july-august 2014 issue of design matrix
DESCRIPTION
Design is that area of human experience skill and knowledge, which is concerned with Man’s ability to mould his environment and suit his material, functional & aesthetic needs… Our cover story helps to understand the above… In this issue we also pay homage to Ar. Nari Gandhi, a legent in the world of architecture… To understand more about the current trends in different industry group, read on…TRANSCRIPT
A Pap
rika Med
ia presen
tation
DESIG
N M
ATR
IX • JU
LY-A
UG
UST 2
01
4
July-August 2014VOL. 4 • ISSUE 5 • `100
PEOPLE • L I FESTYLE • DES IGN • INTER IORS
“We introduce lot of green pockets and spaces inside the building”
Niroop & Rupana Reddy
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 1Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 1 6/26/2014 7:40:52 PM6/26/2014 7:40:52 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 2Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 2 6/26/2014 7:41:01 PM6/26/2014 7:41:01 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 1Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 1 6/26/2014 7:41:04 PM6/26/2014 7:41:04 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 2Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 2 6/26/2014 7:41:08 PM6/26/2014 7:41:08 PM
BELVNUS DECOREmail: [email protected] Web: belvnusdecor.com
Danny Desai: 91 99207 43797 Keyur Dave: 91 90290 00780 Urmil Contractor: 91 99694 63315
MANUFACTURED BY DISTRIBUTED BY
SUPERIOR GLOSS WARDROBE DOOR PANELS stylelite-aca.com
StyleLite® features an easy to clean high gloss ripple free surface, is eco-nomical and simple to fabricate, and is available in a huge range of colours.
THE NEXT GENERATION HIGH GLOSS PANEL zenolite.com
Featuring incredible depth, gloss and clarity, Zenolite® is a sophisticated solution that improves any room. Also, minor scratches can be buffed out.
R E F L E C T I O N V I S I O N I N N O V A T I O N
The latest in interior style from Belvnus Decor
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 3Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 3 6/26/2014 7:41:16 PM6/26/2014 7:41:16 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 4Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 4 6/26/2014 7:41:20 PM6/26/2014 7:41:20 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 5Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 5 6/26/2014 7:41:24 PM6/26/2014 7:41:24 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 6Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 6 6/26/2014 7:41:39 PM6/26/2014 7:41:39 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 7Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 7 6/26/2014 7:41:47 PM6/26/2014 7:41:47 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 8Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 8 6/26/2014 7:41:48 PM6/26/2014 7:41:48 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 9Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 9 6/26/2014 7:41:50 PM6/26/2014 7:41:50 PM
10 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Publisher : Karan Jhunjhunwala
Managing Director : Manohar Jhunjhunwala
EDITORIAL
Editor : Marilyn Madathil
Finance Controller : Manjari Ved
Head-Administration : Maria Fernandes
BUSINESS ENQUIRY
WEST : [email protected]
EAST : [email protected]
NORTH : [email protected]
SOUTH : [email protected]
OVERSEAS ENQUIRY
USA : [email protected]
UK : [email protected]
Subscription : [email protected]
ART
Deputy National Art Director : Pramod Jadhav
Designing : Sachin Bhandalkar, Brijesh Gajjar
Digital Imaging : Pravin Pereira
Production : Harish Suvarna, Mangesh Salvi,
Sandeep Borkar
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM
Sales Team : Ashwin D’souza, Nitin Ule
Chief Operating Offi cer : Rajnish Rawat
Founder : Smiti Kanodia
Distributed by IBH Books and Magazines Distributors Private Limited
Owned, Printed and Published by Karan M. Jhunjhunwala.
Printed at Print House India Pvt. Ltd., 6 Datta Mandir Road, Bhandup (W),
Mumbai 400 078,India and Published at MRJ Creations Pvt. Ltd.,
201 Shyam Kamal ‘C’ Building, Agarwal Market, Vile Parle(E), Mumbai 400 057, India.
A & venture
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 10Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 10 6/26/2014 7:41:51 PM6/26/2014 7:41:51 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 11Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 11 6/26/2014 7:41:57 PM6/26/2014 7:41:57 PM
12 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Now follow us on www.facebook.com/DesignMatrix.DM
Now follow us on http://twitter.com/DesignMatrixMag
I remember in my childhood days, I loved playing with colours. As a curious child, I learnt that red and yellow, when combined together makes orange and I often wanted to draw landscape designs and paint them in orange, green and yellow shades. Yes,
indeed colour plays a pivotal role in the world of design. I started snooping to fi nd, apart from colours, what are the other necessary elements to make a good home.
My interaction with Ar. Niroop and his wife Rupana was very insightful. Niroop, speaking to you was a great brain storming session on diff erent interior trends. I would say, READ TO KNOW MORE!
To understand more about the current trends in diff erent industry group, I had a great time, interacting with diff erent industry groups. I was invited by Decorex solutions, to attend a design event, giving insights to the latest trends of how Hi – Macs an acrylic stone can be used in diff erent applications right from a kitchen, table top or a bathroom solution. Then I moved to look in to the happenings of textile industry. I met the CEO of Portico group, Arun Bhawsingka, to know the new colour trends in this industry. I was bewildered to know that , now the consumer awareness is very high and people are choosy even about selecting a bath linen. Their wedding range of bed linens, kids’ collection, and luxury collection mesmerized me.
What about furniture? The White Window by designer Twinkle Khanna, recently launched distressed furniture to add a classy touch to any décor. In a short interview about this product, she states that Design is an ongoing cycle. For Distressed furniture there is no specifi c reason why it’s fashionable besides the most important reason being that change is always fashionable after the hedonistic phase.
In this issue, we pay homage to Ar. Nari Gandhi, a legend in the world of architecture. More stories are in pipeline about the industry. Read Design Matrix and upgrade your knowledge. Do let us know your views about our publication.
Marilyn Madathilwww.designmatrix.co
N O T EEDITOR’S
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 12Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 12 6/26/2014 7:42:12 PM6/26/2014 7:42:12 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 13Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 13 6/26/2014 7:42:30 PM6/26/2014 7:42:30 PM
Ad
Le Cd
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 14Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 14 6/26/2014 7:42:31 PM6/26/2014 7:42:31 PM
Ad
Cdeor
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 15Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 15 6/26/2014 7:42:37 PM6/26/2014 7:42:37 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 16Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 16 6/26/2014 7:42:38 PM6/26/2014 7:42:38 PM
PEOPLE • L I FESTYLE • DES IGN • INTER IORS
FREE Pay for 10 Issues and
get 2 Issues Free
Bi-monthly MagazineSubscribe for 12 Issues`1000/- only
SUBSCRIPTION FORM(Please fi ll in CAPITAL LETTERS)
Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Profession: _________________________________________________________________________________
Company: __________________________________________________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
City: ________________________________ Pincode: _______________________________________________
Tel.: ____________________________________Fax: _______________________________________________
Cell: __________________________________ Email: _______________________________________________
DOB: _________________Chq. No. ________________________ Dtd: ________________________________
Bank: ______________________________________________________________________________________
Cheques should be drawn in favor of ‘MRJ Creations Pvt. Ltd.’ payable at Mumbai (Add Rs. 30 for cheques drawn outside Mumbai) Mailing Address: MRJ Creations Pvt. Ltd., 201, Shyam Kamal ‘C’ Bldg., Agarwal Market, Vile Parle (E) Mumbai -400057
Tel: (022) 26187132 Email: [email protected]
TERMS & CONDITIONS
1) Allow 3-4 weeks for processing of your Subscription. 2) Rates are valid in India only. (Overseas Subscriptions are not accepted) 3) Please write your name and address on the reverse of the cheque/DD also. 4) MRJ Creations Pvt. Ltd. will not be responsible for postal delays, transit losses or mutilation of the subscription form. 5) All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Mumbai itself. 6) This is a limited period offer & MRJ Creations Pvt. Ltd. reserves the rights to terminate or extend this offer or any part thereof at any time. 7) MRJ Creations Pvt. Ltd. reserves the rights to accept or reject any or all forms received at their absolute discretion withoutassigning any reasons. 8) We may disclose your personal identifi able information to companies not owned by MRJ Creations Pvt. Ltd. who want to market products or services to you unless you specifi cally refuse to entertain any mail from companies not owned by us. 9)Terms & conditions are subject to change.
May-June 2014VOL. 4 • ISSUE 4 • `100
PEOPLE • L I FESTYLE • DES IGN • INTER IORS
We are adaptive and keep pace with global trends.
Ar. Rohini Mani
_ - . - -
pace with global trends. i h l b l d
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 17Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 17 6/26/2014 7:42:40 PM6/26/2014 7:42:40 PM
18 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
CONTENTS
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 18Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 18 6/26/2014 7:43:03 PM6/26/2014 7:43:03 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 19
9622
COVER STORYWe converse with young and dynamic designers, Ar. Niroop and Rupana Reddy, to know about the new materials and trends. We look into their completed and ongoing projects… READ pg 22
TRIBUTEPaying Homage to Ar. Nari Gandhi. pg 42
CONVERSATIONWe believe in bringing in detailed information on diff erent industry groups. In this issue, we choose the ply wood industry and converse with Mr. B.L Bengani and his son Varun from Uniply Industries Ltd. pg 48
PRODUCT DESIGNWe look into design innovations by Studio Avni. pg 53
DESIGN PEDAGOGY Students of MITID share in their experiences, while designing their furniture pieces. pg 56
LUXURY DESIGNWe meet Ar. Ankita Sweety and Ar. Pratyoosh Chandan and take a look at their recent project in the city of weaver. pg 60
DESIGN PROMOGoing Beyond imagination with SDA Designs, the brain child of designer Sufyan Duberia. pg 64
ARTY- TECHTURE A simply majestic residential design by Ar. Canna Patel and her team, located at
Mumbai will blow your mind. pg 68
PRODUCT FEATUREThe White Window by designer Twinkle Khanna launches, distressed furniture for
all classy spaces. pg 74
LEISURE DESIGN The standalone Banquet hotel by Ar. Ketan Seth is a versatile design blended
with classy touch and quality. pg 76
RESIDENTIAL DESIGNThe young Interior Designer Priydarshan Indorckar of PI Designs, Pune, with his magic touch creates a loveable and
cuddly home. pg 80
CREATIVE IDEASAdding brightness to home décor with
Portico New York. pg 84
CORPORATE DESIGNWe visit the two diff erent offi ce spaces designed by architectural fi rms from Mumbai and Nashik… See who are they?
pg 88
DESIGN ASPECTDesigner Nitin Thakur’s latest residential design exemplifi es a modernity with
beauty and utility. pg 96
DIMENSIONSAr. Samir Dharurkar creates a brainy studio hotel room at Hosts 2014. Look in... pg 100
INTERNATIONALAVCI Architects of London, creates a building design that is sustainable and live. pg 102
DESIGN CORNERAr. Apurva Bose Dutta discovers an invigorating design – the magnifi cent resort of The Serai at Chikmagalur. pg 106
ZOOM INWe meet Ar. Sunil Deshpande from Aurangabad and review his residential design with modern lines. pg 112
INSIGHTSCarl Turner’s ‘Tulip Bar’ creates a social hub for the fi fth edition of ‘Handmade’ exhibition. pg 116
HAPPENINGSDesign Matrix attends Hi-Macs event and fi nds about the new innovations done at their end. We also visit a new showroom by Geeta Aluminium. pg 119
EVENT REPORTGreat Events, Curious, to know what? pg 122
PRODUCT LAUNCH Innovative products across the globe. pg 125
125
03_contents.indd 1903_contents.indd 19 6/26/2014 8:20:10 PM6/26/2014 8:20:10 PM
20 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
We would love to have your views, comments and/or suggestions on what you would like to see or read in our pages. Please email to: [email protected] or write to Design Matrix, MRJ Creations Pvt. Ltd.,
C-201 Shyam Kamal Agarwal Market, Vile Parle (E), Mumbai-400 057 or Call on 022-26187132.
May-June 2014VOL. 4 • ISSUE 4 • `100
PEOPLE • L I FESTYLE • DES IGN • INTER IORS
We are adaptive and keep pace with global trends.
Ar. Rohini Mani
Design Matrix_May-June14.indb 1 30-04-2014 22:49:46
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 20Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 20 6/26/2014 7:43:35 PM6/26/2014 7:43:35 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 21
We have been reading Design Matrix for last 3 years. The contribution of Design Matrix in spreading value of good design in everyday living is immense and would like to hearty congratulate for bringing out beautiful projects.
Ar. Smeet Bramhecha & Mayank
Badrakiya
Nashik
Thank you for writing a nice piece in regards to the details mentioned about every area of my project, but I feel it misses the punch of visual versatility and it’s linkage with the supporting text.
Ar. Asit Karekar
Mumbai
The cover story on Rohini Mani was mind-blowing and I thoroughly enjoyed reading the same. Especially the lighting trends was very informative and I would like to say every time, Design Matrix should focus on diff erent trends in the cover story and also do special stories on diff erent industry groups. I am sure with more industry stories coming in, this magazine can create wonders in the world of interior industry.
Swati Deshpande
Nagpur
It was very interesting to know about Hi-Macs in the last issue. The conversation was really interesting to read and a good piece of information. I like the way the interviews are done precisely and presented in detailed manner. Keep it up team DM.
Anupama Karnik
New Delhi
The global eye on Dublin Google offi ce was
a great presentation. Indeed great and kudos
Harsha for bringing out such interesting
aspects across the globe.
Panika Nath
Chennai
The new products section and happenings in
every issue of Design Matrix is very interesting
and informative. I like the way all the stories
are done. All the best to your team and look
forward for your future issues, with deep
enthusiasm.
Priya Manav
Pune
I would say, Design Matrix is a best design
magazine, I have ever seen. The articles are
well written and add a great design value.
I enjoy reading through all the articles
and admire the versatility of the projects
published. In the last issue, I liked the layouts
of leisure design, residential design and of
course the cover story on the legend – Rohini
Mani. All the best!
Amita Gore
Goa
The case studies are often of great interest. I
like to keep myself updated about the current
news in the industry and I feel Design Matrix
is at par with the same. A great job is done by
your team, in terms of research, writing and
editing.
Jyothi Raman
Bengaluru INB
OX
PEOPLE • L I FESTYLE • DES IGN • INTER IORS
• Celebrate with your favourite designers.• Enter different spaces- residential, luxury,leisure and lot more• Design centric projects across the globe.• Offering a design platform to students ( next -gen designers)
Please subscribe to design matrix & receive the issue on a regular basis. Subscription form in the magazine on pg. 124 or call: (0) 98337 73376
TO KNOW MORE GRAB NOW...
SUBSCRIBE TODAY!Pay Now and get 2 FREE Issues!
January-February 2014VOL. 4 • ISSUE 2 • `100
A Pap
rika Med
ia presen
tation
DESIG
N M
ATR
IX • JA
NU
AR
Y-FEB
RU
AR
Y 2014
PEOPLE • L I FESTYLE • DES IGN • INTER IORS
Zarir Mullan & Seema PuriGood Design is one in which, both the interiors and
exteriors blend together
Design Matrix_Jan-Feb14.indb 1
sign Matrix_Jan-Feb14.indb 1
12/26/2013 5:28:30 PM
12/26/
March-April 2014VOL. 4 • ISSUE 3 • `100
A Pap
rika Med
ia presen
tation
DESIG
N M
ATR
IX • M
AR
CH
-AP
RIL 2
01
4
PEOPLE • L I FESTYLE • DES IGN • INTER IORS
E D I F I C EOur Vision is to keep our designs Sensitive to
the context, client and environment
Design Matrix_Mar-Apr14.indb 1 2/27/2014 4:05:06 PM
A Pap
rika Med
ia presentation
DESIG
N M
ATRIX
• MAY
-JUN
E 2014
May-June 2014
VOL. 4 • ISSUE 4 • `100
PEOPLE • L I FESTYLE • DES IGN • INTER IORS
We are adaptive and keep
pace with global trends. Ar. Rohini Mani
Design Matrix_May-June14.indb 1
ix May-June14.indb 1
30-04-2014 22:49:46
30-04-2014 22:49:46
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 21Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 21 6/26/2014 7:43:40 PM6/26/2014 7:43:40 PM
22 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
storyCover
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 22Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 22 26-06-2014 19:36:2326-06-2014 19:36:23
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 23
NA Architects with a sustainable approach to design, outshine in shaping the inspirational environments. The young designers, Ar. Niroop Reddy, Principal Architect and his wife Rupana Reddy, Principal Interior Designer, converse with Marilyn M and share their views on the industry, their bonding and joy of creating spaces together.
Words: Marilyn Madathil, Project photos : Courtesy Architects, Profi le photos: Cliquestudio, Hyderabad
CREATING BUILT ENVIRONMENTS
Design is that area of human experience,
skill and knowledge, which is concerned
with man’s ability to mould his environ-
ment and suit his material, functional and aes-
thetic needs. This ideology inspired Ar. Niroop
Reddy to incept NA Architects in 2001. He and
Rupana conceptualize designs and execute a
wide array of architectural and interior projects.
Within such a short span of their practice, their
eff orts have gained reputation of being a lead-
ing architectural fi rm in India. Let’s converse with
the duo designers to know more...
MM: Take us to the days of Madras
University....
NR: Madras University, for me was a whole new
experience, a complete contrast with my care-
fully managed and protected 10+2 days in my
home town. Language, culture, friends, food and
social support were all new and fresh. After all
it was ‘My Choice’ to go to Chennai and pursue
Architecture.
MM: Your memories...
NR: Ehmmm...The initial days were the most
challenging, yet the most wonderful. My little
world revolved around extra-curricular activi-
ties, peer pressure, terror professors, fears of
failures and mistakes; managing time to juggle
assignments, fun, social commitments, classes
and completing the project work books. I have
enjoyed each challenging moments I encoun-
tered and gained knowledge that would later
help in my professional and personal life.
I made some friends for life and shared
many a valuable moments that I cherish forever,
and given a chance, I don’t mind going back
to college for a year-just to experience the joie
de vivre, unmindful of the challenges that lie
ahead. By the way, let me share with you one of
the moments. I always enjoyed being a super
hero for my batch mates. My record books and
project charts were in high demand, some of
my class mates always used to snag them out of
the submitted pile to copy. This not only made
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 23Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 23 26-06-2014 19:36:3626-06-2014 19:36:36
24 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
me popular among my peers, at the same
time it meant that my submission would
end up on the professor’s table late by a
day or two and I disliked to be the last.
MM: Where did you meet your
heartthrob?
NR: I met Rupana in Chennai. She came
to Chennai for her graduation and she is
the niece of my close friend. I often paid a
visit to my friend’s home for my thesis work
and that is how we met. We both sensed
a bond of intimacy and chatted for long
hours. She mingled with me freely being
the only person in the group, speaking
Telugu and then the rest happened.
MM: Rupana, we would like to know
your experiences as a designer working
hand in hand with your husband?
RR: I am really lucky to have had this
opportunity to work with him, the best Tal-
ent – My Husband. He is very practical and
his commitment towards work is adorable.
I share a thorough Professional rela-
tionship with Niroop sir; work comes fi rst
for both of us. It has been a great learning
experience, where Niroop has nurtured
me and given me the freedom to learn and
grow as designer.
MM: Behind every successful man, there
is a woman isn’t it true...
NR: Of course yes, in fact Rupana was a
big infl uence and inspiration to set up NA
Architects. She has a keen sense of eye for
detail and always keeps abreast with the
latest design trends. While I was initially
working as an Associate, I realized that a
holistic design service off ering is missing in
Hyderabad. For instance, clients would go
to Firm X for Interior Designing, or had to
go to Firm Y, if they wanted to incorporate
domes and arches in your building. Early in
my career, during our long conversations
about growth and career plans, I used to
discuss these things with her. As an out-
come of our conversations and through
constructive inputs and motivation that
Rupana provided resulted in our collective
dream of creating a fi rm that provides state
of the art, turnkey architectural, structural
and interior design services for residential,
retail and commercial projects.
MM: What is your special interest –
architecture or the interior designing?
NR: I am glad you asked this question. Let
me confess, earlier in my career I had my
moments where I was trying to answer
this question to myself: “Am I an Architect
or Am I an Interior Designer?” I am happy
to share with you today that rather than
seeing me as an Architect or as an Inte-
rior Designer, I see value in considering
myself as being involved in the business of
Design Management. A design marks out
“Most people make the mistake of
thinking design is what it looks like.”
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 24Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 24 26-06-2014 19:36:3726-06-2014 19:36:37
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 25
a vision for what can be; the act of design-
ing is to move with intent to close the
gap between existing conditions and that
vision. Be it Interior or Architecture, to me
it is an ongoing process of decisions and
strategies that enable innovation and cre-
ate eff ectively-designed spaces and create
environments that enhance functionality
and quality of life.
On a deeper level, I seek to link
design, creativity, innovation, technology,
management and customers to provide
advantage and value across economic,
social, cultural, and environmental fac-
tors. So, when I consider these above fac-
tors, it becomes less and less about the
distinction between Interiors and Archi-
tecture. My job and preference is about
letting the principles of sound design
guide us to bring together light, space,
materials, form and function, environ-
ment and blending them with the client’s
design preferences and timelines. My job
is about creating enabling myself and
my team to bring that harmony in, work
within the given boundaries, and come
up with a comprehensive design solution
that satisfi es and excites the client from a
visual, functional, creative and budgetary
aspect as well.
MM: We would love to know how
Rupana supports your eff ort.
NR: Rupana has a big part to play in each
of our creations. To elaborate that, I would
like to quote Steve Jobs here, “Most peo-
ple make the mistake of thinking design is
what it looks like. That’s not what we think
design is. It’s not just what it looks like and
feels like. Design is how it works.”
Rupana has a core responsibility to
supports our fi rm’s goal and objective by
managing the interior design function of
our company, with a view to ensure that
the spirit of the above quote is always
maintained in design and execution.
MM: Rupana, do you often end up
discussing work in your chilling time?
RR: We try and leave our work life out of
our personal time. Occasionally it happens
that we discuss work but that too, if we
have derived at any crucial situation.
MM: What are the diff erent verticals NA
architects cater to?
NR: We at NA architects do architecture
and interior designing. In architecture, we
have done projects like residential town-
ship, residential gated communities, and
individual bungalows, boutique hotels,
hospitals, industrial, commercial and bio-
tech labs. In interior design we do residen-
tial, retail, hospitality and offi ce interiors.
MM: Your Style Statement...
NR: We introduce, lot of green pockets
and spaces inside the building irrespective
to its functionality. Now we are designing
couple of green buildings, which is my
passion and I love green architecture.
MM: You have worked in North and
South, what are the diff erent elements
you see in both these regions.
NR: It is a well-known fact that historically,
anthropologically and culturally the North
and South, for that matter various parts
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 25Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 25 26-06-2014 19:36:5826-06-2014 19:36:58
26 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
of India have been exposed to diff erent
infl uences. Especially when it comes to
architecture some of the major infl uenc-
es have been the Mughals in the North,
Portuguese and Dutch in the West, Per-
sian in the Deccan Plateau, French in the
South East, and British in palatial spaces
across India and huge infl uence of temple
architecture in the South. And if we look
at just the temple architecture, the North
and South styles are so distinct from each
other. Which such divergent, distinct and
rich heritage and cultural infl uences span-
ning across India, there are bound to be
diff erences in design parameters and pref-
erences across regions.
We cannot make a generalized dis-
tinction between the design parameters
across the North and South, because
industrial, commercial, retail and offi ce
space design pretty much follows global
standards with minor adjustments made
due to local weather and socio-cultural
factors. Coming to residential spaces, the
distinct parameters like climate, historical
infl uences, social preferences like vaastu
across the two regions will lead to basic
diff erences in design considerations right
from the material used to styles and appli-
cation of insulation and ventilation, given a
similar budget and space availability.
MM: We would like to know about
the new materials in the construction
world...
NR: Firstly, I would like to specially men-
tion about Wood skin. There were times
when I wanted to create delicate, com-
plex shapes from plywood, but couldn’t
because it’s too stiff . A design fi rm from
Milan has created a type of fl exible Wood
skin; a sheet of Russian plywood, routed
into a series of a series of triangular tiles,
held together by a vinyl mesh. It would be
interesting to see it being available in com-
mercial quantities.
Flooring forms the base of any inte-
rior design and with the many choices
available, there might be possibility of
getting carried away and forgetting about
the practical aspects of a particular space.
The eco-friendly approach will inform
the choice of fl ooring materials as well,
and bamboo is fast becoming a popular
option. A durable and widely available
material, bamboo is expected to be a
mainstay of home and business construc-
tion in the coming years.
I would also like to shed some light
over an European invention, making waves
over the world. I am talking about ECO
Super Bricks made from a clever concoc-
tion of wool, seaweed and the traditional
brick material of clay. These super bricks
are much friendly to the environment
than their predecessors. The new formula,
developed in Scotland, dramatically reduc-
es the time need to “fi re” the bricks and
therefore the energy used during the pro-
cess. In addition to cutting down on man-
ufacturing energy use, these super bricks
are far stronger than their standard clay
counterparts. It ensures increased ability
to reuse and recycle older bricks without
having to fi re new ones and hence more
energy saved.
MM: Where do you foresee yourself in
the next decade?
NR: Isn’t 10 years a long time to foresee?
Yes, we as a fi rm do have a long term
vision, to create a self-sustaining profes-
sional structure for our fi rm and develop
a global network of design teams that can
symbiotically work together and blend-in
global infl uences into the art and practice
of Architectural Design in South East Asia.
We have expended from Hyderabad to
Bangalore and Dubai. We have spread our
wings to Myanmar, with lot of good archi-
tectural projects.
MM: Your message to young designers
and our elite readers...
NR: Read, Read and Read with an objec-
tive of continuous learning. Actual learn-
ing of the craft and art of this practice
starts after we step out of college. Educate
yourself with as many inputs from around
the world as possible. Seek inputs from
Culture, History, Art, Technology, Science
and Nature. Go out there in early in your
career and experiment. Don’t be afraid of
making mistakes. If you’re not making mis-
takes, then you’re not doing anything. I’m
positive that a doer makes mistakes. Don’t
be afraid of being wrong. If you are always
right, it may be a sign that you aren’t chal-
lenging yourself enough, that you’ve
I see value in considering myself as being involved in the business of Design
Management
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 26Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 26 26-06-2014 19:37:1426-06-2014 19:37:14
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 27
become too comfortable and stagnant.
My advice is one must try to reach beyond
your comfort zone and think of bringing in
new ideas, infl uences and concepts.
RR: We absolutely love Design Matrix. It
covers wide variety of aspects related to
the architecture and Interiors. This helps the
readers to know the present scenario, trends
and people. In my view success never comes
by luck. It is possible only by hard work, ded-
ication and most important understanding
the clients taste and needs. We always are
for homes not houses. I feel people have to
have more productive conversations with
their Architects for the eff ective output.
Personal Diary
Birthday
NR: 23rd December
RR: 29th April
MM: Age you got married...
NR: 24
MM: We would love to know about your
children...
RR: Our youngest son Abhivyakth is 10
years old and elder daughter Hethvitha is
12. In addition to being good at academ-
ics, Abhi is very active in sports. He has
modelled for famous apparel chains and
has walked ramp shows for fun. He loves
his time under the lights and I think; he has
his eyes set on show biz for now.
NR: I wouldn’t be surprised, if he tells me
tomorrow that he wants to be a Cricketer
or an IPS offi cer.
RR: Hethvitha is very responsible and
matured child then her age. She is train-
ing in classical dance and vocals in addi-
tion to being the class topper in Math and
Science. A conscientious kid, she has her
heart in the right place, and is looking for a
career in humanities and service.
MM: Tell me about your favourite
colour...
NR: I personally love the combination of
Black and White; ‘The Famed Yin Yang’.
Black is the absence of colour and White is
the blending of all colours and is a colour. I
have lots of fun while playing with this idea
in mind, ‘absence of colour Vs blending of
colour’. If I were to pick one colour, it will
be White.
RR: This is where our Chemistry matches.
What can be more classic than black and
white... love the way black and white con-
trast and compliments each other at the
same time!
MM: Spending your free time...
NR: Lazy on the bed, if at home and not trav-
elling and spending fun time with my kids.
RR: I like travelling places and explor-
ing native cuisines. I also love learning
and exploring various architectural forms
around the world. If I am not doing that
you will fi nd me relaxing with my cup of
tea , watching T.V in my leisure time.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 27Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 27 26-06-2014 19:37:3226-06-2014 19:37:32
28 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
The success mantra of Design Matrix lies
in surveying in detail about the new inno-
vations and the trends prevalent in the
design world. We speak to Ar. Niroop on
colour trends, furniture in demand, fl oor-
ing styles and lighting techniques:
Colours
Most of the times, confusion over powers
your mindset and you are clueless about
choosing a perfect colour palate for your
space. I recollected reading the statement
made by Barbara Jacobs, principal of Bar-
bara Jacobs Colour & Design. She says, “A
sharp, electric green defi nitely would not
be relaxing; a deep blue-green might feel
cold instead of soothing. The wrong red
used in an entire room might create the
sensation of entrapment rather than ener-
gy.” Ar. Niroop explains the colour trends
prevalent in recent times. He states that
there are three major trends that we have
been recently observing in terms of colour.
Let’s go into details!
a. Interchangeable Accents
We are already seeing a trend towards cha-
meleon decor. Instead of settling on one
fi xed look, people are opting for a versatile
neutral base and use big-impact accents
to easily change their décor.
b. Ushering in Glamour
White walls are slowly giving way to rooms
with a lot more glamour and
drama. Dark, moody walls in
black are being considered
as a perfect backdrop to the
metallic accessories that we have
come to love right now.
c. Bye to Beige
After watching for quite some
years in the past, we are now see-
ing that the hopes of banishing the boring
beige have fi nally started bearing fruits. It
is happening now.
MM: What about furniture?
a. Modular Lounge
Movables are the fashion statement in
recent times. Our eyes can see an object’s
comfort potential before the body feels it.
There are companies that are manufactur-
ing collections that includes fi ve diff erent
pieces with a modular repetition to their
forms, making it possible to outfi t a space
with customizable and coordinated set.
These collections can be set in more casu-
al confi gurations to embrace architectural
features and decorations.
b. Outdoor fabrics
There has been much talk in design circles
about creating outdoor rooms and living
spaces. Outdoor fabrics are being used
indoors. People want things that will func-
tion for their family and will last.
c. Plant Infused Coff ee Tables
I have seen that there are companies that
have created a coff ee table that’s fi lled with
plant life. This is a fantastic eco-friendly
concept bringing green into homes. Hav-
ing living plants in the home can improve
that spaces air quality while making this
look a little classier. A plant-fi lled piece of
furniture is a great way to bring the out-
doors in.
MM: How about right fl ooring choices?
a. Luxe fl ooring
Speaking of fl ooring, homeowners are
increasingly opting for more expensive
but more durable fl ooring products. There
has been a huge resurgence in wool car-
peting and bamboo fl ooring. Clients and
homeowners now prefer to spend slightly
more and get a better quality carpet and
eco friendly options with more texture.
b. Colour
Colour trends for fl ooring (while not com-
pletely letting go of those nice clean,
warm tones) are getting bigger and
brighter! Bright colours are no
more just limited to wall-to-
wall carpet or accent area rugs.
Whether it is with wood fl oor-
ing or accent rugs, bold colour
is back.
MM: Finally Lighting...
Sculptural lighting fi xtures are
making a comeback. They com-
bine function and art with unique
abstract designs. Sculptural fi x-
tures are usually very detailed and
feature unique shapes, accents and
colours. Large sculptural lighting fi x-
tures become a bold style statement,
a conversation piece. Smaller sculp-
tural lighting fi xtures are being used
to add interest through-out the room
- much like pieces of art.
Talking about current trends...
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 28Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 28 26-06-2014 19:37:4126-06-2014 19:37:41
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 29
K eeping in mind the easy mobility of the customers, NA Architects planned specifi c
regions denoted for specifi c type of lightings, thus, making it more convenient for
the users. The lighting and ceiling layouts of this showroom is defi ned by its simple
yet attractive design concept. Adequate moving place has been provided throughout the
showroom such that hindrance in the mobility is avoided and the clear sight of all the
products is achieved.
Since this showroom requires the display of a large number of products with challenge
of the cluttered look was highly raised. To avoid this, neutral colours such as ivory and grey
are used for furniture and larger items. The book rack is a combination of straight lines
running perpendicular to each other giving rise to rectangular shaped racks. It is fl anked
with two white coloured fun walls on either side. The interesting elements are curvilinear
display stands, use of straight and curved lines, the display units, open ducts in the ceilings
etc. Curvilinear line form is used for the front desk of the reception. The spaces on either
sides of the central structure are used to display retail lights whereas the central structure
has the display of fancy lights. The tables are in a semi-curvilinear shape maintaining the
overall design of the showroom.
The showroom has a dominant, impressive and eye-catching front display that can be
seen from the street. The shop frontage, thus, is very visually appealing. The curvature of
the table matches with the interiors of the showroom. Gold foil laminate is used for the top.
A showroom within a showroom
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 29Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 29 26-06-2014 19:38:3426-06-2014 19:38:34
30 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
A Touch of BlingA
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 30Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 30 26-06-2014 19:39:0626-06-2014 19:39:06
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 31
T he cocktail bar and lounge is
crafted with iron framework acting
as its structural support system.
The writings on the wallpaper used in the
bar counter gives a more realistic feel to
the whole bar and lounge. Typical seating
is provided in front of the bar counter.
Adding a touch of bling to the calm and
sedate space is the presence of a British
telephone booth. Its colour serves as a
great catalyst for lifting the energy of the
entire space.
Bison boards are the principal material
used for the ceiling, which ensures rustic
appeal to the space. Concrete fl ooring is
employed in the entire space, which suc-
ceeds in delivering a crude and earthen
appeal. The ducts have not been covered
on purpose so that they are seen as obso-
lete elements enhancing the space. To cre-
ate rustic theme of the cocktail lounge bar,
the furniture has been designed accord-
ingly. Jute has been chosen as the principal
material for the poufs. Rusty iron sheets are
used for tables and sheer curtains enhance
the look by diff using the light and creating
warm and softer ambience. Visual connec-
tivity is achieved through the provision of
full-heighted folding doors between the
indoor and outdoor areas.
The bar counter top has been made up
of acrylic with back lighting provided. Con-
cave and refl ective mirrors are used on one
side to add a classy look. On the front ele-
vation of the bar counter, the names of the
world cities, which have cocktail lounge
bars have been stencilled with a coat of
acrylic paint over it. Adequate waterproof-
ing treatment is provided. The bar area is
well-lit by means of hanging lights which
succeeded in creating a warm and sober
ambience all throughout. The bar wall unit
is fl anked on either sides with open shelves
to display various bottles. The wall unit is
designed emphasizing on the maximum
effi ciency of the storage space available.
The outdoor seating has a very nice
bustling view of the city. The open out-
door space and the reception are sepa-
rated by a bent mild steel structure. One
enters to the indoor sitting through the
open to air outdoor area. The concept of
unity in diversity is maintained with each
wall having diff erent elements following a
common theme.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 31Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 31 26-06-2014 19:39:2126-06-2014 19:39:21
Designed to embody the purity
of style and invoke a sense of
impenetrable calm, the design
of this abode is crafted to articulate the
subtlety of a contemporary space that
enriches one’s spatial understanding.
The residence has four fl oors includ-
ing the stilt, ground, fi rst and second.
The parking space given in the stilt fl oor
is been designed into a beautiful lawn
in the ground fl oor. The exterior of the
house is been painted in white and clear
glass railing is been given in fi rst and sec-
ond fl oors. The house has been designed
on the basis of central courtyard concept.
The central courtyard in the house gives
ample of ventilation being open to sky.
The water body and planters in the court-
yard enhance the beauty of the space
designed. The large clear glass windows
given in the elevation allows the beauti-
ful views of the lawn from the interior of
the house.
The entrance of the dwelling is simple
but elegant, which has been designed
by using two contrast materials i.e stone
fi nish veneer with a designed inlay work
of mother of pearl. It opens into a lobby
Purity of Space
32 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
05_Coverstory.indd 3205_Coverstory.indd 32 26-06-2014 20:54:2526-06-2014 20:54:25
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 33
which gives a warm welcome through
the traditional brass hangings of bells and
goddess Lakshmi complemented with a
black granite stone carved in the shape
of urli, which contains water with fl ower
petals and fl oating divas which radiate a
lot of positive energy in the space. Adjoin-
ing the lobby there is a frosted glass door
on the right side which opens into the
space which has been given liberty to be
designed into a library. Wooden fl ooring
has been given in this area which comple-
ments the furniture in black and which
equally contrasts the white walls and
plain false ceiling of POP which creates a
harmony as a combination.
An elevator connects the two fl oors
of the building. Right opposite to the
lift door is the entrance of the drawing
room which is ventilated on either side.
A beautiful view of the garden in front of
the house can be seen through the large
glass windows which gives a feeling of
refreshment. A combination of furniture
in plain white and rich red colour sofas
add on to the elegance of the interiors.
Engaging the earthly vibes of wood
there is a false ceiling running from the
entrance door of the drawing room to
the opposite door which opens into the
dining area which consists of a rectangu-
lar glass table complimented with black
chairs. Here a good mix of a customized
chandelier which has been designed by
arranging strings, blown glass and LED
lights above the dining area brings in a
harmonious fashion that it is almost as if
they are designed to be a set.
To bring out this beguiling composi-
tion, depth is added to the space by the
long leather cladded display unit of paint-
ings which is on the right side wall from
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 33Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 33 26-06-2014 19:39:5426-06-2014 19:39:54
34 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
the dining entrance. There is a low height crockery
unit below the paintings. Another frosted glass
door on the left side of the wooden frame wall
opens into a dry kitchen area which has small white
breakfast table with six chairs. A similar combination
of white used in the interiors of the kitchen creates
a visual composition that is pristine and clean. Here,
the lack of other colours contributes to the sense of
spaciousness that is apparent in the kitchen.
The dry kitchen area is connected to two other
spaces i.e. the wet kitchen area and store on the
left side from the entrance through the dining area
which adds on to the functionality of the space.
Above the kitchen area is the living area and the
master bedroom. An abundance of natural light
and space in this home makes the space glow with
greater appeal and enhance the aesthetical under-
standing of the space.
The living area can be accessed by walking
straight from the main entrance also. Before reach-
ing the living area the central courtyard on the left
gives a clear vision of all the rooms in the ground
fl oor through the glass walls.
On the right side before reaching the living
area from the entrance there is an open –well
staircase which continues till the second fl oor
forming an atrium. The brass idol of Lord Krishna
in the centre of the atrium gives a traditional aes-
thetic look that enhances the positive vibration in
the space.
The fi rst fl oor has two bed rooms with lounge
and a home theatre room. All the spaces are con-
nected through a common corridor which has a
fl ooring of Anti Beige Italian marble to continue
the elegance of the interiors. The other spaces in
the fl oor have wooden fl ooring.
a
e r
ng
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 34Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 34 26-06-2014 19:40:0026-06-2014 19:40:00
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 35
The ceiling in the home theatre room is been
designed by using acoustic ceiling panels which add
on the functionality of the space. The interiors of the
home theatre room have been given POP on the walls
for better acoustics. Grooves have been cut horizon-
tally at diff erent levels on the POP wall to fi x LED lights
mirroring the allure of the home theatre room. Wall
pattern has been continued in the ceiling above it
which complements the interior elegance.
As we move on to the second fl oor the space has
been divided into two bed rooms and a gym area. The
gym area and the connecting corridor are fl oored with
similar Italian Marble. The two bed rooms in the sec-
ond fl oor have wooden fl ooring giving an equal vision
of elegance.
The ceiling of the master bed room is been
designed using light weight cement board panels
arranged in triangular pattern in two diff erent levels.
The portrait on the wall above the bed gives a more
sophisticated look to the space by infusing the streaks
of blue and yellow.
The interiors of the toilet area is been designed
by using two materials i.e. marble and clear glass. The
shower area is open to sky. All the spaces in the house
have been given LED lightings in the ceiling which
portray the interiors more elegantly during the late
hours of the day.
The courtyard which is in the centre of the house
is open to sky which gives abundance of ventilation to
the entire area during the day time which in turn helps
to reduce electricity consumption. The double glazed
glass which is used for the large windows reduces the
amount of heat entering the space by giving a cool-
ing eff ect. Apart from being well executed, the overall
concept showcases the aptitude for design which is
not only practical, but also beautiful.
o
ps
co
th
hou
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 35Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 35 26-06-2014 19:40:1726-06-2014 19:40:17
36 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 36Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 36 26-06-2014 19:40:3126-06-2014 19:40:31
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 37
The house is characterized by a blend of
wood, wall paper fi nishes and clean lines and
accentuated by fabrics for an aesthetic appeal.
The entrance area occupies an interesting hanging
light and the composite marble fl ooring.
The spacious living room is the fi rst to grab atten-
tion. The focal point of the house, it tastefully blends
traditional and contemporary styles. On one side is the
trendy sofa set in light brown leather. The other high-
light of the living is, the French door with glass leading
to the formal balcony.
The kitchen wears a clean, clutter free look with
lots of storage spaces. It has all modern amenities
in place. The dining can comfortably house a group
of eight.
The guest bedroom is characterized by white
walls and plain ceiling. The master bedroom in ground
fl oor behaves the purpose of rest and repose, luxuri-
ously furnished with the headboard in leather fi nish.
The bed fronted by a TV console and wall behind bed
is done up with wallpaper; sided by a wardrobe with
deco and black wooden beadings which merges with
bed. The children bedrooms in upper ground fl oor add
luxury to the house. The ceiling is done with simple,
with veneer. The ceiling is well designed by placing
hanging and normal lights in a symmetrical manner.
A perfect retreat
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 37Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 37 26-06-2014 19:41:0726-06-2014 19:41:07
An example of perfect integration of
various uses in a single building with
diff erent kind of forms juxtaposition
to defi ne its spaces .This is a multi-use
development project where lower 2 levels
of the L-shaped form are shopping mall and
the above level is a hotel. The front part is
an offi ce that is created by a blend of solids
and voids intermingled with terrace. Clear
glass fi xed to the voids allowing natural light
to workplace that improves productivity of
work. The rest parts are residential units that
add an interesting dimension to the building
by position of its balcony and treated with
extensive plantation. While the mixed use
increases energy consumption the green
approach taken by the architect reduces the ill
impact to environment.p
im
du
38 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Multi-Use Development at Yangoon
05_Coverstory.indd 3805_Coverstory.indd 38 26-06-2014 20:56:1026-06-2014 20:56:10
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 39
Ar .Niroop Reddy with his logical clarity
understood the client’s need of
creating a luxurious residence in the
busy city of Hyderabad. The main concept
was to accomplish the design and create
a luxurious ambience by minimizing the
variety of material applied. The grandeur of
the residence can be felt by the 22’high main
entrance door and the cantilever projection
forming a roof top swimming pool. The
drawing room treated with clear glass admits
natural light to the room. The ornamental
plant placed along white wall at the entrance
adds a drama to the entire elevation.
Fundamental Simplicity
05_Coverstory.indd 3905_Coverstory.indd 39 26-06-2014 20:57:3926-06-2014 20:57:39
40 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
T he facade design of the hotel apartments
at Jumeriah Lake towers, Dubai; shows how
iconic the building is standing on a large
base of a commercial space. The building acts as
a landmark of the area. The facade design of the
building is treated with glass and fret work creating an
interesting pattern of light and shade in the interiors.
The base slab on which the building stands is treated
with green roof that acts as a hangout zone for the
residents.
Hotel Apartments
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 40Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 40 26-06-2014 19:42:4426-06-2014 19:42:44
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 41
The project is a mix of studio apartments and 2bhk fl ats with lower level having commer-
cial space and ample parking. The design highlight is the balcony profi le that gives the
apartment an organic form. The facades of the bottom 3 fl oors have been treated with
fret work of fl oral pattern on the refl ective glass.
www.naarchitects.in
Silicon oasis
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 41Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 41 26-06-2014 19:43:0426-06-2014 19:43:04
42 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Arty-Techture
DESIGNERLEGENDARYAr. Nari Gandhi is known for his highly innovative works in organic architecture, he was deeply in love with the Mother Nature and all its creations; Design Matrix pays homage to this versatile personality on his 21st death anniversary.
Words: Marilyn Madathil , Inspired by : Harsha KotakInputs & Images: Pravin Bhayani
T he team DM recently met Ar. Pravin
Bhayani, Nari’s close associate for
understanding his personality and
the experience was an eye opener. He
introduced us to Nari’s sister Dr. Adrianwala
and his elder brothers Dali & Jimmy Gandhi.
Nari pursued architecture from Sir J. J.
College of Architecture in early 1950’s. He
believed in leading a simplistic lifestyle. He
was a man often seen dressed in simple
kurta – pyjama; his simplicity and sincer-
ity is refl ected in his creativity. Though he
remained a bachelor, he was a very religious
man and believed in the Zoroastrian way of
life. His brother Jimmy Gandhi adds, “Nari
had been immensely enamoured by Art
and Architecture, he was a committed veg-
etarian, a teetotaler; staunchly religious till
his last breath.”
Nari apprenticed in the USA with Frank
Lyod Wright at the Taliesin for fi ve years. His
primary passion was architecture and like
Wright, he too wanted each of his build-
ings to be splendid. After Wright’s death in
1959, he left Taliesin and later he is known of
working with American Ar. Warren Weber.
He studied pottery at the Kent State Uni-
versity before returning to India. He pas-
sionately worked on as many as 30 projects
Ar. Pravin Bhayani
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 42Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 42 26-06-2014 19:43:1626-06-2014 19:43:16
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 43
and dispensed architecture that was intoxi-
catingly rich in materials and craftsmanship
and transformed the same into a work of art
and the client into a patron. Though nowa-
days everything is understood in terms
of money, this design veteran believed in
off ering services rather than being money
minded. Reminiscing the bygone days of
working closely with Nari, Ar. Bhayani says,
“I consider being a fortunate person to work
under Nari for 20 years, I was his Architect,
supervisor, trouble-shooter and co-ordina-
tor ... my experience was invincible. He was
a strong personality, diffi cult to work with,
but for those who understood him, he was
a wonderful person.”
Snap ShotsBorn: January 1, 1934 (Surat, India)
Died: August 18, 1993 (Khopoli near Mumbai)
He never believed in artifi cial stimulants, be it tea, coff ee or chocolates. His favourite snack was Dokla and Buttermilk. He started his day visiting the fi re temple and ended it the same way.
His hobbies were photography, crafting ceramic pottery, gardening and travelling.
Taught at MS. University of Baroda
Employed with Tata Consultancy, before starting as a self employee
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 43Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 43 26-06-2014 19:43:2426-06-2014 19:43:24
44 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
His creativity Interior is the reality. It cast the image of
the subject and that is what the design-
ers do, with this ideology Nari’s forma-
tions were translated with the demand of
function. His works manifest serenity and
remain deeply rooted with nature. Elabo-
rating his design fundamentals, Ar. Bhayani
adds, “His works contains traces of region-
alist architecture, especially the use of tra-
ditional techniques and natural materials
like stone, wood, brick, glass and leather.
The uncompromising integrity of his
approach and the results are seen in each
project and his passion lied in elevating it
to a piece of art.”
He respected client’s need but did
not allow their interference. He staunchly
believed that any design is a work of art.
Unlike other designers, he never followed
any norms and worked without an offi ce,
drawings and timetable, translating the
client’s needs on site. “He worked with
beds onyx or bricks, windows of plastics
and light doors that could be opened just
with a push of a fi nger. Indeed Nari was a
creative mind, focussing on every minute
detail.”
Mountain Lodge for Jal Gobhai at
Lonavala was his fi rst project in India.
The environment conscious Nari built
houses around trees and refused to chop
the trees. Ar. Pravin recollects his experi-
ences working on a farmhouse in Karjat,
a Municipal Council, a Tahsil and a sub-
district in Raigad district, Mumbai for a cli-
ent Kishore Bajaj. He states that the client
complimented Nari for this work and puts
it as : “a house is a divine creation, not only
a piece of art but a piece of Nari’s heart.”
Though it is not known that Nari accepted
fees for all his projects, but his good heart
and love was seen in the way, he showered
gifts on his friends, sponsored education
and helped the needy families fi nancially.
“We never talked from a commercial angle,
he cracked jokes, and it is unfortunate that
his negative traits being eccentric, angry at
times and disputes with clients, remained
in the mind set of his co-workers but as his
close associate, I respect him and his style
immensely,” adds Ar. Bhayani.
Unfortunately, before his genius
could win recognition, he died in an
accident in 1993 near Khopoli on the
way to one of his projects at Kolgaon.
Ar. Bhayani too was a victim involved in
this accident. As a survivor with tears, he
adds, “It is important to bestow honours
and chant accolades about this man. No
language or visual can ever recreate him
on his work. Nari Gandhi like his house
was all encompassing, not only an archi-
tect but a complete person.” Sadly many
of his works have been demolished
and have been disappeared from the
grounds but in 2009, on his 16th death
anniversary, a book was released at the
Sir J J School of Architectures as a tribute.
This book was authored by Prof. H Masud
Taj, an architect –poet-calligrapher; this
book featured elaborate monograph on
Nari with 87 photographs by well-known
photographers. It also constituted essays
on Nari’s life and poems of Prof. Masud
on different works of Nari. This book is
published in 25 plates in its original cal-
ligraphy.
ProjectsResidence for Asha Parekh at Juhu, Mumbai
Farm house for S H Daya at Alibag
Residence for S H Daya at Versova, Mumbai
Residence for S H Daya at Madh island, Mumbai
Residence for Rustom Mehta at Korlai, Alibag
Residence for Shreya and Kishor Dalal at Awas, Alibag
Mausoleum at Kolgaon near Ahmednagar
Gateway to mosque at Kolgaon
Tejani house at Lonavala
Patel residence at Surat
Jain house at Lonavala
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 44Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 44 26-06-2014 19:43:3826-06-2014 19:43:38
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 45
One of the articles published in the
year of his death refers Nari as the ‘How-
ard Roark’ of Indian Architecture. His sis-
ter, K.S Adrianwala says, “Nari was a quite
person. I remember that disastrous day.
At around 6 Am, he offered prayers at the
fire temple and met me before making
his move towards the site. As fate would
have never taken its steps aback, Nari’s
car met with an accident, he suffered
internal injuries and passed away. Ah! But
God always take away the best, our fam-
ily and his well wishers pray that his soul
RIP in Lord’s divine company.”
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 45Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 45 26-06-2014 19:43:4926-06-2014 19:43:49
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 46Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 46 26-06-2014 19:44:0626-06-2014 19:44:06
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 47Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 47 26-06-2014 19:44:1226-06-2014 19:44:12
48 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Conversation
Design Matrix converse with B.L.
Bengani, Chairman & Managing
Director, Uniply and his son Varun,
Deputy Head – Decorative Design, to un-
derstand the current scenario prevailing in
the Plywood industry and the journey of
Uniply so far. It was a power boosting con-
versation for us.
DM: We would like to know the success
story of Uniply?
BB: Uniply is synonymous of trust. In the
span of 18 years, this dynamic company
has created a benchmark on quality ply-
wood and panel products for its consum-
ers. As the name itself clearly says “U” N “I”,
this company believes in quality for “U”
and reliability from “I”.
I started up with trading of plywood
and allied products, importing them from
overseas. It was then I realized that we can
manufacture the product right here, in
India. The motive was to have a swadeshi
product to boost the Indian economy viz a
viz Uniply’s profi t chart.
I would rather say, hard work is no lon-
ger an option but is a necessity. The aim
of having our own manufacturing unit
seemed very challenging at that time.
Eventually in the year 2000, we brought
innovative technology and high-tech
machines, such as High Speed Rotary Peel-
ing Machine and Automatic Thermoset-
ting Hot press. These machines were intro-
duced for the fi rst time in Indian Veneer
and Plywood Industry to Nelveli Village,
Kanchipuram Dist., Tamilnadu.
Success in not a destination, it is a
journey. So we at Uniply are continuously
creating our own standards and achieving
them.
DM: The strength of Uniply:
BB: One of my biggest achievements was
that from an importer of plywood, I turned
into an exporter. This one achievement
brought accolades from the Indian gov-
ernment and our esteemed consumers.
Our dedication for quality was so evi-
dent that we started getting bulk orders
not just for basic plywood, but also for high
end luxurious products like Marine and
WBP plywood, especially from Europe and
UK. The other reason behind our growth
could be that we knew that quality is not
an act, it is a habit. We kept on investing
huge amounts in premium machineries,
in fact a few were introduced fi rst time in
India- Whether it was the automatic load-
ing and unloading system in Hot Press, or
mechanized chemical treatment of ply-
wood and boards or innovating the ter-
mite proof plywood.
DM: Can you brief us on the current mar-
ket scenario of the plywood industry?
BB: Since July 2012, the plywood indus-
try had been under severe stress where
small or medium size industries have suf-
When God leads you to an edge of a cliff, trust him fully. Only two things can happen. Either he will catch you or you will learn to fly. Uniply learnt to fly.There were multiple obstacles in the journey but the team learnt to convert the obstacles to stepping stones and there was no looking back.
Metaphor oftrustworthiness
48 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
07_Conversation.indd 4807_Conversation.indd 48 27-06-2014 15:51:2527-06-2014 15:51:25
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 49
fered heavily. High cost of production,
low volumes, expensive brand promo-
tions, tight monetary situation and high
fi nance cost and maintenance of quality
have been the key issues. We have been
lucky enough that we could survive in the
crisis. Despite unfavorable government
regulations, stringent market conditions
and severe global impacts, our consumers
have been our support system through-
out. I remember one complication that
struck the markets was when we started
our manufacturing facility. We knew that
– “Uniply Industries Limited is not going
to sell what any normal plywood factory
produces, but it will produce as per the
specifi c needs of the consumer ”. While
we were investing in high tech machines
and did not learn to compromise , there
were retailers and market players who
started importing material from countries
like China, Vietnam, Malaysia and Myan-
mar. Although the qualities of products
imported , were not up to standard, the
price advantage lured the customers as
they had little or no knowledge about the
products and its quality.
The import of such sub standard
material drastically aff ected the sentiment
of the market and resulted in to the over-
all poor demand from the interior decora-
tion industries, housing and infra-structure
projects.
DM: What are the diff erent product
ranges, Uniply is into?
BB: Uniply has a wide range of innova-
tive products. We feel proud to be the
fi rst company in India to off er a 10
feet product for our esteemed cus-
tomers. Let me introduce to you , a
few product lines for your readers.
The pride of our collection is
Elementz range of decorative veneers
that off ers many creative possibilities
through unique textures and hues.
These veneers are of over 0.5 mm
in thickness and are overlaid on
BWP grade marine plywood. This product
ensures it is a must see product for archi-
tects, interior designers, craftsmen and
consumers.
We were the fi rst in India to intro-
duce termite proof plywood Uniply Plat-
inum Anti Termite Solution Z Plus, which
comes with a Life time Guarantee( not
warranty). This is an innovative product,
which delivers the highest quality that will
add value to every project. In simple words,
I can say a life time insurance of
the entire furniture from
termite at a very low
premium.
Uniply Gold
Club Marine Ply-
wood was cre-
ated with an aim
of capturing the
hearts and minds
of our proud cus-
tomers.This prod-
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 49
07_Conversation.indd 4907_Conversation.indd 49 27-06-2014 15:51:2627-06-2014 15:51:26
50 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
uct was also certifi ed by B M Trada, UK for
conformation to EN 13986: 2004.
For those who look for the highest
quality block boards, we created Uniboard
Gold Club where the chemically treated
core veneers are subject to vacuum pres-
sure to impregnate the barcore (battons)
with preservatives in, to make it a perfect
product.
Controlling the spread of fi re in build-
ings can be diffi cult and keeping this in
mind, Uniply Fire Retardant was created. This
product is subjected to impregnation of fi re
retardant solution into every veneer through
vacuum pressure treatment, making it easy
to control/reduce the spread of fi re.
We are into the manufacturing of high
quality solid fl ush doors which are custom
made. It’s a ready to use product, which
you can just fi x it and admire for years. Both
side commercial and one or both side dec-
orative surface can be crafted, as per the
choice of our customers.
We also manufacture Laminated
Veneer Lumber (LVL) which is a friendly
engineered alternate to solid wood. This
product has reliable and consistent prop-
erties which are better than solid wood /
lumber.
From Elementz Decorative
Veneers to the Ecomate – is an
Ecofriendly range. We strive to
keep delivering the high qual-
ity standard products always
keeping the peace of our cus-
tomers in mind.
DM: Why Uniply?
BB: “U” N “I” mean simply want
the best “PLY”. The answer is
very simple. UNIPLY because-
Unsurpassed N Intelligent
Products Lasts Years together.
Uniply is committed
to achievement and main-
tenance of excellence by
adhering to strict standards
of quality at all levels. We, as
always, strive to understand
the needs of the market and
deliver products that go a step
beyond expectations. Uniply’s products
are “for all reasons and seasons”.
DM: We would like to know about your
presence in the key global markets?
BB: Uniply’s range of products have bro-
ken Indian boundaries and reached high-
end stores in countries like UK, Greece,
New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong,
Australia, Islands of West Indies and France.
That’s not all. We are marching towards
other countries steadily.
DM: Can you name a few projects, where
Uniply was used widely?
BB: I always knew that a customer always
want a quality product and value for
money. So we identifi ed and responded
to market trends. I believe that has been
the key to development of our relationship
with our esteemed customers throughout
the globe. We continue to develop part-
nerships with leading Architects, Interior
Designers, Architectural Engineers, Con-
sultants, Construction Companies & Build-
ers in India and abroad.
DM: Your target audience?
BB: Honestly, we have not targeted any
audiences as such. Anybody who needs
plywood irrespective of the quantity ,if he
wants the best quality , is my target audi-
ence.
I have strong faith in the quality of my
product that it will eff ortlessly attract archi-
tects, interior designers, builders, crafts-
men and business associates. It is a perfect
combination of trouble free plywood and
a real value for money to the consumers.
DM: The role of Uniply to sustain the
environment…
BB: We at Uniply are aware of our social
and ethical responsibilities. Whatever has
been important for the social environ-
ment has been taken care of with absolute
cautiousness. Our company is following
all environmental standards
and guidelines for plywood
industries given by Tamil Nadu
Pollution Control Board. We
are operating and maintaining
air pollution control measures
continuously and effi ciently to
satisfy ambient air quality and
emission standards prescribed
by the Board.
We have provided Sewage
Treatment Plant and Effl uent
Treatment Plant and operate the
same to prevent water pollution.
The Company got its prod-
ucts certifi ed with FSC (Forest
Stewardship Council). Uniply is
also a member of Indian Green
Building Council (IGBC).
We are proud to say that
Uniply secured ISO 14001 Certi-
fi cations from CVI Certifi cation
Success in not a destination, it is a journey.
So we at Uniply are continuously creating our own
standards and achieving them.
Some of the Projects where Uniply is usedIT Software:Accenture, Cognizant Technology Solutions, HCL Technologies
Apparel:Raymond’s, Shoppers Stop, Pantaloon India
Hotels: The Park Hotel, The Leela Palace, Royal Bangalore Park Hotel, Hyatt, Asia’s largest ITC – Grand Chola
Finance:State Bank of India, Citi Bank, Indian Overseas Bank
Others:Ford India Jaya TV, GAIL
Though the list is huge, however; I feel proud to share with you that Uniply products have been used almost entirely in the new residence of Shri. Mukesh Ambani
50 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
07_Conversation.indd 5007_Conversation.indd 50 27-06-2014 15:51:3827-06-2014 15:51:38
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 51
Body under IAF and SNAS accreditation
schemes, suitable for green building proj-
ects. The company is registered its mem-
bership in CAPEXIL, IPIRTI, FIPPI & SIPMA.
DM: Your message to young entrepre-
neurs…
BB: I would say – “work so hard that one
day your signature should be recognized
as an autograph.” Set your goals, strategize,
embrace the diffi culties and then march
ahead. Groom your entrepreneurial vision
because that will lead enterprises to con-
quer the downturn, face challenges and
turn the crisis into a promising opportu-
nity. A journey of thousand miles begins
with a single step. There will be success,
there will be failure, and the amalgamation
of both experiences will make you a strong
and brilliant entrepreneur ready to inno-
vate. Never give up. Remember dreams
don’t come true, unless you harvest the
seed of success.
Indeed a pleasure conversing with you
Benganiji, Varun we would like to know
your experiences here, as a young entre-
preneur. Excerpts...
DM: What inspired you to join Uniply?
VB: As a teenager, I have seen my father
very closely working for other compa-
nies. I monitored his hard work when he
founded Uniply Industries Limited. The
brick by brick growth of the company was
admitted and accepted by one and all in
the plywood industry. During the process
of building up of a strong brand – Uniply,
I have seen the challenges he has faced. It
was then I decided to stand by his shoul-
der and share his burden of tours and trav-
els, production and marketing, technology
and quality with innovative ideas.
By the time I completed my gradu-
ation, I fi lled up the vacuum in order to
develop new products range and expan-
sion. The inspiration for taking up the qual-
ity, services, and range of products of Uni-
ply was the ultimate result of my joining the
company. I took the plunge in this industry
and started strategizing the marketing and
manufacturing aspects of this brand.
DM: What are the key business mantras
you have learned after joining Uniply?
VB: Everyday has been a learning experi-
ence for me. In these couple of years, I have
learnt that if I add value to the market, the
market values me.
Working with sincerity and perfection
was the key mantras that I learnt after join-
ing Uniply. Without perfection in work, it is
not possible to deliver goods and services.
In order to serve the present extremely
competitive market, the principles of dedi-
cation and perfection were the only man-
tras which contributed the company to
conquer new heights.
DM: What is your prime interest is it in
marketing/ administration or in manage-
ment?
VB: My area of interest is marketing. This
has helped me to maintain a cordial
relationship and know more
about the taste and preference
of our channel partners. I fi nd
Decorative Business very
interesting at the same
time challenging too. I feel
there is plenty of scope to
contribute and improve in
this segment. Starting from
hand-picking of veneers person-
ally to manufacturing the same with
uniqueness and elegance in its design,
colour and pattern; today, we provide
our customers with the best in class
quality of veneers. Whether it is the
exquisite range of species or exclu-
sive techniques of manufacturing these
veneers, I am personally involved at every
stage of the production.
Satisfaction of our channel partners
with the product line that I off er, satisfi es
me personally and enhances my interest
in this segment further day by day.
DM: Being a budding youngster, what
is your vision to create a great impact on
Plywood industry with Uniply...
VB: As far as my experience has been, the
recent years were not favorable enough
for this industry where construction,
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 51
07_Conversation.indd 5107_Conversation.indd 51 27-06-2014 15:51:3827-06-2014 15:51:38
52 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
housing and infrastructure projects were
lacking behind due to the economic slow-
down. After the formation of the new Gov-
ernment, there is a ray of hope for a rapid
improvement in the sector.
We can visualize that Uniply will also
get benefi t when construction, housing
and infrastructure development takes
place. We will closely monitor the massive
and rapid growth in the plywood industry,
when hundreds of new cities would come
up in the country. Further, easing the curb
on circulation of money by the Reserve
Bank of India, ease of rate of interest and
more industrialization as proposed by the
Government are the key factors which will
contribute to the growth of Uniply in com-
ing years, where quality product will stand
out in the crowd.
DM: Can you brief us on the state of art
manufacturing unit of Uniply...
VB: Our ultra modern unit is located at
Uthiramerur, Kancheepuram District, Tamil
Nadu. We have the-most sophisticated 5
peeling units along with 5 dryers and 3 hot
presses. We were the fi rst manufacturer
to operate a fully automatic hot press in
India. We also have a mechanized treat-
ment plant, which was invented by our
company itself. This treatment plant was
so successful that now being followed by
various companies in India.
Apart from the plywood manufac-
turing, we have highly sophisticated
machines for Decorative Veneers with
heavy-duty double cut technology guil-
lotine jointer. This eliminates the gaps and
scars between the veneer strips. We also
have edge glue splicing machine which
merges the fi bers between the veneers
to ensure that the veneer is manufactured
free from defect and very high in quality.
We were the fi rst company in India to use
such high tech machines for the manufac-
ture of veneers.
We, in Uniply have always believed in
automation to ensure that we achieve high
productivity without compromising on
quality, which needs to adhere strict quality
norms in our plant.
DM: What are your future endeavours?
VB: Personally I feel we still have a huge
scope in the decorative business – both
natural and engineered. With my interest
in marketing particularly in Decorative, I am
looking forward to the ways to penetrate
the unrepresented areas. We are sure you
will soon see a few more veneer studios
across various parts of India to help us not
only to penetrate new markets but also
improve our market share.
DM: Where do you see Uniply in next ten
years?
VB: We at Uniply have been working very
hard to keep our position as one of the top
fi ve plywood manufacturing Company
in India. Down the line ten years, with the
guidance of our Chairman and with the
help of our team of dedicated profession-
als and channel partners, we are sure not
only that we would be the market leaders
in South India, but would also maintain our
strong position PAN India. My motto lies in
making Uniply a company that contributes
to the interiors of all the houses in India.
www.uniply.in
Let us know more about Mr. B.L Bengani’s elder son Rahul. Does he aspire to join Uniply? Yes, most likely he would be glad to join this company in few years and would be keen to look into its overseas operations. Design Matrix is delighted to inform our readers that he is the creator of the house mark and fl agship brand Uniply. During his schooling days, he showed interest in fi nancial discipline and planning and was involved in commissioning Uniply’s manufacturing facilities. He went to Singapore for higher education and joined Swiss Bank UBS AG after graduation.
BL Bengani with sons Varun (Younger) & Rahul (Elder)
07_Conversation.indd 5207_Conversation.indd 52 27-06-2014 15:51:4427-06-2014 15:51:44
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 53
Studio Avni explores a wide spectrum of design innovations
through research and tactile manipulation of organic shapes
and geometric patterns.
BOLD AND
VIVID
Productdesign
Design is about communicating an
idea or an emotion, design gives
an opportunity to narrate stories,
make sculptural design objects with soul
that gives you a glimpse of another culture.
Design impacts all aspects of our lives;
Good design can positively infl uence us
to the extent of moulding our behavioural
patterns. Hence, design has to be honest,
collaborative, sustainable, playful and
highly functional and this ideology has
been the design mantra for Ar. Avni Sejpal
and her creativity. Studio Avni specializes
in producing striking textile, metal and
Perspex artworks for public spaces,
corporate environments, exhibitions and
private homes.
Hailing from a textile based family;
Avni had an early exposure to design, tex-
tiles, arts and crafts and this led her to trav-
el to international design events. Speaking Avni Sejpal
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 53Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 53 26-06-2014 19:44:2926-06-2014 19:44:29
54 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
about her venture, Ar Avni says, “I guess it
gave me a better understanding of colours
and textures. Eventually, I was drawn
towards architecture – mother of all design
streams and fi nally Masters in Design, Lon-
don, where I fell in love with design all over
again.” Recently she showcased Fin Cloud
Series at Salone Satellite 2014, Milan. This
series is a sculptural take on Biomorphism.
The concept forayed around replicat-
ing and arraying fi n modules around the
central spine of the structure to create
an organic bilateral composition as bilat-
eral is the most recognized balanced form
found in nature. The ethereal light sculp-
tures generated are reminiscent of scaly
marine creatures such as sea anemone
and jellyfi shes displaying forms that have a
physical and mathematical basis with bio-
luminescence characteristics. The evolved
light structures are biological analogues of
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 54Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 54 26-06-2014 19:44:4226-06-2014 19:44:42
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 55
these creatures, mimicking their bilateral geometries, not only by refl ection but also by
rotation of repeated elements. Elaborating the design methodologies involved behind
this range, Ar. Avni adds, “Using traditional handicraft techniques with references to strong
geometrical construction principles, the entire collection is produced
by hand, borrowing from the legacy of rich Indian handi-
crafts. I was experimenting with diff erent materials
and was curious with the idea of role reversal of
materials and altering paradoxes. The current
collection for me is a perfect blend of parametric
designing and Indian handicrafts.” This series is
available in brass, copper, bronze, German silver
and PVC. Avni calls Salone Satellite as a holy grail
of design! She states that it was a very insightful
experience for her in terms of learning, interacting
with fellow designers from diff erent backgrounds.
Avni works in an intuitive way with a variety of mate-
rials and techniques. She is also curious with the idea of
role reversal of materials wherein soft fabrics are so designed
to have a structure and form and strong and hard materials
such as metal, glass and wood are designed to have a fl uid,
ephemeral quality. The vibrant colours, patterns and struc-
tural integrity are a constant feature in all the works shaped by
this dynamic designer. Speaking about her achievements, Avni
adds, “I recently bagged – A Design Award 2013 - Bronze for the
Faceted Tactile Light Collection.The lights were also voted one of
the best products from London Design Festival 2013 in partnership
with CultureLabel.com – Faceted Tactile Light Collection Design25
Winner- LDF 2013.”
With an aim to touch the sky, Avni believes in incorporating everyday
sensory stimulating experiences and keep her curiosity alive, she feels
,design does not receive the same patronage or government funding as
much as Art. She says, “I would love to further the idea of design museums
and galleries in a country especially like ours that’s so rich in arts and crafts.
There is a need for basic awareness of good and sustainable design to every-
body and not just design enthusiast and students in a more palatable manner
and can be imbibed in our daily normal lives.
www.studioavni.com
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 55Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 55 26-06-2014 19:45:1026-06-2014 19:45:10
56 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
The undergraduate batch of MITID Interior and furniture Design put up their Pre-graduation presentation, which displayed their capabilities as budding professionals.
DesignPedagogy
CREATIVESPELL
M IT ID has a very important
step in their course structure
called as “Pre Graduation
Presentation”. The entry of a design learner
as a designer happens in profession
through Graduation project, a project
sponsored by industry. But before going
for such a project he / she have to display
academic work done over the years to
design community at MITID.
The Pre- Graduation presentation hap-
pens at the end of the last semester. This
is a pre-condition for a student to proceed
for Graduation project. In the Pre- Gradu-
ation presentation, all work done by the
student starting from the Foundation Year
is reviewed. The idea here is to bring in an
overview of an individual student’s growth
across all the years of the student’s study at
the Institute. This format is more like cele-
bration of one’s own work. It is arranged as
a self-exhibition where members of MITID
community, parents and industry experts
are called in to see your work.
A learner typically takes a retrospect
of his design learning journey in the insti-
tute looking back at own work critically.
He/She also displays their overall devel-
opment and capabilities as a professional
and formally collects feedback from visi-
tors. Archita Agarwal, Ishan Upadhyay Ritu
Dadhania and Shripal Shah were the four
design learners who displayed their work.
The students speakArchita Agarwal, a budding talent of MIT
ID says “Time flew away...never realized
that four long years of being in MIT just
came to an end. MIT had been a great
journey...a place where we not just learnt
but it was a complete new and different
experience. I pursued interior, space and
equipment design here...the discipline
itself taught me a lot of thing. The time
when I joined MIT, all I knew was Interior
designing and never knew it could be so
vast and there could be so many sides
to it. Under the guidance of the faculty
here and the properly designed course
curriculum where each and every aspect
from knowing the material knowledge to
sustainable design, each and every topic
is covered.”
In four years she has worked on diff er-
ent hypothetical and live projects includ-
ing domestic, multi-functional, hospitality
and commercial spaces. Not just spaces,
but also worked on furniture for diff er-
ent requirement and also producing pro-
totypes and scale-down models of the
designed furniture pieces. “When the fur-
niture is made in the workshop and we
make it, the real essence of designing it
Ritu Dadhania Archita Agarwal Ishan Upadhyay Shripal Shah
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 56Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 56 26-06-2014 19:45:5326-06-2014 19:45:53
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 57
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 57Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 57 26-06-2014 19:46:1226-06-2014 19:46:12
58 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 58Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 58 26-06-2014 19:46:1926-06-2014 19:46:19
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 59
comes out and the technical understand-
ing gets better”, adds Archita.
She feels that working on furniture
with sustainable materials, corrugated
sheet and bamboo was the best part
during my entire duration. People need
to start using GREEN material for a bet-
ter future and thus sustainable design is
something which she would like to focus
on.
Speaking to us about her dreams, she
says, “Now since the time in MIT comes to
an end, I would like to own a space and
furniture design studio from the place
where I belong to, Kanpur.
I would like to help in the develop-
ment of my city; and provide services to
the people of my city after a work expe-
rience of an year in a reputed fi rm which
gives me exposure to the industry.”
Shripal Shah another budding talent
from this institute was always fascinated
by the idea that spaces would communi-
cate amongst its volume on a spectrum
not known to man. She says, “Walls would
hiss to the ceilings, and one would almost
hear a chair silently whispering to the
chandelier. Of course, a lot of this would
simulate the idea of a very creepy movie
plot. However, as a designer, I believe
that it is my responsibility to dissolve
the boundaries between the space and
the elements that interact with it. Over
these four years of college, I studied the
principles of Space and Furniture Design
to understand how furniture acts like a
catalyst in defi ning spaces. I started with
exploring the relationships between form
and space and further went on exploring
the various parameters that defi ne these
relationships, such as the material treat-
ment, proportions, and form language.”
Furniture design is a constantly
evolving discipline, and one needs to go
acknowledge the importance balancing
the equilibrium between form and func-
tion with the ever changing needs of fur-
niture in our lives. ISED exposed her to a
vast range of principles of furniture design
where she studied how furniture design
grew historically and how the needs of
modularity are shaping the trends of new
furniture.
Spaces on the other hand, are less
objectively evolving. They grow dynami-
cally in proportions, materials and sizes,
but by the virtue of functions, spaces are
well defi ned responding to basic human
instincts. It is the designer’s greatest chal-
lenge to add an emotionally organic value
to these spaces that make them more
than just an arrangement of furniture and
functions. As a space designer, she aims to
keep exploring materials and their stimu-
lation of experience in spaces.
Ritu Dhadhania believes the likes and
dislikes change as you go through the
learning experience of Interior and furni-
ture design. She exclaims, “So did mine.
After realizing the holistic approach, I got
more interested in furniture design. The
weaving patterns I tried out on few of my
furniture’s developed my interest in craft
+ furniture. I come from Gujarat, a state
rich in its crafts. So I would like to pursue
my explorations with furniture and blend-
ing crafts in to it. I foresee myself as an
entrepreneur working closely with crafts-
man, empowering them in their skills with
my creative inputs.”
“The key word interior and furniture
design studies at MITID has taught me is
‘space experience’. My entire approach
towards my academic projects has been
more contemporary and more technol-
ogy oriented. I developed a thinking that
space and furniture work as a product, giv-
ing the user a holistic experience. I work
with digital technology to develop forms
to suite required experience. I would like
to take my interest further in ‘experiential
design’ through space installations. I see
the products, furniture; material fi nishes,
working with technical enhancements
as space installations , mentions Ishan
Upadyay.
Indeed, it was a mind blowing world
of creativity for these young stars, under
the guidance of their mentors, the design
makers.
www.mitid.edu.in
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 59Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 59 26-06-2014 19:46:3226-06-2014 19:46:32
60 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
designLuxury
Fact FileProject Name: The House of Yellow Shadows
Client: Jyoti and Sunil Sharma
Design Team: Studio An-V-Thot Architects Pvt. Ltd.
Completion Date: March 2014
Built-up Area: 3200 sq ft.
HOUSE OFYELLOWSHADOWS
10_Luxury Design.indd 6010_Luxury Design.indd 60 26-06-2014 21:07:4726-06-2014 21:07:47
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 61
Studio An-V-Thot Architects Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, headed by Ar. Ankita Sweety and Ar. Pratyoosh Chandan, portrays a fashionable contemporary outlook in an abode, located at the City of Weaver. The house has a character of traditional feel in a contemporary outfi t.
Photo courtesy: Saptorshi Majumdar
A rchitects Ankita and Pratyoosh,
firmly believes in the uttermost
importance of any space within
and beyond, rather than its built frame.
Their endeavour lies in designing and
developing an environment for stories
to take birth and remain, where true
feelings are captured and felt with a
sense of belonging, only to resonate
through time. “We intend to breathe,
is what our motto is”, says, Ar. Ankita,
describing her philosophy towards
designing.
Brainy designLocated in the heart of Panipat, Haryana;
The House of Yellow Shadows is a dou-
ble storey residence with four bedrooms.
The first quarter of the ground floor has
a guest room, drawing room and a pow-
der. The central half caters to the lobby
and dining, adjacent to the kitchen. The
house hosts a semi open kitchen where
storages have been made using com-
mercial boards finished with German
based high gloss PU pigment paint of
light beige shade. The backsplash of
maroon lacquered glass adds reflectiv-
ity and glamour to the whole area. The
ceiling with an embossed floral pattern
turns to become the railing of the first
floor lobby. The lobby overlooks the
raised drawing room, where the division
10_Luxury Design.indd 6110_Luxury Design.indd 61 26-06-2014 21:08:0026-06-2014 21:08:00
62 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
is created through a full height jali on both sides, at
the foot of two planter beds hosting palm. This jali is
made of wooden battens placed at equal distances in
a wooden frame.
Wooden laminate flooring has been used in the
drawing room. The shades of brown and white used
in the fabrics and furnishings, creates a classy touch
with in this space. To moderate the contemporary
and bring “Desi” feel, the designers choose in custom
made furniture in the lobby, which has an old school
character to it with maroon in fabric. The vibrancy is
created with custom made dining table. It adds to the
character and acts as a bridge between lobby and
the internal staircase. Explaining further, Ar. Pratyoosh
says, “The brief required us to provide a separate stair-
case connecting to the terrace straight from the front
lawn, which in case of an event can take guests to the
open rooftop. To add life to the connection between
floors, a small courtyard with a library has been placed
through the creation of extended landing, where one
is greeted with ever-changing play of sunlight and
shadows. This was achieved through the insertion of
vertical wooden louvers at equal intervals forming the
outer skin of the stair façade.”
The walls throughout the house have been finished with a com-
bination of wallpapers, textured paint as well as wooden panelling.
The flooring has a mix of Indian white marble and wooden laminate
flooring. A lot of custom made lights using laser cut mdf board fin-
ished with high gloss paint and backed by translucent acrylic sheet
have been used in the drawing room, lobby as well as bedroom,
considering the fact that the house is facing to the West and is adja-
cent to built structures on both sides.
A double height wall finished with yellow textured paint acts as
a backdrop to the internal staircase, which is made using MS struc-
tural work and framework. The steps are clad with solid wood and
finished using PU polish and the railing shows a play of running MS
tubular sections. The exposed MS here is finished in off-white high
gloss paint. Understanding the dire need for natural light, this cor-
ner has a skylight at the double height with horizontal MS bands
supporting the glass on top. The orientation of the cut-out is such
that the play of sunlight and shadows reaches 25 feet down on to
the ground floor and accentuates the Yellow. A custom made wall
mounted artifact finished in high gloss blue colour negates the
monotony. Evenings can also be cherished with moonlight charm-
ing the whole area.
10_Luxury Design.indd 6210_Luxury Design.indd 62 26-06-2014 21:08:4626-06-2014 21:08:46
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 63
Peeping into special spaces The Puja room sits in a corner aloof from high circulation areas. The
rear portion has two private rooms overlooking the landscaped
backyard. The first floor has the daughter’s room with an extended
study cum library, a pantry, a store room and a family lounge
overlooking lobby at the ground floor.
The master bedroom has a separate seating space to sit and
chit-chat. The furniture, bed, cupboards and seating have been
kept minimalistic in its form as well as in choosing colours for finish.
More of white have been used for the finishes on the furniture with
white leather upholstered bed back.
The parent’s bedroom has a lot of storages as desired by the
client, including an additional store room attached to it. It also has a
study and tall book shelf. The bed back is panelled with cushioned
leather of dark brown shade, which turns on to ceiling creating an
illusion of inverted bed. The maroon, brown and off-white shades
have been repeated here as well
The House of Yellow Shades for Studio An-V-Thot Architects
was a great endeavour to convert a thought into reality and their
effort has consistently led them for pursuit of excellence. The yellow
house is a great design !
About the firm“An-V-Thot” is a hybrid of two words, (anvit) Sanskrit
and thought) English. “Anvit” means followed by, so it
is actually a studio followed by a thought, and as the
name suggests both Ankita and Pratyoosh are always
eager to and strive to defi ne their deeds in a thought
evolving and settling manner.
This studio was incepted in 2009, since then the
studio has taken up and completed several architec-
tural and interior projects of varied nature, scale and
sizes. Ar. Pratyoosh pursued Architectural Technology
and Construction Management from Rai University and
further pursued his architectural critique, from Univer-
sity of Brighton, UK. Thereafter, he co-created Studio
An-V-Thot Architects with Ankita to provide design
solutions. Ankita graduated with a distinction in her
Architectural Degree from NIT, Patna and during the
course, also won numerous National and State level
design contests of repute. She is also a visiting faculty
at an Architecture College in Gurgaon. Apart from that
she confi dently holds the post of country’s editing
member for World Architecture Community.
10_Luxury Design.indd 6310_Luxury Design.indd 63 26-06-2014 21:09:5826-06-2014 21:09:58
64 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
promoDesign
Going BeyondMind’s Eye
Keeping up with a world that is edgy, SDA Designs believes in portraying grandness in a modern language.Their works refl ect the present age and time, merging harmoniously with the purpose and the requirements, responding with care to surroundings.
Photo courtesy: Neale CastelinoSufyan Duberia
11_Design Promo.indd 6411_Design Promo.indd 64 26-06-2014 21:20:4926-06-2014 21:20:49
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 65
Sufyan Duberia formed SDA Designs
in 1994. He believes in spending
time with his projects and giving
personal attention towards each client
and guiding them to the best of his
knowledge. Backed by a dedicated and
hardworking staff , his team spirit lies in
quality of work that is exclusive and one
of its kinds. Design Matrix goes over with
a fi ne-tooth comb to a Bridal Room and
Grand Residency Hotel, designed by this
expert designer. We are fl abbergasted
with the designer touch revolving round
these two spaces.
Bridal Rooms by tradition have a lot of
symbolism and legacy attached to them.
In the process of discarding much of the
existing, Duberia got this unique oppor-
tunity to make something never done
before in this context. Yet, he did not lose
sight of the purpose at hand, and while
designing, he made certain to maintain
a language that speaks of grandness and
intimacy alike. His client Faizal Saya was
opposed to the traditional ideas of a four
posted bed, huge chandeliers and other
design sensibilities that are associated
with the purpose of such a room. Baffl ed
by the client showing him examples of
things, he did not want. Duberia inquired
11_Design Promo.indd 6511_Design Promo.indd 65 26-06-2014 21:21:1226-06-2014 21:21:12
66 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
about what the client liked, and the answer
– “What I want doesn’t exist yet!”
White is the colour often associated
with innocence, perfection, honesty, the
beginning and exactitude. Understanding
the signifi cance of this colour, he chose
white in the main motif, allowing the light
to play further, with dark walnut veneer to
balance things visually and add contrast.
The bed itself is a king-sized bed that for-
wards the idea of fl ow by merging into the
side tables and walls. The fl ooring is done
in Italian marble, adding to the richness.
The fl owing lines on the walls are an aes-
thetic choice that brings a sensual touch
to the room, softness to the atmosphere,
which can allow intimacy as opposed to
straight lines. From within these fl ows
concealed lights bring illumination that is
ethereal, never too strong from one direc-
tion and evenly spread. While discarding
traditional imagery in most of the room,
Duberia in a smart move decided to make
the fabrics akin to wedding attire, using
heavy fabrics with crystals on the blanket
and pillows, and using patterned fabric
on the sofa cushions. Another important
part of the room was the walk in wardrobe,
which is a straight passage lined on both
sides with wardrobes done in veneer, with
a small accent of carving present. The use
of mirrors on both sides makes the passage
feel wider, and is quite handy when the
bride gets ready. The marble fl ooring used
blends well with the scheme of things,
contrasting the dark of the wardrobe and
contributing to the illumination. The fi nal
outcome was a well-groomed design, suc-
cessfully meeting the client’s expectation.
Designers are often put to the task
of catering to clients that challenge their
limits and knowledge, in a non-tangible
way. Duberia had a similar task when he
was fi rst approached by Afzal Patel, owner
of the Grand Residency Hotel at Bandra,
Mumbai. This client was clear about the
quality he expected and his requirements.
After a rigorous interview, he appointed
Duberia to design the interiors of the ser-
vice apartments of his hotel.
The project consisted of designing
four types of room – Deluxe Room (Area:
320 sq.ft. 30 sq. Mtrs), Studio Apartment
(Area: 400 sq.ft. 37.16 sq. Mtrs); One Bed-
room Apartment (Area: 545 sq.ft. 50.60 sq.
Mtrs) and Two Bedroom Apartment (Area:
865 sq.ft. 80.60 sq. Mtrs); summing up to a
total of 35 rooms. Knowing that the client
wanted the best out of him, Duberia spent
time researching and studying varying
hotels across a few countries in company
of the client, arriving on what is now a well
appreciated design. With a clear approach
that service apartments were expected
to be occupied for longer durations of
time as opposed to regular hotel rooms;
led him towards making of every type of
room a space that is not only up to date
by all standards, but is also a place that the
guests can make their own. From a client
point of view, he aspired a design that is
modern, durable and easy to maintain.
11_Design Promo.indd 6611_Design Promo.indd 66 26-06-2014 21:22:0926-06-2014 21:22:09
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 67
Every room has been designed with
the idea of long term occupancy in
mind, accounting for all amenities like
a fully functional kitchen, well defined
living room spaces and complete bed-
rooms.
A conscious decision has gone in
defining the finishes, where the flooring
in the living room spaces is done in Ital-
ian marble, giving a more polished feel,
while the bedrooms are done in wood-
en flooring that is soft and cosy. The fur-
niture is done in wood and veneer. The
use of these finishes is done to allow for
a look that is never quite out of fashion,
and built to last.
The project was executed first in
2008; later the client expressed his
desire to update the rooms, and con-
tacted Duberia again in 2013. The refur-
bishing completed in 2014, the versatil-
ity of the original design shines through
as the major work was more of a refresh
rather than a complete makeover. The
original furniture remains untouched
except for polishing. The fabrics and
soft furnishings are coloured in soft and
warm shades to complement each oth-
er, allowing for each room to be familiar
yet have its own identity.
In terms of utility, the one bedroom
apartments have an optional access to
adjoining studio apartments allowing
for quick conversion of the one bed-
room to a two bedroom apartment, at
the convenience of the hotel and the
requirement of the guests.
The elements of all the apartments
when viewed in an ensemble make for
a space that is not like a hotel, but more
like a home.
About SDA DesignsSDA Designs have undertaken several
projects till date, and counting, hav-
ing handled architectural and interior
projects Pan India, U.A.E and K.S.A. The
projects have been varied in nature and
scale, in the form of individual homes,
industrial complexes, offices, hospitality
services, etc. Elaborating on SDA’s strat-
egy towards work, Duberia exclaims,
“Today we reside in a globally accessible
world, we aim to design in a way that
occupants get the benefits of all ameni-
ties, keeping in mind the quality of work
while not breaking away from the sur-
roundings, fitting in seamlessly.”
Duberia comes from a background
of design and planning. He is by quali-
fication Civil Engineer, though his pas-
sion for design and detail was spawned
under the guidance of his father, the Late
Qasim Duberia (Chartered Architect).
Qasim Duberia’s work stretched across
the whole of Gulf Countries in a career
spanning more than two decades, shap-
ing the his son’s understanding of space
and giving vast exposure to modern
luxury and design elements.
www.sdadesigns.co.in
11_Design Promo.indd 6711_Design Promo.indd 67 26-06-2014 21:22:3426-06-2014 21:22:34
68 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Arty-Techture
M A J E S T I CS I M P L Y
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 68Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 68 26-06-2014 19:49:5426-06-2014 19:49:54
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 69
Does opulence and art go hand in hand? Of course - bigger the canvas, better the expression can be. Too much of a good thing is not necessarily a good thing - for it tends to tilt the scale either on hyperbole or makes an overstatement.
Words: Hitesh Mistry Photo courtesy: Hemant Patil
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 69Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 69 26-06-2014 19:49:5926-06-2014 19:49:59
70 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
S o how do you go on and design
a home having a carpet area of
3,268 sq. ft.! Being such an exclusive
property, that too in the heart of Mumbai
is quite a statement in itself. And to make
things more interesting the owner’s brief
was very precise: “Exclusive and yet a
simple home, no need to turn this into a
showcase property.”
As the business of décor for living
quarters is anything to go by, one requires
a lot of understanding in decoding per-
sonal choices and treatment of available
space - not only in terms of maximising
utilisation but also to optimise, and pro-
vide a space for maintaining family life
without any hindrance or feeling of living
in a display window all the time.
Let’s dive in and capture the nitty-
gritty of the project and its creator.
Canna Patel is the chairperson of ‘HCP
Interior Architecture Pvt. Ltd.’ (HCPIA),
Ahmedabad, widely regarded as a repu-
table and professionally managed fi rm,
with 26 years of professional experience
under her belt.
She is renowned for her signature style
of designed interiors that complement
and seamlessly blend with the architec-
tural forms and spaces. Focus on detailing
and integration of art in her interiors and
architecture are trademarks of her work.
Early exposure to India’s rich heritage
and cultural diversity, combined with
Indian upbringing has moulded her cre-
ativity; and an eye for contrast pegged by
further education in US and travel through
Europe, China, Australia and SE Asia has
created a very sensuous amalgamation.
Her work exposure showcases a fi ne sen-
sitivity to Indian climate, its cultural values
and aspirations of masses.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 70Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 70 26-06-2014 19:50:0326-06-2014 19:50:03
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 71
Principal Designer:Ar. Canna Patel
Associate Architect:Mili Amin
Associate Manager:Avdhesh Vishwakarma
Art & Accessories consultant:Mili Amin
Art & Accessories consultant:Sonal Patel
Interior Designer: Upasana Vora
Lineworks Consultancy:Dr. Mukesh Patel
In recognition of her passion and tal-
ents, she has been bestowed with several
awards and been invited by the ‘German
Institut für Auslandsbesziehungen’ to
exhibit their work in Berlin as well as Milan,
along with select meridian of Indian archi-
tects and designers.
EntranceThe fascination begins right with the lift
door, such an unusual handle beckons.
One tends to open the door with intrigue
and spellbound fascination. The door is
made of nice typical teakwood but the
unusual handle in such a huge size adds
drama. The lift lobby is exclusive to each
fl oor and has been designed as an all
inclusive apartment space.
The foyer incorporates an inconspicu-
ous hideaway for footwear. The fl ooring
patterns and emphatic door handle arouse
a curiosity of what is beyond. The fl ooring,
furniture, materials and light provide a pre-
lude to the aesthetic play of underlying
patterns and rules in the design. Though
the handle is similar in design but diff er-
ence in scale creates an air of expectancy.
The foyer walls are adorned with a very
interesting marble pattern, one which is
rarely seen, setting the stage for anticipat-
ing an intricate display of workmanship.
Living RoomAs one enters the living room area; they are
bound to be rendered speechless by sheer
size, scale, and the audacity in combining
an assortment of various shapes, colours,
textures and materials. Yet nothing seems
out of proportion and in sync with each
other. Interplay between red, green, beige
and white has rarely been so majestic and
yet so subtle. The shades are extremely
Ar. Canna Patel
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 71Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 71 26-06-2014 19:50:0926-06-2014 19:50:09
72 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 72Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 72 26-06-2014 19:50:1826-06-2014 19:50:18
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 73
unusual. Procuring materials in such shades
must have been quite an exercise.
This room is fl anked on the right by the
terrace and extends right into a Home The-
atre space, separated by fl imsiest of cur-
tains when required, otherwise forms an
extended living room area. Though there is
a provision for isolating the sound by stur-
dier sliding doors. The door handle pattern
makes an appearance in the living room yet
again, but in a diff erent scale and on to a
least expected surface - fl ooring and parti-
tion. The round chairs complete the artistic
ambience. Indeed, a spell casting space.
Bed RoomsThere are three bedrooms, viz: master bed,
kids - daughter aged eleven and son aged
six, and for senior-most lady of the house.
All of them are designed keeping their
individual taste in mind but with a central
theme. Isn’t it brillant?
Mother’s bedroom is done in combina-
tion of white and a soothing mauve. Here
the pattern appears stencilled in the rug and
it manages to look ravishing. The dressing
table comes alive with an oval mirror and
the wardrobe also acts as a partition, giving
an additional privacy barrier and within an
easy reach, keeping her age in perspective.
The master bedroom and its attached
bathroom are designed to give it a bunga-
low feel owing to a new spatial layout. Both
its openings are treated in context with
its outer surroundings. One has a rich and
unobtrusive roman blind to disconnect
when necessary. The other window with
the view of a mango tree is enhanced by
tucking the sliding shutter behind a panel,
very smartly and unobtrusively.
The cylindrical lights placed at strate-
gic corners fi ll the room with soft luxuri-
ous ambience and casts a spell of elegant
warmth and comfort. The rug placement
is unique, it reminds of piano keys but in
ethereal shades lending it a colourful look.
Children’s bedroom has a shot of
orange fl uorescence emitting energy and
playfulness, besides the minimum regular
furniture. The children of the house will
certainly love to be at their special private
space, be it their study time or just play.
Terrace - Bar AreaThe real star of the show is the terrace. A 12
ft. wide gallery is enclosed with foliage of
a beautiful mango tree. It’s all custom-built
by HCPIA, starting with recycled timber
planks fl ooring, a comprehensive wet bar
with all the paraphernalia to unique bar-
stools - all spells class, careful planning and
workmanship, be it the effi cient bar table
or ergonomically, functionally sound fur-
niture - it shows and refl ects HCPIA’s belief
in ergonomic and functional furniture. It all
becomes a conversation starter over a large
drink. Let the spirits fl ow!
Ar. Canna and her effi cient team, believes
in using simple rules in diff erent contexts
to produce variety. The bar area, balcony
of this house is nothing but an oppurtunis-
tic design. All the projects handled by this
cretaive fi rm is simply diverse in nature.
www.hcpia.co.in
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 73Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 73 26-06-2014 19:50:3826-06-2014 19:50:38
74 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Productfeature
DECORREDEFINING
Twinkle Khanna
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 74Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 74 26-06-2014 19:50:4826-06-2014 19:50:48
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 75
“The fundamental gray differentiates the masters, expresses them and is the soul of all colours.” — Odilon Redon.
A home would naturally refl ect the culture of the people dwelling
in the space. The fabulous designer crafted products, available at
‘The White Window’ will make one a proud home owner.
The White Window is a space décor retail store located in Mumbai,
dedicated to off er distinctive items crafted with good design, imbue quali-
ty to inspire the senses and elevate living and work environments. Founded
in March 2002 by interior designer Twinkle Khanna, this store gives expres-
sion to innovation and exploration with its vibrant product lines. The store
specialises in home accents, home wares, lighting, vintage pieces and gifts
as well as bespoke pieces.
With more than 14 years of experience in the industry having worked
on residential, hospitality, commercial and retail projects, Twinkle actu-
alised her vision of off ering refi ned and aff ordable luxury to her clientele
with this store. The merchandise available here is designed, manufactured
and sourced with function and visuals in mind. It also houses a specialized
range of candles, The Faraway Tree off ering the best of sculpted, scented
and gilded candles. The non toxic ranges of candles specialise in aroma
therapy and are available in unique designs and textures.
The White Window’s recently launched ranges – The Distressed Fur-
niture is the perfect example of elegance. The rustic vintage look of this
range will certainly add an antique and stylish appearance to any decor.
Its intentional wear and tear is the fi nished look and is suited to contem-
porary sensibilities. The range experiments with varying shades of gray,
brown and gold. It has an elegant timeless collection comprising of
distressed wood dining table made from reclaimed teak, leather sofas with
jute union jack storage box and a cabinet reproduced in a distressed paint
finish. Elaborating further on the collection, designer Twinkle, says, “Design
is an ongoing cycle. For Distressed furniture there is no specifi c reason why
it’s fashionable besides the most important reason being that change is
always fashionable after the hedonistic phase.”
www.thewhitewindow.co
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 75Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 75 26-06-2014 19:51:1326-06-2014 19:51:13
76 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Leisuredesign
LuxuryVERSATILE
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 76Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 76 26-06-2014 19:51:2326-06-2014 19:51:23
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 77
A first of its kind standalone banquet, it is built in a most concise manner to make optimal use of space and reap the maximum, while maintaining the richness of look and feel.
Words: Charishma Thankappan
Ar. Ketan Sheth
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 77Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 77 26-06-2014 19:51:3226-06-2014 19:51:32
78 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Resplendent opulence oozes out of the
Interlink Banquet, a project undertaken
and completed by Goldmine Project
Consultant Pvt. Ltd. Located at the second fl oor
of Neelkanth Business Park, Vidyavihar, Mumbai;
The Banquet Hall is built over a total area of
42,000 sq ft, which includes a terrace and open
to sky area of 27,000 sq ft; and the enclosed area
and kitchen on 15,000 sq ft.
Symbolic of the latest modern trends and
design fi nesse of a ‘Standalone Banquet Hall’,
the Interlink Banquet Hall luxuriates with a
5-Star atmosphere. Crafted to host commercial
occasions such as birthday parties, conferences,
corporate product previews, get-togethers,
seminars, and other parties; it is a one of a kind
venture. Designed and executed within 135
days, the project has been an achievement
under Ar. Ketan Sheth, Director and Principal
Designer, Goldmine Project Consultant Pvt. Ltd.
With the theme of Art Décor, the entire
premises refl ects only the best in class and qual-
ity when it comes to the materials and furnish-
ings used to build the banquet hall. The recep-
tion area is equipped with Cappuccino Italino
Marble; while the lobby has French Brown, Bila-
sik Beige with Steel Patti. There is another smaller
banquet called the Ruby Banquet, where the
fl ooring carpet in the central area is made of
Bilasik Beige and Brecia Onacita. The main ban-
quet is further divided into three parts – Crys-
tal 1, 2 and 3. Bilasik Beige, Brecia Onacita and
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 78Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 78 26-06-2014 19:51:4326-06-2014 19:51:43
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 79
French Brown are used for fl ooring in these zones. The
small lobby in this area is composed of Bilasik Beige, Brecia
Onacita and Steel Patti.
The rooms meant for brides and grooms have Cap-
puccino Italino Marble fl ooring, with Venice Beige and
Armani Brown used for the fl ooring of the washrooms.
The false ceilings and certain other areas bear gold leaf-
ing work, while certain walls are decorated with wallpa-
per. The sanitary ware and the glass used is of renowned
brands .The columns have been covered with mirror pan-
elling to conceal the civil structure, and leather panelling
is used for acoustics.
The terrace is composed of tiles, veneer, leather pan-
els, CDMT lights, LED lights (both waterproof as well as
non-waterproof). It also has facility for Digital Glass Unit
(DGU). ACP panelling with Laser Cut, Jaipur Stone-work,
Landscaping, retractable awnings from Kings Canope,
and Waterfall mural work are the other marvellous fea-
tures that the terrace area boasts of, along with custom-
ised curtains and loose furniture.
A customised crystal chandelier augments the luxuri-
ous feel that the entire place is aglow with. The overall
ambiance of the setting is one of understated indulgence.
Naturalistic motifs with geometrical patterns, angular and
stream-lined motifs like zigzags and chevrons are utilised
as part of the main design theme. Incorporating natu-
ral elements of birds, fl owers, fl owing water, trees, etc.;
curves, rounded edges and scrolls lend an organic, nat-
ural and soothing sensation. The overall ambiance thus
evokes warmth and vitality.
The advantage of such a unique arrangement is that
three diff erent events can be carried out at the same time
from the main hall. With the help of sliding folding parti-
tions, each ballroom can be divided into three parts to
facilitate smaller congregations. There are exclusive music
systems for each of the sections, and there is also the facil-
ity to connect them to either of the ballrooms through
amplifi ers or mixture, via a small music junction room. The
acoustics sliding folding partition doors and the carpets
used absorb sounds and echoes, thereby enabling a com-
prehensive musical experience.
About Ar. Ketan ShethWith professional qualifi cations from J.J. School of Arts,
Mumbai, in Interior Design and Decoration; and Inchbald
School of Design, London; Ar. Ketan Sheth is a committee
member of Institute of Indian Interior Designers; Associ-
ate Member of Hotel & Restaurant Association (Western
India); and a visiting faculty member of Rachana Sansad
School of Interior Designing, Mumbai. Founded in 1989,
Goldmine Project Consultant Pvt. Ltd. has garnered repu-
tation over the years for their top-notch quality in interior
design and architectural projects.
Ar. Sheth has won accolades from across his clientele
and has earned many a milestone over his long and suc-
cessful career, the latest being the illustrious ‘Regional
Commendation Award for Institutional Category- Excel-
lence in Interior Design’, in the western region (Mumbai &
Thane) at the IIID (Institute of Indian Interior Designers) &
Anchor Panasonic Awards 2012.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 79Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 79 26-06-2014 19:52:2326-06-2014 19:52:23
80 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
designResidential
Achieving serenity with dynamics was the challenge confronted by young Interior Designer
Priydarshan Indorckar of PI Designs, Pune, while he planned a spacious 3 BHK located in one of the elite areas in his city. The designer with his magic
touch created a loveable and cuddly home.
DynamismSerene
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 80Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 80 26-06-2014 19:52:5526-06-2014 19:52:55
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 81
After our day to day hustle and
bustle, we all rush towards a
special space called Home. Home
is where we spent our cosy time with our
loved ones. We all aspire to design this
space in the best possible way isn’t it?
Designer Priydarshan was approached
by a couple parenting two children, to
design a home fi lled with tranquillity. The
neat clean lines of design applied by this
young designer transformed a newly pur-
chased 1800 sq ft apartment into a blissful
abode.
We delve in to this home and fi nd out
why this home is a unique place to live in?
Lobby A narrow lobby over powered by colour
white creates a welcoming ambience
in overall space. One will be bewitched
by the golden mirror cladding over the
wall, backing a neat shoe show. Being a
designer with an eye for details and being
a lover of art, Priydarshan and his team
widely embellished traditional art works
in this space. To invoke health, wealth and
happiness, an auspicious elephant troop,
symbolising walking inside the home is
placed in this area. The diagonal planked
laminated veneer studded in the main
entrance adds movement or dynamism to
the softly lit area.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 81Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 81 26-06-2014 19:53:1426-06-2014 19:53:14
82 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
The LivingThe Italian marble floor of the lobby
spills into the living area, creating a conti-
nuity of Interior spaces. A striking veneer
cladding wall spanning on the ceiling
form an unusual feature in this sober liv-
ing space and forms a neat back drop
for the entertainment unit. This area is
faced with an L-shaped specially crafted
cosy sofa seating for six persons with a
perpendicularly placed two side couch
seating along a customized bay window
seating, overlooking a well landscaped
garden. A back wall is abstractly pan-
elled with cut tinted mirrors, in order to
add a spacious dimension to the living
area making it elude into a grand space
combined with direct light in white and
asset light in yellow contributing to the
ambience.
Dining & KitchenA compact dinning for 4 persons is crafted
with a cantilevered overhung white self lit
solid surface structure, studded with white
and transparent acrylic chairs. Sitting here
one gets the view point for the ‘L-shaped’
modular kitchen, having a solid surface top
in white, splash back in ceramic white and
store fascias in poly acrylic; well spaced
between white and blue, adding to the
cool eff ect to an otherwise steaming up
kitchen. A neatly attached dry area and well
designed store area squeeze in between
them. A compact wash-hand basin is craft-
ed in solid surface and Italian Marble.
Privacy ZonesMaster bedroom is the heart of a resi-
dential space. To create an awe experi-
ence designer Priydarshan used laminated
veneer emphasized by white solid surface
for a wall to wall wardrobe. A King sized
bed speaks out authority and power to
be possessed by the family head. Use of
earthly tones for the soft furnishings i.e.
bed linen, warms up the room with love.
The son’s bedroom is cleverly
planned with a wall to wall wardrobe in
white duco paint highlighted with laminat-
ed veneer, cornering a comfy study area
within. The room again has a King sized
bed in white and upholstered in Torques
blue. The perpendicular wall covered with
laminated veneer and mirror facing a large
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 82Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 82 26-06-2014 19:53:3226-06-2014 19:53:32
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 83
opening covered with sliding toughened
glass door panels; lead us to a well cul-
tured terrace space.
A longitudinal terrace stretching
across the son’s and master bedroom fi n-
ished with Italian marble walls, stoneware
vitrifi ed fl oors, recessed along the periph-
eral walls with artifi cial grass and pebbles
and glass railings serves as a parapet. The
narrow wall is dynamically designed with
back lit wall panels studded with selective
artifacts and this space is cleverly pocket
lit to create a relaxing mood in yellow.
In the daughter’s bedroom again
one will witness a solid surface –white
fl aunts as a vibrant palette, wall paper
in warm hues on the bed back and tap-
estry coordinating with the wall paper,
adds radiance and style to the room.
Full height frosted glass and profi le shut-
tered wardrobe boast of her collection of
designer wear outfi ts, with a full wall mir-
ror cladding sliding panels housing loads
of accessories and cosmetics possessed
by her.
Powder roomsThe powder rooms are well equipped and
fi nished in designer stone ware tiles and
Italian marble, designed with appropriate
locations of activities to work effi ciently.
With this inviting home, designer
Priydarshan and his team have proved
that their design philosophy is being
simple and creating a custom project for
each client.
Mission of PI DesignsFounded by designer Priydarshan Indorckar,
PI Designs have successfully designed vari-
ous projects including bungalows, fl ats and
commercial projects like offi ce, hotels and
factories in Pune, Mumbai and other Indian
cities. His fi rm believes in designing interiors
to enhance and portray the best image of
the occupant. He is an associate member of
Indian Institute of Interior Designers, Pune.
The fi rm boasts of off ering integrated
state of art service and enhances quality
of life by creating best in facilities embed-
ded with ambience of space and quality by
implementing knowledge and experience
for benefi t of the client.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 83Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 83 26-06-2014 19:53:4726-06-2014 19:53:47
84 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Add a colourful touch to your home with Portico New York, a name synonymous with home fashion. The company’s strength hinges on a 3-pillar foundation: consumer insight, innovation and quality.
Creativeideas
Portico New York’s products are extremely design-
centric, created out of the highest quality materials
and exude luxury and glamour. Arun Bhawsingka,
CEO, Portico New York; discusses with Marilyn M, the mission
and vision of Portico New York.
MM: You were with Raymond Apparel and Bombay
Dyeing before joining Creative Portico Pvt. Ltd. We would
like to know your journey till now?
AB: Well, the journey was marvellous and of great excite-
ment. I got a lot of exposure when I joined Raymond in
1998. You will be surprised to know that I am a C.A and
not a person coming from a home textile background. I
worked in the retail segment at Raymond and it has larg-
FRESH &APPEALING
Arun Bhawsingka
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 84Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 84 26-06-2014 19:54:3326-06-2014 19:54:33
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 85
est chain of stores, so I learnt the retail and garment function-
ing there. For better prospects all aspiring people aim to climb
the success ladder. With this dream, I joined Bombay Dyeing in
2005. It was during this time span when the transition of a com-
modity to fashion had started. The consumers today are more
conscious as far as the home décor is concerned. They are now
choosy to even select their bed sheets, and they keep pace with
the new trends. I joined Portico New York in 2012 with a mission
to make all Indian homes fashionable. Isn’t it interesting to be
surrounded by colour? Every day, for me, is a new day, a new
learning. It is an exciting industry, it demands a lot from you;
time and effort both, but at the end of the day, you feel satisfied
for creating the best.
MM: How big is this industry?
AB: Home textile is a vast market, estimated at around 2 billion dol-
lar and 90 % of it is dominated by unorganized sector. Our potential
lies in replacing the unorganized. Due to exposure to global trends,
people are conscious and often choose bath linen, bed linen, cur-
tains that are vibrant and blend with the mood.
We have an exclusive range of bed covers and no branded
company is focussing this way. Our range consists of mid price, mid
premium and premium. Every year we launch 6-8 collection, this
year we launched, the tree of life, international embroidery range
apart from bed covers. Readymade curtains are another segment,
we are entering into now, and you see a lot of potential in that
segment.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 85Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 85 26-06-2014 19:54:4926-06-2014 19:54:49
86 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
MM: What is your success mantra?
AB: Be very passionate of what you do, fol-
low stringently, get into details and never
miss important data. Being a C A, I am privi-
leged that I have a clearer understanding of
the data.
MM: Tell us about the strength of Portico
New York?
AB: Portico New York’s strength is a leading
fashion brand in the country. We have cre-
ated designs that are trend leaders, based
on international trends and colours as per
the taste of Indian consumers. We are proud
to say that we have products for every tar-
get group be it for kids, youth or for health
conscious people .Our wedding and luxury
collection will certainly mesmerize your
senses. To add on, I would say, all our prod-
uct ranges are aesthetically created as per
the needs of our esteemed consumers, and
our strength lies in the best quality, we off er.
MM: Are Portico New York products
costlier than the other products
available in the market?
AB: Every product has a price of its own.
Portico New York product lines are quality
products and are value for money product.
MM: Elaborate prevailing colour trends
in this industry and how Portico New
York is keeping pace with the same.
AB: We always follow the prevalent trends
in India and outside. All our product lines
have marked its presence in the consum-
ers’ mindsets. The colours that are recently
prevalent are Purple, Indigo and vogue
shades. No two collections of ours are of
same colours.
MM: What are your expansion plans? Do
you have any plans to spread your wings
to foreign lands? If yes, then where?
AB: We have very aggressive expansion
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 86Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 86 26-06-2014 19:54:5726-06-2014 19:54:57
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 87
plans; currently we have 20 stores and aspire to
unveil 150 stores in next three to fi ve years. We
are no1. Brand and in every large format stores,
we are there by default. Of course, we are looking
at spreading wings to foreign lands, right from
Middle East to South – East Asia.
MM: Your vision
AB: Our vision is to be best and biggest in the
country. Every brand has their niche segmenta-
tion. All have their own strength and space. The
market is big, nobody should be bothered of any
competition and our motto lies in off ering good
products to the consumers.
New Launch
Luxury that sets trends: Enchant Collection
Portico New York’s latest collection Enchant
- luxury bed, pillows and cushion covers, are
crafted and designed using the most exquisite
quality of fabrics from Europe. Showcasing some
of the latest trends in European home fashion,
the Enchant Collection is a one-of-a-kind range,
available in a variety of colors and designs that
are trending in homes across the globe.
The Collection comes in a wide assort-
ment of solid yet subtle colours of bed covers
with vibrant contrasting pillow cases that add
a modern edge to your home décor. The fabric,
especially imported from Europe is a result of
pioneering innovations and in-depth analysis
of trends across the world. It is developed from
superior quality yarn and the luxurious collection
is made with handpicked elements of the fi nest
kind. With Enchant, perfect home décor is just a
cover away. The opulent bed covers are specially
crafted so it can lend a designer feel to your bed-
room. The sets include 1 bed cover, 2 pillow cov-
ers and 2 cushion covers. Available at Rs. 14,999/-
onwards, the Enchant collection is one of the
most advanced pieces of Home Fashion you can
currently own.
www.porticoindia.com
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 87Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 87 26-06-2014 19:55:1026-06-2014 19:55:10
88 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
designCorporate
Span Group being a realty fi rm, the brief was to have an impactful presence felt without compromising on the privacy and the security of the organization. Form Space N Design Architects; strived to attain this goal and moulded a perfect work environment.
Photo courtesy: Ravi Kanade
AWORKAHOLICSPACE
Fact File:Project Name:Offi ce for Span Group
Total Area:3500sq.ft
Location:Chakala, Andheri East, Mumbai
Design Team:Ar. Rajesh Kathe, Ar. Sohil Valia & Divya Rupreja – Associate Interior Designer
Electrical ConsultantRiddhi Consulting Engineers
AC ConsultantRashi Aircons
Main ContractorWood Tek Interior
Electrical ConsultantRiddhi Consulting Engineers
Painting ContractorDivine Decor
Graphic DesignerRavi Kanade & Avyaya Communi-cations Pvt Ltd
Ar. Sohil ValiaAr. Rajesh Kathe
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 88Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 88 26-06-2014 19:55:2126-06-2014 19:55:21
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 89
I ncepted in 2003, Form Space N Design
Architects’ mission remained to derive
and develop new concepts for every site
it designs, whether it’s small or a large. The
fi rm is spearheaded by two partners Ar.
Sohil Valia and Ar. Rajesh Kathe. Span Group
believed in their potential to create a distinct
offi ce space and handed over this task to
these brainy designers. A 3500 sq ft offi ce
was designed with: a reception and waiting
area with a meeting room connected to the
waiting area. A 5’ wide corridor connecting
the conference room, 3 director cabins,
2 junior director cabins, sales cabin; a VIP
lounge, staff area, pantry, technical staff area
with compactor space for storage and toilets.
Let’s walk through this peaceful work zone
to know more :
Entrance & ReceptionThe entrance to the reception is fl anked by a
6’ wide & a 17’ long corridor adjourned with
a square grid of mirrors with the fi rm’s name
etched on the same for branding purpose
and the other wall of the corridor depicting
the values and principles of this organization.
The 400 sq ft reception and the waiting
area has a high lighter wall made in squares
of mdf in diff erent sizes and levels fi nished in
white P.U. fi nish creating a back drop of the
reception table. The reception table is fi n-
ished in a mixture of materials like, Veneer,
Corian and stainless steel with a front illumi-
nated vinyl used as a graphical illustration
depicting the vision of a realty organization.
Conference roomThe 250 sq ft conference room in the cen-
tre of this offi ce houses a 10 seater confer-
ence table fi nished in Corian in 2 colours,
equipped with drawers and electrical
socket provisions for comfortable working.
In order to blend in a contrasting feel, the
dark wooden fl ooring is used along with the
bright orange fabric panelling on one wall,
while the opposite side provides a view of
the skyline of the city, infusing quality light
into the conference room.
The beauty of this space lies in the cen-
tral ceiling created in a form of suspended
rafters in uneven widths with an interesting
pattern with lights infusing from them, illu-
minating the table below. Work is devotion,
to blend in divinity, a mandir was created in
a 4’ wide niche next to the conference room
with a back lit cut design in mdf fi nished in
white glossy P.U. fi nish.
Directors CabinThe 3 director’s cabin each around 170 sq
ft has been designed with personifi ed ele-
gance with a huge 7’ long working table in
combination veneer with melamine matt
fi nish and Corian table top with an engrav-
ing design in a diff erent coloured Corian.
The etching jaali design has been
repeated as an element in diff erent formats
like a cut fi lm on the table apron or a cut
veneer installation with a backdrop of a mir-
ror or a veneer or cut design in MDF with
back lighting. A suspended led fl at panel illu-
minates the table.
The Meeting RoomA 90 sq ft 4 person meeting room acces-
sible from the waiting area as well from the
main offi ce houses a vibrant bright orange
colour table with a decorative lamp fl ank-
ing the ceiling and a vinyl write up depicting
the terms affi liated with construction and
designing fl anking the corner.
17_Corporate Design.indd 8917_Corporate Design.indd 89 6/26/2014 9:28:55 PM6/26/2014 9:28:55 PM
90 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Staff AreaThe staff area designed for 10 people accom-
modates a 4’ x 2’ work station for each of
them with adequate storage fi nished in lami-
nate fi nish and a yellow Ochre soft board,
adds a pinch of colour splash to the working
environment.
PantryThe 120 sq ft pantry is completely equipped
with all the necessary appliances and a small
lunch table accommodating 4 persons with
a splash of orange and yellow in the graph-
ic vinyl adds a refreshing element to the
breakout area.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 90Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 90 26-06-2014 19:56:2326-06-2014 19:56:23
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 91
CorridorThe 5’ wide corridor fl ooring is in 4’ x 2’ matt
tiles leading to the rest of the offi ce space;
the façade of the walk way is designed
with a combination of white back-painted
glass in the centre and veneer on top and
bottom and rafters arranged in a barcode
format overlapping the entire elevation.
The opposite partition facing the reception
is designed with veneer panels and clear
glass with a designer fi lm keeping in mind
the privacy of the cabins.
Indeed with aesthetics, Form Space N
Design Architects were successful in creat-
ing a plush, eye- catching and a functional
offi ce space.
Know usForm Space N Design Architects special-
izes in designing of sample fl ats for eminent
builders, high end residences, corporate
offi ces, call centre; restaurants and high end
bungalows as far as interiors industry is con-
cerned. The fi rm is also completely involved
in Architecture of I.T. parks, commercial
buildings, residential buildings, sports club
and large bungalows to its credit. With a
design team of 15 people including archi-
tects, interior designers, 3D visualizers and
site supervisors, the fi rm believes in effi cient
designing. The fi rm has bagged many acco-
lades including III KAFF,IIID MK Awards, IAD
Awards to name a few.
www.fsndarchitects.com
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 91Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 91 26-06-2014 19:57:0526-06-2014 19:57:05
92 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
designCorporate
A land surveyor and a consultant wanted a 900 sqft offi ce with maximum space utilization without compromising on the overall appearance. B- Square Architects, headed by budding designers, Ar. Smeet Bramhecha and Mayank Badrakiya successfully designs this space.
The existing plan revolves around a linear rectangle block with
windows only on one of its shorter side. The design approach
was an open plan with a circulation path along the length
of the space. Reception, waiting area, discussion table and the work
place are placed along this path. A continuous fl ow of spaces helped
in maximum daylight penetration while providing spatial interest
that fostered communication. The circulation path ends in the
director’s cabin. All the utility and services like the rest room, toilet,
pantry and the printing room are placed along the peripheral walls
so as maximize space utilization. Checkered tile pattern and glass
partitions are used to defi ne these spaces.
LESS IS MORE
Ar. Mayank Badrakiya and Smeet Bramhecha
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 92Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 92 26-06-2014 19:57:4226-06-2014 19:57:42
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 93
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 93Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 93 26-06-2014 19:58:2526-06-2014 19:58:25
94 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
One main challenge that the
designers faced was to use the regularly
placed large beams effi ciently, where the
head room was just 8ft so to make the
space feel more voluminous. The irregular
shaped ceiling design above the work
area not only helped them in reducing the
overall impact of the large beams but also
creating a striking design feature, which
is further enhanced by the use of cove
lighting. Thus, the veneer fi nished ceiling
which comes down to form the reception
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 94Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 94 26-06-2014 19:59:0426-06-2014 19:59:04
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 95
table becomes the main attraction of the
offi ce. Direct (Functional) and indirect
(artistic) lighting helps in further enhancing
to the overall ambience of the space.
Elaborating on the design Ar. Smeet
Bramhecha adds, “We intended to redefi ne
the work place with a complete new
approach. The work tables were placed
alternately along the central cord to give a
cluster-free and modern feel to the overall
space. The central cord fi nished in the same
color as the fl oor tile, forms the principal
storage space for the work tables. The
cord was intentional designed low height
so as to utilize maximum daylight and
encourage communication in-between
the employees. All the furniture was
standardized in the proportion of A0 size
paper which they use regularly.
The director’s cabin design has been
kept minimal with travertine marble
fi nished work table and a discussion area.
Window sizes were increased to allow
maximize day light penetration. Wave
pattern mdf sheets were deliberately used
on the ceiling and the walls; to contrast
with the very rigid planning work that the
land surveyor usually does.
A window frame is placed in between
the director’s cabin and the work place
to breaks the overall monotony of the
partition walls. Roller blinds fi xed in the
wooden frame helps in maintaining the
privacy of the director and also visual
connectivity in between the respected
places as whenever required.
About usB-SQUARE ARCHITECTS was founded by
Smeet Bramhecha and Mayank Badrakiya
in Nashik, India in 2010. With in a short
time frame, the fi rm has worked on
a diverse range of projects including
individual houses, offi ces, hospitality
and recreational spaces across various
locations.
We intend to look beyond the
ordinary to produce architecture and
interiors that not only meet our client’s
needs and brief but also exceeds their
expectations. Our strength lies in
translating ideas into reality with the help
of innovative thinking supported by skills
and technical expertise.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 95Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 95 26-06-2014 19:59:1126-06-2014 19:59:11
96 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Designaspect
Fact FileProject:Residence of Ritesh Mundra, Director Choice Holidays Ltd., Raipur
Total Area:3500 sq.ft.
Location: Lakhenagar, Raipur
Design Team:Designer Pooja, Paridhi & Poorva.
19_Design Aspect.indd 9619_Design Aspect.indd 96 26-06-2014 21:26:1126-06-2014 21:26:11
Designer Nitin Thakur’s latest residential design exemplifi es a modernity with beauty and utility. As a designer, he believes that there is no meaning in life without challenge and loves to take it and overcome the same.
Photo courtsey: Adesh Desai
ELEGANT LOOK
19_Design Aspect.indd 9719_Design Aspect.indd 97 26-06-2014 21:27:0026-06-2014 21:27:00
98 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
D esigner, Nitin’s founded Imagine
Interiors in 2005 and his forte
lies in maximizing utility and
economic returns for all the clients by
possessing and providing specialized skills
and completing the project within the set
time frame.
Entering the residence of Ritesh Mun-
dra, one will see the mind-blowing inte-
riors designed using the basic items like
Smoke Veneers, Corian, Italian Marble,
Mother of pearl; Metallic Tiles. Decorative
Lights were extensively used to bring in
life to the space. The Buddha Mural with
Rudraksh work and eye soothing light
eff ects placed in the living room adds to
a life in the place. Elaborating on the fur-
niture design, he says, “Seeing the trend,
we have adopted modern design and
have used LED lighting to create diff erent
moods within the spaces, beautifying the
same and maximising the utility of the
space. The colours scheme used is Walnut.
The planThe house is designed into a G+1 fl oor.
The living room is designed in an exotic
19_Design Aspect.indd 9819_Design Aspect.indd 98 26-06-2014 21:28:1826-06-2014 21:28:18
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 99
manner and connects with the dining
area. The wooden door and the Buddha
mural will lure you and is the central piece
of attraction. From here once will see an
open kitchen, specially designed as per
the client’s need. The house has four bed-
rooms, with a modern look and king sized
beds. Speaking about the bedrooms, the
designer shaped the kids bedroom with
love and understanding the child psychol-
ogy. The client has two kids, one son and a
daughter, so the kids’ room is designed in
blue. Blue lights, furniture and bed in blue
colour completely blend in and create a
cuddly kids zone.
Indeed a modern design completed in
the span of just 9 months.
19_Design Aspect.indd 9919_Design Aspect.indd 99 26-06-2014 21:31:0026-06-2014 21:31:00
100 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
UNBOUND CREATIVITY
Dimensions
HOSTS 2014, one of India’s largest and unique hospitality exhibitions was a hat trick chance for Ar.Samir Dharurkar and team to express their design expertise.The creative mock-up of a studio hotel room, sets a perfect example for space utilization.
Photo courtesy: Prashant Bhatt
A studio room is the perfect urban sanctuary for those
seeking intimate accommodation with luxurious
amenities. In these comfortable accommodations, rich
heritage and sophisticated style coalesce with a combination of
modern amenities to simple fi nishes. The studio rooms needs to
be cozy and comfortable, perfectly adhering to the needs of an
individual, couple or those travelling on business.
The creative mock-up by We Architects refl ected a studio
hotel room with kitchenette, encompassing a perfect space for
bed, wardrobe, sofa, study, coff ee table, wash area and a defi ned
space for all accessories such as mini bar, crockery unit, hospital-
ity tray, wash room linen, luggage rack etc. without compromis-
ing on any single functional space required by a typical studio
room. The realm of natural materials comprising the wall paper,
veneer, roller blinds made out of natural cane, adds a mesmer-
izing eff ect into over all space.
The repetitive use of decorative wooden panels in piece-
meal, synchronized with each other enhance the richness of
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 100Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 100 6/26/2014 8:25:54 PM6/26/2014 8:25:54 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 101
this space. Use of subtle colours along with
few highlighters in deep orange colour
such as vase, paintings, pillows etc. cre-
ates a welcoming ambiance. Decorative
wooden panels near wash area and coff ee
table, add warmth and luxurious feel to the
space, creating a wow factor.
The specifi c use of lighting – hanging
light over coff ee table, LED strip light at
television unit panelling, wall bracket lights
over side table, fl oor lamp near sofa aims
at uniform brightness on all surfaces and
provides visual comfort and charm to the
overall space. Elaborating further, Ar. Samir
adds, “Our design refl ects fusion of natural
elements in modern look. We created this
space considering international market
and foreign brands. In addition of kitch-
enette, we aimed at justifying the effi cient
space utilization. Looking into growth of
hospitality sector, studio apartment is a
must in future India.”
About Ar. Samir R. DharurkarAn endeavour to provide integrated qual-
ity service to the industry in terms of time
and workmanship, Ar. Samir, established an
independent fi rm ‘We Architects’ in 2010.
This fi rm’s profi ciency lies in good mix of
projects all over India, ranging from hotels,
malls, residential projects, townships from
designing – execution, completion, civil
and interiors. This designer acquired the
B.Arch degree from well known Sir J. J.
College of Architecture, Mumbai. Building
on a wide experience in handling diverse
projects with Sanjay Puri Architects for 8
years, he worked with leading developers
and corporate throughout the country.
To compete with the world on an even
keel, We Architects believes in the need to
diversify their work in diff erent ways and
hence to create a diff erent platform.
www.wearchitects.co.in
Location Bombay Exhibition Center, Mumbai
Year Jan 2014.
Client HOSTS 2014
Area 270 sqft
Size 12’0” x 24’0”.
Budget 8 lacs (Inclusive of all)
Project Studio Hotel room
Contractor Prem Yadav, Saket Interiors Pvt.Ltd; Mumbai
Design team
Samir R. Dharurkar, Mansi Dharurkar, Manoj Sharma, Neitraa Satghare
Fact fi le
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 101Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 101 6/26/2014 8:26:28 PM6/26/2014 8:26:28 PM
102 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
International
Fact File: Client: Yayla Yatırım Gıda İnş. San. İç ve Dış Ticaret Ltd. Şti.Location: Istanbul, BagcilarProject Date: 2012Construction Date: 2015Land Size: 16,900 sqmBuilding Size: 92,602 sqmBuilding Type: Reinforced Concrete Architectural Design: AVCI ArchitectsProject Management: IMS Engineering & ConsultancyInterior: Serbetci Architecture & InteriorsLandscape Design: DS ArchitectureLighting Consultant: NA Architectural Lighting DesignModel: Kucuk AtelierImages: Santral Architect & DesignDesign Team: Selçuk AVCI (Founder, AVCI Architects), Burak Ünder, Deniz Nar, Hande A Yarımbıyık, Tuba Şehitoğlu, Ceren Beyazıtoğlu, Selin Gürel, Eftychia Papathanasiou, Sinan Günay, Onur Tanık, Özge Öztürk, Tuğba Öztürk, Tolgahan Akbulut, Deniz Orçun, Tamer Aksu (short term), Barlas Ertürk (short term), Hürsel Sarıdağ (short term)
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 102Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 102 6/26/2014 8:27:30 PM6/26/2014 8:27:30 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 103
Breaking the monotony of typical tower design rising from a podium, the goal of AVCI Architects is to create a project developing a neighbourhood feeling and a new business centre along with other developments close by.
A
GREENGLOBE
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 103Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 103 6/26/2014 8:27:42 PM6/26/2014 8:27:42 PM
104 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
W hat is being Green? Green
architecture is a sustainable
method of green building
design: it is design and construction with
the environment in mind. Green architects
generally work with the key concepts of
creating energy effi cient, environmentally
friendly spaces. AVCI creates a building
design that is sustainable and live. Let’s
explore Balance Gunseli and Design Matrix
gives you a chance to decide and derive at
your conclusions.
The future main pedestrian street
along the site is inviting and forms an
enclosed urban square for the project.
After entering through the square, pedes-
trians are fi nally getting connected to the
landscape of Ayamama River through the
permeable structure along street. The
same permeability continues through
the neighbouring sites and creates very
inviting public areas. Lower buildings are
located around that streets. Considering
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 104Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 104 6/26/2014 8:27:55 PM6/26/2014 8:27:55 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 105
the social sustainability of the neighborhood, the
lower buildings consists of offi ces and home offi c-
es while generating streets in between. This way
the neighborhood stays safe by its activity a nd
liveliness throughout the day. Taking into account
sustainability and effi cient energy consumption,
the diff erent façade formations and material used
on the diff erent orientations of the buildings sup-
port the elegant impression of the mass.
Elaborating more on the design parameters
of this building Ar. Selçuk, adds “The aim is to max-
imize the use of solar energy by making northern
facades more opaque with stone coverings, and
layering the southern facades by placing wooden
brise-soleil in front of glass. The gardens on the
upper fl oors of the southern facades provide
both natural heating, ventilation and the continu-
ity of the green, giving motion and variety to the
façade at the same time.”
About AVCI ArchitectsSelcuk AVCI and Sanja Jurca AVCI established AVCI
Architects in London in 1989. In its fi rst year, the
practice won the top prize in the European Union
biannual Energy Effi cient Buildings Competition,
a culmination of years of experience in sustain-
ability, which set the tone for the direction of
the practice. Although the practice specializes in
many sectors in terms of programme, sustainabil-
ity has become an underlying driving ethos, from
the scale of regional masterplanning down to the
design of a single product.
AVCI Architects has designed projects in the
UK as well as Italy, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Ghana,
Serbia, Czech Republic, Slovenia and more recent-
ly in Turkey. Currently active projects include com-
mercial and institutional offi ces, retail centers, pri-
vate residential developments, and educational
and cultural buildings including exhibitions and
museums. More recently since the expansion of
its operation in Istanbul, the practice has been
joined by Burak Under as partner who acts as the
operational director of the practice in Istanbul.
AVCI Architects has studios in London, Istan-
bul and Ljubljana.
www.avciarchitects.com
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 105Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 105 6/26/2014 8:28:45 PM6/26/2014 8:28:45 PM
106 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Designcorner
On a holiday to the magnificent resort of The Serai at Chikmagalur, Architect Apurva Bose Dutta discovers how an invigorating design ends up making one respect the beauty of mother nature.
Words and Pictures: Ar Apurva Bose Dutta
N A T U R E - A N D -
D E S I G N
An interior shot of the villa
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 106Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 106 6/26/2014 8:30:03 PM6/26/2014 8:30:03 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 107
A surprise holiday in the breathtak-
ing Serai Resort at Chikmagalur -
250 kms from Bengaluru, for me
turned into an additional appreciation of
how well the mere profession of design
manages to touch us so eloquently and
magically.
Designed by the award-winning Ben-
galuru-based Gayathri and Namith Archi-
tects (GNA) on a site area of 70 acres with
76,000sqft built up area, the architects
sought out to ‘design a resort amidst a
coff ee plantation that would give a fl avour
of the coff ee estate to its visitors, simulta-
neously maintaining utmost privacy and
exclusivity to them’. While Chikmagalur
has been invariably known as the constit-
uency from where former Prime Minister
Indira Gandhi was elected to the Lok Sab-
ha, it also happens to be the region where
coff ee was fi rst cultivated in India.
Meandering through the driveway
nestled between the lush plantations, one
reaches the elongated reception-cum-
lounge that throws open exhilarating views
of the grand 3300sqft infi nity pool, leading
down to a walkway accessing the 30 villa
cottages. The views of the serene blue pool
in the foreground, and the greenery inter-
spersed with the villa roofs in shingles and
the hilly background on the horizon casts a
delightful spell, while inviting one too walk
along and discover the villas partly camou-
fl aged in the undulating plantations. The
reception-lounge area in granite fl ooring
is dotted with lovely paper light pendants.
This block is adjoined on both the sides by
two-tier rectangular structures.
While the ground fl oors divide them-
selves between the restaurant, spa and
conferencing facilities with a common
outdoor seating, the fi rst fl oor houses the
reception-cum-lounge, a library, recre-
ational facilities and a bar with a terrace.
Two fl ights of staircase on either side of
the reception-lounge area keep the cir-
culation open and free. All the structures
here are typical column/ beam structures
designed with steep sloped concrete roofs
to withstand the heavy rainfall, typical of
Chikmagalur during the monsoons.
The resort aligns itself along a cen-
tral spine (that threads the entire resort
together) commencing from the infi n-
ity pool towards the cottages and end-
ing at the presidential villa. It consists of a
water-way inlaid walkway that branches
The infinity pool with the staggering villa roofs in the
background makes for a beautiful visual imagery
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 107Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 107 6/26/2014 8:30:04 PM6/26/2014 8:30:04 PM
108 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
off to the individual approaches to each
villa unit. For the architects amassing the
beautiful views of the hills and beyond
was important and unfortunately this lin-
ear plot posed a constraint, thus a cautious
intervention was made of creating artifi cial
contours fl anking the central water spine,
with the villas regulating these premedi-
tated contours. This spine (a combination
of hard landscape and water features as
reliefs) while establishing the direction
of the resort manages to let the stagger-
ing roofl ines of the villas attain the prime
importance; such is its subtle yet powerful
eff ect. The entire texture, colour of design
while being refreshing manages to soothe
the eyes especially during Chikmagalur’s
bright summers.
Local materials blend in the context -
the mint-slate cladding on the walls com-
pliments the landscape. The designer vil-
las /cottages (707sqft each) in themselves
off er absolute tranquillity - single units with
gates while taking care of utmost privacy,
they are minimalist, contemporary in style
and designed completely for comfort. The
immense use of rosewood (that was pro-
cessed from the site plantation from dead
or fallen trees) in the living-cum-bedroom
off ers the necessary warmth and contrast
to the washroom in neutral colours. There
is though a slight hesitation in acceptance
of the placement of the LCD Screen with
reference to the bed, which on ponder-
ing also reveals how the designers maybe
wanted their visitors to give the least
importance to this ‘per functionary activ-
ity’. A private pool/Jacuzzi with a gazebo
with a daybed features with each villa
and the entire set up designed within the
greenery ensures ample relaxation, whilst
taking care of security concerns.
The central spine branches off to individual approaches to the villas
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 108Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 108 6/26/2014 8:30:06 PM6/26/2014 8:30:06 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 109
Of note is how the various types of
plants have been painstakingly employed
to give rise to framed views - especially
through the villa window of the master
bedroom. An intelligent air-conditioning
system helps in conserving energy which
operates in sync with the sensor doors
that are connected to it. The bathroom
conceptualised as a natural extension
of the bedroom, is huge and gratifying
and the diligent placement of the bath-
tub besides a glass wall and the open-air
shower makes you rejuvenate yourself
right within the confi nes of nature.
The duplex cottages with elevated
vistas of the coff ee plantations and the
surrounding landscape are two-tiered
villas with a living, dining and a kitch-
enette, in addition. The expansive presi-
dential villa (2312sqft) at the other end of
the central axis has an additional second
bedroom, a living, dining, a kitchenette
and a large 575sqft pool.
The restaurant and spa have been
designed with equal ease and the organ-
ic paper-shaded lamps in the restaurant
ceiling stand out. Lounging at the bar ter-
race or at the restaurant outdoor seating,
especially during the dusk and observing
the silence and the panoramic views of
the resort within the verdant landscap-
ing is purely cathartic. The harnessing of
natural light through the large openings
into the cottages (through the elegant
hand-woven blinds) as well as the addi-
tional areas is adequate to retain the
ambience. The resort lights up subtly in
the night, augmenting the romantic and
lyrical ambience.
Serai is located within the milieu
of a coff ee plantation (it is almost like a
‘secluded hideaway nestled in the heart
of nature’), where an interesting guid-
The villa windows offer stunning views of the landscaping
The drive through the lush plantation leads to the reception-lounge area.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 109Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 109 6/26/2014 8:30:12 PM6/26/2014 8:30:12 PM
110 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
ed tour to the coff ee estate is feasible with
knowledge on arabica, robusta seeds of cof-
fee and plants like cardamom, pepper etc. A
walk across the site through its thick foliage
also reveals independent structures that have
been designed to be used as a gymnasium
and other recreational activities. GNA’s design
at best exploits these beautiful views of the
plantations through the many manoeuvring
paths, play of levels, unhindered and pictorial
views while reverberating in the comfortable
luxury and in spaces that allow you to be at
peace with yourself through the many tex-
tures they radiate. The resort comes across as
an exquisite and a contemporary experiment
in amalgamating luxury and relaxation. Many-
a-times built places wither with time. Surpris-
ingly, having been constructed in 2008, Serai
almost looks like a newly built resort, so stimu-
lating is its design as well is its maintenance.
GNA over its 21 years of establishment
has been applauded for its path-breaking
approach to design, their innovative solu-
tions and their love for embracing nature in
their designs and validating that ‘ nature does
provide better aesthetics than humans’. Their
functioning as one big family without any
emphasis on hierarchical set-ups, and enjoy-
ing architecture with regular brain storming
sessions in their ingeniously-designed offi ce
forms the core of the many avant-garde
designs they are credited with.
In times of technologies, when 3d and
photoshopped views manage to send out
deceptive views to potential tourists, I have to
admit that there wasn’t even an iota of diff er-
ence in the pictures of the resort on the web-
site and the design, ambience and warmth
that I felt in the resort myself... Sometimes the
best gifts for an architectural writer like me
can be a liberating design itself, that can help
to reconnect with oneself and achieve inner
harmony- I have to admit the visit to Serai
Chikmagalur was one of those extraordinary
trips for me!
Bengaluru based architect Apurva Bose Dut-
ta works as an architectural journalist and can
be contacted on [email protected] or
reached at www.apurvabose.com.
A view of the recreational block from the infinity pool
The private gazebo and pool with the villas.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 110Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 110 6/26/2014 8:30:17 PM6/26/2014 8:30:17 PM
22_Design Corner.indd 11122_Design Corner.indd 111 6/26/2014 9:35:58 PM6/26/2014 9:35:58 PM
112 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Zoomin
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 112Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 112 6/26/2014 8:30:41 PM6/26/2014 8:30:41 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 113
Ar. Sunil M Deshpande revamps an old three-story house within a varied, tightly scaled streetscape of congested area of Aurangabad.
T wo brothers wanted a house with separate kitchens and handed over
a G+2 house for revamping to Ar. Sunil Deshpande, Principal, Sunil M
Deshpande and associates.
The block for the house was long and thin –a ‘shot-gun’ corridor with
many connected houses within denser old city area. The elder brother did
not wanted to vacate the premises and it was a real challenge for Sunil to
prove his skills. He planned this home with optimum space utilization and
lightened the premises with minimum use of artifi cial light and supported
the natural light in to the premises of a home.
Elaborating further, he says, “Our concept was to use the elements of the
interior to shift and break down the typical linear corridor space, using the
interior semi-transparent walls to break the existing “shot-gun” corridor and
allow for day light right up to central area. After giving many thoughts on
planning and material selection we focused on – minimum masonry walls,
full heighted main door, bright and seamless fl ooring, semi-gloss walls, plain
ceilings etc.” The client supported this designer to make the choice of the
materials. They used seamless fl ooring, light and dark wood, the laminate
and Corian masking for furniture; the combination of glass and cupboards to
DESIGNDISTINCTIVE
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 113Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 113 6/26/2014 8:31:07 PM6/26/2014 8:31:07 PM
114 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 114Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 114 6/26/2014 8:31:17 PM6/26/2014 8:31:17 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 115
replace the wall adds an elegant touch. “The
materials used were aff ordable and created a
maintenance free house–concrete capping
block to create a textured base for the house.
Within the simple block-like building form,
the windows were used to animate the exte-
rior. On the lower level the window openings
are varied and opportunistic – fi nding points
of sky or natural light to suit the specifi c uses
they contain,” says Ar. Sunil.
About Ar. Sunil Ar. Sunil Deshpande founded Sunil M
Deshpande and Associates in Aurangabad,
in 1996, as a provocative response to both
a failing economy and what he viewed as
the stagnant design culture in the semi
metropolitan area. He served as President
of Giants Group of Chikalthana and Chair-
man of The Indian Institute of Architect
Aurangabad Centre for year 2006-2008.
“Everyone should live a regular life,”
Sunil implores. He also says, “You can’t put
time on design—you can only focus on
ensuring good design, and it has to feel
good. My philosophy is simple: if it feels
like work, don’t show up that day. This is
an approach insists that his team adopts
while forever stretching the limits of prac-
tical design. Ar. Sunil believes in simple
design, but it’s intrinsically sophisticated,
At fi rst glance, you’ll likely notice clean
lines, but if you step a little closer, you’ll see
more. “We are not desk architects, we are
designers; I get very emotional about each
project.” he says.
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 115Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 115 6/26/2014 8:33:07 PM6/26/2014 8:33:07 PM
116 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
AHEC teams up with Carl Turner and Adam Kershaw to design a hub for the Ace Hotel’s ‘Lovage’ Juice Bar.
Photo courtesy: Giovanni Nardi
REFRESHINGSENSES
Insights
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 116Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 116 6/26/2014 8:33:52 PM6/26/2014 8:33:52 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 117
F or this year’s Salone del Mobile in
Milan, the international and infl u-
ential style magazine Wallpaper re-
turned to Leclettico Gallery with the fi fth
edition of their ‘Handmade’ exhibition,
showcasing specially commissioned works
and one-off collaborations between the
world’s best designers and craftsmen. As a
long-term supporter of Wallpaper’s exhibi-
tion with a growing archive of Handmade
projects with Sou Fujimoto, aberrant archi-
tects and Adam Khan, the American Hard-
wood Export Council (AHEC) teamed with
award winning British architect, Carl Turn-
er, and sculptor and maker, Adam Kershaw
to design a hub for Ace Hotel’s ‘Lovage’
Juice Bar to serve a range of fruity cocktails
at the Milan exhibition.
The starting point for the project
was the decision to recycle material from
AHEC’s collaboration for Wallpaper’s
Workspace exhibition in 2013. ‘Octopus’,
designed by Adam Khan and built by
Adam Kershaw, was a series of striking tim-
ber walls made of contrasting dark heat-
treated with raw light-colored tulipwood.
The installation was immensely successful
and was subsequently re-used for nine
other exhibitions and events including
Wallpaper’s Handmade exhibition, Inter-
zum Cologne, BULO’s showroom, Woo-
dEXPO in Belgium, 100% Design, Timber
Expo, the Wood Awards Ceremony, 1205’s
show for London Fashion Week and Eco-
build. This year’s Handmade exhibition
ran at the Leclettico, Via San Gregorio 39,
Milan.
The tulipwood was re-purposed
to build the Tulip Bar for the Salone del
Mobile. To minimize waste, Carl Turner
divided each board into equal timber
slats, presenting them in diff erent guises
- patterned transparent edges and solid
surfaces - thereby creating a lightweight
set of hollow units or ‘bridges’ that were
arranged to form a continuous structure
that weaves into the exhibition space.
Benches and a high table at either end of
the bar provided a social hub and support-
ed the bar unit, which bridges between
the two benches seeming to defy gravity.
Further, the multi-purpose surface broke
the traditional barrier between the per-
son behind the bar and the customer, and
the two benches stretched out towards
the rest of the exhibition like open arms
welcoming the guests in.
At Leclettico, the Tulip Bar was
brought to life with the bar equipment,
brightly colored food, juices and the
crowds of people eagerly awaiting their
drink. In the true essence of Handmade,
Carl Turner worked closely with fabricator
Adam Kershaw to fi nalize the design.
Adam’s role as the fabricator was to fi nd
a simple structural solution to working
with only one timber dimension.
“Tulipwood is very strong for its relatively
light weight and thus was the perfect
material for this project. The Tulip Bar
combines the natural and heat-treated
American tulipwood; the random mix of
the two colors of tulipwood tricks the eye
and emphasizes the transparency and
lightness of the structure in a sculptural
way. The slats of dark thermally modifi ed
tulipwood become a solid surface for the
counter top and the space below is used
for storage. The dark thermally modifi ed
tulipwood is the perfect material for the
bar top; the thermal modifi cation process
permanently alters the wood’s chemical
and physical properties and limits the
wood’s ability to absorb moisture, so
products are more dimensionally stable
and less prone to cup, warp and twist with
changes in humidity. For a bar area that is
prone to spillages, the timber is perfectly
stable, and being a darker color, it will not
stain,” concluded Roderick Wiles, AHEC
Director for Africa, Middle East, South Asia
and Oceania.
About AHECThe American Hardwood Export Council
(AHEC) is the leading international trade
association for the U.S. hardwood industry,
representing the committed exporters
among U.S. hardwood companies and
all the major U.S. hardwood production
trade associations. AHEC runs a
worldwide programme to promote
American hardwoods in over 50 export
markets, concentrating on providing
architects, specifi ers, designers and end-
users with technical information on the
range of species, products and sources of
supply. In addition, AHEC also produces a
full range of technical publications.
www.americanhardwood.org
Roderick Wiles
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 117Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 117 6/26/2014 8:34:17 PM6/26/2014 8:34:17 PM
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 118Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 118 6/26/2014 8:34:19 PM6/26/2014 8:34:19 PM
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 119
Happenings
The showroom consists of a range
of aluminum system windows and
door along with aluminium solid
sheets and was inaugurated by fi ve of the
fabricators who have been loyal customers
of Geeta ever since 1964. The opening
also saw renowned architects and interior
designers like Zahir Cassum from Talati
& Panthaky Associated Pvt. Ltd., Nimish
Shah from Sanjay Puri Architects Pvt. Ltd.,
Rohit Mankar from Parallax Design Studio,
Prashant Mewada from Oberoi Realty
Limited and many others.
Targeted at building professionals,
interior designers, architects, fabricators
and home owners, the company’s new
windows are precision-engineered to
counter wind loads up to 2 kPa, a com-
mon problem faced in high-rise buildings
during extreme weather conditions. They
can also withstand the brunt of heavy
monsoon showers and provides complete
sealing to ensure a noise & dust free home.
Priced in the range of Rs 350 to Rs 1500 a
sq ft, Geeta Aluminum provides solutions
at competitive prices for the fenestration
industry and provides customers the best
in-class Indian designs which are at par
with international standards. The facility
is expected to prove particularly popu-
lar with, enabling architects and interior
designers to judge the quality of materials,
design and manufacture at fi rst hand.
On this occasion, Kushal Bajaj- Execu-
tive Director, Geeta Group, said, “We’ve
got a new showroom that shows off our
latest products and it’s already been put to
good use with a number of new business
enquiries. The opening of this new show-
room will serve as a one point contact for
our fabricators, vendors to book and place
orders. Such a showroom opening will
enable people to come and understand
the benefi ts using a good aluminium
system window specially having them
installed before the monsoons kick in.”
He further added, “Considering the
total market for aluminum doors and win-
dows stands at 12,000 cr, system windows
and doors stand at 6000 cr. Owing to the
exponential growth in the aluminum seg-
ment, we have decided to expand our
retail presence with the launch of this new
showroom at Charni Road and further
plan to capture the Indian market with the
launch of atleast 20 showrooms across 8
-10 states in the next three years.
www.geetaaluminium.com
Geeta Aluminium, a fl agship company of Geeta Group of companies primarily engaged in the domains of marketing, distribution and fabrication of aluminium windows and doors has opened its fi fth showroom at Charni Road, Mumbai .
GEETA ALUMINIUM inaugurates new SHOWROOM
Kushal Bajaj
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 119Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 119 26-06-2014 20:28:0326-06-2014 20:28:03
120 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 120Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 120 26-06-2014 20:28:0826-06-2014 20:28:08
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 121
Design Matrix team were honoured
to be present on this event recently
held at Sahara Star, Mumbai.
Renowned architectural fi rms from
Mumbai were present on this occasion, to
get a clear understanding on Hi – Macs, a
solution manufactured by LG Hauys and
disturbed by Decorex Solutions.
Good design needs a material that
can cope with everything andLG Hausys
Design Centre, believe that this product is
versatile just because of their research and
analysis. They are proud to say that they
work with leading designers Alexandro
Mendini, Karim Rashid, Anya Larkin and
Vera Wang.
On this occasion the Hi – Macs team
explored the 2014 trends, Lets know the
same:
InfuseInfuse inspiration means a space that is
complete by human presence. The colour
scheme here revolves around unpro-
cessed wood, white and Emerald. Under
Infuse the materials like Rubber sheet, latex
skin clear skin and satin fi nished glass fall
in to create an aesthetic appeal to create
ultimate cozy space.
The Modernistic collection is the new
product range under infuse. One can make
use of this range for kitchen counter part,
Bathroom Interior, Restaurant table and
partition purpose.
Dimple Dimple stands for re – inventing notion of
masculinity. Deep colurs like dark khaki, gray,
beige and brown fall under Dimple. Luxuri-
ous black metal and gold are the materials
under this category. The monochrome pat-
tern creates an ultramodern space.
The concrete collection is the new
launch in this category. This can be used
widely for kitchen top and island table,
bathroom, information desk and bar table.
Zest Filled with delicious inspiration, Lemonade,
ash rose, illusion blue, sun orange, ivy and
poppy red are the colours under Zest. With
this colurs one can ever recollect the cap-
tured moments, colored routine and add
in unexpected harmony. The Combina-
tion of colors and motifs, piques curiosity
and expectations with the desired environ.
It chases away the blues with an injection
of positive and healthy energy. The Sparkle
collection by designer Karim Rashid adds a
glamorous and abundant look with it micro
chips and glittering pigments. Under this
one will be lured by sparkle lounge chair
Sparkle Krib, 2014 Milan Fair.
The event was a great exposure to the
design community, present on this event.
It was a wonderful experience.
[email protected]/ [email protected]
Design Matrix was invited by Hi – Macs and the Decorex team to look at recent trends prevalent in the interior industry and understand more on how a natural acrylic stones can be used in different applications.
PACING WITH
TREND
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 121Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 121 26-06-2014 20:30:1826-06-2014 20:30:18
122 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Eventreport
Gauri Khan, wife of Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan and mother to his three children, aims to unleash her untapped creative personality by launching her own signature line of designs under The First Ferry.
Gauri Khan announced her future
vision of her alliance with The First
Ferry a Dubai-based design house
with a presence in London, Singapore and
New York known for their cutting-edge
style and classy designs at The Oberoi,
Dubai. With her own inimitable taste in
both fashion and interiors, the association
between Gauri Khan and The First Ferry
is a perfect blend in synergy of mutually
creative pursuits.
Gauri Khan’s designs will be for high-
end luxury clients who are connoisseurs
of the fi ner things in life. She prefers not
to limit her creativity to only designing
homes but also cafes, restaurants, offi ces,
retail, spas and all other kinds of spaces.
With this venture, she will be involved in
architecture, landscape design, yacht inte-
riors. The Gauri Khan signature line will
comprise furniture, lights and chandelier
collection by Gauri Khan.
With a long-term vision for her brand,
she says, “I could possibly design jewellery,
bags and shoes under my signature line a
year from now. I have a dream for this sig-
nature line and design is my passion. There
will be no limit to the possibilities of the
extension of my brand with The First Ferry
because the future plans are all drawn out
with a clear vision”.
On this occasion the founder of The
First Ferry, Prateek Chaudhry added, “Gauri
has a personal style, which she has devel-
oped over the years – a style that is as
real as her and very innate to her being.
This sophistication is further seen in her
designs irrespective of the medium she
chooses to express it in. Gauri Khan for The
First Ferry brand has been conceived to
cater to the global audience. We are relent-
less in our pursuit of making Gauri Khan for
The First Ferry an international signature
line which will signify the richness, the
elegance and sophistication that both the
brands embody”.
Heinz Klier, the new Group CEO of The
First Ferry who is also the former Manag-
ing Director of Swarovski Middle East said,
“I feel that the future of Gauri Khan’s signa-
ture line will sparkle under the patronage
of The First Ferry.”
www.thefi rstferry.com
Gauri KhanSignature line by
Prateek Chaudhry, Gauri Khan & Heinz Klier
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 122Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 122 26-06-2014 20:31:1326-06-2014 20:31:13
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 123Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 123 26-06-2014 20:31:1526-06-2014 20:31:15
124 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
C lassic Marble Company (CMC) the
leader in the Indian market for allied
products in the category of stone
manufacturing & distribution – has several
reasons to celebrate! The company has
completed two decades of successful and
phenomenal achievements and the list of its
achievements is huge. Going down memory
lane and reaching one milestone after
another together, the Directors, Stakeholders
and all 1000 employees of the company
have traversed several journeys with ups
and downs and reached its 20th year with a
range of feathers to its cap.
The salient features of the pioneer
brands’ achievements are to be the fi rst
company to be taking the initiative to
expose India to a wide range of imported
natural marble, all under one roof. And then
introduce to the Indian markets the concept
of engineered stone – marble and quartz
from the Italian markets. Being a country
with immense loyalty to natural stones,
the company took to numerous marketing
campaigns to highlight the benefi ts of engi-
neered stone. And this wave of engineered
stone usage was taken to a complete new
level with the company’s launch of India’s
fi rst conceptualised engineered stone –
Kalingastone – Italian Design in 2009.
On this occasion, Amit Shah – Direc-
tor, Classic Marble Company expressed his
delight by saying that, “Our objective and
aim at CMC has been to make it an omni-
present brand in India and internationally.
And with the various milestones that the
team has achieved over 20 years, it makes
us all feel very proud of ourselves and all
our products that we have under the brand
CMC. At the same time, we can assure that
this endeavour will continue .”
www.classicmarble.com
Classic Marble completes 20 successful years. The pioneer in Indian marble space, the company commemorates presence in over 40 countries and 5 continents.
CelebrateReason to
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 124Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 124 26-06-2014 20:31:2626-06-2014 20:31:26
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 125
LAUNCHPRODUCT
Fall in love with Durian music seriesUltra comfy sound sofa series is what you would want to possess at any given time. The ultra-plush sofas by Durian have broad designer
handles that makes the piece stand class apart. The full wooden panel legs give it an extra edge. The sound sofas have inbuilt speaker,
a USB port, SD card, ipod / iphone dock and Bluetooth connectivity and many other facilities. This series of music sofas is an ultimate
entertainment sofa which is a combination of great design, comfort, utility and entertainment. One can dock and charge iPhone, and
one can use memory card or connect via Bluetooth to fi ll your room with music, M.S. Chrome plated legs.
www.durian.in
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 125Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 125 26-06-2014 20:31:2826-06-2014 20:31:28
126 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Pergo launches 2014
collectionPergo launches Vinyl Planks and Tiles and is moving
ahead to get fl oored in wet areas as well. It is coming up
with fourteen diff erent designs in two quality levels i.e.
Optimum & Premium. The products in Optimum range
belong to Class-33 with Glue down laying system, which
is preferred for commercial areas and Class-32 Premium
range products have PerfectFold TM 3.0 installation
system, made for residential use. It is easy to install and
durable, PUR (Polyurethane) coating over the top surface
makes Pergo Vinyl fl ooring so tough that it can withstand
years of use and still look beautiful.
www.pergo.com
Soft Furnishings from Siddharth By MKCSiddharth by MKC, the designer label of Interior designer, Monika Kamal has launched a range of luxury soft furnishings for the discerning elite. This collection in particular has been launched considering the latest trend in
home furnishings as well as the comfort of the users. The collection is inspired by lace and lazer cut leathers which is hardly seen anywhere and is the latest amongst the upcoming designs. Select fabrics of velvets, chenille’s, textured
or a patterned fabric in bright hues of black, golden, beige, off white, grey have been used in designing this beautiful collection. Fabrics of home accessories are skin friendly with a soft feel & comfortable to use.www.monicakamalcollection.com
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 126Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 126 26-06-2014 20:31:2826-06-2014 20:31:28
JULY-AUGUST 2014 • DESIGN MATRIX 127
Cabinets and Wardrobes byGreat Eastern Homes The Great Eastern Home presents its exclusive range of Cabinets and Wardrobes. This range consists of Classical European Hunting Cabinet, Classical Italian Cabinet, Burmese Colonial, Classical Chinese. These Stylish Wardrobes and Cabinets have been crafted to perfection and are available at The Great Eastern Home. These Wardrobes and Cabinets designed by The Great
Eastern Home are made with the highest quality Burma teak wood. This range is an amalgamation of inspirational ideas, innovative design and expert execution.www.thegreateasternhome.com
Virage bath collection by
BrizoThe Virage collection includes a full suite of fi xtures that provide
luxury and customization for the homeowner. The range
comprises wide spread lavatory, two handle wall mount lavatory,
four hole roman tub fi llers, wall and ceiling mount rain shower
heads and TempAssure®Thermostatic shower trims. The Virage
bath collection is available in Brilliance® Polished Nickel, with a
complete line of accessories – including lighting and a mirror - to
carry the distinctive design throughout the entire bath.
29_Product Launch.indd 12729_Product Launch.indd 127 26-06-2014 20:41:4226-06-2014 20:41:42
128 DESIGN MATRIX • JULY-AUGUST 2014
IFC: FINfloor Laminated flooring MRJ Trading Pvt. Ltd.201, Shyam Kamal ‘C’ Bldg., Agarwal Market, Vile Parle (E), Mumbai – 400057.Tel: (022) 26187132 / 26131442 Email: fl [email protected]
Pg. 1: Ebco Pvt. Ltd. 402-3, Hyde Park, Saki Vihar Road, Mumbai 400072Tel: (022) 67837777 Email: [email protected]
Pg. 2: LG Hi-MacsNew Patel Sawmill Group204/B, Vertex Vikas, Sir M V Road, Andheri (East), Mumbai – 400069Tel: (022) 26833377/0952Email: [email protected]
Pg. 3: Belvnus DecoBelvnus Art Deco Doors LLPSiddhivinayk Bldg., Harridans Nagar,Borivali West, Mum – 400 092.Mob: 9920743797Email: [email protected]
Pg. 4 & 5: Uniply ATS PlywoodUniply Industries Ltd.#52, Harleys Road, Kilpauk,Chennai – 600 010.Tel: (044) 2660 5995Email: [email protected]
Pg. 6: Jalaram Corporate Ad935, Bhagwandas Wadi,Behind Kismat Talkies, off V.S. Marg,Prabhadevi, Mumbai 400 025Tel: (022) 24318222Email: [email protected]
Pg. 7: Geeta GalleryGeeta Aluminium Company Pvt. Ltd.D/4, Ansa Industrial Estate, Saki Vihar Road, Saki Naka,Andheri (East), Mumbai – 400072.Mob : 09930806685www.geetaaluminium.com
Pg. 8 & 9: Durian ChairsDurian Industries Ltd.401, The Summit, Western Express Highway, Vile Parle (E), Mumbai 400057Tel: (022) 26269000Email: [email protected]
Pg. 11: Uniply Elementz Decorative VeneersUniply Industries Ltd.#52, Harleys Road, Kilpauk, Chennai – 600 010.Tel: (044) 26605995Email: [email protected]
Pg. 13: Uniply Engineered VeneersUniply Industries Ltd.#52, Harleys Road, Kilpauk, Chennai – 600 010.Tel: (044) 26605995Email: [email protected]
Pg. 14 & 15: Le CdeorMRJ Trading Pvt. Ltd.201, Shyam Kamal ‘C’ Bldg., Agarwal Market, Vile Parle (E), Mumbai – 400057.Tel : (022) 26187132 / 26131442 Email: [email protected]
Pg. 16: Concept DekorSurface Dekor (India) Pvt. Ltd.Abdul Satar Lakdawala Comp.,Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road,Jogeshwari-East, Mumbai – 400 060Tel: (022) 28242424/28362424Email: [email protected]
Pg. 46: FO AID [email protected]
Pg. 47: Travette Engineered Hardwood FlooringMRJ Trading Pvt. Ltd.201, Shyam Kamal ‘C’ Bldg., Agarwal Market, Vile Parle (E), Mumbai – 400057.Tel : (022) 26187132 / 26131442 Email: fl [email protected]
Pg. 111: Infinite Mega Show 2014Pinnacle PromotionsTel : (0422) 2456996
Pg. 118: India Furniture Expo 2014Introduction Trade Shows Pvt. Ltd.Email: [email protected]
Pg. 123: UBM-INDEX Trade [email protected]
IBC: Jalaram Veneer• 935, Bhagwandas Wadi,
Behind Kismat Talkies, off V.S. Marg,Prabhadevi, Mumbai 400 025Tel: (022) 24318222Email: [email protected]
• 9/B & 9/K, Laxmi Ind. Estate,New Link Road, Versova,Andheri (W), Mumbai – 400 053Tel: (022) 26327733 / 34Email: [email protected]
BC: Durian Office Durian Industries Ltd.401, The Summit, Western Express Highway, Vile Parle (E), Mumbai 400057Tel: (022) 26269000Email: [email protected]
GLOSSARY
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 128Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 128 26-06-2014 20:32:1226-06-2014 20:32:12
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 129Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 129 26-06-2014 20:32:1226-06-2014 20:32:12
Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 130Design Matrix_July-Aug14.indb 130 26-06-2014 20:32:1626-06-2014 20:32:16