Volume 14. Issue 03. March 2020 Rs. 25/-
THE
INSIDE TRACK CONNECTING THE DESIGN COMMUNITY Now view our web edition at www.theinsidetrack.in
Cover Story
V
ery close to the Egmore station in a densely populated area of Chennai, there is a small plot of about 400 square yards which is the location of an exceptional design response by the team of Matharoo Associates. The challenge with this site was that there was only a corner open, with all four sides in very close proximity to neighbouring developments and high rises. There was virtually no view to be had, or for that matter privacy, with the neighbours located as close as 10 feet in some cases. Responding to this challenging site condition, architects Gurjit Matharoo and Trisha Patel decided
Gurjit Matharoo, Principal Architect, Matharoo Associates
Cut, Fold, Bend, Play A home in Chennai designed by Matharoo
Associates responds to very difficult site conditions with a unique program to create a convivial home for the occupants.
The landscape along with the architecture, structure and interior are all considered and planned synchronously, it is essentially conceived as a single entity
The challenge with this home was that there was only a corner open, with all four sides in very close proximity to neighbouring developments and high rises
to shut the outside completely and opened the house towards the inside. Although the building looks very solid and closed from the outside, all rooms are cross ventilated. There is a lot of natural light that comes from large courtyards that have been punctured into the home. What has been created is a cocoon that cuts off this chaos of the city and looks within instead. The architects have devised a clever program where they have taken the built spaces until the compound wall and all the residual margin spaces have been consolidated and created into three large courtyards. They also created a number of skylights that are positioned to continued on page 2
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
continued from page 1 bring in light at different times of the day. So when you are within the space, there is always natural light and its ever changing. Doors have been placed in such a way, that when opened living areas can be combined into one very large space, including the courtyard. This arrangement gives almost two-thirds of the property back into one large volume of built space. The program of the house takes a cue from traditional houses where rooms had no particular
THE
INSIDE TRACK
CONTENTS
March 2020
COVER Cut, Fold, STORY Bend, Play 1 Trisha Patel, Project Architect, Matharoo Associates
Neon Bathtubs By VitrA 5 Stockholm Design Week 6 Rehau Polymers Introduces Exciting New Products 8 Steelcase Opens New WorkLife Centre 10 U.S. Hardwood Exports To India On The Rise 11 Scarlet Splendour 12 Duravit Presents Latest “c-shaped” Technology 14 Kajaria Launches Duratech XT 15 Kohler At India Design Week 16 CMC Introduces Two New KalingaStone Products 17
set functions. These rooms were generally placed around a courtyard with interconnecting doors that allowed them to be opened up into
each other and provided a great deal of interior flexibility. continued on page 4
Happy 25 Years Maison Objet! 18 Lapitec, A Unique Material For Design And Architecture 20 Grafton Architects Win Architecture’s Highest Honor 22 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 14. Issue 03. March 2020. English - Monthly. This issue contains 24 pages including both covers. C r e a t i v e D i r e c t o r N a t a l i e Pe d d e r - B a j a j A s s i s t a n t E d i t o r S h w e t a S a l v i . L a y o u t D e s i g n D a r s h a n Pa l a v, Snigdha Hodarkar M a r ke t i n g : Mumbai, Kamini Kamble Mob: 9833301852, B 62, Cotton Exchange Bldg, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033 Tel: (022) 23736133/1, 23743069 Email:response@marvelinfomedia. com. REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE Recycling old magazines and newspapers is one of the easiest ways to help the environment. To increase the supply of recoverable wood fibre and to reduce the demand on the world’s landfills, THE INSIDE TRACK urges its readers to actively participate in recycling efforts.
The palette for this house has been kept very neutral. Besides the concrete, wood is the other primary material
marvel infomedia pvt ltd
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
continued from page 2
The slabs are suspended from the roof, with very few columns rising from the plinth. This has opened the lower level area completely which does not have structural members
It is this multiplicity of space that has also been woven into the soul of the Chennai house. The rooms are visually and spatially connected which allow for areas to have multiple roles and become a continuous space should the need arise. Another very unique characteristic of this house is the absence of beams and columns. Not literally, but visually. The architects have turned all the columns and beams into surfaces. The slabs are suspended from the roof, with very few columns rising from the plinth. This has opened the lower level area completely which does not have structural members (the primary loads are transferred to the ground via sheer walls located at the perimeter of the house). The beams, columns and slabs flow
and intersect into each other. With uniform thicknesses being maintained throughout (for structural members as well as doors) there are no offsets or noticeable structural members. Because each is changing into the other these structural elements have lost their definition. You cannot differentiate a wall, column, slab or a beam. They have all become abstract planes that create the interior envelope. Another feature of the architecture is that the interior design scheme is not a secondary layer that is applied post the construction. The interior design is accounted for in the basic construct that forms the final enclosure. The landscape along with the architecture, structure and interior are all considered and planned synchronously, it is essentially conceived as a single entity.
The beams, columns and slabs flow and intersect into each other
The studio also believes in leaving materials in their natural form. This imparts an honest response, with natural light used succinctly to bring out the inner beauty of the material. The palette for this house has been kept very neutral. Besides the concrete, wood is the other primary material. Large wooden shutters provide the backdrop wherever an openable condition exists, allowing all the doors to be camouflaged into this shutter system. Matharoo Associates believes in addressing the function in the most direct way. This is why the resultant architecture is also very simple and easily identifiable. They are also conscious to offer an additional solution or benefit to the occupants that was not originally conceived in the brief. It is this idea of ‘Freepsace’ that is synonymous with all their architecture. Contact email: studio@matharooassociates.com web: www.matharooassociates.com
THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
IT Product
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itrA, the leading bathroom solutions brand of Eczacıbaşı Building Products Division in Turkey introduces Neon Bathtubs. Neon bathtubs are available in both double and single-sided alternatives and can be used with panel options with very rich wood and an acrylic colour palette. All Neon bathtubs can be equipped with hydro-massage functions if desired. Hydro massage bathtubs are a result of the addition of special hydro massage equipment and jets to standard bathtubs, creating an envious combination of the relaxing effect of a massage along with the cleansing power of water. Neon hydro-massage bathtubs come with optional lighting and accessories which are 100% tested with water and electronic measuring devices. The Neon hydro massage bathtub comes with different functions like Duo Maxi wherein you have a choice of a water massage or air massage, which can be used continuously or in intervals. It also has an automatic disinfection program. The light feature can be used continuously, optionally and in intervals. Duo Soft allows you to enjoy the water or air massage either continuously or in intervals. The air massage level can be manually controlled in this function. The light feature can be used continuously, optionally and in intervals.
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Neon Bathtubs By VitrA
With its multiple size options and advanced light and hydro massage functions, VitrA’s Neon offers a bathtub solution suitable for every bathroom.
Neon bathtubs are available in both double and single-sided alternatives and can be used with panel options with very rich wood and an acrylic colour palette
With Air Maxi, you have the option of a water massage, that can be used continuously and in intervals. The light features can be used continuously, optionally or in intervals. Air Relax is where the air massage gushes continuously. The light feature can
The Neon hydro massage bathtub comes with different functions like Duo Maxi wherein you have a choice of a water massage or air massage, which can be used continuously or in intervals
be used continuously or optionally. With Aqua-Soft function, one can get a water massage in intervals or continuously. Lastly, with Aqua-Soft Easy one can get a water massage continuously. Now feel the joy of a massage in your bathroom. Easy to use manual functions flawlessly switch water modes for your benefit. VitrA bathtubs and panels come with a 10-year guarantee. Panel colour options include; acrylic, natural wood, anthracite, oak, plum wood, American walnut, metallic gray, dore oak, black oak, moka oak, light oak, matt, white, gray and ivory.
VitrA is a leading brand of Eczacıba şı, a prominent Turkish industrial group. Eczacıbaşı, core sectors are building products, healthcare and consumer products. VitrA manufacturers 5 million units of sanitary ware, 350,000 bathtubs, 370,000 units of bathroom furniture, 3 million faucets and 2.5 million bathroom accessories every year. 50% of production is exported to over 75 countries worldwide for sale in 150 exclusive showrooms and 2,000 sales points across the world. Founded in 1942, Eczacıba ş ı is a prominent Turkish industrial group with 48 companies, 11,730 employees. Eczacıbaşı, core sectors are building products, healthcare and consumer products. Globally, Eczacıba ş ı has established itself among the world’s top providers of bathroom and tiling solutions for homes and commercial venues with its VitrA, Burgbad, Villeroy and Boch (Tiles) and Engers brands. Contact VitrA Experience Center 1st Floor, Premises No:B-102, Durolite House, New Link Road, Andheri (West).Mumbai 400053. web: www.vitra-india.com Toll Free Number: 18001231134
Neon hydro-massage bathtubs come with optional lighting and accessories which are 100% tested with water and electronic measuring devices
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
Spot Light
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his year marks the 70 th anniversary of the Stockholm Furniture and Light Fair - a furniture fair, which started as a humble showcase of local Scandinavian design has now evolved into a gathering of influential players in the global design industry. The 2020 edition of the Stockholm Furniture and Light Fair that kicked-off on 3rd February and concluded on 9 th February, was discerningly supported by Stockholm Design Week - the yearly design celebration, which was introduced in 2002. While the furniture fair brought the best from across the world under one roof - with a special focus on the companies from Scandinavian countries - the Stockholm Design Week offered a smorgasbord of events and interesting installations that were sprinkled across various venues from galleries, showrooms to museums and institutions. This year’s showcasing witnessed riveting disclosures about global megatrends, an earnest celebration of craftsmanship, exploration of new hybrids in space design, as well as focus on sustainability with the introduction of new bio-materials and products. London-based design studio Doshi Levien was the Guest of Honour at Stockholm Furniture & Light Fair 2020 and was given the responsibility to highlight the narrative of the show through their exhibit in the entrance hall. For the exhibit, the IndianBritish duo scaled-up models that they had made for their previous works. The labyrinth of connected
Stockholm Design Week
The 2020 edition of Stockholm Design Week and the Furniture and Light Fair, succeeds in melding the past, present and future of design. BY SHWETA SALVI
Greenhouse offered a platform for promising designers to present and launch their ideas in the market
vaulted spaces constructed in wood, provided insights into their creative process, revealing for the very first time, their drawings and prototypes along with the actual production pieces. They chose to leave the wood untreated and sourced the material locally to minimise transportation.
Fredrik Paulsen’s Design Bar had a vibrant, carnival-like vibe, and was minimalist in design
The Archive exhibition explored ‘shared aesthetics and values’ of Japanese and Scandinavian design
THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
The Fair focused on global megatrends, craftsmanship, and sustainability
With the bare skin, Nipa and Jonathan wished to reveal the contrast between prototyping and the finished product, and also highlight the behind-the-scene action that leads to all the sleek and trendy designs that earn their display spot at the exhibition. To commemorate the 70 th anniversary of the fair, design journalist Dan Gordan was invited to curate an exhibition that honours some famous and some lesser known classics in Scandinavian design, which have fundamentally defined the past seven decades of design in Sweden. Timeless designs and even a few future classics were put together in the ’70 Scandinavian Design’ exhibition. In 2019, an exclusive design prize called ‘Born Classic’ was introduced at the event to honour a design worthy of being recognised as tomorrow’s design classic. This year the coveted prize went to Åsa Jungnelius’s playful kaleidoscopic coffee table ‘Ettore’.
Greenhouse has been one of the most popular segment of the fair since its inception in 2003. As its tagline ‘where the wild grows’ suggests, Greenhouse is a platform for all the rookies to showcase their talent. Just like the greenhouse ‘where seeds grow and wild ideas thrive’, here promising youth from design schools and young designers compete to present and launch their ideas in the market. Form Us With Love and GamFratesi are few of the popular names that have their roots here. This year’s Stockholm Design & Architecture Talks 2020 series included over 40 programmed events with as many as 100 contributors. Compelling conversations about sustainability shed light on the dire need for change in approach, materiality, and production in the design industry, where influential speakers even boldly stated ‘End the excuses’. Insights about the emerging possibilities of hybrid spaces as well as some concise
Matti Klenell’s Laulu cabinet with hundreds of punctured holes
low-down on the future trends and technological advancement in the industry, were shared. Some thought-provoking installations, like Note Design’s recyclable exhibit ‘Natural Bond’, explored circular economy and featured geometric shapes held t o g e t h e r b y s t r a p s , w h e re a s Norwegian brand, Vestre won the
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best stand award for its installation featuring ‘re-usable materials and information about the carbon footprint of every product’. Sw e d i s h d e s i g n e r Fre d r i k Paulsen was entrusted with the task of designing the ‘Design Bar’. Every year, the Design Bar strives to explore contemporary aesthetics and gastronomy; and staying true to the ideology, Fredrik achieved a socialising space that’s open, welcoming, carnival-like, and yet not conventionally busy in design. The pop of colour and the play of simple planes is reminiscent of Luis Barragan’s work. The Archive exhibition, one of the events of the Stockholm Design Week’s line-up, explored ‘shared aesthetics and values’ of Japanese and Scandinavian design and was hosted at the city’s 19th century Gamla Riksarkivet. It w a s t h e f i r s t t i m e t h i s listed building lent its space for a public event, and it’s classic elegance beautifully contrasted with the modernist designs of the Japanese furniture company Ariake, ceramic studio 2016/Arita, Danish furniture makers Friends and Founders, and lighting brand Le Klint. Contact web: www.stockholmfurniturelightfair.se
This year’s Guest of Honour Doshi Levien scaled-up models of their previous works for their exhibit in the entrance hall
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
Spot Light
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EHAU showcased a large range of rigid core vinyl flooring, hot coating boards, anti-finger print matte laminates, affordable edgebands for carpenters, front panels for kitchens and wardrobes, besides new colours in solid surfaces. The exhibition which is considered the region’s biggest k n ow l e d g e s h a r i n g p l a t f o r m for furniture manufacturing m a c h i n e r y, c o m p o n e n t s a n d accessories, saw REHAU, showcase in the laminates, pre-laminate boards and storage categories. REHAU revealed Flipdoor, an innovative new interpretation of cabinets at the expo. Mr. Ajay Khurana, Chairman, REHAU South Asia, said, “We were ver y excited about our participation at Indiawood 2020 which presented the manufacturers of furniture, kitchen cabinets and other products, a one of a kind opportunity to showcase their latest offerings. REHAU being a global market leader in the industry presented a very special furniture experience highlight at Indiawood 2020. We also showcased a new door-panorama swing door in the windows and door category. It’s a new addition to our windows portfolio, and was showcased for the first time.” He added, “ There is good potential in the furniture industry for organized players, but there are only a handful of companies who have been able to live up to consumer expectations. Hence, there is a huge gap between demand and supply of high quality products in this segment. To meet
Rehau Polymers Introduces Exciting New Products
Rehau Polymers (REHAU), one of the foremost global players in uPVC windows and doors, furniture and the building industry, exhibited at Indiawood 2020 held in Bengaluru.
Rehau Polymers exhibited at Indiawood 2020 held in Bengaluru
the expectations of the customers, manufactures are required to focus on cost optimisation, production efficiency and developing innovative product solutions for them.” Along with Mr. Ajay Khurana,
REHAU, showcased in the laminates, Axor MyEdition Single lever basincategories mixer pre-laminate boards and storage
Mr. Manish Arora, DirectorFurniture Solutions also attended the expo. The highest level of professionalism, from material development through to manufacturing, along with a
passion for the unlimited potential of polymers are the foundations of the worldwide success of REHAU. Contact web: www.rehau.com/in-en
REHAU also introduced customers to a new door-panorama swing door in the windows and door category
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
Co. Profile
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overing more than 12,740 square feet, the WorkLife Centre allows visitors to experience human-centeric spaces designed for collaboration and individual focus-tasks, as well as high-performance shared spaces that are based on Steelcase’s six key ancillary principles: privacy, posture, proximity, personality, productivity and psychological comfort. Customers are greeted in the Oak Café and WorkCafé, informal spaces, where guests and Steelcase employees can dine, meet, socialise and connect, imbibing the need for workplace settings that allow focus, collaboration, connecting and rejuvenation. The blueprint of this WorkLife Centre pays tribute to the city’s traditional past while honouring its technology-driven present and future. Inspired by India’s ‘Garden City,’ the architecture makes use of natural materials, textures and colours, letting the diligently curated collections to be the focal point. Praveen Rawal, Managing Director of Steelcase India, SARRC and Design Application APAC said, “The opening of this new WorkLife Centre in Bengaluru comes at a time when leaders and organisations in India are focused on staying ahead in the disruptive economy. This space will serve as a platform for our customers to experience our innovative workplace solutions surrounding people, place and technology, helping them create a new kind of work space and culture that will lead to better employee experiences and support their business growth.” Products and solutions showcased here are wide. They include the Migration SE Pro, a new generation
Mr. Praveen Rawal, Axor MyEdition Single lever basin mixer Managing Director, Steelcase
Steelcase Opens New WorkLife Centre
Steelcase, the front runner in workplace solutions, furniture and technology, officially inaugurated its Bengaluru centre.
1 The WorkLife Centre allows visitors to experience human-centeric spaces
height-adjustable desk platform that can be ergonomically customised. The Flex collection, winner of the NeoCon 2019, is an integrated range of furniture and accessories you can find here. The collection includes moveable desks, tables, marker boards, carts, screens and accessories that are easy to move. Alongside the Flex collection, Orangebox’s award-winning Air³ acoustic pod can act as a freestanding meeting room, private space, phone booth or touchdown room. On the other hand, the Umami seating, tables and screens offer a variety of configurations, sizes and material options designed to create informal spaces that promote creativity. Providing high performance comfort and support, the Brody WorkLounge featured has a patented LiveLumbar™ technology that reduces neck and shoulder strain, while the SW_1 is a lounge-inspired conferencing solutions collection designed by Scott Wilson.
Also available here is the LexCo desk system with modular configurations that open up the workspace, while the Series 1 office chair (one of Steelcase’s signature seating products) has adjustable lumber support, adaptive bolstering and 4D adjustable arms.
Steelcase Bengaluru WorkLife Centre is located at 1320, Indiranagar Double Rd, Eshwara Layout, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka. Contact web: www.steelcase.asia
Covering more than 12,740 square feet, the architecture makes use of natural materials, textures and colours
THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
Co. Profile
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ast year was a record year for U.S. hardwood exports to India with the value of hardwood lumber and veneer exports totaling USD 6.448 million, according to the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), the leading international trade association for the American hardwood industry. The top six American hardwood species exported last year were hickory (USD 727,000 and 1,229m3), red oak (USD 466,000 and 920m3), walnut (USD 329,000 and 282m3), white oak (USD 262,000 and 358m3), ash (USD 242,000 and 356m3) and maple (USD 140,000 and 240m3). Significant increases were seen in the value and volume of exports of all species. A sector with tremendous potential is the Indian wooden handicrafts and furniture manufacturing industry. Increasing certification requirements, and both the restricted and deteriorating quality of supply of domestic species is driving Indian manufacturers to look at viable alternative hardwood species not only for the domestic furniture and interiors market, but also for re-exports of valueadded products. Given that Indian exporters of wooden handicrafts and other wood products are facing stricter norms in the European Union, the United States and Australia, the U.S. hardwood industry is well placed to service this demand as American hardwoods are both legal and sustainable, and do not need to be certified in order to enter in to these markets. With India making positive progress towards fulfilling its potential as a major market for U.S. hardwoods, AHEC recently participated at INDIAWOOD with an American hardwood pavilion, which includes several U.S. based hardwood and veneer exporters. AHEC also hosted a seminar in partnership with NürnbergMesse India, the organizers of INDIAWOOD.
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U.S. Hardwood Exports To India On The Rise
Limited domestic hardwood supplies, coupled with strong sustained growth in the retail furniture, handicraft and hospitality sectors is driving demand for new species, making India an attractive long-term prospective market for U.S. hardwoods.
AHEC has been actively promoting American hardwoods in India since 2003 targeting specifiers (architects and interior designers), end users (furniture and joinery manufacturers) as well as importers and distributors
The seminar focused on all aspects of the American hardwood resource, sustainable forest management, production, kiln-drying and the wide range of species available, in addition to new technologies that allow American hardwoods to now be used in exterior and structural applications. A closer look at the numbers for 2019 reveal that total hardwood lumber shipped from the United States
to India increased by 72 percent in value to USD 2.356 million (up from USD 1.369 million in 2018) and by 140 percent in volume to 4,082 cubic meters (up from 1,698 cubic meters in 2018). At the same time, direct exports of American hardwood veneers to the market increased by 4 percent to reach USD 4.092 million. According to AHEC, limited domestic hardwood supplies, coupled with
strong sustained growth in the retail furniture, handicraft and hospitality sectors is driving demand for new species, making India an attractive long-term prospective market for U.S. hardwoods. “AHEC has been actively promoting American hardwoods in India since 2003 targeting specifiers (architects and interior designers), end users (furniture and joinery manufacturers) as well as importers and distributors. Our participation at INDIAWOOD is the first in a line of many activities planned for 2020 aimed at building on the current knowledge of American hardwoods in India. Looking ahead, the plan is to host lumber grading workshops and design and manufacturing seminars in a number of metropolitan areas around India, while also maintaining a constant on-the-ground presence and technical assistance through our representative based in Bangalore. The American hardwood industry is committed to servicing growing Indian demand for hardwoods,” concluded Roderick Wiles, AHEC Regional Director. Contact web: www.americanhardwood.org
AHEC hosted a seminar in partnership with NürnbergMesse India. The seminar focused on all aspects of the American hardwood resource, sustainable forest management, production, kiln-drying and the wide range of species available
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
Interview
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ith an oeuvre of fabulous fantastical objects, artworks, and furniture, Scarlet Splendour, a Kolkatabased globally recognised brand, constantly challenges the status quo in design. The company collaborates and commissions talented designers from across the globe, to bring in a modern twist to traditional Indian designing techniques. The sibling duo at the helm of the company, Ashish Bajoria and Suman Kanodia, explores the intersection of art, design, and master craftsmanship; perfectly applying their entrepreneurial prowess in their design collaborations that successfully evolves into cuttingedge pieces that are both exciting and inspiring. In an interview with The Inside Track, the duo provide insight on the brand’s vision, goals and inspirations, and why they want to create timeless designs that have a subtle hint of ‘desi’ness. Tell us about your brand Scarlet Splendour - the intention and ideology behind its conception. Scarlet Splendour is the present and the future of desi-inspired, decadent and timeless designs. I, along with my sister Suman Kanodia founded the company in 2014. In this short span, Scarlet Splendour has quickly garnered cult status as
Strings Cabinet
Scarlet Splendour Kolkata-based Scarlet Splendour creates design symphonies through collaborations with talented designers and showsases a touch of whimsy with its collection of furniture and lighting.
Strings Credenza
one of the foremost design houses in the country. We have garnered recognition for our eclectic and opulent furniture, lights, and accessories that are inspired by a wide range of cultures. Suman and I wanted to create a company with the simple idea of blending our passion for art and craftsmanship while cultivating a refined aesthetic
Oasis Cabinet
THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
through collections of objects. We are on a mission to take local craftsmanship to global levels.
their contribution to design. They understand our strengths in the manufacturing process and design unique products for us that we sell worldwide. In the next decade, we will foray into many other spheres of design using the same philosophy of fabulous design and superior craftsmanship.
What’s a design constant when you conceptualise any product under your brand? Design for us is coming together of art, technique, and culture which are further bolstered by a strong aesthetic sense. We transform furniture into magnificent, sleek and utilitarian forms of beauty, each having their own story.
You collaborate and co-create with accomplished designers and craftsmen on several projects; what has been the experience and takeaway from such collaborations?
The brand’s collections often have an underlying theme of fantasy and vivid accents of quirks. Tell us something about the brand’s design philosophy. At Scarlet Splendour, we believe that luxury doesn’t have to be super serious. It’s nice to have an object of utility that is fantastically designed and brings a smile to the owner’s face. Since its launch, the brand has created a niche for
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We have globally recognised designers under the Scarlet Splendour umbrella, each having their own signature style and inspirations. Matteo is our first and principal designer. We fell in love with his forms and ideas. There is a sense of playfulness combined with luxury which is rare. Richard Hutten needs no introduction in the world of design. The perfection in his designs is a joy - mature, yet fun. Nika Zupanc has emerged as a stalwart in product and furniture design, she understands the language of the brand that she collaborates with and designs pieces which are elegant and timeless.
Ciuco Cabinet
What are the future goals at Scarlet Splendour? What are you currently working on?
Woman in Paris Oro
their trailblazing designs, as they break away from conventional and standardised furniture forms. In five years, we believe, we have created a brand that is known for its avant-garde designs and exemplary quality by seamlessly integrating international designs with Indian craftsmanship, to create path-breaking products. Tell us about the entire scope of work undertaken by Scarlet Splendour.
Ashish Bajoria and Suman Kanodia
Scarlet Splendour is the first luxury brand from India and we collaborate with established international designers who are respected for
We have exciting new collections by design stalwarts Elena Salmistraro and Marcantonio, with whom we are collaborating for the first time. We will launch their designs at Salone Del Mobile 2020 along with new pieces by Matteo Cibic, Nika Zupanc, Richard Hutten and Artefatto Design Studio. The Forest collection, launched last December with the Forest chair, designed by Marcantonio, explores the dynamic and beauty of nature. Where can people buy your products: in-store/online/directly from you? Our flagship studio is based in Kolkata. We are also present in stores all over the world, like the 1stdibs Studio in New York, Art Now at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore, Altagamma in Russia, The Quarry Co-Lab in Mumbai and many more. We also have 1stDibs, Miliashop and Treniq as our online partners. Contact email: info@scarletsplendour.com web: www.scarletsplendour.com
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
IT Product
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uravit presents the new patent-pending c-shaped technology in its expansion of the Happy D.2 Plus series by sieger design. This evolution of the patented c-bonded process guarantees that the ceramic washbasin and furniture run in perfectly parallel lines with no overhang or recess and a precise gap of 4 mm. Made entirely of DuraCeram® and specially finished, c-shaped has all the benefits of a ceramic glaze, such as ease of cleaning and robustness, whilst at the same time offering new scope for bathroom design within the wet environment. Happy D.2 Plus offers two new versions for washing area design as a continuation of the underlying idea of elegant, expressive style collections with a lighter or darker basic mood. c-shaped is available with a ceramic, glossy white outer edge in combination with a vanity unit or metal console in chrome. c-bonded now comes with a new, rounded outer edge in the same colour as the vanity unit or to match the metal console in Black Matt. In each case they are based on basins with a narrow, typically flat edge and harmoniously integrated tap platform. The basins are available in three widths (575, 775 and 975 mm). A white acrylic cover conceals the fittings beneath the basin, guaranteeing perfect aesthetics from any angle. The floor-standing, heightadjustable metal consoles with integrated towel rail can be delivered with an optional shelf or built-in drawer. A further option is a seat (width 625 mm) featuring an integrated drawer that can be added as a practical extension of the console on the left or right. Duravit also offers a cushion in matching greige made from a woven fabric suitable for wet rooms. Wall-mounted vanity units with two drawers provide additional storage space. These are available in a total of eleven carcass surfaces, one can
Duravit Presents Latest “c-shaped” Technology Made entirely of DuraCeram® and specially finished, c-shaped has all the benefits of a ceramic glaze, such as ease of cleaning and robustness, whilst at the same time offering new scope for bathroom design within the wet environment.
Spacious freestanding bathtub Happy D.2 Plus in glossy acrylic all in White with optional whirl system and faucets from the C.1 series
choose between luxury wood or matt surfaces in light or dark. The Graphite Super Matt variant also comes with an anti-fingerprint coating. A high-class interior furnishing system in Maple or Walnut can be selected as an option. The new washing area variants can be ideally combined with all elements from the Happy D.2 and Happy D.2 Plus design series, ensuring a consistent design for the all bathroom furnishings. Happy D.2 Plus offers a consistent
Happy D.2 Plus bathtub in Graphite Super Matt (80), c-bonded vanity unit and metal console in Black Matt, furniture unit in Brushed Walnut (69), mirror in Radial finish and C.1 faucets
color concept with toilets and bidets in Anthracite as well as bathtubs with seamless paneling in Graphite Supermatt – harmonizing perfectly with the black metal console and dark furniture surfaces. Founded in 1817 in Hornberg in the Black Forest, Duravit AG is today a leading international manufacturer of designer bathrooms. The company is active in more than 130 countries worldwide and stands for innovation in the fields of signature design, comfortenhancing technology and premium quality. In cooperation with high-profile international designers, such as Philippe Starck, sieger design, Kurt Merki Jr., Christian Werner, Matteo Thun and Cecilie Manz, the company develops unique bathrooms that enhance quality of life for users on a sustained basis. Duravit’s product portfolio comprises sanitary ceramics, bathroom furniture, bathtubs and shower trays, wellness systems, shower-toilets, tap fittings and accessories as well as installation systems. Contact Pradeep Nair, Phone: +91 7966112338 email: pradeep.nair@in.duravit.com web: www.duravit.in
Happy D-2 Plus c-shaped washbasin with base in White Satin Matt (36), mirror in Radial finish, C.1 faucet and Starck T accessories
THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
Spot Light
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ajaria recently launched Duratech XT Heavy Duty Outdoor Vitrified Tiles. These tiles are 60x60cm and are 12mm thick that can be safely used in all internal and external spaces that are exposed to high load and pedestrian traffic. They are a blend of elegance and durability, maintaining all the vital parameters such as surface hardness (Moh), water absorption, breaking strength (Mor), load bearing capacity etc. These tiles make for a practical and stylish outdoor flooring option as they embody qualities like skid resistance, high UV Resistance and are resistant to scratches. The application base of Duratech XT series is wider than conventional solutions and its design reflects strongly of an artistic creation. They are a special purpose solution and can be used safely in areas like pedestrian traffic areas, vehicular movement areas, terraces, sit-outs, beaches, swimming pools, sidewalks, airports and a lot more where a flooring is likely to receive harder traffic and wear and tear owing to the elements. Kajaria has been growing from strength to strength in the flooring space and believes in its Indian brand ethos. It has been scaling operations with a multi-national attitude creating products that are excellent value for money. Kajaria Ceramics is the largest manufacturer of ceramic/vitrified tiles in India. It has an annual aggregate capacity of 73 million square meters, distributed across eight plants Sikandrabad in Uttar Pradesh, Gailpur
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Kajaria Launches Duratech XT
The tile major has launched an ultra thick outdoor vitrified tile that can be used in internal and external spaces exposed to high load and pedestrian traffic.
Leveraging their two invaluable assets - the Kajaria brand and unparalleled, multi-layer distribution network - Kajaria is constantly expanding the product bouquet
& Malootana in Rajasthan, Vijayawada & Srikalahasti in Andhra Pradesh and three plants in Gujarat. Kajaria’s manufacturing units are equipped with cutting edge modern technology. Founded more than 30 years ago, Kajaria has since then grown stronger. Kajaria Ceramics has increased its capacity from 1 mn. sq. mtrs to 73 mn. sq. mtrs. Since its
Duratech XT Heavy Duty Outdoor Vitrified Tiles are 1 2mm thick that can be safely used in all internal and external spaces that are exposed to high load and pedestrian traffic
inception and today offers more than 2800 options in ceramic wall & floor tiles, vitrified tiles, designer tiles and much more. These tiles come in a wide range of colours and textures to complement bathrooms, living rooms, corridors, study rooms & kitchen, born out of an inspired creativity of those who feel that rooms should be an extension of
the beauty reflected. Leveraging their two invaluable assets - the Kajaria brand and unparalleled, multi-layer distribution network - Kajaria is constantly expanding the product bouquet to cater to the growing aspirations of the discerning Indian customers. Contact web: www.kajariaceramics.com
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
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ohler, a world pioneer in design and innovation in the kitchen and bath sector declares its alliance with India’s largest luxury design week, India Design (ID) 2020. The brand known as a leader in colours and finishes in the bath space, showcased their full range of coloured products in Matte Black, Henna, Truffle and Peacock at this year’s ID. The open maze-like structure of the Kohler booth that was sectioned into four distinct colour zones, exhibited a monochromatic palette inspired by global bathrooms trends. While the Matte Black colour zone displayed Brutalism, Truffle showcased Serenity as a design trend in the bathroom space. Peacock used Blush Botanicals and finally Boudoir was depicted using Henna, the newest addition to its colour spectrum. The four colours by Kohler were also translated by 4 top designers in the pre symposium area. Shantanu Garg, Aneeth Arora of Pero, Ankon Mitra and Madhav Raman specially curated spaces inspired by the Kohler colour range using unique art forms. Kohler also organized interactive and e n g a g i n g w o rk s h o p s by Shantanu Garg and Anavila Misra at their booth and presented Timothy Corrigan, a renowned Hollywood interior designer as a speaker at the ID Symposium. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Salil Sadanandan, President, Kohler K&B India, Middle East and Sub Saharan Africa said,“For a company that has believed in
Kohler At India Design Week
Kohler India launched their much anticipated Matte Black and Henna colour range of products.
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At the peacock blue zone blushed botanicals were used
and creative leaders from India and around the world. Our booth will showcase the move from mundane colours like white and chrome to colours in bathrooms which appeal to the bold and expressive Kohler customer. Kohler’s India palette lies perfectly in sync with this idea, taking its inspiration from vibrant local hues which are international in their appeal. This year at India design we are also introducing an addition to the India palette in Henna, a deep shade of maroon which celebrates the modern expression of India’s rich heritage.” India Design ID gives attendees the chance to interact with the best in architecture, interiors and decor. It displays the finest in home decoration, across categories like furniture, accessories, kitchens, furnishing, lighting and much more. Contact web: www.kohler.co.in
staying at the leading edge of design and technology for over 145 years, building a close relationship with the design fraternity is very important. Associating with India Design 2020 as symposium partners provides us the platform to continue a dialogue with the people that inspire us most, architects, designers
Axorbeautiful MyEdition Singleoflever basinat mixer The display products the Kohler booth
The booth was sectioned into colour zones that exhibited global bathrooms trends
THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
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alingaStone marble, M e l i s s a a n d Te r r a z z o marble, the Hudson Sky are the two new products added to CMC’s repertoire. The quiet tone of Melissa can be used for the bathroom flooring and wall cladding, and is perfectly matched with the mosaic design of Hudson Sky that can be used for the vanity counter. The Melissa has a grainy motif throughout its otherwise white marble surface, while Hudson Sky, also a white slab, has prominent terrazzo chips strewn in shades of black, brown and grey. The two designs integrate beautifully creating a relaxed and energising ambience. The products are also suitable for in a range of applications whether in the living, bedroom or bath areas, in both residential and commercial spaces. Terrazzo has five collections and over 30 shades to choose from. Both the KalingaStone marble products are strong, durable and offer great aesthetics. The Melissa as well as the Hudson Sky slab surfaces can be polished for an extended life and shine. T h e p ro d u c t s a re s c r a t c h
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CMC Introduces Two New KalingaStone Products
Classic Marble Company (CMC) presents its latest products styled for a minimalistic and graceful space.
resistant and stain resistant, and being less porous makes them suitable for areas that come in contact with liquids. The products are easy to maintain, making them an ideal choices. web: www.kalingastone.com
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
Event
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e-generation was the theme du jour, dedicated to the millennials who are altering the rules and reshaping consumer responses in both the home and lifestyle sectors. Trends that appeal to this generation such as sustainability, localisation and zero waste were on display with brands such as Arecabio (100% biodegradable eco-friendly tableware), Honeybee Wrap (natural food packaging), Life Without Plastic (sustainable household utensils) , etc. showcasing their ‘green’ products. This ‘engaged generation’ has grown up on a steady diet of social media and the Internet. Having also witnessed a world in crisis, damaged economies, environmental issues and migration problems have made them acutely aware of making a meaningful difference. Hence, sustainability was a big factor this edition, along with fair practices, ethics, virtuous trade, re-cycling, up-cycling and social values. Keeping this subject in mind the Share zone curated by Elisabeth Leriche had natural elements (plant, mineral, earth, fire and water) at the core of her kitchen and tableware selection, with themes like Forest Fever, Sea Shore and Stone Age that showed how materials derived from nature can transform an experience. Alive! Set the tone for the Living zone helmed by François Delclaux, who explored the trade show’s innovations through the categories of life on earth, through his themes called Mineral Memories, Plant
The MOM Village
Happy 25 Years Maison Objet!
Held this January in Paris, Maison et Objet celebrated its anniversary by looking toward the future, zooming in on the attitudes and expectations of Generation Y and Z. BY NATALIE PEDDER-BAJAJ
Andrien Garcia, one of the Rising French Talents
Symbiosis and Organic Life. L a s t l y, t h e C a r e z o n e b y François Bernard showcased Ritual in the bedroom and bathroom settings through three design themes. Manual, paid tribute to artisanal style and rustic elegance, Contemplative, embraced luxurious minimalism, while Expressionist
was inspired by 1950s modern art and Mediterranean colours loved by the great painters of the era. Ramy Fischler, who was last year’s Designer Of The Year, created a ‘live’ installation of a kitchen, a social hub and a studio. “It’s a ‘behavioural laboratory’ that turns the spotlight on shared
The What’s New zone at the fair
living spaces, almost like a lifesized ideas pad, a kind of living display that examines what the future may hold. Five characters share the co-living space of the future and are exposed to different situations, objects and services that question our relationship with the world of tomorrow. My team and
THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
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Maison Objet, Design Award China
I haven’t set out to provide clearcut answers, but rather an open book that encourages each visitor to think about things themselves,” he explained. Visitors could view the goings-on that explored various concepts like What if…? Sharing could make us more comfortable. What if…?… Cohabiting in a Social Hub fostered new opportunities? What if…? I could run the NY marathon without getting on a plane in my Studio? What if…? My Kitchen took care of me? The Designer Of The Year was Michael Anastassiades. This Cypriot designer erected for the very first time in one place, a never before seen installation of 16 mobile chandeliers. Driven by motors, the mobiles move through the penumbra like glowing
Maison et Objet 2020
planets. “To design a light, onefirst has to embrace darkness,” he said. His poetic lights are designed to interact with people and the surrounding space. After Italy, Lebanon, China and the United States, the Rising Talent Awards lauded five designers and a duo from France, placing specific importance on craftsmanship and on being 100% ‘made in France.’ “All the materials I use are more or less natural. If not, they’re either re-cycled or re-purposed by an artisan,” said Adrien Garcia, one of the designers being honoured. The Maison Objet and More (MOM) allowed you to access the latest new products from exhibitors before, during and after the show, with product info just a click away. This year their collectors’ red tote
The Designer Of The Year was Michael Anastassiades’ light installation
was designed by Pierre Charpin’s that had converging geometric lines, a metaphor for the fair, where people’s trajectories cross paths. Something unique this season was Maison Objet making a commitment to showcase Chinese design. The international trade fair for the decoration, design and lifestyle sector has announced the creation of the Maison Objet - Design Award China. The initiative will be officially launched in Shenzhen on December 8th and to mark the event, they had a China pavilion which displayed amazing works by renowned Chinese designers. This season as usual set the bench mark in design, with Maison et Objet aways having that certain je ne sais quoi that keeps visitors coming back for more! Contact Maison&Objet Raj Anand & Associates 46/2,SindhiSociety, Chembur, Mumbai 400071 Email: raj@rajanandassociates.com web: www.maison-objet.com Tel: +91-22-25224081 Cell:+91-9833685256
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
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ith an expanding marketplace boasting more than 70 countries and a long list of international awards to its name, Lapitec is an interesting case study in the design world. Lapitec was created in Veneto, Italy, in 1989 from an entrepreneurial idea of Marcello Toncelli, and after more than 20 years of scientific research, tests and certifications, a revolutionary product was born which is 100% Made in Italy and offers unique performance qualities. The success of the product is based on a combination of features that respond perfectly to market trends, as well as an obvious focus on sustainability, both in the raw materials used and the stages of the production process. Lapitec is a mixture of 100% natural minerals, which when baked at high temperatures produce “full body” slabs: the exterior and interior are identical, without enamel or digital printing on the surface. This feature allows Lapitec to be machined across its full thickness while ensuring consistent appearance and performance as well as avoiding the use of resins, inks, and other petroleum derivatives. With an innovative technology supported by 25 patents, Lapitec offers design versatility, and the guarantee of an excellent aesthetic result combined with optimum technical performance. Lapitec slabs, 3365 mm in length, are available in 3 collections, 17 colours and 7 different surface textures, and can also be customised. They are used not only as an indoor and outdoor surface covering, but also for rooftops, yachts, swimming pools and product design, from tables to consoles and from bathrooms to kitchens, where the total absence of porosity of the surface makes Lapitec ideal in terms of hygiene and ease of maintenance. Lapitec is a valuable material that is suitable to numerous uses. In recent years Lapitec slabs have been used for public buildings, residential
Lapitec, A Unique Material For Design And Architecture
Lapitec is a material of the future - elegant, sustainable and highly performance oriented.
Lapitec also stands the test of time and is not susceptible to atmospheric and domestic agents. Cleaning does not reveal any degeneration. The original appearance is maintained
complexes, infrastructure, places of worship and marine applications, but also for the creation – in collaboration with other design brands – of kitchens, outdoor furniture, tables and next generation technologies. Thirty years on from the invention of Lapitec, the company – now run by the third generation under the leadership of Marcello Toncelli’s grandson of the same name – is expanding its product range with ever more innovative solutions in the field of kitchens and living spaces. This is also through the technological partnership with the parent company Breton, a world leader in the production of plants for machining stone materials and natural agglomerates, which guarantees the reliability of the production chain. Contact web: www.lapitec.com
Lapitec is made from a mixture of natural minerals which is first melted at 1,580°C, and then subjected to a patented vacuum vibro-compression technology
Lapitec is available in large slabs and combines the best qualities and benefits of ceramics, porcelain stoneware, quartz, marble and granite
The exterior and interior of Lapitec are identical, without enamel and digital printing on the surface. This feature allows Lapitec to be machined across its full thickness while ensuring consistent appearance and performance
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THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
Universita Luigi Bocconi, 2008, Milan, Italy
Photo courtesy: Ros Kavanagh
Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara
Dublin, Ireland, have been selected as the 2020 Pritzker Prize Laureates. Photo courtesy: Federico Brunetti
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s architects and educators since the 1970s, Farrell and McNamara create spaces that are at once respectful and new, honoring history while demonstrating a mastery of the urban environment and craft of construction Balancing strength and delicacy, and upholding a reverence of site- specific contexts, their academic, civic and cultural institutions, as well as housing developments, result in modern and impactful works that never repeat or imitate, but are decidedly of their own architectural voice. “Architecture could be described as one of the most complex and important cultural activities on the planet,” remarks Farrell “To be an architect is an enormous privilege To win this prize is a wonderful endorsement of our belief in architecture Thank you for this great honor. ” “Within the ethos of a practice
Grafton Architects Win Architecture’s Highest Honor Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara of
Photo courtesy: Ed Reeves
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Loreto Community School, 2006, Milford, Ireland
Town House Building,Kingston University, 2019, Kingston upon Thames, United Kingdom
Université Toulouse 1 Capitole School of Economics, 2019, Toulouse, France
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McNamara states, “Architecture is a framework for human life It anchors us and connects us to the world in a way which possibly no other space-making discipline can ” Farrell continues, “At the core of our practice is a real belief that architecture matters It is a cultural spatial phenomenon that people invent ” The pair established Grafton Architects in 1978 in Dublin, where they continue to practice and reside In just over forty years, they have completed nearly as many projects, located in Ireland, the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Peru. Farrell and McNamara are the 47 th and 48 th Laureates of the Pritzker Prize, and the first two recipients from Ireland. The Pritzker Architecture Prize was founded in 1979 by the late Jay A Pritzker and his wife, Cindy Its purpose is to honor annually a living architect or architects whose built work demonstrates a combination of those qualities of talent, vision and commitment, which has produced consistent and significant contributions to humanity and the built environment through the art of architecture. Contact Eunice Kim Director of Communications The Pritzker Architecture Prize Tel: +1 240 401 5649 email: eunicekim@pritzkerprize com Photo courtesy: Dennis Gilbert
Rendering courtesy: Grafton Architects
such as ours, we have so often struggled to find space for the implementation of such values as humanism, craft, generosity, and cultural connection with each place and context within which we work It is therefore extremely gratifying that this recognition is bestowed upon us and our practice and upon the body of work we have managed to produce over a long number of years,” says McNamara “It is also a wonderful recognition of the ambition and vision of the clients who commissioned us and enabled us to bring our buildings to fruition.” “For their integrity in their approach to both their buildings, as well as the way they conduct their practice, their belief in collaboration, their generosity towards their colleagues, especially as evidenced in such events as the 2018 Venice Biennale, their unceasing commitment to excellence in architecture, their responsible attitude toward the environment, their ability to be cosmopolitan
Photo courtesy: Grafton Architects
THE INSIDE TRACK March 2020
while embracing the uniqueness of each place in which they work, for all these reasons and more, Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara are awarded the 2020 Pritzker Architecture Prize,” states the 2020 Jury Citation. “The collaboration between Yv o n n e Fa r r e l l a n d Sh e l l e y McNamara represents a veritable interconnectedness between equal counterparts,” states Pritzker “They demonstrate incredible strength in their architecture, show deep relation to the local situation in all regards, establish different responses to each commission while maintaining the honesty of their work, and exceed the requirements of the field through responsibility and community ”
Universita Luigi Bocconi, 2008, Milan, Italy
Photo courtesy: Ros Kavanagh
London School of Economics and Political Science, Under Construction, London, United Kingdom
Urban Institute of Ireland, 2002, Dublin, Ireland
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