THE
Volume 13. Issue 06. June 2019 Rs. 25/-
INSIDE TRACK CONNECTING THE DESIGN COMMUNITY Now view our web edition at www.theinsidetrack.in
Cover Story
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rchitect Vinu Daniel started his firm Wallmakers in 2007 and since has led his firm with the intention to not merely practice eco-friendly architecture, but to establish a practice that leads by creativity, innovation and experimentation with material and technology. The philosophy of the firm has been constant - of being extremely sensitive to how they b u i l d i n g o n e a r t h . T h ro u g h his work he emphasises on the necessity of reducing waste and addressing issues of depleting natural resources. Staying true to this ideology, the firm has executed a variety of projects of varying scales; Over the relatively short duration of his practice Vinu Daniel has won several commendations and awards from leading design institutions and organisations. Vinu Daniel, spends most of his time at his site, he does not have a studio. His body of work is a testament to ecofriendly materials being capable of producing some awe-inspiring structures. A recent project of his in Trivandrum displays displays this seamless connection with nature through design and use of materials, and at the same time is a bold evocative form that excites and intrigues.
Edgy Aesthetics Meets Ecological Sensitivity
Architect Vinu Daniel of Wallmakers showcases how eco-friendly materials can be used to create some truly awe-inspiring structures.
The residence is a careful response to considerations of aesthetic, functional and environmental aspects. A defining element of this project is a suspended staircase created with bamboo
Roca Think Turf, partnered by Design Owl, is a series of architectural conversation that take place across India
The residence is a careful repsonse to considerations of aesthetic, functional and environmental aspects. A defining element of this project is a suspended staircase created with bamboo. The architect has inserted a steel rod through culms of bamboo and also managed to pump concrete through it. This not only makes the bamboo intervention stabilised but also help to introduce a safety element to bamboo by making it resistant to cutting and allowing it to aso be used as a safety grill. The walls and facade of the structure are made using CSEB blocks (Compressed Stabilised Earth Blocks) with a careful system of passive cooling and natural ventialation ensuring the home retains a level of comfortable ambient temperature. continued on page 2
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
THE
INSIDE TRACK
CONTENTS
JUNE 2019
COVER Edgy Aesthetics Meets STORY Ecological Sensitivity 1 A Call For Exemplary Projects And Visionary Designs 4 Going Green Has Never Been Easier 5 Altrock - Repurposed Terrazzo 6 The Axor MyEdition Collection From Hansgrohe 8
continued from page 1 Another innovative feature of this home is the creation of a large metal screen made using recycing washing machine wheels. This adaptive reuse feature has a very good performative aspect as it allows the cool westerly winds to traverse the interior spaces freely.
The furniture and other interior elements used in the home are largely made using recyling materials and salvaging waste wood. However, the design and fabrication is done with an eye for details ensuring that this home is not left wanting in terms of aesthetics, comfort or function. continued on page 3
Jaquar Group Goes Platinum 10 A Happy Space Never Fails To Keep Workers At Their Mental Peak 12 Blurring Boundaries - LFA 2019 14 Steelcase Introduces The Sarto Screen 16 A Deliberate Departure From Tradition 18 CIFF Shanghai 2019 19 Duravit Wins The Red Dot Award 2019 20 Häfele In The Kitchen 21 Habitat 2.0 22 IKEA’s ‘Better Air Now’ Initiative 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 13. Issue 06. June 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, S n i g d h a H o d a r k a r M a r k e t i n g : M u m b a i , C h a i t a l i Ta m o r e Mob: 8691996692, 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 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 June 2019
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continued from page 2 At the recent Roca ThinkTurf event in Mumbai Vinu Daniel shared a keynote which delved into how using passive and sustainable means he doesn’t need to be at odds with aesthetics. Instead he pushes the envelope by engaging with masons, carpenters, and workmen to explore new techniques and articulate details. Experimenting with unconventional materials or re-imagining the use of traditional ones requires tenacity and dedication, a trait which was ably visible in the architect and his team of Wallmakers. Roca Think Turf, partnered by Design Owl, is a series of architectural conversation that take place across India.
Pannel discussion on Architecture in the Anthropocene. (L-R) Areen Attari, Vinu Daniel, Quaid Doongerwala, Surya Kakani, Sanjay Patil
Another innovative feature of this home is the creation of a large metal screen made using recycing washing machine wheels
These exchanges aim to create a fellowship of thought leaders to deliver a better environment through a process of inquiry, dialogue and action. Roca Think Turf challenges prevailing practices and critically analyses architecture within its historical, aesthetical, ethical and cultural circumstances. Contact email: anish@designowl.com web: www.designowl.com www.roca.in
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
Green Speak
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he LafargeHolcim Awards seeks leading projects of professionals as well as bold ideas from the next generation that combine sustainable construction solutions with architectural excellence. The 6th cycle of the international competition is open for entries until February 25, 2020. The Awards offers a total of USD 2 million in prize money and foregrounds projects and concepts from architecture, engineering, urban planning, materials and construction technology, and related fields. Submissions in the LafargeHolcim Awards main category include sustainable construction projects at an advanced stage of design, with a high probability of realization. Construction/fabrication must not have started before January 1, 2019. The Awards Next Generation category seeks visionary design concepts and bold ideas at a preliminary stage of design, including design studio and research work. To participate in this category, authors may not be older than 30 years. Students and young professionals are welcome to enter the Awards main category with projects that have reached an advanced stage of design. Independent expert juries in five geographic regions of the world evaluate submissions using the comprehensive “target issues” for sustainable construction of the LafargeHolcim Foundation. The criteria cover innovation and transferability; ethical standards and social inclusion; resource and environmental performance;
A Call For Exemplary Projects And Visionary Designs The international LafargeHolcim Awards for Sustainable Construction are now open for entries.
“Hydropuncture”, Global LafargeHolcim Awards Gold winning project in Mexico City, is a water retention and treatment complex including flood basins and public amenities with spaces that follow the gravitational logic of flowing water
Winners of the Global LafargeHolcim Awards Gold 2018 (l-r): Loreta Castro Reguera and Manuel Perló Cohen, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City for Publicly-accessible water retention and treatment complex in Mexico
economic viability and compatibility; and contextual and aesthetic impact. The competition promotes circular thinking and the reduction of CO2 emissions across all disciplines. It identifies the ideas with the highest potential to tackle today’s challenges to increasing urbanization and to improve quality of life. Submitting entries in the competition is free and must be made in English using a web-based form to provide information on authorship, a project summary, technical details, as well as project images and/or illustrations. Since 2003, the LafargeHolcim Foundation advances the discourse on sustainable construction mainly through its Awards, the world’s most significant competition for sustainable design. The Foundation is an initiative of LafargeHolcim, a global leader in building materials and solutions. Contact www.lafargeholcim-foundation.org
THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
Spot Light
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ith an extensive experience in landscaping and an indepth knowledge of plants, Project Plant shares their devotion for horticulture as they lovingly curate a generous mix of flora and fauna that you can buy right from the comfort of your own home. Founded by Shabnam Singh, this e-retail store has made it its mission to be a dedicated source for all things frondescence! Project Co. which is its parent company has over a decade worth of experience with interior as well as exterior design. Whether it’s landscaping a lawn, bedecking a boudoir with bramble or illuminating an edifice with ivy - they’ve done it all. Having worked with corporate clients as well as individuals, each plan has been rooted with environmentfriendly and sustainable elements. Dishing up the proverbial dirt on all things green, this unique site will give you tips and tricks on choosing the perfect foliage for a space. For example, did you know that the Areca palm is one of the most effective natural air purifiers according to NASA? The Areca can be counted on to keep your home or office moist during dry times, while continuously removing chemical toxins from the air.
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Going Green Has Never Been Easier Project Plant, the green arm of Project Co. is an online nursery that retails plants, planters, garden accessories and more. BY NATALIE PEDDER-BAJAJ
This unique site will give you tips on choosing the perfect foliage for your space
At Project Plant you can buy plants, planters, garden accessories and more
Knowing that plant care can be tricky and over whelming sometimes, the good people at Project Plant accompany each delivery with a Plant Care Guide, an individual and customised cheat-sheet to help you keep your new friends alive and kicking from sun exposure to water intake, it covers it all. If that’s not enough, they also have a dedicated phone number that you can call where they will answer your queries, even giving you suggestions on what herbage will suit your space. And if you’ve got everything figured out, you can just call to have a cosy chat about your mutual love for all things green. Contact web: www.projectco.in
Knowing that plant care can be tricky, Project Plant accompany each delivery with a Plant Care Guide
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
IT Products
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aterials are an indispensable component of construction industry and the choice of materials essentially depends on physical and compositional properties, however with increasing environmental deterioration, it is now critical to choose materials more responsibly. Construction waste contributes exponentially to the poor air quality, emissions, and hazardous waste storage. Records state the construction waste generated worldwide will double by 2025, making it essential for manufacturers, architects and designers to be cognisant of their responsibility towards environment. Terrazzo, a faux-stone born out of a necessity to utilise discarded pieces of marble and granite almost 500 years ago, has reemerged as one of the most wasteefficient surfaces. London-based industrial designer Robin Grasby with his upgraded version of terrazzo provides the construction industry with an aesthetically pleasing, sustainable alternative to solid stone. Altrock, as the name suggests, is an alternative to natural stone and is handmade from 87% reclaimed and recycled materials and 13% of binding material. Recognising the sheer volume of stone that is discarded as unusable by the marble industry, Grasby initially started casting leftover fragments of marble in concrete.
Altrock Repurposed Terrazzo London-based designer Robin Grasby has
recently developed a solid surface material, Altrock, from discarded chunks of marble. BY SHWETA SALVI
The binding can be pigmented with any colour of choice
Altrock is hand-casted with 87% reclaimed and recycled materials and 13% of binding material
On further trials and explorations he played around with the type of binding and its pigmentation. Altrock uses larger pieces of marble than were conventionally used in terrazzo before, along with chips, and marble flour or dust, which is a derivative of the process of cutting marble slabs on sites or at factories. These pieces are randomly placed and later set with a binding material comprising of resin and marble flour. ‘I wanted to develop an application for marble that can showcase the beauty of the material and utilise its properties as a hardwearing surface, but in a unique and contemporary way,’ explains Grasby. Grasby chose to avoid strictures of organised geometry and designs, and allowed the organic randomness of colour and form to shine, giving it a ‘beautifully chaotic appearance’ while also foregoing the factorymade feel.
The marble pieces are randomly arranged and the binding material comprising of resin and marble flour is poured in later
THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
‘I like things to feel like they designed themselves,’ says Grasby. The binding too can be infused with any colour of choice - the vivid pigments transcend Altrock’s f u n c t i o n f r o m m e re s u r f a c e material to a decorative material. Hand-casting it in the studio accentuates the raw materiality of the surface providing each slab with a unique identity. ‘Materials used in their rawest forms always appeal to me; they have an honesty and simplicity that is reflected in my entire approach to design,’ elucidates Grasby. Once the surface solidifies it is sealed with a coat of wax oil, which caters to factors like water-proofing, stain-proofing, and durability. Moreover, the wax oil highlights the subtlety of the natural grains of marble. Unlike marble, Altrock is remarkably versatile and can be crafted in any shape or form with fair amount of ease.
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The pink against the grey grain of the marble adds a touch of romanticism to these seductive pieces, justifying its name, Aphrodite
Altrock uses larger pieces of marble than were conventionally used in terrazzo before, along with chips, and marble flour or dust
Altrock can be customised to complement any space here it is used as a tabletop for a hospitality project
Designer Robin Grasby
It has the proper ties of a natural stone and the versatility of a plywood. And hence, the faux-rock can be used in making furniture, accessories, worktops, wall covering, bathroom surfaces, apart from conventional flooring. Altrock can be customised to complement any space. For their Aphrodite collection of side and coffee tables Robin Grasby collaborated with the renowned Turkish luxury marble company, Temmer.
The waste marble pieces and flour were transferred from Temmer’s quarry in Turkey to Grasby’s East - London studio to craft bespoke contemporary coffee tables with Altrock. Each simple yet beautiful table is made out of a single slab of Altrock, ensuring there is no undue wastage of material. The subtle infusion of pink against the grey grain of the marble adds a touch of romanticism to these seductive pieces, justifying its name, Aphrodite. Moreover, the faceted edges of the tables are reminiscent of the stocky Greek fluted columns. The collection was recently exhibited in Milan Design Week. Aphrodite is the first collection in Altrock’s furniture segment and while the studio is busy with several
explorations with the material, Grasby has already been commissioned to work on several hospitality and residential projects. Material wastage has been recognised as a common cause of construction waste generation, and hence it is imperative to control and regulate construction waste. The most effective and sustainable way to do that would be to breathe new life into materials that are otherwise considered as cast-offs. Repurposing waste material for building construction should become a norm to lessen the impact of environmental degradation and also to provide healthy environment to the citizens. Contact email: hello@zetteler.co.uk web: www.altrocksurfaces.com
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
Spot Light
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hese new crisp, linear designs look sophisticated and sleek in any setting. The taps are composed of two product parts: body and plate. Available in two standard finishes, chrome with mirrored glass and chrome with black glass, the taps can also be customised allowing the user to mix and match 15 AXOR FinishPlus PVD surface finishes with a selection of exclusive AXOR Signature materials such as metal, wood, glass, marble and leather. With an assemblage of 225 design choices, the AXOR MyEdition provides an easy solution to what’s trending with consumers and that is personalisation. “Making a personal statement through customised interiors is the essence of luxury. With the AXOR MyEdition collection, we have set the stage for personal creativity colours, materials and patterns create the point of departure for a unique and personalised tap,” says Andreas Diefenbach of Phoenix Design. The 15 distinctive AXOR FinishPlus surfaces are establishing new levels of excellence. Manufactured using state of the art technologies, these beautiful finishes that include ‘Polished Gold Optic’ and ‘Brushed Black Chrome’ are immensely robust and durable. From made-to-order pieces to large-scale quantities, all the products with AXOR FinishPlus surfaces echo that certain ‘je ne sais quoi.’ Every shade is the outcome of meticulous development and finishing in a PVD vacuum chamber. With high-precision craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, AXOR gives its customers the freedom to create bathrooms that are unique to their personalities.
The Axor MyEdition Collection From Hansgrohe AXOR MyEdition that comprises of nine products for washbasins, bidets and bathtubs, is the result of a recent collaboration with Phoenix Design.
Axor MyEdition Single lever basin mixer
With the trailblazing PowderRain spray already part of AXOR Showers, the new collection proffers a silky soft moistening of the skin as well.
Axor MyEdition 4-hole rim mounted bath mixer
Available for the first time in an array of taps, AXOR showers with PowderRain has already mesmerised its users with it’s relaxing feel and soothing attributes. AXOR develops and produces luxury taps, shower-heads and accessories for bathrooms and kitchens using the highest levels of technology to create one-of-akind pieces and collections for it’s discerning customers. Some of the products are considered classics to this day. Collectively illustrating their adage of ‘form following perfection,’ never terminating the developmental process until nothing more can be added or removed. Design objects have been generated by AXOR keeping in line with this motto for more than twenty years as they continue to team up with worldrenowned designers such as Philippe Starck, Antonio Citterio, Jean-Marie Massaud and Patricia Urquiola. Contact web: www.axor-design.com
Axor MyEdition Single lever basin mixer
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
Co. Profile
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he Jaquar Group, India’s leading ‘Complete Bathroom and Lighting’ solutions brand has received the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification for its bath fittings manufacturing facility in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. The prestigious certification has been conferred by the US Green Building Council (USGBC). The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a private, membershipbased non-profit organization that promotes sustainability in building design, construction, and operation. USGBC is best known for its development of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating systems and its annual Greenbuild International Conference and Expo, the world’s largest conference and expo dedicated to green building. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. It is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement, denoting proficiency in today’s sustainable design, construction and operations standards. The Jaquar Group manufacturing unit in Bhiwadi is spread across 35,000 square metres. Green technology is the guiding force behind the functioning of the plant which successfully manufactures 1,25,000 faucets each day. Adhering to global quality certification, the Jaquar Group manufacturing facilities are zero-waste plants, recycling 150,000 litres of water every day and 1200 tonnes of brass recycled every year. The plant also successfully generates 5.4 MW of solar energy.
Jaquar Group Goes Platinum
The Group’s largest manufacturing unit in Bhiwadi receives the ‘Platinum’ LEED Green Building Certification from US Green Building Council (USGBC).
Adhering to global quality certification, the Jaquar Group manufacturing facilities are zero-waste plants, recycling 150,000 litres of water every day and 1200 tonnes of brass recycled every year
On receiving the prestigious certification, Mr. Rajesh Mehra, Director & Promoter of Jaquar Group said, “It is a mark of great honour for Jaquar Group to receive the Platinum LEED certification by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), the highest mark of
quality and efficiency for a green building. This is the second LEED certification received by the Group and therefore reiterates our strong commitment to sustainability.” Of the different criteria listed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), the Jaquar Group factory
successfully achieved 21 out of the 26 sustainability factors, all the 10 water efficacy factors, 31 out of the 35 energy and atmosphere effectiveness, all 6 innovation measures, all 4 regional priority credits and 3 out of 15 indoor environmental quality standards. Jaquar Group is a rapidly growing multi-diversified ‘Complete Bathroom and Lighting Solutions’ brand with a turnover of INR 3588 Crores in 2018-19. The Group has been built on the platform of highest quality standards, aesthetics and with the intent of providing world class products. Conceived way back in 1960, Jaquar Group is an undisputed market leader in the organized bath fittings category and is one of the fastest growing bathroom and lighting brands in the world with presence in 40+ countries across Europe, Middle East, Asia- Pacific, Africa and the SAARC region. Today it caters to various socioeconomic segments with brands such as Artize in the luxury category, Jaquar in the premium and Essco in the value segments. The Group is aiming to reach the turnover of $1 billion by 2022. Contact web: www.jaquar.com
The Jaquar Group manufacturing unit in Bhiwadi is spread across 35,000 square metres
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
Spot Light
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he brief was all of one line stated by the client, “I don’t want to see the typical work desks when I enter - it’s got to be a unique and happy space.” That in essence became the trigger for the design process for Studio Osmosis, a multidisciplinary design practice helmed by Sameer Balvally and Shilpa Jain Balvally. The result is a clean, pared back workspace with playful details sprinkled throughout, much like the company’s branding. It sports a performance stage and ramp with artificial turf flooring on all four sides. This is complimented with a row of ceiling lights right above the ramp that accentuates the whole volume of space. The casual eating island counter, discussion rooms and workstations on the mezzanine open out into this green, vibrant space which is flexible and can be used as a discussion zone or at times to host events. A feature wall at one end of this central area has faux arches that span across its length.
A Happy Space Never Fails To Keep Workers At Their Mental Peak Eschewing stereotypical office design, Osmosis has created a functional and happy space for ‘Happy’, a new age finance company. BY MALA BAJAJ
The centre of the office sports a performance stage and ramp surrounded by artificial turf flooring on all four sides Populated with green elements like the vertical self watering plant walls and other potted plants, this biophilic design brings the outdoors into the work space and helps manage stress levels and mood swings
The layout offers a variety of formal and informal spaces to befitthe client’s vision
THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
These arches follow a minimalistic design aesthetic and are a backdrop for interactive and changeable artwork inspired by the ‘Happy’ philosophy. The exposed concrete column in this space with stepped seating on either sides features doodle graffiti art that was a result of a fun collaboration between the employees and the design studio further emphasising the core. On the other side of the feature wall, the eating area and workstations on the mezzanine open out into the central green, vibrant space. Populated with green elements like the vertical self watering plant walls, areca palms and other potted plants, this biophilic design brings the outdoors into the work space and helps to manage stress levels and mood swings. Additionally, the plants, in varying green hues, keep the interiors from being too clinical and sterile. The layout offers a variety of formal and informal spaces to befit the client’s vision. A combination of desk options like linear work stations, standing desks, stepped seats and lounge areas constitute what is supposed to be an office.
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The exposed concrete column in this space features doodle graffiti art; this was a result of an exciting collaboration between the employees and the design studio
Mumbai. This offers options of huge windows and tantalising views. The executive cabins are located such to capitalise on these vistas and to also allow pools of daylight to enter these spaces. The lounge cum break-out area under the mezzanine is a fun and vibrant space that acts as a pleasant change of scenery and makes for relaxed discussions or even some nice foot massages. The alternate entrance lobby and lounge areas, highlighted using patterned tiles could be directly used by the directors and their visitors if the need arose. A pop of color and graphics reflecting the company’s branding makes the space cheerful and inviting. Contact web: www.studioosmosis.com
The lounge cum break-out area under the mezzanine is a fun and vibrant space that acts as a pleasant change of scenery and makes for relaxed discussions or even some nice foot massages
These spaces are differentiated with the use of colours and patterns. A double height space with an open ceiling concept and bare concrete columns makes the office space utilitarian and functional in nature. To contrast this, accent colours, reflective of the company’s branding are used around the space to highlight certain spaces and elements. The conference room which is located between the central area
and the executive lounge enjoys a through and through visual all the way to the cityscape. Also the partitions making up the room being transparent, visually connect the two spaces together. It was a conscious decision to not give that window to an executive cabin which could so typically have been done. The office is located in an urban setting, in a high rise building overlooking the cityscape of
THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
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The London Festival of Architecture returns with a rich line-up of 400 plus events with an underlying theme of “boundaries’. BY SHWETA SALVI
City Parklets
The events and installations are spread all over London and many events would be hosted in four specially designated design hubs - the City of London, London Bridge, the Royal Docks and the Heart of London district covering St James’s, Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square.
Photo Credit: Pricegore
here is no dearth of architecture festivals and events across the world, however more often than not they are targeted for architecture and design professionals. To create sustainable and responsible built spaces it is equally essential to have responsible users, and hence, cutting-off general public from understanding the importance and effects of architecture is shortsighted and defies the purpose. London festival of Architecture, one of the biggest festival just kicked of its 2019 edition on 1st of June. This year’s month long programme extensively focuses on interaction and engagement with public. The 400 plus events promise to be more diverse and aim to support London’s architectural and design talent. This year’s theme ‘boundary’ would be investigated literally and metaphorically through events, exhibitions, conferences, walks and open studios. It explores many connotations of boundary that largely impact the way of building and living. Tamsie Thomson, director of London Festival of Architecture said, ‘While architecture is often defined by its boundaries, architects actually exist to challenge the boundaries they encounter, and it is this attitude which has made London the best city on the planet to enjoy, practice or study architecture.’ The insightful guided tours through familiar places and streets will allow Londoners to see their neighbourhood in a new light. The installations, family events intend to invoke a feeling of pride and raise a few concerns regarding how we build and use a space.
Blurring Boundaries - LFA 2019
Photo credit: MediaMixer
Fair News
Yinka Ilori and Pricegore’s The Colour Palace by Summer Pavilion
From physical boundaries of the city to racial and economical boundaries have be addressed through ‘Boundaries of Diversity’, a month long exhibition with series of events including workshops, talks and family events that explore issues of migration, regeneration and the community.
Early this month, the Migration Museum held a walking tour exploring the migration stories embedded in the area. Royal Academy of Arts hosted a panel discussion exploring the boundaries of gender, race, culture and economic inequalities and attempted at finding solutions to overcome them.
Photo credit: Chris Snook
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This June for the programme Studio Lates Metropolitan Workshop will open their studio to public
Photo credit: Rory Hyde
Finsa’s The Wooden Partliament commissioned by Museum Of Architecture
There are series of exhibitions scheduled throughout the month that include V&A who partners with RIBA to present six innovative projects curated from their collections - each demonstrating a unique experiment in social housing design with an intent to inform and influence the architects. Another V&A - RIBA collaboration sees Paper Castles, an exhibition that holds paper models from fifteen local architecture firms that reimagine the future of architecture. These models sit over the original exhibits of models from history at V&A Gallery, and create a corresponding dialogue with old and the imagined new. Last year’s LFA edition attracted over 600,000 visitors and a global audience of 122 million; with the current year’s impressive line-up of over 400 events, the response is sure to peak the previous one. Contact www.londonfestivalofarchitecture.org
Photo credit: Agnese Sanvito
in cities like London. LFA 2019 has planned a pivotal programme for the youth who aspire to carry the baton of architecture into the future. Students and alumni of The Bartlett School of Architecture have designed series of discussions, performances and demonstrations that address complexity of architecture as a subject that spans, expands and challenges many other disciplines. For a programme that’s aptly called Studio Lates, renowned architects will open their studio on Friday evenings to hold interactions and workshops with professionals, students and general public. The Royal Danish Embassy is hosting a 3-day conference featuring British and Danish urban experts as well as the public in discussions about how to create cities that can blur the boundaries and transcend ethnicities to benefit all.
The Migration Museum hosted a walking tour explore migration stories of the diverse area
Photo Credit: AMID
Photo Credit: Proctor and Matthews Architects
Building Boundaries and Belvederes Symposium by Proctor & Matthews Architects
A beautiful pop-up garden conceptualised by Lil Jenck Studio references identity politics of native and non-native and challenges people to reassess it. While, dancer Shobana Jeyasingh and architecture studio Ft’wrk have specially devised a community dance choreography which investigates a location through cues from the space around them. Many commissioned installations are sprinkled around the city that include ‘parklets’ and innovative street installations created to rest and admire the city. The Unbuilt Room in Pitzhanger Manor through a séance-like theatrical game explores what is real and imagined. Interesting walks like the Alfred Hitchcock London Walk takes you through the lanes of buildings that were featured in Hitchcock films. Then there is Comedy Safari, which blends a dollop of humour with short documentaries to spotlight lifestyles shaped by architecture and urbanscapes
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Photo Credit: Migration Museum
THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
The Royal Academy has scheduled a Lego challenge for architectural practices
Paper Castles is an exhibition of paper models curated by V&A - RIBA
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
IT Products
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malgamating world-class comfort and design, Steelcase introduces yet another product to its office range with the new Sarto Screens. Considerately designed, these screens initiate a visual partition, yet provide working privacy in an open office environment. Collaboration though important at the work place is as essential as a peaceful secluded space that enables creativity, productivity and wellbeing. Sarto screens address this very critical need around workstations. Available in varied colours and materials, a large collection over 5 categories with over 70 different options like Wasabi, Blue Jean, Pepper Black contribute to the allure of Sarto screens. Employing a straightforward yet refined profile with a stitched perimeter, radius corners and a fully trackable surface is what makes these screens so practical. The brackets fit smoothly into the bottom of the screen without any visible clamps, giving the entire floor plan a clean and clutter free look. Sarto Screens are sustainable and crafted with care, made with both PET and wood that is continually recycled. PET fibre is an industrial off-cut in plentiful supply that is made of recycled plastic bottles. It’s interesting raw finish led to the creation of Sarto Raw that is available in two looks, with and without a pressed line detail. Samantha Giam, Director, Product Marketing at Steelcase
Steelcase Introduces The Sarto Screen
Encouraged by community living, Steelcase provides privacy while facilitating a modern work culture by the innovative use of visual separations in open-planned offices. BY NATALIE PEDDER-BAJAJ simplicity to address this, and we’re glad to extend this offering in the ever evolving and growing Indian market. This innovative product is sure to make visual separation across an open office cool.” With a high number of the workforce demanding a functional
and more resilient work environment, the slim and refined Sarto Screen with its robust structure serves this purpose well. Impeccably stylish and easy to use, Sarto screens are now available for purchase across India. Contact web: www.steelcase.com
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Asia Pacific comments, “As offices continue to opt for more open spaces and fluid structures, there is an increasing need for simple, uncomplicated solutions that tackle privacy for colleagues working on laptops and computers, without taking away from the communal layout of the office. The Sarto screen is a perfect combination of style and
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
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Valay Shende, an Indian modernist sculptor uses a wide variety of processes and materials to create one-of-a-kind, thought provoking sculptures. BY MALA BAJAJ ironic effect when one considers the unassuming manner of the common place cattle. When considering these pieces, Shende’s aptitude for treating the mundane with novelty and originality comes to the fore. This is especially true in the overtly political aspects of his art which, though raising familiar concerns about globalisation, exploitation and violence, treat the same without becoming banal, visual platitudes. In Bhaiyya Indian, a sleek copperplated fiberglass sculpture, Shende’s figure seems to embody the marxist notion that “it is work that defines us as human beings; we are above all homo faber”. The piece sees a north Indian laborer, of the type employed in cities like Mumbai to perform menial jobs, physically morphed by the multiplicity of his work identities. He has grown several arms, each wielding different work tools, which in turn represent one of the fragmented aspects of his lived experience. His life-size truck, which has been shown at prestigious exhibitions such as Indian Highway in its Lyon and Rome chapters, has men, women and children crammed on its back while the rear-view mirrors of the vehicle reveal images of
Valay Shende’s life-size truck, which has been shown at prestigious exhibitions such as Indian Highway in its Lyon and Rome chapters, has men, women and children crammed on its back while the rear-view mirrors of the vehicle reveal images of contemporary cities and its swish high rises
contemporary cities and its swish high rises. The work references the other side of our grand metropolises, built by migrant labourers, as they ply every day from their shanties to the construction sites where modern cities are built. It is this ability to reconceptualise even the most charged symbols and objects that makes him such a potent artistic commentator on contemporary India. Palladium, Mumbai will be hosting ‘Spirit of Bombay’ an exhibition of the Mumbai-based artist Valay Shende’s works from
the 15th June - 18th August 2019. The exhibition will present a series of large scale sculptures that depict popular symbols of urban India and re-imagine them in new and surprising ways. Spirit of Bombay will carry artworks that draw upon the city’s indomitable spirit, inspired by commuters in the infamously busy Virar Fast local train and the iconic image of the dabbawala - the tiffin delivery man. Contact web: www.valayshende.com
Photo Courtesy The Artist
culpture, a three dimensional art form was originally created by carving and modeling materials such as stone, metal, ceramics and wood. However, since the rise of Modernism in the late 19th century, artists have innovated further to give the world sculptures that have a profound and immense influence on society. Born in Nagpur in 1980, Valay Shende a prominent player on the Indian modern art stage today, completed his BFA in Sculpture from Mumbai’s Sir J.J. School of Art in 2004. One reason for Shende’s immediate appeal is his bold, playful style that is expressed in life-size and blown-up sculptures that are both eye-catching and iconic. Shende re-visits popular symbols of urban India and presents them in new and surprising ways. Shende has been interested in the much-famed dabbawallahs, the tiffin delivery men who have been studied by Harvard Business School for their logistical prowess. In his piece Management Guru, Shende creates a life-size tiffin carrier out of ticking wrist watches, who stands beside his gold bicycle hung with golden stomachs instead of the usual tiffins. Shende’s sculpture has an uncanny ability of lending itself to a multitude of narratives surrounding capitalism, commenting with ease on Fordian ideas of time and labour, as well as capturing powerful market forces in refreshing and droll ways: such as the consumer, who is alluded to cleverly by the stomachs, digesting the product. Another icon that Shende has explored is the Indian buffalo, which has a ubiquitous presence in the sub-continent. Shende’s buffalos are adorned with his signature gold-plated discs, which create an
A Deliberate Departure From Tradition
Photo Courtesy The Artist
Spot Light
One reason for Shende’s immediate appeal is his bold, playful style that is expressed in life-size and blown-up sculptures that are both eye-catching and iconic
Photo Courtesy The Artist
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In his piece Management Guru, Shende creates a life-size tiffin carrier out of ticking wrist watches, who stands beside his gold bicycle hung with golden stomachs instead of the usual tiffins
THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
Fair News
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ince CIFF Shanghai 2019, personifies the whole furniture supply chain, it draws in not only producers, buyers, retailers, designers, but also the media. Over 1500 exhibitors have been lined up to showcase the theme this year which is ‘A Paradigm for Global Living’. New ideas for living and working, through high quality products will be on offer. The fair is organised by the China Trade Macalline Exhibition Co. Ltd., a company which was co
CIFF Shanghai 2019
There is a notable expectation for the 44th edition of CIFF that will take place at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre in Shanghai, Hongqiao from the 8th to the11th of September 2019, due to its vast array of furnishing solutions.
CIFF Shanghai 2019, personifies the whole furniture supply chain from producers, buyers, retailers and designers
founded by the China Foreign Trade Guangzhou Exhibition General Corporation, the main Asian trade fair organisation and by Red Star Macalline Group, the uncontested leader of furniture distribution in China. These two companies have created a new organisation model called ‘Exhibition and Store Alliance’ that provides prodigious benefits for exhibitions and commerce. The aim of CIFF is to make foreign markets more conscious of the quality and diversity in Chinese design, this being the
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underline notion across the four main exhibition areas. Hall 4.1, the ‘Contemporary Design Hall’ will show modern design brands in the home furnishings sector and conduct a selection of design events with deep insights into contemporary Chinese design trends, providing inspiration for the numerous high-end interior designers expected in Hongqiao. The fifth edition of the EAST Design Show will be hosted here as well, which will champion luxury Asian design while promoting creative and business prospects.
The aim of CIFF is to make foreign markets more conscious of the quality and diversity in Chinese design
Over 1500 exhibitors have been lined up to showcase the theme this year which is ‘A Paradigm for Global Living’
The second edition of the Design Dream Show (DDS) showcases the biggest innovative trends and shines a light on the plausibility of Chinese design. Held at the Pritzker Architecture Prize Forum, the celebrated Portuguese architect Alvaro Siza will discuss his incredible career providing insights into his design thinking. Hall 3, ‘International and Lifestyle’ will zone in on global design. Umpteen worldrenowned brands will exhibit recently developed innovations and introduce their collections. In addition, the M + China Top Interior Design Award journeys through big-budget design projects at the ATG-Macalline Life Space as it displays different lifestyles and future life scenes. The North Hall will be dedicated to lighting in response to the current demand from the Chinese middle class for high quality lamps. ‘International Lighting’ will bring together big brands, while Hall 6.1 will be divided between outdoor furniture, fabrics and home accessories. On the second floor of the exhibition centre, Hall 5.2, the ’Sleep Centre and Dining Room / Living Room,’ Hall 6.2 ‘Sofa’ and Hall 8.2 ‘Fashion Office’ will offer
complete solutions for export to international markets spanning the entire gamut of home and work environments. In conjunction with CIFF Shanghai 2019, the second edition of the Shanghai International Furniture Machinery and Woodworking Machinery Fair will also take place in Halls 7.1 and 8.1. This fair was created by a partnership between CIFF and WMF, where production technologies and all types of process machinery will be on offer. Attracting thousands of foreign visitors every year, CIFF Shanghai validates its strong international appeal, thus furnishing a fortuitous advantage to Chinese export companies that will showcase their products. Contact web: www.ciff.furniture
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
IT Products
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his modern and beautiful furniture range was produced in accordance with Kurt Merki Jr. and characterises a distinctive original look. The interaction between diverse materials is what generates its unique appearance. The high-quality surfaces of the cabinets and vanity units are framed by quadrant-shaped chrome profiles, a striking design feature that expounds on the series’ modern elegance.
Duravit Wins The Red Dot Award 2019
Having already been the recipient of the iF Design Award 2019, the jury of the internationally renowned Red Dot Award has also honoured Duravit’s XSquare series. BY NATALIE PEDDER-BAJAJ
The mirrors flaunt an array of convenient features like integrated heating and a contactless switch
A holistic vibe has been created by carrying on with the modish chrome profile along the sides of the XSquare mirror. The mirrors flaunt an array of convenient features like integrated mirror heating and a contactless infinitely variable coloured light switch function. Warm light fashions a delightful ambience, while cold light is ideal for applying makeup. A memory control also permits an effortless retrieval of the desired light colour and intensity levels. XSquare proffers a multitude of combination options and seamlessly complements the current DuraSquare, Vero Air, ME by Starck and P3 Comforts ceramic series. Twenty-eight furniture finishes in décor matt or lacquer, satin-matt or highgloss allows for endless individual design choices. Handle-free fronts with push-to-open technology provide the finishing touches to its graceful comportment, while granting the addition of smoothly closing doors. The Red Dot Award “Product Design” honours the best products of each year.
Twenty-eight furniture finishes ranging from décor matt and lacquer are available
True to its maxim “in search of good design and innovation,” a jury of around forty strong members assesses the products individually as originals. The criteria evaluated by the international experts include the level of innovation and the functionality of the product, in addition to the high quality of design. Contact web: www.duravit.com
This modern and beautiful furniture range was produced in accordance with Kurt Merki Jr
THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
IT Products
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nstead of buying cold-pressed juices or vacuum blended smoothies, what if you could make them fresh with just a push of a button at a trifle of the market price? The Oktablend Vacuum Blender fitted with VacuoTechnology takes out the air that leads to the oxidation of food and the depletion of micro nutrients. Once the air is pulled out of the blending jar, the food is mixed uniformly at a fast speed keeping it smooth and free of air bubbles.
Häfele In The Kitchen
They say that health is wealth, but sometimes adhering to a healthy lifestyle can leave a hole in your pocket. Häfele believes in bringing the latest technology to you with its new range of counter top appliances that promote wholesome living at a fraction of the price.
Magnus Slow Juicer
Amber Toaster
With this blender technology, the nutrients in your food are preserved and can be stored for a longer period of time in contrast to traditional blending. The inbuilt AdapTech Control and Display with 8 pre-set functions, not only gives you an array of options, but also displays the real-time temperature inside the blending jar, while the joystick knob makes it simple to operate. The new Magnus Slow Juicer by Häfele is designed to function at a reduced speed when compared to a regular juicer, allowing it to extract fruit and vegetable juices without heat or oxidation, thus retaining the maximum number of nutrients, vitamins and enzymes with a minimum amount of leftovers . The inlet tube, MagnaFeed, has a diameter of 83 mm allowing it to accept whole fruits like apples, pears and oranges without the trouble of cutting or peeling. What’s more delightful than waking up to the smell of crisp warm buttered toast with your coffee? Häfele introduces Amber,
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its 2 slot toaster machine with 7 adjustable browning levels with a reheat and defrost option. Available in two contemporary colours, Jade (matt grey) and Opal (metallic red). Häfele also presents its range of electric kettles with looks and
Dome Kettle
efficiency to boot. Both Dome and Queen Kettles come with a temperature gauge to boil water precisely to you’re liking. Removable lime scale filters, a stainless steel body, inner water level markings, a non-drip spout and a sleek handle is what makes these products very user
Queen Kettle
friendly and durable. The Dome Kettle is available in two colour options, Jade (matt grey) and Opal (metallic red), while The Queen Kettle is available in a Royal White with Rose Gold highlights. Contact web: www.hafeleindia.com
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
Spot Light
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abitat 67, is a model community and housing complex in Montreal, Canada, designed by IsraeliCanadian architect Moshe Safdie. Habitat 67 is widely considered an architectural landmark and one of the most recognizable buildings in both Montreal and Canada. Habitat 67 comprises prefabricated concrete forms arranged in various combinations, reaching up to 12 stories in height. Together these units c re a t e re s i d e n c e s o f va r y i n g sizes and configurations, each formed from one to eight linked concrete units. A l m o s t 5 d e c a d e s l a t e r, Copenhagen based architecture firm BIG’s concept for a development project in Canada reflects the design ideology of Habitat 67 and has units that are staggered like the blocks of Moshe Safdie famous creation. The new development is being referred to as Habitat 2.0 and the design introduces an innovative approach that is built over an entire city block, its peaks rising into residential units. With five “peaks” ranging from 15 to 17 stories, the cascading development will be comprised of 12-by-12 foot modules that stack to form more than 500 units. Residents will be connected to the building’s central courtyard and street via a network of public and private pathways. As Bjarke Ingels describes, the typology “that has dominated Toronto development over the last decades is the tower and podium. What we’re trying to do is retain the street wall at a level familiar
Habitat 2.0
Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) plans for an ambitious developmement scheme in Toronto that is reminiscent of the famous community housing creation by architect Moshe Safdie built almost 50 years ago. Copenhagen based architecture firm BIG’s concept for a development project in Canada reflects the design ideology of Habitat 67 and has units that are staggered like the blocks of Moshe Safdie famous creation. All images courtesy of Bjarke Ingels Group
to King Street, and then have the peaks step back from there”. When seen from above, Habitat 2.0 looks like a hollow rectangle anchored by a central green courtyard. However, the buildings will be broken up into cuboidal 12-by-12-foot modules and rotated
Israeli-Canadian architect Moshe Safdie. Habitat 67 is widely considered an architectural landmark and one of the most recognizable buildings in both Montreal and Canada
THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
at 45 degrees to frame views at acute angles. The mountain-like buildings would rise to a height between 15 and 17 stories. BIG has developed a plan well suited to the area, the district is sandwiched by office and commercial realty and a series of low-rise residential blocks and houses. BIG was also asked to contend with three heritage buildings that will be intergrated into the development. These structures will remain standing, but modified within.
The modulated roofline of the development will not only preserve much of the daylight that filters through - but will also create a series of private terraces for the residential units
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The modulated roofline of the development will not only preserve much of the daylight that filters through - but will also create a series of private terraces for the residential units. Thought the project is stillunnamed it is expected to comprise of about 725,000 square feet with more than 500 apartment units. Once it is built it is likely to become a global landmark for community housing. Contact web: www.big.dk
Postal Registration No. MCE/129/2017-19 RNI NO. MAHENG/2007/19853. WPP LICENSE NO. MR/TECH/WPP-266/East/2019. POSTED AT MUMBAI PATRIKA CHANNEL SORTING OFFICE, MUMBAI G.P.O. 400001. DATE OF PUBLICATION: 15th OF EVERY MONTH, dATE OF POSTING: 15th & 16th OF EVERY MONTH
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THE INSIDE TRACK June 2019
Spot Light
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ealth complications due to air pollution in North India has become extremely hazardous. One of the contributors to this growing problem is the burning of rice straws, a remnant from rice harvesting that increases the level of pollution and smog in the air. In 2018, IKEA launched its ‘Better Air Now’ enterprise. Part of its intent was to convert leftover rice straws into a sustainable r a w m a t e r i a l t h a t c a n g r ow into a new renewable material source for IKEA’s vast array of international products. The immediate pay-off is their upcoming collection called Förändring, which will be launched in-store in 2019, while their longterm plan is to develop an archetype for other crop burning countries to emulate, which is why IKEA has joined forces with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition. IKEA has thus purportedly christened their series Förändring, which means ‘change’ in Swedish. It is the norm that after harvest time in India, the surplus straw is burnt by farmers to clear the land for the next crop.The smoke and smog create a disastrous health risk to the people in northern India. Instead, IKEA’s idea is to collaborate with the straw collectors and make ecofriendly products with the Swedish company’s prevailing suppliers in the region. The new homeware collection consists of 15 lampshades, vessels and mats fabricated employing varied techniques that utilise the remnant rice straw after gleaning. Akanksha Deo, an
IKEA’s ‘Better Air Now’ Initiative
Besides opening its first Indian store in Hyderabad a while back, IKEA introduces a line of home accessories created from discarded rice straw. BY NATALIE PEDDER-BAJAJ
IKEA’s Förändring collection
IKEA product designer based in India is responsible for innovatively using the rice waste to make lampshades and vessels from a pulp that is a mix of rice straw and fabric waste, while she has
woven rice straw into cords for the rugs and mats. The vision of the ‘Better Air Now’ initiative is to tackle other parts of India and beyond and to design a
Akanksha Deo, IKEA’s product designer based in India
working model to reduce air pollution in other crop burning regions of the world. Contact web: www.ikea.today