Volume 12. Issue 09. September 2018 Rs. 25/-
THE
INSIDE TRACK CONNECTING THE DESIGN COMMUNITY Now view our web edition at www.theinsidetrack.in
Cover Story
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rchitecture and design in India has heightened to unimaginable levels. With the rising population, there is also a rise in talent on a large scale. Earlier what could be deemed as the cons of design are now being adopted as pros to create structures which not only add to the glamorous city’s skyline and landscape but also build creative masterpieces that will remain etched in the memory of the city’s integral outline. We have done a dive into a few of these iconic projects in our pursuit at The Inside Track of constantly discovering such gems. An Incongruous Mélange- Collage House, Mumbai The atrocities of living in a financial hub like Mumbai aren’t lost on a local. The population, pollution, humid weather and fast paced lifestyle, to name a few, give the city it’s notorious reputation A city that never sleeps! For an architect or a designer, the challenges are plentiful when working under selectively frugal circumstances of a busy city.
Fenestrative Affairs From peaked roofs to reclaimed fenestrations, these projects give rise to a new normal for fenestrations and facades. BY NEERJA KAPADIA
The dialogue between the external facade and the plush interiors continues as the materials have been combined to form a surface that wraps around both sides
While in Mumbai, despite the informal settings being hard to ignore, the same settings also act as learning modules for those who will embrace it’s ever so cosmopolitan vibe. In a cramped city, where the only way to expand is upwards, the creativity tends to get misplaced. However, there are a few personalities like S+PS Architects that embrace these challenges and build some exceptional design marvels. The locally based architects have romanced the ramshackles of Mumbai and designed this oneof-a-kind masterpiece by using recycled mismatched doors and windows, antique wooden columns and metal drainpipes which they found on worn down buildings all over the city.
Facade has been designed using mismatched fenestrations
The façade of the building has been designed using these materials in a traditional concept, which also continues into a dialogue in the interiors in this plush residence as these materials have been combined to form a surface that wraps around two sides of the living room. The building’s roof terrace accommodates a lightweight steel and glass pavilion topped with solar panels and decorated with 100-year-old columns removed from a dismantled house. Collage House, named aptly, is located on top of a hill and has been designed using salvaged materials around a central courtyard that gives it the views of the city but at the same time provides privacy from neighboring buildings. continued on page 2
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THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
THE
INSIDE TRACK
CONTENTS
SEPTEMBER 2018
COVER STORY Fenestrative Affairs 1 Poise Makes More Noise 5 The timber-clad roof mimics its surroundings by adopting a striking peaked profile that also has a large skylight integrated on it’s slope
A Full Frontal 8
continued from page 1 This sagacious use of doors and windows introduces a new concept of recycling in architecture and design and a whole novel way of displaying traditional fenestrations. Woody Peaks - The Woodhouse, Uttarakhand Outlines of structures play a pivotal role in holding the building together both figuratively as well as practically.
The Millennial House 6
Roofs essentially are the external part of the building, in addition to doors and windows that crown and shelter the property. Now, how do we make these functional structures more visually beguiling? Matra Architects show us how. The Woodhouse, designed by them, located in the foothills of the picturesque Himalayas, grabs the attention with it’s peculiar yet striking roof. continued on page 4
Window Fashions 10 Art Or Architecture? 12 Maison&Objet Liaisons 13 New Beginnings 16 Visual Delight, Living Bliss 18 Crafting Excellence 20 The Latest On Recent Launches And Products 22 Straight Out Of A Story Book 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 12. Issue 09. September 2018. English - Monthly. This issue contains 24 pages including both covers.
Creative Director Natalie Pedder-Bajaj Assistant Editor Shweta Salvi. Senior Sub-Editor Neerja Kapadia Sub-Editor Avani Patwardhan, Vandana Krishnan LayoutDesign Asif Shayannawar, Darshan Palav, Snigdha Hodarkar Marketing: Mumbai, Sheetal Waghmare 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
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THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
continued from page 2
The interior is arranged over three distinct levels and has a glazed slot running along the top of a stone plinth that extends around the base of the house
In a nut-shell, the Woodhouse is a classic example of the merge of vernacular architecture with sprinkles of modern structural elements and an exceptional building profile. On Top of the World - Aer, Mumbai Railings have always been the duller companion of windows and facades. More functional than aesthetic, they have been used for the purposes of security, safety, privacy and structural
The Woodhouse, located at the foothills of the picturesque Himalayas grabs the attention with it’s peculiar yet striking roof
Photo credit: Four Seasons Hotel
The form comprises of exposed drystone wall and locally sourced ‘thun’ wooden cladding. The timber-clad roof mimics its surrounding mountain range by adopting a striking peaked profile that also has a large skylight integrated on to it’s slope to maximize the natural light coming in. The structure comprises of four 14.5 frames made of Salwood and shaped by several thin steel tie rods and glued planks which completely supports the entire roof and envelopes the entire building including the mezzanine. These truss frames behave as the main structural element suspending the entire structure to create an unhindered column free space. The interior is arranged over three distinct levels and has a glazed slot running along the top of a stone plinth that extends around the base of the house which further creates a sense of being in touch with the surrounding terrain. To continue that dialogue with the natural surroundings, all wooden walls are perforated with square shaped windows that act as picture windows perfectly capturing the views of the snow clad northern Himalayan panorama from all the rooms of the house. Boasting of five bedrooms and five and a half baths, this peaked roof holiday home is the ultimate example of the finesse and importance a roofing structure can add to a building.
In addition to the visual appeal of it’s clarity and sleekness, it creates an even more important function - ventilation!
support. Not wanting to be left far behind, more and more railing structures are being created with trying to be aesthetically sleek in addition to the functionalities they are meant to incorporate. The rooftop bar perched atop the glamorous Four Seasons hotel in Mumbai, have achieved this rare railing design. Attracting tourists as well as locals in equal measures, it is the highest rooftop bar with spectacular views of the Mumbai’s glittery skyline. Since it is situated on the highest level and gets extremely busy on the weekends and pretty much every day during the winter, safety was of utmost necessity when designing it. Keeping in tone with the upscale and minimalistic furnishings, the railing had to be in tone with the setting. The designer’s choice of safetyglazing in the balustrade was on point. At the edge of the premises, it creates an almost invisible protection between the guests and the city views. This highly transparent ‘wall’ is made of laminated safety glass, has a frameless design and is strong enough to carry the wind impact loads. The panels each measure 1.7 meters x 2.3 meters and consist of two 12mm glass panels
laminated together using a 3mm interlayer SentryGlas®. The railing was installed by Permasteelisa - a prolific specialist in architectural glazing. Another advantage of this glass balustrade laminate is it’s higher stiffness and toughness compared with traditional safety interlayers. Even if a glass panel gets broken, the interlayer helps keep the self-supported panel in place until it can be replaced. Traditional interlayers are flimsy and can cause a glass balustrade to fall over after breaking, which can create a dangerous gap in rooftop protection and a possible hazard below. In addition to the visual appeal of it’s clarity and sleekness, it creates an even more important function - ventilation! The glass panels are placed parallel to each other, slightly overlapping but leaving a small gap in between every piece to facilitate cool breeze at all times of the day throughout the year. Playing an integral role in naming the place ‘aer’, these airy railings are not only a welcome feature in the city’s formidable humid climate, but also the focal point of the dig. Contact web: www.spsplusarchitects.com www.matra.co.in www.fourseasons.com/mumbai/
THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
Spot Light
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erched weightlessly over landscaped mounds on one end and a series of slender columns that form a stoic concrete shell, The Panorama House appears to be coherently ‘placed’ and not merely erected. The project was the brainchild of Ajay Sonar, principal architect at A for Architecture.
Poise Makes More Noise
Set on the backwaters of the Gangapur Dam in Nasik, The Panaroma House merges with its surroundings like an optical illusion. BY VANDANA KRISHNAN The house features sliding windows that span the entire height on each floor, again aiding to keep with the openness of the house. The Sahyadri range that surround the house receives harsh sunlight almost through out the year. The sliding glass windows are thus coupled with a 2.6 meter overhang on either side which cools the air coming into the house and there is a drop in temperatures of the outside and the inside. Its also encompasses an open air swimming pool with a deck.
It is perched weightlessly over landscaped mounds on one end and a series of slender columns that form a stoic concrete shell
This minimal masterpiece appears to lie in harmony with its surroundings; with cubes of concrete that make up the house framing it and imparting a see-through feel through the interiors of the house almost as if it was at one with nature. To maintain the unrestricted views of its surroundings, the entire roofscape is supported by columns conceived from structural steel ‘L’ sections. 4 L-sections are fitted with metal washers at 450mm center-to-center distance to make a single column.
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A 12mm gap is maintained in the center that reduces bulk in order to retain the open environment conceptualized for the house. While the concrete has a grey-brown pigment to it, the granite has a leather finish and the interiors generously feature works in wood. The concrete floor was given a Polyurethane (PU) treatment that gave it a glossy finish akin to grey marble but sans joints. All these textures give a rugged yet sophisticated look to the house. The concrete shell that frames the house is constructed in 250mm-thick concrete that rests on the steel columns which serve as cantilevers on all four sides.
To maintain the unrestricted views of its surroundings, the entire roofscape is supported by columns conceived from structural steel ‘L’ sections
Every piece of the teakwood furniture in the house was crafted at site. Sun kissed by the Sahyadris’, inspired by Mies Van Der Rohe’s Minimalist principles, seamlessly framed by panoramic scenery on either side and portraying a strange yet magnificent marriage of majestic and minimal design; the Panaroma house quietly but surely makes a statement. They say architecture is like poetry and a house like this is the reason why! Contact email: www.aforarchitecture.com
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THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
Spot Light
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ith a tilt towards the southeast on its roof, this house isn’t like any other gable roof house you might find in the midst of a garden. Known as the Snohetta ZEB Pilot House, it boasts to be environment friendly by being a zero emission building (ZEB) which strives to use less energy on an annual basis than the energy they create on site. Located in Larvik, Norway it was built through a collaborative effort between Snohetta - Scandinavia’s largest independent research body SINTEF, ZEB partner Brodrene Dahl, and Optimera. It proves to be a learning platform for students and professionals to get practical knowledge about the various building methodologies available for houses with integrated sustainable solutions. The most striking feature of this house is its dramatically sloping roof which differentiates it aesthetically from the surrounding buildings. Clad with solar panels and collectors, they produce majority of the energy generated by the house along with enough left to supply an electric car for a year. Even through its dynamic form structure, it resonates warmth through its home-like qualities that have been a focus while designing. Large enough to provide adequate room for a single family, the house evokes a sense of comfort and wellbeing through its design. Heating and cooling is solved passively through placement of glass surfaces, orientation, house geometry and volume, along with choosing materials that possess a good thermal characteristic.
The Millennial House The ZEB building proves to be a pilot project for a family house by using a sustainable point of view. BY AVANI PATWARDHAN
The most striking feature of this house is its dramatically sloping roof which differentiates it aesthetically from the surrounding buildings
It resonates warmth through its home-like qualities that have been a focus while designing
Heating and cooling is solved passively through placement of glass surfaces, orientation, house geometry and volume
The materials used have been selected based on the thermal characteristics to suit the nature of design to create a good indoor climate whilst maintaining the aesthetic qualities. The landscape is formed as a garden where visitors can walk around the building and discover the elements that make this an exceptional family house. With a mission to create a homely house, the outdoor area has been given a fireplace stacked with firewood and bricks that give the residents a feeling of ‘cabin life’ in one of the world’s most advanced family homes. The house is a combination of technology and architectural character, and serves both the daily living and the energy needs of a family. Contact email: contact@snohetta.com
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THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
Special
“D
on’t judge a book by its cover”, is a commonly used phrase world over, although, at The Inside Track we say, “If the cover isn’t pretty, don’t open the book!” This is because, in the architecture and design world, aesthetics play a gigantic role in the fondness of a building. Facades play the most integral role in the overall aesthetics of buildings and essentially the ‘cover’ in the mentioned analogy. Yes, the interior may look dazzling and what not, but if the exterior is rather plain, or to be blunt, an eyesore, this can have less than desirable implications. Architects know that a building’s exterior is just as important as its interior and are constantly trying to create unique designs which are also visually appealing. Here at The Inside Track, we have handpicked a few jaw-dropping façade designs in our country;
A Full Frontal
India gives the international bandwagon a run for its money with these architectural marvels. BY NEERJA KAPADIA
Dancing Frontage - Moving Landscapes, Ahmedabad Designed by the talented Mathroo Architects, this residence in India has one of the most interesting facades ever created. With one touch of a switch, the chunky marble slabs that make up the wall start spinning and sliding, unveiling a sleeker glass façade behind them. The transformation from the thick marble façade to the more lightweight glass pavilion is magical. This allows the residents to control the light, ventilation and privacy of their home. On certain walls, two levels of panels pivot in alternate directions, while other walls feature panels that slide back and forth. The motorised systems and supporting structures are all concealed, heightening the effect. Cleverly disintegrating a joint family to a nuclear family - a dire need of today, Mathroo architects have built a façade so clever to achieve that. Craftily Mundane - SAHRDC, New Delhi So u t h A s i a n Hu m a n R i g h t s Documentation Centre (SAHRDC) is a non-governmental organisation which seeks to investigate, document and disseminate information about human rights. Despite the nature of its utility, the building façade was designed craftily by Anagram Architects using a single repetitive brick module that resulted in a visually complex pattern in the manner of South Asian brise soleils.
The oblong façade isn’t only visually stunning, but also incorporates a passive solar design to decrease heat gain and lower energy loads
Since some buttressing against the street was required, it was crucial for the façade to get involved in a dialogue with the street outside. The external wall is conceived as an animated, dynamic skin reflecting the bustle of the street and activating what would otherwise have been a mundane façade with minimal fenestrations. The porosity of the wall maintains a degree of privacy while playfully engaging with the street corner. Since no other material is visually trespassing on to the façade, this makes it one of the most creatively designed structures with the use of only one material - brick! The chunky marble slabs start spinning at the touch of a button
A six brick module is laid in staggered courses that create twirling vertical stacks and a billowy surface. The construction of the façade took five weeks to process while conjuring up masonry techniques on site. From verification of the plumb-line to the structural bonding of the brick courses, methods of brick laying were devised through a deep on-site collaboration between the masons and the architects.
A Tough Egg to Crack - Cybertecture Egg, Mumbai Call it unique, strange or absolutely mind-boggling - this façade takes aesthetic appeal to a whole new level! Commissioned by Vijay Associates and designed by James Law Cybertecture, this façade skilfully combines environmental design and evolutionary engineering to create the boldest structure in the ever so cramped Mumbai. Due to the egg shape, the structure has 10-20% less surface area.
The concept was inspired, by considering the world as an ecosystem allowing life to evolve. The oblong façade isn’t only visually stunning, but also incorporates a passive solar design to decrease heat gain and lower energy loads The Cybertecture Egg will use solar photovoltaic panels and rooftop wind turbines to generate onsite electricity. Water conservation will be managed with grey water recycling system that will harvest water for irrigation and landscaping. This is an iconic building with an even more iconic curtain walled façade that makes it Mumbai’s most awe-striking landmark.
A six brick module is laid in staggered courses
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THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
Interview
A
Dutch multinational corporation, Hunter Douglas has grown and earned quite a reputation world over. With its principal expertise in windows and blinds, it has also expanded towards architectural products and other related genres of interest. We at The Inside Track, have delved deep into a conversation with Mr. Venkatesh V. executive director regarding the company;
Venkatesh Venkateswaran, Executive Director
What is the genesis of Hunter Douglas and brief description on global presence? Hunter Douglas is the world’s leading manufacturer of window coverings as well as architectural products. Our strength is our ability to develop innovative and high quality proprietary products that can be found in millions of homes as well as commercial buildings around the globe.
Duette Honeycomb Shades
Window Fashions A pioneer in the window coverings industry, Hunter Douglas stands out for aesthetic as well as function.
Hi-tech window coverings are engineered to improve the quality of life at home by providing privacy, noise & climate control with the use of a remote controlled blind operation
Hunter Douglas was established in India since 1995 and has expanded across the country with two manufacturing and assembly units, four branch offices and a corporate office. We have an excellent pre and post sales service which no other players of the industry provide. What kind of solutions do you provide? Name products/projects that are mention worthy?
We make hi-tech window coverings which are engineered to improve the quality of life at home by providing privacy, noise & climate control by using a remote controlled blind operation. Adding energy-efficient window treatments like the Duette Honeycomb Shades in the Architella® range, and double triple honeycomb pleat sizes, we can be the most effective investment one can make to control the utility bill.
Duette Architella Collection
And while you’re doing what’s practical, we can help you do what’s stylish, adding long-lasting value to your home How do you contribute to the sustainability segment of the industry? We have an industry first green product for new age green buildings called GreenScreen® which is a 100% PVC free product and is recommended for all
THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
What is the reaction from an average Indian customer?
climate conscious green buildings. We also have a revolutionary PowerView Motorization option which does not involve any electrical wiring but the blinds can still be controlled by remotes, smart phones and tablets along with voice controlled instructions. In coupling its window treatments with PowerView™ Motorisation, the company is multiplying the potential for energy savings with the ability to sync scenes to daylight schedules.
The convenience of operating the products anywhere in the house, office space or the compatibility of integrating through building automation is one of the key lifestyle factors that have been incorporated in our products which is an attractive quality that consumers go for. From an Indian rich culture & a heritage point of view also we have window covering products in vibrant colours, textures & patterns suiting traditional & contemporary Indian fashion which have been widely appreciated by the Indian consumer markets. Contact webwww.hunterdouglas.in
How do you stand apart from the competition? We have been creating the highest quality window coverings for homeowners. We’re the leaders in light control, energy efficiency, operating systems and motorization, which makes your home smarter, your days easier, and every room that much prettier. While window fashions from Hunter Douglas are available from an array of fabrics and colours, we also make window fashions that are safer for homes with a focus on child and pet safety. These attributes set us apart from the rest.
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Pirouette
THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
A work of pure genius, the Jain bungalow in Lonavala, designed by Nari Gandhi is truly an example of art in architecture. BY AVANI PATWARDHAN
Situated at a lower elevation than the site boundary, the entry level houses a double-height ceiling
The other areas of the house can be accessed by a straight flight staircase running centrally through the house. Primarily designed according to the location of the existing trees, the staggered spatial arrangement is bound together by the internal courtyards provided on every level. Walls of these courtyards are embellished with small chips of stones and also have planter beds built into the masonry walls that are covered with foliage during monsoon season.
Source: Pranav Naik
The Jain bungalow in Lonavala with its stepped sectional profile is designed to blend in with its surroundings
Source: Pranav Naik
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ituated on a sloping site and flanked by terrace gardens on both sides, the Jain bungalow in Lonavla with its stepped sectional profile is designed to blend in with its surroundings. Built by Nari Gandhi - an iconic architect whose buildings create a dialogue between the built and the unbuilt, the Jain bungalow in Lonavala embraces this dialogue and reflects beautifully onto the structure. T h e t e r r a c e g a rd e n s t h a t begin above the entry level slope downwards and are planted with numerous varieties of local plants and trees, adding to the beauty of the bungalow. Another striking feature of the bungalow is its massive roof that is supported by the metal trusses emerging from the masonry walls. Speckled with several dormer windows and covered with Mangalore tiles, the roof is a strikingly stunning piece of work in itself. The deep overhang of the massive roof creates the stepped profile of the structure and the hilly backdrop highlights it even more. Its masonry walls are made using locally available igneous rocks of varying sizes and the colours break the monotony in the form of a long continuous wall. Its rugged exteriors complement the scattered interiors. It has a total of 9 spaces; a living room, a card room, a kitchen, a dining area, and four bedrooms. Situated at a lower elevation than the site boundary, the entry level houses a doubleheight living room, a kitchen and an arcaded prayer hall.
Art Or Architecture?
Source: Akhil Kapadia
Spot Light
Source: Pranav Naik
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The similar semicircular openings throughout the house and the inverted parallelograms for the doors add a sense of similarity to the otherwise scattered house. With a flowing continuity from the interior to the exterior spaces, there is an irrevocable bond between nature and man-made which gives this home a cozy vibe making it a one-of-a-kind structure. Contact web: www.architectnarigandhi.org
THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
Spot Light
T
he biannual mega show for all things design is back for its September 2018 edition alongside its all year round digital platform MOM. Every year M&O presents the world’s most renowned exhibitors as well as budding new talents.
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Maison&Objet Liaisons
The design world just got more exciting, thanks to Maison&Objet, which is set to open its doors and fuel your creativities this fall. BY NEERJA KAPADIA Ramy Fischler is the chosen designer of the year and Paola Sakr, Marc Dibeh, Anastasia Nysten, Carlo Massoud, Studio Caramel and Carla Banz will be the recipients of the latter. M&O, a global community provides free-flowing conversation and a sensorial experience that analyses the creative as well as commercial aspects of home décor, design and lifestyle industries.
Ramy Fischler - ‘Designer of the year’
Design enthusiasts can experience the newest trends and products in the décor and interior industry. This year Maison&Objet will be held at the Paris Nord Villepinte in Paris (at its usual venue) from 7th - 11th September from 9.30am - 7.00pm. Around 645 new exhibitors in addition to Ateliers d’Art de France and Solutions for Interior Design will comprise the main itinerary of the show. M&O, which is essentially a community that brings about global interactions among the who’s who of the industry, facilitates this dialogue with its layout that is a coalition of eight halls segregated into two universes.
Contact web: www.maison-objet.com Meticulously straggled across the exhibition halls, all the segments come together in a complementary interplay of familiar and exotic styles of unique product inspirations. Loyal to its pursuit of providing ultimate cognition to all design fanatics, every M&O session sees in-house experts analyze emerging types of consumer behavior that results in the outcome of its customary inspirations theme which is titled ‘Virtuous’ for the upcoming edition. Ever so faithful to its vocation to felicitate new and established talents, the September edition will also host its customary ‘Designer of the Year’ and the ‘Rising Talents’ awards.
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THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
Spot Light
B
angalore is one of the most modern, hip and happening cities in India. The citizens of this vibrant metropolis appreciate fashion, cuisines and luxurious lifestyles. Lately, there has been a larger demand for all things luxury, especially in the bathroom segment due to the evolution of advancing lifestyles. VitrA, the leading bathroom solutions brand of the Eczacibasi Building Products Division in Turkey, decides to intervene and supply to these demands. For the benefit of its esteemed clientele, VitrA debuts a new showcase of it’s products by displaying them at ‘Khrisha Shrowroom’ in Bangalore. These products are a sheer visual treat with complete bathroom solution options of internationally acclaimed standards that have inspired architects and enthused contractors across the world. At VitrA, the bathroom is envisioned as the embodiment of flawless design-a living space of refined aesthetics with complementary furniture and fixtures thematically designed to create symmetry, with an ambience of tranquility and wellbeing. Talented award - winning international designers create a whole new user experience that totally transforms the idea of a bathroom-washroom space. The harmonious product designs are as unique and outstanding as the innovative technology. High-tech, trendy, inspiring features create smart functionality that is userfriendly and adaptable to big and small spaces and also for children, senior citizens and/or heavy- footfall areas. VitrA is the only brand that offers every single component for total bathroom solutions.
New Beginnings
VitrA broadens its horizons by presenting a new showcase of their complete bathroom solutions at Khrisha Showroom in Bangalore.
The harmonious product designs are as unique and outstanding as the innovative technology
For the benefit of its esteemed clientele, VitrA debuts a new showcase of it’s products by displaying them at ‘Khrisha Shrowroom’ in Bangalore
High-tech, trendy, inspiring features create smart functionality that is user-friendly and adaptable to big and small spaces
Mr. Serhan Ate ş Ya ğ ız, India Country Manager, Eczacıba ş ı building products division has visions of the expansion of their internationally acclaimed and innovative bathroom culture in India. They have been investing in India to gain a wider outreach by building showrooms and broadening their dealers’ network. In the pursuit of providing India with the best possible bathroom solutions, VitrA aims to be among the top 3 global brands in India. Contact K h r i s h a , 1 6 6 , G r o u n d F l o o r, RV Road, W puram, Near Minerva Circle, Bangalore - 560004 Toll Free Number: 18001231134 / 750670039 web: www.vitra-india.com www.khrisha.co.in
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THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
Spot Light
T
he interesting use of materials and dynamic form are the significant features that make the Siglap house by Aamer architects distinctively noticeable when you are in the community. Located at a junction behind a bus-stop, this reconstructed small bungalow house definitely attracts attention because of its extensive yet thoughtful use of concrete and wood.
Visual Delight, Living Bliss The Siglap house with its contemporary facade is a visual delight to the passersby and a bliss for it’s residents. BY AVANI PATWARDHAN
This acts as a central area for all the spaces in the house and improves connection between occupants along with giving the living space an interactive quality
The finely crafted solid teak screens do not obstruct the view for the people inside and yet protect the house from the harsh environment. Natural light and ventilation is brought in through the screen with no compromise on privacy. Solid boundary walls and landscaping
mitigate the traffic noise from the main road due to the prominent location of the bungalow. At the same time, the bungalow proves as a visual delight to the bus drivers, passengers and the passersby. The interior of the house is designed with a grand double height
Natural light and ventilation is brought in through the screen with no compromise on privacy
space for the living room along with a mezzanine study and a library. This acts as a central area for all the spaces in the house and improves connection between occupants along with giving the living space an interactive quality. At ground level, the internal spaces of the house blend easily
with the outdoor decks, gardens and swimming pool. This also provides passive cooling to the house. The master bedroom located in the attic enjoys the comfort of deep overhangs, plenty of natural light and long distant views, not typical of such a dense urban site.
At ground level, the internal spaces of the house blend easily with the outdoor decks, gardens and swimming pool
THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
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The natural light pours into the mezzanine study are and library and improves the quality of space in that area. This space in turn gets a view of the outdoor greenery through the glass shelf wall. The dark stained plywood used in the interiors blends well with the solid hardwood. The interiors of the house are designed keeping in mind the owner’s existing furniture. The house thus becomes a space which can evolve over time with new additions to the furniture and becomes flexible.
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THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
Interview
F
ounded in the Bavarian town in 1948, REHAU is a German based company dedicated to beautify and enrich homes with innovative choices. We at The Inside Track spoke to Mr. Ajay Khurana, Chairman, South East Asia, who gave us an insight into their company profile.
Crafting Excellence REHAU offers innovative options for polymerbased solutions in the construction & automotive industry.
Mr. Ajay Khurana, Chairman REHAU South East Asia
When did you bring REHAU to India? What kind of products do you offer? REHAU, India’s leading system and services provider for polymer based solutions, was the first European company to set up a local manufacturing in Pune in 1997. REHAU has plethora of offerings in windows solutions, furniture solutions, plumbing, flooring and under-floor heating and cooling solutions, both for the residential and commercial segments. The wide range of solutions includes, Rauvisio Mineral - This polymer surface range finds its application in the countertops in kitchens, bathrooms and office furniture, Edgebands - RAUKANTEX uPVC Edgebands provide easy and cost effective solutions to cover the rough edges of tables and give them a seamless finish, Underfloor heating and cooling system which helps maintain comfortable office environment, Rauvolet Roller shutters which are apt for office and home cupboards. These roller shutters are the best space saving solutions and Raucord Weaving Material which is an alternate to natural weaving material.
REHAU uPVC windows
All the products are tested and their potential impact on the environment is analyzed by the manufacturing and production team. What kind of windows and doors are consumers opting for in India? uPVC (Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride) Windows and Doors, the flagship offering at Rehau have become the favourite choice of architects and builders owing to the characteristics like inhabitant
comfort, safety, performance, etc. The uPVC doors and windows by Rehau help cut energy costs up to 45% and is an eco-friendly alternative to wood or any other material used for making doors and windows. How do you plan to stay ahead in the competition from other brands? Rehau India has been growing at annual growth rate of 20% and
has an aggressive roadmap to grow, planning to double its experience centres by next year. Rehau has recently launched ‘The Rehau Inspiration Express’, which is a state-of-art mobile experiential showcase and has travelled to more than 45 cities till date and has received an overwhelming response. We also plan to launch new retail centers and endeavor to surpass this number by 70 in the next two years. Contact web: www.rehau.com
Are you taking steps towards being environment friendly? If so, elaborate! Rehau’s solutions are based on three pillars of energy efficiency Generating energy from renewable resources, using this energy optimally, reducing energy loss.
Underfloor heating & cooling systems
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THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
It Products Ventura International presents ‘Luxe Tiles’
Ventura; a leader in luxury wall surface arena presents Luxe Tiles for your stunning space presents their new range of faux-leather tiles that can warm up your wall & ceilings while providing a luxurious design element.
The myriad colours, textures and patterns seamlessly compliment contemporary or classic interiors. Plain, embossed or engraved, with so many options, you can easily banish the baldness of plain walls and ceilings and choose a one for you that visually links your furniture, textiles, accessories and colours. These tiles have a collection of captivating faux-leather for surfaces and are great at dampening sound within a space and age with grace. Ideal for bedrooms, living areas, lobbies, restaurants and retails stores, they also can be inset into table tops and used as furniture inlays. The intricate and life like leather grains and structure imbibe the interiors with a classical plush finish. They complement casa panels beautifully by providing them with a rich highlight, in the same faux leather finish. They are waterproof, fire retardant, acoustic and easy to install and maintain. The tiles come in 40x40cm size with a thickness of 9-34mm and boast of 17 patterns and 5 colours. Contact www.venturaindia.com
Stonelam Laminam Launches Architectural Façade Skin
Fanzart Introduces The ‘Venetian’
Fanzart India’s first Luxury Fan Brand, introduces its range of Fandelier Fans, the first being ‘Venetian’, a fantastic amalgamation of the fan & chandelier. With mesmerising craftsmanship, inspired from the iconic Italian city, Venice, regarded by connoisseurs as one of the greatest hubs of art, Venetian has as many as 14 foldable acrylic blades around a stunning LED mounted crystal dome &remote-control kit for comfort and convenience. A Fanzart exclusive, Fandelier brings together the comfort of a ceiling fan and the style of a chandelier to create one unified fixture that is the best of both worlds.
With the unique construction, Venetian is equipped with 70 LED lights and 120 crystals that consume only 55 watts of power (DC power). When not in use, the Venetian ceiling fan looks like an astonishing ceiling light fixture, with 14 foldable acrylic blades which can also be collapsible blades around a stunning LED mounted crystal dome. Its exclusive motor technology ensures that the fan will remain quiet, when in operation. Their range of Fandelier Fans, are exclusive to the upcoming festive season. Not only do Fandelier Fans illuminate your room in style but also brings the breezy flair to your celebrations. Contact www.fanzartfans.com
Sternhagen Unveils Kristall Tiles
Stonelam Laminam, has launched the Architectural Façade Skin, a revolutionary slab that does not neglect environmental friendliness, natural raw materials and recyclable products. With a thickness of 3 and 5mm, these perfectly flat and extremely light slabs form an authentic architectural skin designed as a covering material for facades. This Skin by Stonelam Laminam boasts excellent performance ranging from soft textures to industrial & ultra-technological options. Stonelam’s mission is to produce exclusively large size porcelain slabs; a concept that has evolved with the addition to the production set-up of latest generation technologies that are clearly able to meet the needs of the market.
Starting with this idea, it has given rise to a brand new concept of surfaces, creating an aesthetically advanced product, with exceptional technical unique characteristics. Produced using advanced technologies, it teams reduced thickness and large size with high resistance to mechanical stresses, to chemicals, to wear, to scratches, to deep abrasion and to bending, it is easy to sanitise, resistant to frost, fire, mould and mildew, and to the effect of UV rays. All the characteristics and chromatic properties of the slabs are unchanging, designed to stand the test of time in all atmospheric conditions. Contact www.stonelam.in
Renowned premium sanitary ware and bathroom fittings brand Sternhagen, introduces yet another visually appealing as well as a superlative and functional collection, Kristall, to ornate your surfaces. Kristall tiles are designed to infuse one’s life with the beauty of modern art and engineered to German perfection.
As the name suggests, Kristall is inspired by the exquisite and unique beauty of a natural crystal. The USP it adopts is to virtualize the uniqueness of nature by refracting light from clean-cut crystalline surfaces with no two designs alike. This collection is a centrepiece collection which helps to provide natural perfection to any surface and because of its versatility; the collection is durable and easy to match with accessories and other fixtures. To add to this ultimate luxury experience, the collection offers unlimited colour possibilities like Pure White, Mid Grey, Pale Green, Black, Berry, Ice Blue, Deep Brown and Pale Gold.It is made from Sani Quartz materials with a metallic glossy surface, having a base of the hardest natural ingredients. Sternhagen’s Kristall tiles are a masterpiece rendered through unremitting innovation in the application of technology. Contact www.sternhagen.com
THE INSIDE TRACK September 2018
It Products Kaff’s Next Generation Filterless Chimney Kaff’s stylish chimney hood not only gives you a smoke-free kitchen at all times, but is designed to make your kitchen look a lot like you contemporary and stylish with every bit of tradition and love still intact. Equipped with the next generation filter less technology, these state-of-the-art kitchen hoods have a concealed motors with extra powerful suction capacity ranging from 1150m3/h to 1300m3/h. The wider chambers and optimal airborne grease control zone besides large oil collector keeps it clean.
You can add to the touch control and LED lights that make your life easier. You also have a choice from black or white tempered glass/ stainless steel finish. So much in one chimney and yet it would make your kitchen aesthetically stand out. Kaff’s modern and convenient range of chimney hoods with their remarkable features is what your kitchens are eagerly waiting for. Now you can breathe easy and fulfil your aspirations to make your kitchen smoke free and special with Kaff. It’s time to cook, in style. Contact www.kaff.in
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Hafele’s Neptune III Slim Shower System
Create your perfect bathing experience with Häfele’s new innovative Neptune III Slim Shower System. With a thickness of just 1.5 mm this shower system is extremely versatile and offers an alluring look wherever installed, whether in an existing bathroom or a newly designed one. This shower system comes with a flexible hose for connection providing plenty of mobility. The triple-function of 3 in 1 spray patterns - Rain, Mist and Cascade delivers a seamless showering experience.
All the elements are vertically integrated thereby effectively utilizing the to enhancing your comfort and pleasure. The sleek chrome finish brings a sophisticated and radiant new look to your bathroom. It weighs 3.45 kgs and comes in three spray options while the shower thickness is 1.5mm. It’s sleek body is made of chrome finished stainless steel. Hafele comes up with yet another musthave for your bathroom. Contact: www.hafeleindia.com
Postal Registration No. MCE/129/2017-19 RNI NO. MAHENG/2007/19853. WPP LICENSE NO. MR/TECH/WPP-266/East/2018. 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 September 2018
Spot Light
W
e’ve seen paintings that play tricks on our eyes before. We’ve also seen furniture and other products with similar optical illusions. But have you ever seen an actual house that was created to bring about a similar effect? The Crooked House or Krzywy Domek (in Polish) was built in 2004 in Sopot, Poland by architects Szotynscy & Zaleski, who were inspired by the fairy tale illustrations and drawings of Jan Marcin Szancer and Per Dahlberg. Essentially, the house pays homage to the illustrators’ works in children’s’ books. Located in Sopot’s popular Moniak Street, the house attracts tourists from all over the world. Now, the 43,000-square-foot building is home to the Rezydent shopping center and is home to many popular shops, restaurants, and even a radio station. The Crooked House is near the corner of Monte Cassino and Morska Streets with entrances on both.
Straight Out Of A Story Book
This whacky structure situated in Poland appears almost as if it has been warped on Photoshop. BY VANDANA KRISHNAN
Located in Sopot’s popular Moniak Street, the house attracts tourists from all over the world
The Crooked House was built in 2004 in Sopot, Poland by architects Szotynscy & Zaleski who were inspired by the faity tale illustrations
Not so surprisingly, it proudly joins the ranks of the world’s strangest buildings with its unusual and striking appearance. Even if our heads spin after looking at it for a while, the strangeness and originality it stands for is commendable. The surreal building design incorporates warped walls, sandstone-framed windows, stone elevation decors and curved architectural stained glass, topped with a concave roof that uses bluegreen enameled shingles to give the impression of a cartoon dragon. In the ever evolving word of architectural miracles and the constant evolution of the practice, this structure comes as a surprising and inviting façade design that piques interest and makes one want to take a look inside. Contact Web: www.szotynski.pl