, the rimless WC as the name suggests has no rim and also helps in conserving water with its exceptional flushing performance. Bold and beautiful, the Hindware rimless WC’s offers clean simple lines and contemporary styling suitable for any bathroom. Hindware is also the only WC brand in India which is recommended by the Indian Medical Academy of Preventive Health (IAMPH). Contact www.hindwarehomes.com

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

Hafele’s Innovative Extendable Tables

It Products Eureka Forbes Launches Euroclean iCLEAN Eureka Forbes, a pioneer in technological innovations has introduced a premium range of Euroclean iCLEAN, an extremely effective and effortless vacuum cleaner. A combination of intelligent engineering and superior craftsmanship, this cleaning marvel is powered with cutting edge Triple I technology that discharges negative ions in the air and traps the minute particles and clears the air of any pollutants. Equipped with superior dry power motor

iCLEAN delivers maximum suction with minimum electricity consumption. The special 4-stage filtration ensures that the expelled air is ultra-clean. The Active Shield coating on Euroclean dust bags builds an impenetrable wall of anti-bacterial fighting agents and traps & deactivates the harmful minute microorganisms inside the bag. Contact www.eurekaforbes.com

Hafele recentl launched Extendable Table, a space saving system, consisting of a pull-out tabletop fitting stored in a space normally used for a drawer. The table fitting pulls out instantly by simply opening the hinged front of the drawer space. Other features include built in charging port, easily portable etc. Talking about the launch

of the product, Mr.Juergen Wolf, Managing Director Häfele says, “Häfele through its holistic interior solutions presents to you space-efficient ideas that effortlessly builds a bridge between innovation and inspiration. Global social trends such as the merging of working and living environments and their clever organization, functioning in small areas, sleeping, cooking and communication provides the underlying theme. Through this launch, Häfele responds to the challenge of small spaces by introducing “More Life per M²”, where “More life” means more comfort, convenience and functionality even in the most marginal living spaces. Häfele strives to provide its customers with technologies that can be easily integrated into their designer’s masterpieces and eventually into their interiors.” Contact www.hafeleindia.com

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

Crompton’s Storage & Instant Water Heaters

It Products Grundfos Launches Scala2, Water Booster Pump Grundfos India, recently launched Scala2, a fully integrated water booster pump, providing perfect water pressure in all taps at all times - even with multiple taps and showers running at the same time. It packs pump, motor, tank, sensor, drive and non-return valve into one compact unit. With its intelligent pump control, Scala2 automatically adjusts performance to both inlet pressure and water consumption in the home. Thanks to a watercooled motor, Scala2 even offers one of the lowest noise levels of any booster on the market.

Scala2 features a built-in sensor which constantly measures the discharge pressure. Scala2 has the user-friendly control panel which makes it easy to operate and it is quality tested to perfection and is maintenance-free. Talking about the launch of Scala2, Ranganath N. K., Managing Director, Grundfos India said, “We at Grundfos India are proud to launch the perfect water pressure pump, Scala2. The Scala2 is a fully integrated water boosting solution designed for easy installation and operation. It is compact enough to fit inside a kitchen cupboard, is very quiet and it covers all domestic boosting needs. Scala2 is an extremely reliable and robust booster pump for homeowners”. Contact in.grundfos.com

Feel the warmth this winter with Crompton’s range of storage and instant water heaters. Being one of the most important appliances in any household, Crompton’s storage water heaters have a larger tank with capacity of up to 25 liters, whereas instant water heaters have the tank capacity of up to 3 litres. Crompton’s instant water heaters heat water quicker because of lower volume of water and higher rating of heating element.

Crompton has wide range of water heaters that are made of patented Nano polymer based coating, which makes sure the products last longer. These are available in different colours and types namely - Solarium Deluxe, Solarium Aura, Arno, Arno Power, Arno Deluxe and Magna in the price range of INR 7,000-13,000 in storage water heater category and, Solarium Plus and Bliss priced between INR 3,250 and INR 3,950 respectively in instant water heater category. A blend of elegant design, technology, safety, energyefficiency and convenience has made these water heaters so popular. Water heater’s warranty comes in 3 parts: warranty for the tank, element and the product. Crompton’s storage water heaters have Tank warranty of 5-7 years, element warranty of 2-3 years and product warranty of 2 years, whereas instant water heaters have tank, element and product warranty of 2 years. Contact www.crompton.co.in

Offering you a perfect combination of luxury and cutting-edge solutions, Hacker Kitchens truly depict the right choice for ‘luxury living with German engineering’. In your house, Kitchen is one area that integrates well with dining and living spaces. Open kitchens are becoming a statement, where the emphasis is on quality, design and appearance. Hacker offers you a sophisticated kitchen in a bronze metallic lacquer finish, which adds a touch of luxury to the open cooking and living space. Häcker is a specialist producer

of modern fitted kitchens that fulfill the highest claims in terms of quality, functionality, durability and design. With a sprawling manufacturing facility at Rödinghausen, Germany, it has a 92-per-cent computeraided automated production facility, enabling it to maintain the highest level of precision and quality. Surfaces, colours and styles are available in over 160 options in a variety of finishes including laminates, veneers, real stone fronts, lacquers available in matt and high-gloss. Contact www.haecker-india.com

Whirlpool Launches Kitchen Appliances Brand ‘Kitchenaid’ Hacker’s Open Kitchen Whirlpool of India, a subsidiary of Whirlpool Corporation, the world’s leading home appliances company recently expanded its built-in appliance segment with launch of its new Premium Brand ‘KitchenAid.’ KitchenAid, a leading kitchen appliance brand in Europe and USA has been providing a complete product line ie. from utensils to appliances - large and small that offer professional performance and are designed for passionate cooking lovers. In India, the brand already has made its presence in ‘Small Domestic Appliance (SDA) segment, which includes countertop appliances such as stand mixer, food processor, toasters and blenders that were launched in 2013 in India. The new product line includes Ovens: 3 Products, MWO/Steam: 3 Products, Hobs: 10 Products, Hoods: 4 Products, Cooling: 2 Products, Dish: 2 Products Special: 4 Products. Designed and manufactured in Europe, KitchenAid’s newly launched products are carefully thought through and come with

beautifully crafted features which are exceptionally functional, conveying a sense of substance, durability and authenticity while meeting the practical requirements of professionals, home chefs or anyone passionate about food.With the new launch, Whirlpool aims to capture 35% market share Contact www.whirlpoolindia.com

THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

It Products Somany Launches French Collection With global warming and climate changes, construction companies, globally and in India, are centered on the development of smart buildings with features like smart bathrooms to promote sustainable development and efficient energy management.

Inspired by the unique French heritage, Somany Ceramics redefines its smart toilet category by introducing exquisite French collection range with over 28 products, ranging from water closets, urinals to wash basins, which fall under 11 different series, namely Jazz, Dior and Ace amongst others. Speaking at the launch, Mr. Abhishek Somany, MD, Somany Ceramics Limited, said, “The launch of this collection reiterates our promise of bringing the most fascinating and technologically advanced products for our valued customers in India. The addition of the new collection will strengthen our product portfolio and will continue to help us expand our consumer base.” Contact www.somanyceramics.com

K-Lite Launches LED Bollards

Founded in 1977 in India, K-Lite has grown to be the leading manufacturer of outdoor luminaires and decorative poles. Exploring the many potential facets of lighting that supports. The wellbeing and safety of all, the brand has established a niche for itself in producing top quality lightning products for the landscape segment. Stylishly lightning the space, K-Lite’s product range for the landscape segment

includes an array of Linear Wall Washer, Up-Down Lighters, LED Strips/Neon flex, Promenade Lighting, Bollards, Under Water Lighting, Post top luminaires, Bulk Heads, Path finders, Polar lighting and newly added series of Facade Lighting. Over the years, the brand has also excelled in providing lightning solutions for your indoor spaces too. Contact wwww.klite.in

Cobblestone By Disha Pavers Canadian Wood Presents Douglas Fir Wood

In today’s modern times, teak is slowly being replaced with other types of wood due to its unsteady quality of supply. Although, teak has always occupied a special place in the culture and history of tropical regions, slowly in modern settings, the material is fast moving out of reach as a promising alterantive to teak is now available in India. Douglas-fir, a popular Canadian Wood species displays properties comparable to teak in terms of visual appeal, multiutility and strength, making it worth considering for any structural or interior design project.

Highly recommended for making innovative large structures or open plan spaces in wood, Douglas-fir is also popular for solid wood furniture, wooden doors and windows, interior design and carving projects. Its slight pink cast and colour variation from light “straw” in the sapwood through to a deep russet brown in the heartwood, and strong grain pattern makes it a winner all round. Douglas-fir is strong and light in weight, which makes it very easy to handle and as compared to teak this species of wood is cost-effective too. Contact: www.canadianwood.in

Making walking is an experience, since 2007; Disha Pavers has been redefining outdoor floor aesthetics with its premium range of durable and environment friendly pavers. Being the first choice of architects and landscape designers in countries across Asia, Disha Pavers offers a wide range of innovatively designed pavers which can be used for landscapes, parking lots, driveways and patios. Cobblestone is one such popular design by Disha as these pavers give a very natural look to any space due to its stony texture. They blend seamlessly with natural landscapes and are ideal for resorts, clubs, gardens and open amphitheatres. Disha creates fantastic spatial designs using cobblestone to give

a rustic effect with an urban touch to open areas. The highlight of this system of pavers is that it is environment friendly. Disha lays pavers in a specific manner that allows water to percolate through the gaps between the pavers, thus increasing groundwater level. Cobblestone can be used in a monochrome fashion or different shades of the same colour family are often used for staggering visual effects. Beautiful designs and ecofriendliness of the paving system make Disha a premier pavement brand in India. The brand also has a wide range of earthy shades which give a natural effect to the paved area. Contact: www.dishapavers.com

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THE INSIDE TRACK January 2017

Spot Light

t IDAM, design aesthetics is translated onto contemporary home and lifestyle products. The brand was born out of the numerous car ride discussions to and from college between a duo of dreamers – Nayanika and Gazal. Hailing from different design backgrounds, they contributed their Textile and Graphic Design expertise and artistry to the products in IDAM. At IDAM, each product is unique with a story behind it. From the inspiration to the design process and its execution, every step involves adequate attention to details. Be it a doodle in a diary or the fallen leaves outside their studio, or how the folk art adorns the streets in India, they bring it all in an array of prints. Their designs are an attempt to give the customers a glimpse into the daily escapades. In the past year, IDAM has evolved from an idea to a full-fledged print and surface design studio.

IDAM - Putting Concept To Practice IDAM attempts to bridge the gap between

the modern and the traditional using contemporary aesthetics and conventional techniques with the prerequisite of utility. Their products include cushion covers, bed covers, table linen, rugs, bath, quilts and dohars, blanket sets and accessories. The designs are made by Nayanika and Gazal themselves. Besides, they have a small team at IDAM comprising managers, PR’s and marketing team. IDAM sources its materials from various parts of Delhi.

The USP of their products is that all the designs are hand-illustrated. Moreover, they have pledged to use 100% organic fabrics for all their products and 100% fair trade certified fabrics. In November 2015, IDAM collaborated with JODI and launched its own exhibition platform for upcoming home-grown designer brands to come together and showcase their hand-crafted products made in India. The day long exhibition was an initiative to convene a design community that believes in ethics like ‘make in India’ and ‘hand-crafted in India’. In June 2016, IDAM won the Interior Lifestyle Award 2016. It will also be showcasing its talent at the Ambiente 2017 in Frankfurt in February 2017.

Talking about how they differ from other brands, Nayanika and Gazal say, “The designs are unique and contemporary. We carry over the great work done in the farms to our manufacturing factories, which always follow ethical fair labour practices. We take pride in our work ethics where we do not encourage child labour, gender discrimination or low wages”. IDAM looks forward to a prospective brilliant future. The designer duo Nayanika and Gazal wish to pattern bomb the world with their prints and designs. Their agenda is to rise above and beyond the Indian market and be a part of the global design industry through their remarkable product & design initiatives. Contact Arnit Creations Pvt. Ltd. C-117-118, Hosiery Complex, Phase -2 Extension, tel: +91 - 9540053303 Noida, Uttar Pradesh - 201305 email: hello@idamstore.com