IFJ Home Decor Magazine 101

101
volume 18 . issue 06 . november - december 2021
focus : the special one : standout projects books : abhay m. wadhwa, ar. shirish beri
“The arts are not just a nice thing to have or to do if there is free
time or if one can afford it. Rather, paintings and poetry, music and
fashion, design and dialogue, they all define who we are as a people
and provide an account of our history for the next generation.”
MICHELLE OBAMA
the indian review of
world furniture,
interiors and design

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INDEX MUMBAI 2022
00
01
INDEX DELHI 2022
CONTENT
Bold Bella
Dorset Kaba
02
03
04
05
KLITE
KLITE
06
07
Tiara Kitchen
Foam Home
AHEC
11
09
12
Kadson
AHEC
10
08
Garnet Interiors
CONTENT
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Tribute to IFJ,
inspired by suprematism.
Avni Sejpal,
Principal Designer,
Studio Avni, Mumbai
14
18
DAYCARE CENTRE
LEGAL & GENERAL
AKTION MENSCH HEADQUARTERS
THE PERFECT SYMPHONY
14
16
18
20
news
118
22 The Special One : standout projects
books
focus
likes!
transformation
13 editorial
122
120
Ar. Shalini Chandrashekar
Abhay M. Wadhwa
Ar. Shirish Beri
wanderlust
124 IFJ
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monologue
dia
mono
EDITORIAL
I look forward to hearing from you.
Please send your thoughts to me at edit@ifj.co.in
we decided to focus on the things that gave us
joy in our work. Humans have realized their
resilience and learned that we are not quite
ready to throw in the towel! We’ve learned to find
strength in small things, in human relationships
and in seeking things of lasting value and those
that offer moments of joy. So that’s what we’re
concentrating on in this edition of IFJ 2021, and
dedicating an entire edition to the projects that
architects see as special, without that politically
correct blanket to hide under (of course I’m
referring to the “all my projects are equally special
to me” blanket).
We’ve asked architects to share the projects that
they found unique and tell us why they felt it was
special, and as always, we share this with you. Do
go ahead and enjoy the indulgence of loveliness
which accompanies these projects and also, if
we may make a non-design suggestion, do take
a moment to meditate on what gave you joy and
what brought you solace this year.
Going forward, it seems like things are improving
on the corona front, despite learning the next
letter of the Greek alphabet. Epidemiologists
have forecast the watering down of the virus to a
point of acceptable coexistence of our species and
this in itself is the hope we cling to as we enter
a new year. So, it looks like we can expect so see
something akin to normalcy, in the foreseeable
future. What we define this to be, is up to us. One
can only hope that there have been some lessons
learnt over the past two years, and that these will
not be forgotten as soon as the mask mandates
are revoked.
We wish you a happy and creative year, health and
good fortune and always, moments of joy.
As we come to the end of another very odd year,
Sylvia Khan
Editor & Creative Head
WWW.GARNETID.COM
THE TURNKEY EXECUTION COMPANY
GARNET INTERIORS PVT LTD

aims to recreate the same excitement of it
in an indoor space. Apart from the brand
colours – purple, yellow and orange – neutral
colours balance the colour palette.
The firm collaborated with graphic designer
Saumya Mittal for the graphics. Vinyl
flooring shows movement and activity, and
the seating and storage units comprise the
interactive area. Round arches and edges
Spread over 1300 sq. ft.,
the daycare centre includes a reception area, breast
feeding zone, play area and dining space, two
classrooms, a nap room, pantry and toilet.
The décor revolves around a wooden and its
branches, which house a circular desk with seating.
It provides ‘shade’ to the circular desk under it.
Children read and play under the tree, and the firm
DAYCARE CENTRE
gurugram
commission : chalk studio, gurugram
likes! text : : IFJ WriteTank
highlight safety, and the circular
and round-edged millwork adds
softness. Seven colours are used
for the flooring, complementing
the neutral-coloured furniture.
Space is judiciously used with
built-on open shelves and
neutral-coloured furniture with
rounded edges to promote
fun, interaction and safety. A
reading nook is carved out of the
wall, and the elliptical seating
combined with faux green gas
promote learning.
LIKES
15

The new 43,000 sq. ft. five-storey development
– by Rolfe Judd Architects – offers tenants a range of floorplate sizes
and terraces. The firm was responsible for the scheme’s Cat A interiors
and wayfinding, along the reception and ground floor business lounge,
circulation area lift lobbies, public signage, roof terrace areas on the
building’s third and fourth floors, internal garden showers and changing
facilities for the wellbeing area.
Directly inspired by Windsor’s surroundings and history, the firm
designed an internal garden area with live planting in the ground floor
lounge. Users are invited to enjoy the ultra-green space for relaxation,
reflection and rejuvenation. Natural wooden, stone and moss textures
automatically inspire and energise the inhabitants.
LEGAL & GENERAL
manchester
commission : spaceinvader, manchester
The flexible ground floor lounge begins
with a bespoke porcelain and marble-
effect reception desk set against the halo-
lit timber-finish feature wall and brass
inset lines in an angled and geometric
pattern. A waiting area opposite includes
Gubi emerald velvet high-back lounge
chairs with dark timber legs, introducing
the nature-inspired jewel tones. Copper
detailing and tan tones – inspired by bark,
lichen and autumnal leaves add warmth –
while the green upholstery reflects the tree
canopies in the woods. Resin flooring in
the entrance maintain the seamless finish,
and ribbed raft ceiling over the business
seating area with dimmable lighting
inspired by the sedimented folds of rock
geology.
On the right-hand side, a concealed bar,
cloakroom and kitchen offer hospitality
services. The internal garden features a
living wall on two side with large-scale
planting. A green leather built-in bespoke
text : : IFJ WriteTank
photography : : neil spence photography
banquette, a Kettal Maia Relax chair and
two small Naughtone Knot tables comprise
the furniture. Their green metal base and
timber tops offer a greenhouse furniture,
with various decorative palm and fern print
cushions. The garden’s grey structured
joinery includes an outward-facing bench
at the rear of the space.
To the left, the business area includes two
credenzas that zone off two low cognac
leather Muuto sofas. The left and rear
walls are clad with Domus porcelain tiles,
which create a material connection to the
marble-effect reception desk. A full-height
joinery bookshelf and room divider creates
a screening to separate the high-bench
gathering point, with six Muuto bar stools
to provide a community setting for flexible
working, gatherings and informal meetings.
The lift lobby features a bespoke joinery
treatment with brass detailing resembling
the reception wall. A coffered ceiling mirror
and brass wayfinding system is featured
throughout the scheme and development’s
brand identity. The showers and WCs
feature marble-effect finishes and timber
locker fronts, with large-scale images
of stags photographed by Neil Mcintyre
printed digitally onto backlit IPS panels,
created by Polyrey.
The scheme’s third and fourth fools have
two lounges with adjoining roof terraces,
which inhabitants can recharge themselves.
Technology-enabled spaces offer access
to natural light and fresh air, offering an
alternative working environment with
a high work bench and lounge chairs in
the lounge. Green metal-finished seating,
integrated plants and hanging greenery
maintain an indoor-outdoor connection in
the outdoor terrace.
likes!

Aktion Mensch is Germany’s largest
private non-profit section in the social sector, which has its
headquarters in Bonn. While redesigning the project, the firm
retained the structure first built in 2003, while maintaining a
responsible use of resources within the given budget. After
reorganizing the total floor area into eight zones, work life is
organised around a village square that forms the centrepiece
of each zone. As the central meeting space, all the village
squares have a colour theme and uniquely-designed ceiling.
It imparts a sense of belonging to the employees by creating
real-life diversity, as the neighbourhoods are cultivated
accordingly.
Employee diversity is visualized in bold adaptable furniture,
soft materials and round shapes. A sense of well-being,
diversity, vibrancy, inward learning and approachability
is created through communication hubs. The workplaces
have mobile design elements that are adaptable according
AKTION MENSCH HEADQUARTERS
bonn, germany
commission : ippolito fleitz group, germany
transformation
to needs-based accessibility, self-determination, agility
and intuition. The modular spatial system works with
revolving panels for adaptability and flexibility, which
applies for acoustic panels, curtain filters and planted
islands that offer additional privacy. Mirrors visually
enlarge the space, while modular furniture such as
height-adjustable tables and wheel-chair kitchenettes
are designed for wheelchair users.
Privacy is created through freestanding sideboards offer
lockable storage space, with media technology directly
integrated into the upholstered walls. Lighting highlights
the room panels and upholstered walls, which also
structure the open-plan office layout. The user-friendly
environment includes telephone booths with acoustic
upholstered elements, thus promoting noise reduction.
Carpets in striking colours and tactile surfaces also
ensure workplace safety and clear guidance.
TRANSFORMATION
19

In the living room, one sees the crown
moulding running through the periphery.
A passage door having fluted glass
panels with rose gold handle detailing
further adds to the contemporary nature.
Blush pink taupe custom-built seating
is contrasted by a geometric rug and
cushions, along with a rose-gold accented
veneer-panelled television wall and brown
mirror-detailed console.
The semi-open dining area features a
curio cabinet displaying ornate crockery
pieces on side of the living room, with
a kitchen on the other. In the dining
area, one finds a rose gold-finished mild
steel metal open-grid semi-partition. Its
top-lit floating veneer shelves display
family collectives and art pieces, and
visually divides the living and dining
areas. A CMC terrazzo stone with coloured
chips highlight the veneer-finished curio
cabinet, while art deco-inspired wall
lights, a rose-gold-based dining table
and broad-armed resting chairs add a
ceremonial impression.
The kitchen is kept minimal and spacious
to accommodate the client’s love for
cooking, along with a plum and pink
graded backsplash against the white wall.
To maximise storage, a full-height pull-out
pantry folds out into a breakfast counter
for a decluttered and functional space.
The guest bedroom on the lower flowers
also functions as a multipurpose room
and informal lounge for the daughters.
Musical equipment is stored in the room,
along with a murphy bed to accommodate
guests. A staircase with full-height
windows brings in natural light to the
double-height space, adorned with an art
deco-inpired dhurrie and a chandelier.
An intimate space under the chandelier
under the staircase imbibes biophilia with
a green turf and planters overlooking the
foliage outdoors, resembling an indoor-
outdoor sunlit conservatory.
On the upper floor, one finds the spacious
master bedroom extending to the walk-in
wardrobe on one end and a balcony on
the other. A sage-green headboard over a
taupe palette with wall mouldings lends a
dreamy ambience, along with a console,
veneer and a terrazzo counter with rose
gold metal detailing. The daughter’s
bedroom has a powder pink headboard
with oversized teardrop lights that adorn
the plain bed back. Atelier Mendini’s
pointillist colourful solar-inspired wood
veneer, a veneer study unit and visual
storage displays the post-pandemic
considerations. Rose gold accents add
spaciousness, dreaminess and positivity to
the otherwise neutral-coloured room.
TRANSFORMATION
21
THE PERFECT SYMPHONY
mumbai
commission : studio osmosis, mumbai
photography : : yadnyesh joshi
Spread over 1800 sq. ft. in the
northeastern Mumbai suburbs, the residence at Godrej Trees
enjoys natural light and foliage with art deco accents. The client
wanted to covert their 4BHK duplex residence into a 2BHK
apartment along with music room and guestroom and a living
room that extended to the dining room. For a middle-aged couple
with two daughters, they wanted their home to reflect their love
for food, music, plants and festivals. Rose gold, millennial pink,
sage greens and taupe comprises the warm palette. Also, a sunlit
and green double-height conservatory ambience is chosen for
the design.
As one enters the apartment, they are welcomed into
the foyer with a dedicated altar and piano zone against
a pastel blue geometric dhurrie rug and a cork stool in
the living room. A vertical-grained veneer panelling is
done on the wall near the altar, which is accentuated
with soft ambient lighting. The material palette consists
of Botticino marble flooring, wallpaper and warm
colours. A mirror-panelled wall opens up the narrow
foyer as it reflects the sunlight pouring in the living
room, which also reflects the art deco style.
transformation

THAT SPECIAL ONE !
focus
Architecture is highly impressionistic
and marries materials, methodologies, perspectives and
techniques to create unique solutions. Though architects
design multiple projects over a career, there are projects that
remain close to their heart. They are life changing in terms of
design aesthetics, functionality and sustainability.
02,the hidden house, vadodara | a&t associates, vadodara
nani penthouse, hyderabad | the pinewood studio, hyderabad
almond house, hyderabad | i’m design, new delhi
architects and interior designers discuss their
favorite project, what it taught them and how it
helped them better understand the profession
inputs : : aadrita chatterji
Whether one considers traditional, rustic, contemporary
or opulent to be their aesthetic style, architects must
constantly adapt to their client’s unique requirements,
design sense and budget. Clients are always looking for
spaces that speak to them through their visual appeal
and utility, and architects and interior designers are the
magicians that make this come true.
the value of each project
Designing spaces with the end-user in mind is critical,
necessitating architects speaking extensively to the client
for a clear understanding of the project and its needs. In
the case of seminal projects such as airports, the symbolic
value of the structure is also key. Ar. Anand Sharma,
Founder and Partner, Design Forum International, New
Delhi, says, “The Guwahati International Airport is a
building based on user experience, along with creating
meaningful architecture for nation building.”
Architects have found that some spaces must be designed
keeping the youth in mind, with an eye to those living
in the world of social media. Ar. Dhruva Kalra, Principal
Architect, I’m D’sign, New Delhi, says, “Almond House,
Kondapur, has a strong experimental character where the
material boards and aesthetic language remains youthful.
Due to its experimental style, the desert house reimagines
the ambience created for millennial food culture.”
At other times it’s the nature of the project itself that
gives joy. Flagship projects bring a unique stature to the
project, as they give them the freedom to design them
without following pre-existing templates. Ar. Rahul Bansal
and Ar. Amit Aurora, Partners, groupDCA, New Delhi say,
“Anand Jewels is the first of its kind in the city in terms of
design and size, and is the first large floor plate jewelry
retail store in Bhopal.”
photography
:
:
tejas
shah
FOCUS
23

FOCUS
25
casa feliz, alibaug | adnd, mumbai
anand jewels, bhopal | groupdca, new delhi
anantha, bengaluru | taliesyn, bengaluru
klap,new delhi | groupdca, new delhi
The first project is always memorable. Ar.
Shweta Kaw, Principal Architect, Studio
Meraki, Noida says, “Hotel Rama Trident
was our debut project, which was an
extremely ambitious and challenging
task. This is a dream come true, as we had
originally given up hope on the project
due to its slow on-site progress spanning
over nine years.”
A constant partnership between client
and architect is also something that is
memorable, as Ar. Sanjana Mathur, Co-
Founder, Studio Bipolar, New Delhi, says,
“We have worked with the client before.
He inspires us to unleash our creative
selves that appeal to the millennial
generation.”
Sustainability, and a balance with Nature
are powerful inspirations for institutional
projects. Ar. Anand Menon, Partner, ADND,
Mumbai says of the Casa Feliz project,
“Blessed with over a hundred trees, the
Casa Feliz had to incorporate all of them
into the design – which was a major
challenge.” Institutional projects permit
interesting design explorations, especially
in sustainability. Ar. Rahul Kadri, Principal
Architect, IMK Architects, Mumbai,
says, “Being an ambitious project, the
Symbiosis International University
promotes environmental sustainability
through green building concepts,
indigenous materials, energy-efficiency
and low maintenance.”
Environmental stability remains a priority
when architects design structures, as Ar.
Sachin Rastogi, Founding Director and
Principal, Zero Energy Design Lab, New
Delhi, says, “In the House Under Shadows,
we have included a double-roof that
canopies the vast footprint of the double
residence. Executing the same was more
important than designing on paper with
parametric tools, along with handling
criticism and questions.”
For architects and interior designers,
some projects go beyond monetary
value. Des. Natasha Aggarwal, Founder
and Principal Designer, Natasha
Aggarwal Creative Living, Mumbai, says,
“PJCF was my first institutional and CSR
project, which is why it was challenging
to work with the limited space. An
atypical classroom environment was
encouraged to resemble real-world
scenarios, which merited the smart and
practical solutions.”
blending creativity
with challenges
All projects come with unique
challenges, which engender unique
solutions. Going by the client’s brief, Ar.
Bansal and Ar. Aurora say, “As groupDCA
has worked with this client for around
twenty years, Anand Jewels maintains
a strong brand identity and history
through its locations.”
Ar. Mathur says, “Artificial lighting was
strictly discouraged in the long and
narrow office space, which is why we
experimented with the cabins and
hallways’ orientation and layout to
maintain optimum lighting.”
Anand Sharma, Founder and Partner,
Design Forum International, New Delhi,
believes that they must always prioritize
customer satisfaction. He adds, “Airports
are one of the most challenging and
demanding projects built, which is why
we treated the project as an experiential
treat by using local culture and context.
The site’s unfavorable shape remained
its major challenge, so we incorporated
technology and construction techniques
to sustain the project.”
Regardless of how many projects an
architect has designed in their lifetime,
they always hold their first project
priceless. Ar. Kaw agrees, “Instead of
engaging with the archetypal concept of
photography
:
:
phx
india
photography
:
:
niveditaa
gupta
photography
:
:
suryan
and
dang
photography
:
:
shamanth
patil

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
26
the expand loft, mumbai | quirk studio, mumbai
school in the dumpyard, new delhi | myspace architects, noida
hotel rama trident, katra, j & k | studio meraki, noida
pinnacle house, mumbai | aum architects, mumbai
stacked house, new delhi | studio lotus, new delhi
a four-star hotel, Hotel Rama Trident features wooden
paneling and furniture and Kota stone paneling on a
biophilic and sustainable note.”
Ar. Prashant Parmar, Principal Architect and Founder,
Prashant Parmar Architects, Ahmedabad believes in
retaining the history and culture that precedes the
project. “He adds, “Our material palette included
elements of Indian folk art, including sarees with hand-
blocked prints. As the hotel was working throughout the
project execution, workers weren’t allowed to use noise-
making machinery and tools.”
Des. Aggarwal continues, “Our challenge was to fulfill
the requirements in the limited space, where we
had to design a classroom setup within 500 sq. ft. to
accommodate thirty students. We also had a mock-retail
showroom in place where students can role play and
learn, along with moveable display racks and a teacher’s
desk that converts into a cashier’s desk.”
To add to the stress of designing projects, the Covid-19
pandemic delayed execution time for architecture firms.
Des. Aaina Sharma and Des. Hemant Kandpal, Studio
Consilio, Gurgaon says, “The Suit Company was severely
delayed because of the pandemic, such as material,
financial and labor supply difficulties.”
Ar. Arunika Sarkar, Founder and Director and Ar.
Arindam Chatterjee, Director, Arredatore Design Studio,
Kolkata, shared, “The site was set in a containment area
as per the state government, which is why we handled
logistics intelligently. Several products were imported
from Italy, Germany and France, which were some of the
most severely impacted nations in the pandemic.”
scope for improvement
With each project, architects and interior
designers learn something new about
themselves. Architects also want to
maintain an urban design when they’re
designing hospitality and retail spaces.
Ar. Bansal and Ar. Aurora say, “When
we were working on Anand Jewels and
Klap, we realized that the urban dining
experience has rapidly evolved over
the years. Our designs must reflect
this transition in terms of materiality,
functionality and sustainability.”
Being simple, the project should be
structurally solid and optimized. Ar.
Sharma, “Airports should be structurally
and functionally robust. We could have
improved the passenger’s retail, food
and shopping experience – but we’re
collaborating on it after Adani Aviation
took over the project.”
Sustainability takes precedence, especially
when you’re designing eco-friendly
projects. Ar. Kaw adds, “Hotel Rama
Trident thrives on the design intervention
in space orientation and mass, which
constitutes passive sustainable design.
Today, we would have redesigned the
structure with building simulation for
enhanced target, accuracy, performance
and energy saving.”
Ar. Rastogi adds, “We could have
redesigned the omnipresent canopy in
a more environmentally-friendly manner
using alternative materials that enhanced
carbon neutrality. We replaced metal
with fiber-reinforced plastic for the
canopies, which achieved energy-
consciousness. We would have replaced
the swimming pool with a rainwater
harvesting system as well.”
Architects have learnt how to manage
different materials, concepts and
budgetary complications through their
projects. Ar. Kadri agrees, “We reduced
project costs on a large-scale educational
campus by tendering items, while
integrating artwork, signage and other
design elements.”
As architecture and interior design
firms have worked as soon as the
Covid-19 lockdown restrictions were
lifted, Ar. Sarkar and Ar. Chatterjee say.
“The pandemic threw unprecedented
challenges at us, which we cleared
without compromising on quality.
Logistics were unfortunately unavailable
at the peak, because of which we missed
on incorporating international furniture
and lighting brands.”
FOCUS
27
photography
:
:
pulkit
sehgal
photography
:
:
ar.
tushar
garg
photography
:
:
prashant
bhat

02,THE HiDDEN HOUSE,
VADODARA
Typology : Residence
Why is this project special? A home
designed between busy streets.
This 12,000 sq. ft. home, is a geometric
composition of stark surfaces and clean
lines, faces an 18-m.-wide road. Working
around privacy issues and environmental
pollution, the firm constructed a 31-ft.-
tall exposed concrete wall to conceal the
home from the street, which converts into
individual freestanding angular walls.
The interesting graphic engraved on it,
disintegrates the wall’s solidity, which
appears as visual art in the elevation.
The design language of the interior is
contemporary and minimalist. Warm
earthy tones of teak wood and brass,
grey walls and brown furnishings create
a uniform theme. The lower level has
public spaces such as the living room,
kitchen, dining room, puja room, home
theatre and parents’ bedroom. The upper
level holds the private bedrooms and
A&T Associates, Vadodara
a small study and library. On the second floor, the
Jacuzzi and spa maintain visual connectivity to the
greenery outside through large fenestration.
The centrally located staircase is lit with natural light
through a large opening which evenly illuminates
the interiors. A bespoke art installation in cast metal
dominates at the centre.
photography
:
:
tejas
shah

Typology : Retail
Why is this project special? An
experimental aesthetic retail space,
built during the Covid-19 pandemic.
A retail space with a strong
experimental character, the firm
blends aesthetic language and
material to depict a youthful spirit
combined with traditional taste-
making. Spread across 1450 sq. ft.,
the project’s millennial resonance
lies in its whitewashed palette,
accentuated with metal lustre,
assorted lighting, golden accents and
stone walls.
The see-through façade is done in a
lit-up, stark white design, to create
a grand entrance. Gourmets are
welcomed with a spiraled crown in
dusted gold, bedecked with classical
patterns. Stripe lighting brings back
an old-world charm, seen also in the
miniature spirals and LED stripes
on the floor. Marble-clad staircases,
entwined strings, exposed ducts
and suspended elements lend an
industrial touch. The ceiling appears
as a staggered vault with asymmetric
profiles lit by flush LEDs, using the
rectangular and arched outline of
the vault to conceal the structural
framework.
ALMOND
HOUSE,
HYDERABAD
I’M Design, New Delhi
In the lower storey, the centrally-staged
dining table takes the spotlight with gilded
seating, white tables and ceiling embellished
with suspended light balls. The statement
spherical chandelier is canopied within
vaulted ceiling panels with blue-brown
lighting fixtures in golden rings. On the first
floor, black ducts add an industrial detail
in the experiential dessert store, along with
terrazzo in the walls and waffle panels on
the counters.
Geometric jaalis, flush LED stripes along
the staircase and polished metal along the
outline all entwine into a crisscross pattern
along the diner, flowing through the counter
and into the arches along the ceiling.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
30
FOCUS
31

ANAND
JEWELS,
BHOPAL
Typology : Retail
Why is this project special? The firm has
seen the brand’s growth since its inception to
present success.
Spread over 3688.8 sq. ft.,the design reiterates
the brand’s identity that is a continuum across
all its branches.
Patrons explore the jewellery classified under
diamond, gold, polki and kundan. The VIP zone
is centre stage, featuring dramatic scarlet walls
within an intimate setting that channels Indian
ceremonies. Luxurious gold detailing inspired
by the Indian wedding and vibrant
colours creates a showcase for heirloom
jewellery.
Bespoke wall modules and vitrines are
rendered in a dark wood finish, with deep
blue and burgundy undertones. Curated
tables, teal armchairs, ornate table lamps
and other elements create a quiet luxury.
Gilded jaali work is a leitmotif, while
bevelled vertical mirrors amplify the
expanse while reflecting the grandeur
of the space. The monochrome flooring
remains minimal, as the chequered
pattern give it distinctive character.
With clean lines through the space, the
coffered ceiling adds a touch of drama,
inspired by the geometrical flooring.
GroupDCA, New Delhi
photography
:
:
suryan
and
dang
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
32

ANANTHA,BENGALURU
The family space opens up onto a spacious
balcony, which brings in expansive city views.
This area is designed with a pastel-grey lounge
sofa and a wooden television console unit, with
a brass clock of three-foot diameter offering
restrained opulence against the neutral walls.
The dining area is a transitional space with a
wooden table with angular black metal legs,
paired with contemporary industrial pendants
by Buster + Punch. The crockery storage unit
and bar in the background is set against the
dark veneer panelling.
‘Laminam’ stone and metallic lacquer frames
in triangular-edge profiles are used in the
kitchen, with a central island for storage.
Monochromatic, rectilinear geometric flooring
features Statuario marble with black inlay work.
The master suite enjoys panoramic views of
the dense coconut groves below. The statement
accent wall is done in deep-blue silken
upholstery inspired by traditional South Indian
handloom fabrics. The blue is further carried
to the bed-end bench that complements the
room’s warm brown palette. The wall surfaces
are finished in beige lime plaster, which gives
them added dimension. A walk-in closet is
connected to the room by a slender fluted glass
and metal partition that allows in textured
light, while the master bath showcases brown
marble in rectilinear sections.
The elder son’s bedroom features warm umber
wood tones in a grooved accent wall with a
soft grey upholstered headboard. Suspended
sleek metal shelving contains memorabilia
while flannel curtains allow an expansive
feel. Red and blue add colour to the room,
while the bathroom is done in matte natural
grey stone, marble and veneer. Powder-blue
is used for the younger son’s bedroom with a
grid pattern designed with subway tiles that
complement the lighter wood tones used,
along with suspended sleek wood and black
metal shelving.
Taliesyn, Bengaluru
Why is this project special? Extensive material use.
This 2,800 sq. ft. apartment is home to a family
transitioning to life in an urban condominium.
The client brief was for a minimalist home
that was elegant and modern, which called for
clean lines, a homogenous material palette and
attention to detail. The open floor plan ensures a
continuous dialogue between the spaces, which
also brings in the greenery Bangalore is known
for, natural light and optimized ventilation
throughout the day. With the fenestrations
demarcated, the barrier-free zones include the
photography
:
:
shamanth
patil
living spaces, family area, open kitchen, dining
rooms and some private spaces.
The home opens into the pooja room, which acts
as an extension to the living spaces. Inspired by the
temples of Hampi, the space is a simpler take on
the elaborate Dravidian temples with commissioned
artworks of the deities. With neutral earthy tones,
the living room is brightened by a sage-green sofa
set against monochrome, textured armchairs. The
brass coffee table binds together the aesthetic
sentiment, while the lime-plaster-coated walls
introduce amplified dimension. A black shadow
line between the ceiling and walls is treated as a
continuous POP band for visual expanse.
FOCUS
35

Why is this project special? High-end project.
Located at the Lodha World Towers, the client wanted an elegant
but simple home with an open kitchen that adjoined the living
space along with an elaborate foyer. Having lived in the Middle
East, the client wished to channel luxury by converting the
existing 3BHK apartment into a luxurious 2BHK home spread
over 2100 sq. ft. The renovation included shifting the entrance
door and several walls being removed, including the wall
between the living room and kitchen which was demolished to
APARTMENT
AT WORLD
TOWER LUX
RESiDENCE,
MUMBAi
Studio Osmosis, Mumbai
create the open, interactive kitchen with
a breakfast island. Three bedrooms were
reduced into a master bedroom, a walk-
in closet and a guest bedroom accessed
by the existing corridor.
The apartment being located on the
fortieth floor afforded expansive views
of the sea and the Mumbai skyline.
The continuous glass façade brings in
natural sunlight throughout the day,
which transforms the ambience of the
house. To design the project, the firm
held multiple design sessions with the
client to understand their lifestyle,
cultural influences and definition of
understated luxury. Marble flooring with
metal inlay patterns is extensively used,
while high-gloss polyester finishes are
used on the veneer against the fabric
wall cladding.
Wall-to-wall carpeting in the bedrooms
promote warmth and cosiness with
furniture carved out of fused resin
and wood. The color palette is largely
neutral with white, taupe, grey, blue
and wood surfaces treated with antique
metallic and resin finishes. Customised
lighting and artwork add glamor in
the detailed customised doors and
patterned wood and resin dining table.
photography
:
:
ishita
sitwala
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
36
FOCUS
37

Typology : Retail
Why is this project special? It is
a flagship store for a beauty and
personal care brand.
The design theme followed in the
design of the store was that of
‘approachable luxury’, with organic
roots and an instant connection to
Gen Z. The colour palette is muted
gold with grey and beige accents
along with the brand’s navy-blue
signature colour. The light and airy
design uses symbols of Ayurvedic
apparatus and Nature, with shelves
derived of stick-like structures and
mirrors. A warm beige, textured
surface envelopes the wall, with a
floor-to-ceiling rattan-weave cabinet
with gridded mirrors at the centre.
At the centre of the grid, the
customised glass Artu chandelier
cascades down with abstract elements
of ‘A’ and ‘Y’ in crystal visualised as
leaves of a tree. The glass sections
of the letters are handmade, with
soft edges that show the beauty of
imperfection in nature. The planters
are of glossy hand-polished brass,
inspired by the old-school containers
in an Indian Ayurvedic laboratory.
A gold dome suspended from the
display stands is inspired by cold
cream, are symmetrically aligned
to the cash counter on either side
from the longer entrance. The shop’s
AYOUTHVEDA
FLAGSHiP STORE,
NEW DELHi
Design by Meta, New Delhi
corner location and two-side-open structure, necessitated
a display stand that looked similar from both the
entrances, which inspired the circular design form.
The design channels traditional Indian architecture
such as the decorative ‘bela’ pattern used in the
brand’s packaging; patterns which continue onto
the edge of the ceiling or a section of the furniture,
as an acknowledgement of the Ayurvedic base of
research and development. It also symbolises the AIMIL
pharmaceutical group, while giving the products a
young avatar while highlighting the brand’s connection
to Ayurveda, Nature and science. Visual merchandising
features include sleek wood and metal shelves that
rest on slim brass legs, which contain an assortment of
natural ingredients, artificial plants and herbs arranged
in clinical apparatus.
photography
:
:
visuary
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
38
FOCUS
39

B-HiVE 11,
NEW DELHi
Typology : Commercial
Why is this project special? Lively and inspirational co-working
space for work-life balance.
A generous 4500 sq. ft., the co-working space features an
open-office layout, extensive artworks, abundant natural and
artificial light to enhance the aesthetics. The hotdesking space
is the main area, which hosts uniformly-arranged rows of desks
segregated by half-partitions. Plants manifest a sensory, semi-
private and nurturing atmosphere for the employees. Warm
wood furniture and flooring patterns, modern-day lighting
fixtures and an open HVAC system in bright yellow lend an
encouraging element to the space.
Studio Bipolar, New Delhi
Two meeting rooms located at each ends of the
hotdesking areas, the first of which is enveloped
by a mint-coloured wall with Bohemian art and
mirrors. A raw wooden chevron ceiling with
contemporary chandeliers and brown leather
chairs adds a corporate character to the space.
The second conference room, boasts a faux-plant
ceiling, birdcage chandelier and statement wall,
painted with eccentric murals. At one end of
the principal co-working area runs a hallway,
edged with private cabins on either side. These
are fitted with glass partitions, ornamented with
yellow geometric frosting to maintain visual
communication and privacy.
The design of the pantry, washrooms and
courtyard follows the same design narrative
through a brightly-lit and expansive space suitable
for socialising and networking. The pantry has
a wall-to-wall mural, which also allows the
employees to relax in the pleasant environment.
photography
:
:
anmol
wahi
FOCUS
41

Why is this project special? Material use helps
visualize a connected-to-Nature tropical lifestyle
A meandering driveway, set around an existing
dense cluster of trees, leads to the villa. The
main entrance is a 20-foot-wide, steel door,
set in a punctuated brick façade, dividing the
inside from the outside world. The site location,
weather, coast and landscape that emulate the
tropical lifestyle and culture-conscious informed
the approach to the project. Set in Alibaug, the
10,000-sq.-ft. house sprawls across a two-acre site
filled with greenery and a small water body.
CASA FELiZ,
ALiBAUG
ADND, Mumbai
The villa itself is surrounded by a square
manicured courtyard, with palms and greenery
enfolded by two L-shaped building blocks. This
court visualizes the public spaces and circulation
corridor on its periphery, where one is solid and
the other is permeable.
Following a monolithic character, the villa is
made up of clay bricks and metal elements –
thus combining warmth and sharpness into
one. Larger-than-life elements include a tectonic
petrified wooden centre table and an elevated
swimming pool, edged in dressed stone masonry.
This is detached from the structure by a gravel
deck, lending the ambience of a natural oasis.
photography
:
:
phx
india

Why is this project special? Vernacular, sustainable
and energy-efficient architecture from Karaikudi.
Designed on a plot spread over 2400 sq. ft. in South
India, the residence strives to minimise the building’s
negative environmental impact by optimising energy
and materials. It imbibes the vernacular architecture
and craftsmanship from Karaikudi, which adopts eco-
friendly construction and carbon footprint reduction.
The site is located on a slope, faces the prevailing
wind direction, naturally drains rainwater. The north-
south orientation allows diffused light to enter the
residence. Upcycling is adopted to blend the project
with nature, by using natural clay, lime plaster and
handmade tiles.
Filler slabs made from clay plates, which reduce
thermal heat by thirty per cent, are chosen for
the roof. Glass-infused tiles with clay plates above
the courtyard provide natural daylight minimise
the need for artificial light and ventilation, while
maintaining an open-to-sky ambience and filtered
daylight. The central courtyard brings in fresh air
through the windows, and breaks the residence into
smaller functional areas. It connects the indoors and
outdoors, and the openings above the courtyard
creates a stack effect.
Economical and durable bricks are made using the
rat-trap bond, which have air cavities to store the
heat within. Introduced by Laurie Baker, its other
benefits include minimal material requirement,
CASA ROCA,
COiMBATORE
A Plus R Architects, Chennai
better thermal efficiency and cost-effective
construction. It conserves energy through
heat and cold insulation, and promotes
affordable construction as the residence now
requires 20 per cent fewer bricks and reduces
sand and cement use by 40 to 50 per cent.
Locally-available lime mortar and clay pots
are used for the fillers, and the exposed brick
walls are recyclable and resistant to moisture
and fire. The foundation is laid with random
rubble stone masonry, which reduces the
carbon footprint.
When constructing filler slabs, the concrete
at the bottom half of the RCC slab is replaced
by the aforementioned clay pots. This uses
20 per cent less concrete and 30 per cent
less steel as conventionally required, without
compromising on the slab’s strength. Stone
and exposed red brick blend seamlessly with
Athangudi tiles sourced from Karaikudi and
stone pillars used at the sit-out area. The
main door comprises an antique single-
shutter Karaikudi, made of Burma teakwood
sourced from its namesake. It is carved with
a shivaling on the upper half, promoting
traditional Indian craftsmanship. Coloured
glass bottles with wired mesh are used as
fenestrations, and Athangudi tiles create
Moroccan-inspired mosaic art.
The first floor contains a master bedroom,
library and a terrace for the kitchen garden.
A French window overlooks the terrace
garden from the bedroom, and the terrace is
laid with Athangudi tiles. The bedroom also
features glass roof tiles to filter in natural
light throughout the day, and disperse some
into the courtyard.
photography
:
:
ajay
and
mariya
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
44

CONCRETE DWELLiNG,
KOLKATA
Why is this project special? Extensive use of concrete
and cement in the visualized entertainment space.
Spread over 3000 sq. ft., the client wanted a simple but
bespoke common entertainment area for a joint family. A
verandah runs through the length of the large living and
dining spaces, along with the garden beyond. The living
space is entered through glass doors and the prayer room
holds a redressed family heirloom chandelier against the
white Corian walls. Four center tables made of walnut and
black metal take up most of the space along with a retro
sofa and leather chairs. Cement tiles are installed in the
backdrop, which create an interplay of light and shadow
due to the undulated cladding.
Spaces and Design, Kolkata
A pure concrete bar with saw-cut oak strips
and unfinished cement, looks over the garden.
An iron installation by the artist Janarthan R.
creates a dramatic backdrop, along with grey
bricks and neutral colours. The client desired
a live Teppanyaki arrangement, for which a
12-ft.-long Jamun wood table top was curated
by Woodscapes, Auroville.
Raw concrete flooring and vertical gardens add
to the view of the culinary delights cooked
live, and a large grid of black metal and local
wooden shelves hold miniature plants and
curios. The raw concrete floor leads up the patio
and garden, which the adjoining powder toilet
overlooks through the wooden latticework.
photography
:
:
vivek
das

Urban Zen, Hyderabad
Typology: Residence
Why is this project special? Organic
architecture.
The firm used organic architecture, which
embraces a unified composition vocabulary,
and used dancers as the design inspiration
for the project. The building and landscaping
were designed with elements of abstract
art, cubism and modernism. The firm
cantilevered the superstructure over a
flowing stream where the horizontal and
vertical planes meet, which resembles
a ballerina’s leap, caught mid-flight. A
sectional cantilever over the structural
external door creates a striking façade and
viewpoint. The juxtaposed building blocks
are brought together to create the terrace,
which becomes the central element of the
house. This indoor-outdoor space functions
as a social space for the inhabitants.
DANCiNG WiTH
NATURE,HYDERABAD
The material palette for the interiors comprises light
grey wood, Bianco beige marble and brass. The light
and airy spaces are punctuated by indoor palms or
outdoor trees. As the client wanted a minimalist,
decluttered but functional home, the ceilings are
left white with cove or pendant lighting. The ground
floor is connected by a vestibule, which includes
the family living space, dining area, covered sit-out,
prayer room, drawing room and private areas.
The puja room is inspired by light filtering in
through the foliage, which combines with heavy-
grained timber and triangular brass inserts that
bring in traditionalism and modernity. Cuts on the
wooden rafters define the pergola, which lends the
ambience of being on the treetops. Bianco marble
stone wraps the centrally located lift wall cladding,
along with onyx lighting.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
48
FOCUS
49

Typology : Airport
Why is this project special? Designing an international airport with a
regional flavour.
The structure of the building is inspired by Icarus, the mythological figure who
had dared to fly. The centrepiece suspended over the departure concourse
with outstretched arms, doubles as a canopy in the drop-off zone. Individual
craftsmanship resembling Origami, is expressed in the terminal roof, flooring
patterns, column cladding, signage design and theme walls. The airport recreates
GUWAHATi
AiRPORT,GUWAHATi
Design Forum International, New Delhi
an immersive experience for travellers with
a craft village and designated spaces for the
artisans to produce their goods and interact
with potential customers.
To soothe the weary traveller, the firm has
created a 90-ft. indoor rainforest that has
zigzag passages that display local wonders.
The craft walls are a canvas for current
and future product trends, such as the
Namaskar Atrium, which is a double-height
space decorated with the arts and crafts
of Assam. The baggage claim hall features
origami on its aluminium panels that are
inspired by the Northeastern hills.
The tea gardens of Assam inspire the
landscape design, which originates at the
front yard with a cascading water feature.
The landscape is expected to motivate
arriving and departing passengers, as
it channels a mountain road and lush
greenery.
The airport boasts a four-star GRIHA rating,
as the indoor forest is separated by a
glass wall from the outdoor forest and the
terminal building. Glass is the primary
material for the façade, facilitating the
airport’s daylight availability and visual
uniformity.
Terracotta tiles reflect the fort-like citadels
that impart stability, while terrazzo
flooring is employed for its playfulness
and versatility. Granite ensures steadiness,
aluminium panels bring relief and sintered
stone is used for column and wall cladding.
Additionally, the car parking area is covered
with photovoltaic panels that generate
almost 500 kW of solar energy.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
50
FOCUS
51

Typology : Hotel
Why is this project special? It’s an eco-friendly hotel.
The intent was to create a new beginning at the holy
pilgrimage spot of Katra, from where the journey to Mata
Vaishno Devi begins. They also wanted a landmark against
a non-aesthetic and chaotic urban backdrop, where the
project itself would offer lavish rooms at affordable prices.
The client prioritises the travellers’ well being with a different
façade from the regular arrangement of boxed windows and
ornamental balconies.
Spread over 30,000 sq. ft. the site has an uninterrupted view
of the mountains, and allows orienting the rooms towards
them at the rear. Vaastu and climatic conditions favoured
this alignment over opening the building out on the main
street, as the main street faced the southwest, with harsh sun
and poor views. The façade features horizontal and vertical
louvres which interact with the sunlight and increase the
quality of space, while offering protection from the direct
glare and street views.
Studio Meraki, Noida
HOTEL RAMA
TRiDENT,KATRA, J & K
The firm introduced a breathing green lawn into
the space acting as the foreground before the
mountain views, with the rooms cantilevered to
free up space at the ground level. Vaastu remains
an integral component in massing, as the sacred
corner on the northeast is left empty.
Energy-efficiency is accomplished with passive
design strategies in the façade, massing and
orientation, helping the hotel consume nearly
25 to 30 percent less energy compared to the
surrounding hotels. The design introduces
daylight and balances thermal gain, ensuring that
the rooms, lobbies and corridors always receive
sunlight, conserve energy and reduce the cooling
load. Cantilevered rooms above the ground floor
provide sufficient shade to protect the ground
floor lobby from extreme heat.
The design incorporates terrace gardens on each
floor, thus retaining the visual connect. The hotel
also has a creeper-laden boundary wall visible to
the lobby and restaurant and planters on each
floor. There is minimum heat gain in the rooms
due to their northeast orientation, which provides
thermal comfort while reducing the need for
air-conditioning. Openings on the southwest
are partially blocked with louvres to create an
interplay of light and shadow, the well-lit and
porous lobby displays the garden and mountain
views to visitors.
FOCUS
53

Why is this project special? Energy-
efficient, net-zero and inspired by Nature.
This 1672 sq. m., two-family residence
exhibits a near-net-zero, Nature-inspired
design that enables sustainable living.
The home is built for two brothers and
their families who wanted to live in
Nature, inspiring the fusion of two single-
floor units through a common façade
and a seamless double roof for visual
cohesiveness on the exterior.
Due to the extremely hot and dry North
Indian weather, the firm has followed a
south-facing design and a zero-energy
approach inspired by the Noor Mahal’s
chowks and chhatris, which are derived
from the havelis.
The home starts with a common space
sandwiched between two boxes that
represent the familial units, punctured
by two chowk-inspired rectangular
courtyards and heatsinks. The central
courtyard with the swimming pool
is embraced by stone-clad walls that
provide mass insulation to prevent the
heat island effect. The pool acts as a
heatsink as it absorbs heat during the day
and releases it at night, which lowers the
net heat gain. Due to the radiant heat of
the water body, the surrounding vertical
greens experience evapotranspiration due
to photosynthesis.
Cantilevers run along the units, shading
the internal and external walls and
enabling transition. The courtyards and
cantilevers facilitate social cohesion and
seamless movement between spaces. The
layout accommodates naturally-lit and
cross-ventilated interiors with sleeping
areas oriented towards the southwest,
while the living spaces are towards the
northeast.
Bedrooms have glazed windows that
allow minimum heat gain and glare,
while offering views of the landscape.
Living spaces are shielded from the
southwest sun and open out into the
HOUSE UNDER
SHADOWS,KARNAL
ZED Labs, New Delhi
photography
:
:
andre
j.
fanthome
courtyard to allow in natural daylight. The kitchen and
utility, bar, powder and servants’ quarters are located
around the central staircase, which is a vertical circulation
element on the southwest. A multipurpose area is
inspired by the elevated chhatris and dome-shaped
pavilions found in traditional Indian architecture.
The double-roof canopies the entire home, promoting
privacy with cohesiveness. A solid wooden roof with
an extensive pergola runs along the house’s length and
breadth, and features a Voronoi pattern (filtered light and
shadow patterns caused by the trees, branches and leaves
in forest towards the sky).
A fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) pergola under a mild
steel framework, constructed through digital modelling
using parametrics, distributes weight through the steel
columns. This reduces solar direct and diffused radiation
by ninety per cent, while creating an interplay of light
and shadow in the interiors. It also allows the underlying
wooden roof to be utilized as a semi-outdoor space, while
providing panoramic views of the neighbourhood’s green
and low-lying spaces.
Local materials are extensively used for an
environmentally-conscious approach, with low-embodied
carbon and neutral tones. This reduces mechanical
cooling loads and creates visual lightness in the
structure’s elevation. Walls are dry-clad with Gwalior mint
stone to enhance thermal mass performance, while the
leather finish on stone renders a natural texture.
A solid Indian wooden ceiling imparts warmth to the
free-flowing open spaces. Glazed aluminium windows rise
floor-to-ceiling, while the interior furnishings and artwork
maintain an earthy colour and texture palette. Due to
the demand for a specific door-height ratio, the firm used
pre-polished Indian veneer doors assembled on site.
FOCUS
55

Ana Design Studio, New Delhi
Typology : Institutional
Why is this project special? The university
respects local culture and environment
while being open, inventive and
contemporary.
Located in Hazratbal over a 40,000 sq.
ft. sprawl, the Kashmir University is
one of the oldest and most-respected
institutions of higher education in the
valley. As the university has grown in
size and stature over the years, the client
needed an administrative hub that
would accommodate the offices of the
Vice Chancellor, the Registrar and Dean,
apart from the Finance and Accounts
departments, Estates and Development
and other administrative heads.
The client wanted a building that
respected the vernacular language yet
was high-performance and contemporary,
which would utilise the current trends
in open work culture, natural light,
informal interactional spaces and all-
weather comfort conditioning. At the
same time, the building was to be secure
and allow for privacy as well. The firm
designed the building for material and
spatial optimization, human interaction,
traditional timber design, energy efficiency
and comfort.
The building overlooks Dal Lake and the
Zabarwan hills beyond, with an existing
fir tree dominating the central space. It is
developed in two distinct blocks planned
around the central atrium, and defined
by varying security levels. The fir tree
becomes a focal point from the entrance,
with interconnecting bridges through the
atrium. This becomes a congregational
space for gatherings, discussions and
temporary exhibitions.
The two blocks on the east and west are
naturally lit, with the usage of glass and
colour to create well-defined departments.
Workstations and cabins encourage
interactions and collaborative working.
Each department is independently
climate-controlled using all-weather VRV
air-conditioning, while the glare-free
KASHMiR
UNiVERSiTY
CAMPUS,SRiNAGAR
LED lighting maximises the use of natural
lighting. The air-conditioning system also
has enthalpy control, where the compressors
shut down to circulate fresh air during
pleasant weather. This ensures sufficient
fresh air even in extremely warm or cold
temperatures, creating healthy indoor
conditions. The central atrium has heat
sensors and mechanical fans and is lit
with high-efficiency, high-beam lighting,
after sunset.
Glass wool insulated panels and high-
performance glass is used for the façade,
which allows light to enter but controls heat
entry and loss during winter. The entire
structure including the façade panels are
made from insulated roofing, while the
beams and columns are made from factory-
fabricated steel.
Service areas such as the pantry and toilets
are located near the façade, which have
an in-built Trombe wall system. This offers
preheated air within the office spaces,
and can be shut down in the summer
months. The free heating complements the
electromechanical heat pumps in the central
climate conditioning system, while the inner
partitioning of the building is made from dry
wall insulated with glass wool. All the toilets
have insulated piping to avoid freezing and
cracking during winters, and the bath areas
feature eco-friendly low-flow fixtures.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
56
FOCUS
57

Typology : Restaurant
Why is this project special? It features
maximalist design.
Founded by the chefs Gurmehar Sethi,
Alekh Vardhan and Navdeep Singh Sethi,
the maximalist restaurant promises
contemporary global cuisine in the
historic Khan Market. Spread over 3,600
sq. ft., the project offers a space for
corporate escape and a meeting point
serving Southeast Asian snacks and
bespoke beverages.
The façade is lined with black panels
that contrast with the surrounding
profiles, providing a contemporary yet
nostalgic sensibility. Customised terrazzo
flooring, bespoke furniture and mirrors
create an illusory depth of space. Mirrors
placed across the restaurant are a key
element; some are frameless, some
mounted inside ring lights or on the
walls and ceilings or framed in antique
gold. The mirrors also reflect light to
the darker corners, such as the stairwell
at the entrance. Stern-faced Claymen
statues by the artist Aman Khanna grace
the space between the mirrors.
KLAP,NEW DELHi
GroupDCA, New Delhi
photography
:
:
niveditaa
gupta
Diverse seating provides variety;
from bar stools with sleek metal
legs, wooden armchairs with rattan
backs around granite tables with
faux alabaster tabletops and plush,
leather-upholstered booth-style
seating. All the furniture in the
project was designed, prototyped
and manufactured in-house.
The bejewelled bar takes centrestage,
with mirror-backed shelves mounted
in sleek golden frames. These reflect
the glassware and bottles, which
create a kaleidoscope of colours. The
bar counter is lined with mirrors,
reflecting the restaurant’s ambiance
back to the diners.
Due to the narrow floorplate, the
glazing connects the inner world
to the outdoors. The afternoon
light interacts with the colourful
terrazzo floor along with ambient
illumination. The upper floors offer
a dining experience between the
trees on the terrace. Slim railings
disappear into the plants, which
imbue a biophilic charm to the
design.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
58
FOCUS
59

MODERN OASiS,GURUGRAM
Why is this project special? Extensive material use in a multi-
generational home.
This multi-generational home, spread over 385 sq. yds., considers
physical and cultural contexts in its design. The spatial arrangement
has been reconfigured with structural modifications to the spaces,
which reflect the client’s vision of altering transitions. The spaces are
designed to ensure optimum usage and fluidity between the rooms,
guided by usage-based requirements. The home comprises four levels;
the basement is an entertainment space, the ground floor for
family gatherings, the first floor is for the children while the
second floor is a leisure space.
The basement is inspired by Neo-classical design, features a
bespoke Chesterfield sofa with wooden panels at the centre.
The ground floor is restructured to optimize the space,
opening onto the family lounge area, which features subtle
grey across the walls and furniture, along with sophisticated
brass accents. This extends into the dining space, which
makes for informal gatherings.
The master bedroom is appointed on the ground floor,
designed with neutral walls and minimal detailing, while
the first floor comprises bedrooms for the parents and
children. Abstract wallpaper and plush upholstery are
used in the gender-neutral children’s bedroom, with twin
beds placed against a pastel blue, cushioned headboard
with shelving units that optimize storage. A semi-covered
verandah featuring an aluminium powder-coated metal sheet
punctured with sandblasted, ribbed and polished granite
façade cladding completes the space.
RSDA, Gurugram
FOCUS
61

Why is this project special? Free-flowing
rhythm in a penthouse.
Designed for an actor, the penthouse is
located on an elevated topography in the city
that offers spectacular views of the horizon.
The client wished to highlight the panorama
in his bachelor pad, inspiring the firm to
design two terraces and a courtyard. While
the north-facing terrace abuts a neighbouring
property and is designed for parties, the
south-facing terrace retains the view. Benches,
planters and pergolas are conceived as
free-flowing structures with fluid lines and
minimalist curves to denote harmony.
The seating outside the lounge is divided into
two levels, with the concrete free form and
planters turning into wooden decks to form
part of a multifunctional area. Ample seating
is provided on either side of the terrace,
The Pinewood Studio, Hyderabad
NANi
PENTHOUSE,
HYDERABAD
while the centre is left free for uninterrupted
views of the skyline . The fluid pergola is a key
element, which offers shade from the sun yet
makes for a comfortable space to lounge, and
is inscribed with the names of the actor’s most
popular film names.
Terrazzo flooring and concrete-finished
benches are cast as monolithic features that
seamlessly transition into the living spaces.
The landscaping includes a downsized gravel-
plastered wall, verdant plantation and green
faux grass in the courtyard. Plants in raised
planters act as visual barriers while doubling
as seating areas, while a tall Luna Wood
divider provides a visual barrier between the
terrace and utility spaces.
FOCUS
63

Why is this project special? Minimalism within
a residential space.
Spread over 1000 sq. ft., the bachelor’s pad
resembles the Philip Johnson Glass House in its
unexaggerated, undisguised and undraped brief.
The house follows an open plan, with no doors
or walls, with a pavilion to view the hillock in
the distance that seamlessly integrates with
the cityscape fifteen floors above the ground.
The site offers two 1BR units that make up the
living-dining space, a kitchen and a bathroom
with large windows that offer unobstructed
views. Minimalist furniture creates a galerie de
sculptures feel, with no colours or patterns.
The central living space, presents a Soderhamn
Ikea sofa, a pair of Phantom Hands easy
armchairs and MuseLAB metal profile chaise
around a Bloom architectural coffee table.
Cocoon Nouveau fine rugs and hand-knotted
carpet made from handspun high-twist
pure wool with handspun pure silk accents,
complete the look.
NAKED,MumbAi
MuseLAB, Mumbai
The second part of the home is a dedicated ‘cook
and eat’ zone, with an open steel kitchen made in
collaboration with Kuche 7. The kitchen countertop
extends to form the four-seater dining table with
Phantom Hands Mungaru dining chairs under a cluster
of thin pendant lights. A panoramic landscape shot by
the client is at the backdrop, with the wet kitchen and
dry yard subtly away from this space. An East Indian
walnut wood working countertop contrasts with the
Concrete Works India grey cement walls, beyond which
lies the powder room.
The sleeping space comprises a simple wooden bed
with a faux tan leather backrest, while the bedside
tables are simple shelves. A Nougat II floor mirror,
Mungaru side tables and Phantom Hands Kangaroo
chair are situated across the bed. A pair of wardrobes
flank another portal that leads to the walk-in closet
for athletic gear, with grey vitrified tiles that continue
into the bathroom walls and onto the dado. The
firm eliminated the false ceiling for a simple grid of
exposed conduits and cylindrical architectural lights.
photography
:
:
sameer
tawde
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
64
FOCUS
65

Typology : Retail
Why is this project special? To express Indian folk
art in a modern way, in a boutique space.
Located in the Taj Skyline, this textile retail store
is spread over 375 sq. ft. Inspired by Indian folk
art, the firm brings together a natural material
palette with exposed concrete, wood, brass, lime
plaster, metalwork and mirrors. The boutique offers
traditional ethnic wear such as printed sarees and
dupattas, bandhej, thaan and patola.
Prashant Parmar Architects, Ahmedabad
NUVEA,AHMEDABAD
The exposed concrete ceiling, lime
plaster-finished walls and floors
maintain the rustic charm with light-
toned display units. The reception
table displays textile stamps set
against a silvery-golden textured wall.
A customised centre table made of
a carved wooden heritage door, is
finished with a glass tabletop and
wooden carved chairs. The arch
narrative is maintained throughout
the mirror walls and display units
with open metal shelving. Lighter-
coloured arched display units
counterbalance the darker-toned
walls, with cutouts for the dupattas
and shelves for the thaan collection.
The mirror wall is designed to make
the boutique spacious and dramatic,
with hand-painted murals to display
traditional purses. Track lighting
on the ceiling and diffused lighting
behind the display units highlight the
space and furniture.
photography
:
:
inclined
studio
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
66
FOCUS
67

Typology : Skill development center
Why is this project special? It transforms into a very different usage
This CSR project uses design to focus on multifunctional spaces,
efficient space utilisation and acoustics to control elevated sound
levels. The site is converted from a gymnasium on the top floor of
a commercial building, with heavy beams and standalone columns
creating dead spaces and minimum natural ventilation. The client
wanted to ensure practical training, accommodate heavy machinery
and encourage learning in a clutter-free environment.
The design approach capitalises on every space both aesthetically
and functionally, making versatility important. The space is divided
according to the window locations on the site, and the classrooms
lined by the windows to enhance the learning process. On the other
hand, the backend office and utility areas are planned at the rear
PCJF SKiLL
DEVELOPMENT
CENTRE,MUMBAi
Studio NACL, Mumbai
of the building. Minimal circulation spaces ensure maximum space
utilisation, and a single passage becomes the backbone and circulation
for the rooms across the 5000 sq. ft. floorplate.
Spaces remain versatile; salons combine into a single room through a
set of sliding/folding partitions and rearrangement of furniture; storage
units are distributed across the columns and walls as spaces such as
the electronic laboratory require several tools that are displayed on the
walls. Corridors lined with storage units lend a library-like ambience
with niches for seating which seem to be carved from the walls. Wire
mesh panels compensate for the low ceiling, as this visually widens and
lightens the space.
Moveable furniture is customised and moved around as required,
promoting a decluttered and open layout. Prefabricated wall panels
with acoustic properties are an economical but effective alternative to
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) blocks, which ensure minimal sound
disturbance to the classrooms. Birch ply on furniture and walls, lime-
plastered walls, mild steel furniture, concrete floor tiles, metal mesh
panels and fluted glass make up the material palette. A muted grey
theme highlighted with the vibrant brand colours display clean lines
supported by the lighting design, furniture graphics and partition design.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
68
FOCUS
69

Typology : Retail
Why is this project special? It creates a high end showroom for marble.
The client manufactures quartzite, which is an artificial stone used
for countertops and cladding. They wanted a high-end space that
complemented the scale of their business, which includes significant exports
to the USA. The firm chose a vacant corner in the existing factory for the
project where customers transitioned from the factory to the show office
which resembles a showroom spread over 2000 sq. ft. .It offers a hassle-free
selecting and shopping experience along with informed retail selling.
PELiCAN,MUMBAi
Genre of Design, Mumbai
The naturally neutral-coloured stone needed
a parallel raw texture for display, which
inspired the central section with the exposed
concrete ceiling and exposed white brick
becoming the right canvas for displaying
the product. Optimised lighting design and
marble display on the walls enables the
customers to experience the products first-
hand. A glass partition connects a conference
room and extends into the same space.
The retailers educate the designers and
customers about the product, and the visual
connection opens up the spaces.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
70

a minimalist approach. A corridor on
the left holds the elevator and staircase
and leads to the kitchen and dining
areas. Corian-finished platforms, wooden
flooring and grey PU-finished furniture
maintain a bright and light kitchen. The
pooja room on the right is a double-height
space with wooden furniture and décor,
while the master bedroom remains white
with wooden highlights.
On the upper floor, the master bedroom
features MCM cladding and mirror patti
on the accent wall with wooden finishing.
Large openings invite in natural light,
along with a private terrace garden and
a covered sitting area. The office space
overlooks the terrace garden with a sitting
area, open-air and covered lounges.
Prashant Parmar Architects (Shayona Consultants), Ahmedabad
Why is this project special? Two duplex
penthouses were combined, working
within structural and plumbing
restrictions.
The penthouse on a high-rise building in
a prime location, combined two duplex
houses into one 5000 sq. ft. apartment.
The client wanted a simple, modern
and decluttered home with a personal
elevator, Italian marble flooring and
exquisite décor. Entering through the
foyer, one arrives at the atrium with a
sitting lounge with wooden flooring.
A glass door opens onto a spacious living
room with two balconies that bring in
natural light and ventilation, and follows
PENTHOUSE,AHMEDABAD

PiNNACLE HOUSE,MUMBAi
Why is this project special? A minimalist
approach to amplify the spaciousness of
the 4BHK duplex luxury apartment.
The client wished for a home with
minimal barriers creating an almost
boundless ambience in the private and
public areas. An entrance lobby just
outside the home is done in Michelangelo
marble, including the door and vertical
surfaces. The firm has also created
a mosaic of marble, metal inlay and
wooden rafters.
The living room is designed as an internal
lobby with dense tropical foliage along
the staircase and a diagonal pattern that
visually separates the area. Four fluted
glass panels in mild steel frames line the
periphery, while mother-of-pearl inlay is
added to the patterned flooring, adding
an element of glamor. An orange-rust
Chesterfield sofa and a glass centre
table is set opposite the greenery, and
a small corner is converted into a bar.
A long window spilling over into the
balcony extends the living room with
custom-made seating areas finished
with Botticino marble and mirrors.
The balcony is wrapped in aluminium
composite panelling.
The formal living area comprises the
seating and dining zones, separated by a
vaulted ceiling. The dining table and
chairs are set against a mini-tropical
jungle, with a true-scale antelope
peeking through the partition.
Bedrooms are located on the top floor,
and have floor-to-ceiling windows,
vertical furniture and panelling. Cross-
ventilation and natural light filter
through the rooms, which animate
the spaces with shifting sunrays.
The master bedroom features black
Marquina marble flooring and a focal
wall painted in citron with diagonal
bands in a lighter tone. A wire-mesh
floor lamp and wall art adorn the wall,
while a leather armchair and coffee
table complete the space. Against a
backlit panel, the bedroom echoes
South American accents with a suede
leather bed.
Inspired by steampunk, the son’s
bedroom is inspired by the 19th-
century industrial steam-powered
machinery. A French Riviera concept
is chosen for the daughter’s bedroom,
resembling the Mediterranean
coastline in southeastern France,
brick-painted walls and rustic veneer
complete the design. The guest
bedroom has indigo-blue walls and a
brass-finished wardrobe with walnut
accents. Hand-carved sandstone lattice
partitions add a traditional touch
in the prayer room, with wooden
cladding adding warmth to the space.
Aum Architects, Mumbai
photography
:
:
prashant
bhat
FOCUS
75

PRiVATE HOUSE,
KOLKATA
Why is this project special? A large redesign while
maintaining the luxury quotient.
Located on the third floor of a 10,000 sq. ft. private house,
the client wanted a luxurious and fully-automated home.
The firm was to merge two apartments which constituted
an entire floor and were put together to create one
spacious home. Segmented into two zones, a living area
and a dining area, the entrance foyer works as a common
connector. The entrance features a mural with gold leafing
inlay on Italian marble and a bespoke wooden console with
a golden-accented white marble top and spiral legs.
Arredatore Design Studio, Kolkata
The wall opposite portrays a customised temple
camouflaged by Belgian marble wall panelling, where
the entrance and dining area are divided by elements
clad with Italian marble. Wooden box panelling with
a nude finish conceals the electrical and automation
distribution boxes. Bevelled geometric bronze mirrors
elevate the living area, layered with Italian marble and
wooden cornices. Grey slabs and bronze mirrors on the
walls while the narrow up-ceiling features panelled
wood and bronze mirrors. Paintings and sculptures
by local artists decorate the walls, and highlight social
issues faced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
photography
:
:
debtanu
akuli
A handcrafted eight-seater sectional sofa and a daybed
along the single wall comprise the living room. The master
suite, which includes a box room and toilet, boasts Italian
marble wall panelling, while the box room is bifurcated
with MDF screen partitions covered with glass. Upscale
toilet fittings include a jacuzzi and steam with a high-tech
digital shower panel and automated colour-changing glass
partitions. The room is covered in Carrara marble and a
solid wood panelled ceiling, with a walk-in closet with
high-end fittings.
The dining and cooking spaces exude luxury with a dining
table with solid wood carved legs and a pink granite
top, tufted upholstered chairs, and a taupe-coloured
multifunctional crockery unit and storage with paraffin
polyester finish. The commanding ceiling has rhombus-
shaped wooden and bronze mirrors at its center. The
modular kitchen is finished in grey tones highlighted with
Morrocan tiles and Brazilian moss-green granite.
FOCUS
77

Typology : Office
Why is this project special? It’s an agile workspace.
Located within the NKP, the project is named ‘vert’ or green in
French. The firm was inspired by earth, flora and the sky for the
colour scheme that becomes the spine of the entire design concept.
The fusion of blurred edges and colours, transitions between land
and ocean and gradations of low and highlands against the skies
is explored using well-chosen colours. Materials play their part to
ensure low-maintenance and a rugged look. The reception and
informal seating areas have vinyl flooring with antistatic laminate
false flooring for the more critical rooms.
Promoting an agile work culture, the firm decided upon non-
assigned workplaces for the staff. Personal lockers located in
multiple locker banks near the workstation clusters replace
the drawer pedestal. They are one of the first few facilities to
have a hundred percent sit-to-stand desk infrastructure with
electrical height adjustment, that encourages employee wellness,
commitment and healthy behaviour.
Scrum areas in strategic pockets promote impromptu collaborative
decisions with writable surfaces and loose furniture. Phone booths
located at various spots are suitable for two people to take official
PROJECT VERT,
MUMBAi
JTCPL Designs, Mumbai
or personal calls without disturbing
their colleagues. Multiple working
elements such as scrum boards,
lounge seating, audiovisual facilities,
work cafes, coffee points and high
tables all add value to the space. The
coffee point doubles as a collaborative
space with writing surfaces, lounge
seating and high tables for discussion
and casual interactions. Touchdowns
are created close to the entrance so
that visiting employees can work for
shorter durations.
Full-height enclosures with three
per cent perforated blinds ensure
maximum natural light penetration
into the workspace, designated at
the centre of the floorplate. Window
protection with blackout roller blinds
along the glass periphery prevent
glare within the workspace, making it
a conducive environment as research
conducted says the staff spends sixty-
six per cent of their working hours at
the desk. Collaborative and central
scrum areas have informal furniture,
power and network for laptop use
and touchdown spots and hospitality
services are limited to the cafeteria,
coffee points and work café.
The false ceiling varies in height from
2.6 m to 2.7 m depending on the
services located above the ceiling,
along with centrally-located enclosed
spaces to harvest maximum natural
light. The reception area, entrance
lobby and dedicated wall spaces are
designated for corporate image and
branding as well as illuminated or
glow emergency exit signage.
Grid tiles are set at 0.9 NRC providing
effective acoustics across the entire
office. This is continued with raised
flooring finished in carpet tiles,
while the conference room walls are
prepared with acoustic panelling
on one side. Interdepartmental and
universal office partitions have solid
double-gypsum board partitions
with an STC of 45 decibels for the
cabins and 50 decibels for the
meeting rooms. Double-glazed and
demountable partitions add flexibility
and acoustic value in enclosed spaces,
along with low VOC paint and coatings
as per LEED guidelines. For waste
management, the bins are moved to
the landlord’s waste collection area on
the ground floor to be collected by the
local waste/recycle haulers.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
78

Other issues with evacuation despite numerous
fire-staircases on the lateral sides of the
auditorium, as the exits were all at the rear on
the balcony level. To ease evacuation, the balcony
level was provided with additional corridor-like
augmentations reaching the staircase lobbies
from both sides. Track and moving lighting and
while visual experiences help stir innovation,
physical creativity, and achieve higher levels of
breakthroughs in students. Dimmable warm
ambient lighting in the seating area, formed by
light strips concealed in coves, provides the right
lighting for different events.
The form is inspired by origami, displayed by
the several high and low points of the ceiling,
which create triangular deformations resembling
fold lines. The three-dimensional form creates
angled surfaces, which conceal HVAC, lighting
and service fixtures and absorb sound in the
auditorium. Triangular red and grey fabric
panels outlined with recessed lighting lines the
auditorium, and the cantilevered balcony has
demarcating lines along the railing, separating
the levels.
The wooden stage is highlighted by triangular
sections with acoustic fabric and wooden slats to
absorb sound. Quilted seats are aligned in rows
with a customised red and beige floor carpet
beneath them, along with a food court, restrooms
and greenrooms located within the facility.
Typology : Institutional
Why is this project special? Creating an auditorium
for children in a school.
This 48,000 sq. ft., auditorium is part of a school
project that had remained incomplete for a long time.
Prior to the refurbishment, the firm analyzed the
challenges which included a visual and audio blockage
for the rear rows caused by the base of the balcony
and faulty sightlines and blocked views for the rear
rows, despite cutting the offending balcony. The issues
were resolved by optimizing the slope by a calculated
degree, which also eliminated echoes and openings.
MySpace Architects, Noida
RED BLOOM,
LUDHiANA
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
80
FOCUS
81

Why is this project special? It creates
a stimulating home.
Located in a quaint and cloistered
neighbourhood, the apartment
is nestled at the edge of a ridge.
Envisaged for a well-travelled couple
interested in colours, fitness, reading,
fashion, coffee and art, the home was
to be colourful and stimulating. With a
frontal area of 60 sq. ft., the apartment
enjoys nature throughout the living and
dining areas, utility areas, kitchens and
bedrooms, while ample sunlight brings
in warmth and comfort, and shadows
which change throughout the day.
Spread over 1800 sq. ft., the home has
a wide foyer passageway that opens
into the open living and dining area.
Expansive windows frame the room,
draped in botanical print wallpaper as
a backdrop. Pastel blue sofas and a set
of lounge chairs form the main seating
spaces, enabling the residents to relax
in nature. A deep-blue console and
shelf become showstopper elements
housing memorabilia, books and a
royal chessboard.
The dining space comprises a
curvilinear bean-shaped table
diagonally oriented, which adds an
informal ambience for recreation
and interaction, as the spaces flow
seamlessly into each other. The walk-in
closet along the living area, dining
space and hallway is embellished in
delicate fabric and opens up into a
fully-mirrored room in pastel brown
undertones with wardrobes and
drawers. A centre island table on plush
carpets against the neutral background
allows the brightly-coloured clothes
and accessories to pop.
A corridor leads to the master bedroom
and den. The former has a wooden
herringbone-pattern panel sweeping
across one end of the ceiling. Two
pendant lights are suspended from
the panel over the side tables, while a
RiDGEViEW
RESiDENCE,
NEW DELHi
The Works Interiors, New Delhi
canary-yellow cosy chair overlooks the landscape. To
avoid space wastage on guest bedrooms, the smallest
room was converted into a den. Featuring planters,
abstract patterns and checks, the natural oakwood
furniture pieces visually expand the space.
Towards the rear, the kitchen is a minimalist, low-
maintenance and robust utility space. Light brown
laminate cabinetry is set against Morrocan-style tiles,
and a white quartz countertop lends a clean and
pristine look complemented by glass shutters on the
overhead cabinets. Apart from Indian white marble to
keep the home cool, handcrafted oakwood furniture is
procured from sustainable plantation timber.
photography
:
:
andre
j.
fanthome
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
82
FOCUS
83

horizontal, diagonal and arched patterns in the flooring. A
six-seater bench-style seating arrangement made of ashwood,
balanced with a high seating area on another side adds
warmth, and is further complemented with gold and warm
amber paint accents. Old textured glass windows in gold
paint overlook the partially open kitchen, reminiscent of the
shopfronts of the Khan Market of the 1970s.
Design by Meta, New Delhi
Typology : Restaurant
Why is this project special? Multiple
design ethoses, Mughal, Mediterranean
and Morrocan mingle in this space.
Adding a contemporary twist to
Morrocan, Mediterranean and Mughal
design styles, plain white walls, inspired
by the Grecian and Italian towns of the
Amalfi Coast and Santorini offset blue
tones channeling the ocean and hilltop
coastal towns.
Mughal architecture blends Hindu and
Islamic architectural styles, and the
geometry of design with a repetition
of geometric forms that create the
impression of infinity and symbolises
the Almighty and is thoroughly explored
in the tiling, flooring patterns and
design language. A grid amalgamates
patterns from the ceiling with the wall
panels, which reveal the brand’s history
and story encapsulated in the artwork,
mirrors and textured paint panels.
Hexagonal blue tiles create the textural
variations common in Mediterranean
culture, making it a harmonious and
happy space.
Light blue, dark blue and white inspired
by the Mediterranean and Mughal
cultures combine traditional and
contemporary features. These dominant
colours are balanced in the vertical,
RULE THE
ROLLS,NEW DELHi
photography
:
:
visuary
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
84
FOCUS
85

RUSTOMJEE ELEMENTS
RESiDENCE,MUMBAi
Why is this project special? It adds luxury to a carefree bachelor pad.
Spread over 3000 sq. ft., the bachelor pad comprises a material palette of
metal, glass and leather. A neutral colour palette in greys, beiges and blues tie
together the elegant space. The entry leads into a spacious den which boasts
a 110-inch screen and lounge sofa corner. The den also has a gaming area at
one end, a poker and pool table. Customised marble inlay patterned flooring
and a huge backlit clock installation behind the pool table become the design
elements, set against muted grey veneer panelling and moulding. A niche is
carved into a built-in library wall.
Sumessh Menon Associates
A customised bar with a retro-style bar front and storage resembles a
collage of retro pop artists, along with Italian furniture and a sculptural
customized floor lamp. Artwork brightens up the otherwise minimalistic
and muted palette, and the corridor features retro artwork collages. The
powder room is covered in customised mosaic artwork, the ceiling is
plastered in customised collage wallpaper featuring musical artists and the
floor and walls are clad with white marble.
The master bedroom features a cocoon-inspired woven leather sculptural
headboard and a walk-in wardrobe. The guest bedroom has a customised
tan leather headboard panel, a chest of drawers and bedside tables, a
Minotti armchair and Flos track lighting.

Why is this project special? It creates a warm and
earthy home.
The design focus was on simplicity and harmony with
natural light, space and materials. The clients wanted a
physically static and spiritual place where they could relax,
without being distracted by décor styles. A customised
metal screen partition partially separates the entry foyer
and the formal living room, with the ubiquitous shoe
storage space with a seating pocket built into the wall.
The formal living room features a wooden-striped ceiling,
Italian furniture and is connected to a large balcony.
The dining and staircase sit together in a double-height
space, furnished with a round, six-seater dining table and
a customised hanging luminaire made of mild steel and
copper. It also has a customised graphic fabric ceiling,
where each panel is two-inch by two-inch in size, and
SAANJH
PENTHOUSE,
VADODARA
A+T Associates, Vadodara
expresses the relationship between human beings
and architectural spaces. A precast exposed concrete
staircase with PU-coated metal railing is set in a
corner, while a series of three paintings depict the
rising sun and its changing reflections in water.
The family living area on the first floor is a home
entertainment room, connected to the large terrace
which features metal pergolas and a clear, tough
glass roof. Lush green leather-finished recliner sofas,
lounge chairs and ottoman and a thick fabric false
ceiling for acoustic reasons are the design elements
here. Four bedrooms with attached dressing areas
and bathrooms complete the home, with parents
and guests’ bedrooms on the ground floor, and the
master and children’s bedrooms on the first floor.
FOCUS
89

Typology : Retail
Why is this project special? It’s the firm’s first designer store.
The client wished to evoke an aristocratic tailoring experience
for the user which resembled a luxe landscape for the modern
brand. A modern eclectic style was chosen for the design,
with the store divided into three arched zones. The entrance
houses the reception, casual shirts and shoes; the second
zone houses sherwanis and tuxedos while the third zone
showcases a handpicked collection of fabrics. Champagne gold
SARTORiAL
ELOQUENCE,
GURUGRAM
Sync Design Studio, Gurugram
with brass inlay terrazzo flooring make
for a sophisticated entry, along with an
exposed ceiling with golden cornices and
a ceiling mirror. Customised aluminium
columns engraved with the brand logo adds
personalization, exclusivity and impact.
Stucco-grey arched walls with gold accents
and wooden and brass shelves along the
pool table form the backdrop for the
menswear clothing display and storage.
A customised central rod-based display
shows clothes while a leopard print
carpet facilitates an in-house ramp when
required. Suspended from the ceiling, the
rod also acts as an art installation along
with the customised furniture in the space.
Customised 3500 Kelvin lighting fixtures
and ceiling track lights recreate the affluent
atmosphere of high-end luxury retail stores.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
90

The central position of the dining
room in the house maintains an
ambient temperature with natural light
entering from the sliding glass partition
connecting it to the living room. Large
wall-to-wall teakwood windows frame
the neem and gulmohar tree canopies,
for the house which features a neutral
colour palette of beige, white and pastel
complemented with warm oakwood
furniture.
The sole inhabitant wanted an
uncluttered space to allow free-flowing
positive energy, which led to the furniture
being stacked along the wall to free up
central space for movement. Pastel-
coloured Italian Botticcino marble
flooring maintains the natural stone’s
ability for thermal comfort, especially for
barefoot usage.
Foliage-patterned paper-backed
wallpapers break up the monotony of
white, which also reflects the client’s
liking for natural and organic. Bespoke
furniture, sculpted to the needs of
the client who wished to sit in the
padmasana position to maintain a
straight spine and healthy posture for
his ailing back, are also provided . A low
L-shaped chaise lounge by the window
and a teal double-seater sofa add colour
to the pastel walls and browns of the
wood. A pair of low planter chairs round
out the look with hand woven cane
matting in a classic wicker pattern, woven
by artisans from Jaipur and upholstered
in linen dyed with natural indigo.
Reclaimed open wood storage also
creates an uncluttered space, as do the
tall storage shelves and sleek and simple
wooden planks on the papered wall. The
client’s affinity for yoga and low seating
spaces is translated into a dining table in
the centre of the house with a sleek slab
of marble with four cushions utilizing
the corridor, which is visually connected
to the kitchen. A breakfast table of
reclaimed wood alongside the dining
room, converts into a working desk in the
day. A brown granite top, dual-coloured
laminates and overhead cabinets are
complemented by the blue Moroccan
tiles playfully arranged in the dado.
Beige textured walls and dark brown
furniture upholstered with handwoven
linens and cotton create a more serious
mood in the study. The dark-toned
oakwood table receives natural light
throughout the day, while the client
sits comfortably on the customised
wide study chair. The bedroom features
light and airy colours, cane matting
on the headboard and dark wooden
tones set against the foliage-patterned
wallpaper. A diwan is placed by the
fixed glass window, which looks out
into the green canopy. Low-VOC paints,
adhesives and furniture finishes minimise
environmental pollution, while five-rated
air-conditioners promote ecological
awareness.
SATTVA HOUSE,
NEW DELHi
Why is this project special? It promotes Indianness,
sustainability and use of natural resources.
The residence, located on the second floor of a plotted
development, has soft sunlight, wide windows and green
trees. Following the client’s sustainable lifestyle and ideology,
Sattva channels the quality of balance, harmony, purity and
universalization in Sanskrit. The client wished for a home in the
2100 sq. ft. space that accommodates an office reflecting their
strong spiritual beliefs as a yoga practitioner. The living room and
master bedroom lie on the eastern side of the apartment, which
maximises the intake of natural sunlight. The orientation also
prevents these spaces from heating up, and keeps them cool in
the evening. The office on the western end receives natural light
and fresh air throughout the day.
The Works Interiors, New Delhi
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
92
FOCUS
93

SCHOOL iN
THE DUMPYARD,
NEW DELHi
MySpace Architects, Noida
Typology : Institution
Why is this project special? It creates value from a garbage dump.
Located in Delhi’s largest dumping ground in Bhalswa, the school
building is situated in the valley created by dark hills of garbage,
in a well-populated rag-picker community. The classrooms are
planned facing an inward courtyard and the enclosed design
reduces outside odors, while the openings have green interventions
to filter the inflowing air. Material for the furniture, decorative
items, tyres, ropes and upcycled planters are sourced from the
surroundings. A rope mesh looped over the courtyard acts as a
protective measure against vultures, and the classrooms are hand
painted by the students.
As the 700 sq.m. site is lower than the existing road level,
the building’s foundation is raised to avoid flooding. The lack
of basic amenities inspired the use of solar panels to power
the structure and rainwater harvesting to solve its sanitary
requirements. Apart from informal schooling, this informal
learning space hosts women’s empowerment workshops,
sewing classes and skill development classes to raise
community awareness.
photography
:
:
ar.
tushar
garg
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
94
FOCUS
95

SJ CONTRACTS
PVT. LTD.,PUNE
Typology : Office
Why is this project special? It creates a state-of-the-art office.
The client wished to build the space on their core values of quality,
innovative and transparent business practices combined with
experience. The 4000 sq. ft. workspace educates employees and
visitors on maintaining high standards in work-life balance.
The firm used honest and raw materials that were in keeping with
their core of business, their work story and quality of construction.
To achieve an aesthetically pleasing and unfinished character, a
Studio Osmosis, Mumbai
3.5-inch-thick concrete wall was constructed by the client’s in-
house team with steel pipes punctured into it. Circular openings in
the wall allow light to stream into the reception lobby, forming an
interesting play of shadow and light.
Aluminium beams commonly used for slab shuttering on
construction sites are used on the reception lobby’s ceiling to
create a pattern. They are also used on the reception table for
a synchronized raw look, which is further complemented with
bright blue and grey patterned tile flooring. The main work space
is designed with open staff seating, an exposed ceiling, birch-ply
modular furniture and monochromatic terrazzo flooring.
A shipping container assembled on-site is retrofitted as a
conference room, which features glass to maintain visual
transparency. The corrugations are painted bright blue, which
makes it the centre of attention. A management area is separately
demarcated using birch ply ceiling and herringbone-patterned
engineered wooden flooring. Glass partitions that form the
passage between the two spaces are created by sandwiched
textured fabrics that offer different levels of transparency and
lighting. Cabins are made in birch ply, and mood lighting adds
energy and improves focus.
The personalities of the owners, a father and son, drive the
design. The Managing Director’s cabin has a metal and marble
inset, while the Director’s cabins have seven-feet-long cantilevered
tables made from moulded solid surfaces and slanting bold edges.
Dominated by greys and blues, the lounge has custom-designed
cushion covers by Shivani Shroff.
photography
:
:
sameer
tawde
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
96
FOCUS
97

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