reZa KabUL bLaCK bOOK
CREDITS Almighty God Parents and Family Team Reza Kabul Associates Reza Kabul All My Clients The Times of India Group Worldwide Media Business Associates Young
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Life is a classroom with a test around the corner. This is the greatest lesson I have learnt till date. Which is why I still believe I’m a student and yearn to keep learning more about architecture everyday. Everything in life is subject to improvisation. Improvisation in terms of living and lifestyle – these two are very strong influences. Luxury living was always present in India but in recent times, due to a greater exposure to more comfortable habitats, there is an unprecedented rise in the standard of living. The demand for high standards, and higher expectations has raised the bar for architects and designers alike. To bring in an environmental approach has always been my guiding principal. An approach that is synchronised and balanced with the economic, ecological, aesthetic and technological elements. This leads to good design and improves the quality of life of the people who use that space. It gives me a sense of achievement and satisfaction when I look back to the time when I started my career with designing a one-bedroom apartment. It also surprises me because becoming an architect was never a part of the original plan. I wanted to be a pilot. I guess today, I touch the sky through the skyscrapers I design. Projects are like children; I love each one that I have worked on. But the one that drastically influenced
me came through the reference of a builder called Hakam Masani. He was impressed with my work and introduced me to his partners who had purchased a plot for a tower. The project was an 18-storeyed building in Byculla opposite where I grew up as a child. At the start, it was decided that I would be paid Rs 25,000 for the whole project; I took it up as a challenge. Models, plans and presentations were made and the clients were so impressed with my work that I was asked to quote my own fees. It was then that I knew that I had it in me. I consider that period as the turning point of my life. There has been no looking back. Today, I am designing Mumbai’s tallest building and am eager to design the world’s tallest one. I want to be remembered as a visionary, and as a perennial student of architecture who has made a significant contribution to the field. I am extremely proud of my projects, such as the Raghuleela Mall, Mega Mall, Lake Homes, Hotel ITC Fortune Select, Shreepati Arcade, Sagar Classic, and Hotel Marine Plaza, these located in Mumbai and Radisson Resort in Mauritius – these could be potential case studies in themselves. I want to thank so many people who have helped in making this journey worthwhile. But most of all, God, my parents, friends, critics, colleagues, students, teachers and destiny, I am grateful to each of them to help me become what I am today.
FoREwoRD
by REza Kabul
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InTERIoRS, REnovaTIIon anD REFuRbISHmEnT
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HOSPITALITY
FACING PAGE Radisson Resort is spread over an expansive plot in Mauritius. Each of its 206 rooms has a sea-view as they have been plotted in residential blocks across a kilometre-long stretch. A restaurant, a coffee shop, a banquet, a health club and a pool with a floating bar complete the resort.
“I was very excited to take on this project as it was the first time we were designing a hotel of this scale.” - Reza Kabul
RAdISSOn RESORT, MAuRITIuS
amID Sun, SEa anD SanD An escape to a sunny beach with shimmering, crystal clear water is what most of us would look forward to in a vacation. For architect Reza Kabul though, this setting was an ideal place for work. When he was asked to design a hotel on a kilometre-long stretch along the coast of Mauritius, he knew it was the perfect opportunity to fulfil a dream. “I was very excited to take on this project as it was the first time we were designing a hotel on this scale,” says Kabul. “during the course, we learnt many new things.”Since most travellers to Mauritius seek to experience the pristine beaches in a laidback ambience, Kabul knew that all the rooms would have to be sea-facing.
But the building’s height had to be restricted due to coastal regulations. This is when he decided to take advantage of the sprawling plot to spread the residence wings across the expansive site. The 206-room hotel’s design accommodates the main building at the centre with three residence blocks on each side that are connected by corridors. A pool beyond the elevated entrance ensures that a visitor is greeted by a view of the water body that expands into the sea. Open-to-sky passageways, sun decks, a massive swimming pool with a floating bar all spread across different areas encourage visitors to explore the resort at a leisurely pace. REZA KABUL BLACK BOOK BY HOME TRENDS
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THESE PAGES ITC Fortune Select’s classical-styled building stands out among the modern structures of Palm Beach road in navi Mumbai. The 91-room, business hotel boasts of business centres and banquet facilities.
ITC FORTunE SELECT, nAVI MuMBAI
ClaSSICal TouCH Whether it’s a hotel or a community centre, an upcoming neighbourhood provides many opportunities to urban planners and architects in shaping future civilisations. ITC Fortune Select is one such development that holds promise for the new satellite city of navi Mumbai. Since all the new constructions taking place in the neighbourhood were modern structures, the design for the business hotel veered towards a heritage style. “We have designed a classical building, which lays emphasis on columns, arches, greater high-ceiling heights and identical facades,” says Reza. In the interiors, although the furniture is contemporary, the decor follows a classical form of styling.
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“We have designed a classical building, which emphasises columns, arches, high ceilings and identical facades.” - Reza Kabul
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“This was the first time in India that someone was executing a glassbottomed pool at such a height. We roped in consultants but the challenges were many.” - Reza Kabul
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THESE PAGES Marine Plaza is a boutique hotel housed inside what was once a residential apartment building. An atrium greets visitors to this 66-room hotel. A glass-bottomed swimming pool over the atrium enables light to percolate down to the ground level.
MARInE PLAzA, MuMBAI
POLISHEd ATTIRE Its spectacular location on the ‘Queen’s necklace’ in Mumbai prompted Shorline Hotels Private Limited to convert a residential building into a hotel. The structure, however, could not be torn down to make way for a new hotel. Instead architect Reza Kabul had to devise a plan to transform the interiors while also refurbishing the exteriors to lend it an alluring appeal. “There were many factors that we became aware of only once we started working at the site,” says Kabul. “Care had to be taken when transferring the weight from an existing column onto a new one. This had to be a slow and gradual process so that the new column didn’t buckle under the weight.” The big idea was to demolish the staircase, landing, etc, that were at the centre to create expansive, public spaces. The staircases have now been pushed to the sides and an atrium takes centre stage. “We wanted this area to receive natural light, so we’ve put a glass-bottomed pool on the terrace,” says Kabul. Five layers of glass, each 44mm thick, have been laminated with PVB to make a monolithic glass sheet that forms the base. The architecture also demanded a fresh look at the space-planning as, unlike the existing apartments, all the rooms had to be of a consistent size. Kabul created a uniform grid and broke up the room layout into a living room, toilet spaces and the sea-facing bedrooms.
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BHuTAn HOTEL, THIMPHu
TRaDITIonal luxuRy Culture and tradition are so deeply ingrained in the social fabric of the Himalayan state of Bhutan that new developments cannot stray away from the norm. “Bhutan is a very close-knit society and has recently started attracting a lot of tourists,” says architect Reza Kabul. “To cater to them, our clients wanted to start a premium hotel in the town of Thimpu.” A traditional three-tiered roof caps the four-storeyed hotel building that rests on an inclined plot. The slope resulted in the hotel entrance being planned on the first level; the ground floor has a separate entrance that leads to the banquet facilities. A night club, an all-weather indoor pool and a spa complement the 69 rooms and 10 suites in the hotel. “Since there is not much to do outdoors in the evening, we’ve also created a retail strip.” “This was a new experience for all of us as this was the first time we were involved in a traditional or vernacular building design,” says Kabul.
THESE PAGES A traditional building characterises this 5-star luxury hotel in Thimpu, Bhutan. Spread across its four floors are 79 spacious rooms, a spa, an indoor swimming pool, health club, a coffee shop and a nightclub.
“This was a new experience for all of us, as this was the first time we were involved in a traditional or vernacular building design.� - Reza Kabul
RAMAdA HOTEL, AHMEdABAd
STanDIng Tall Astute businesses know the importance of change within a dynamic environment. Sankalp, a restaurant chain, knew that a hotel property on one of Ahmedabad’s arterial roads would pay-off in the long term. “They wanted us to turn an existing commercial structure into a hotel,” says architect Reza Kabul. “We transformed the facade and converted it into a hotel.” A graphic design has been reproduced on painted glass panels, which have been clad on the building’s front elevation. The adjacent panels are backlit for illumination. “The columns of the building were on the extremes, so luckily we had a large floor plan to play around with while doing the interiors,” says Kabul.
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THESE PAGES The Ramada Hotel in Ahmedabad was converted from a commercial building by architect Reza Kabul. The hotel has 100 rooms, banquets and a health club.
“We transformed the facade and converted the commercial space into a hotel.� - Reza Kabul
“Existing structures come with their problems as the columns and slabs cannot be shifted. The residential units here were all independent blocks.� - Reza Kabul
THESE PAGES Spread over a sprawling plot, Adamo Resort was originally a residential complex. Transformed by architect Reza Kabul, it offers 130 rooms and suites. The suites boast of a private terrace with a Jacuzzi and an open-to-sky shower.
AdAMO RESORT, GOA
CHaRmIng RETREaT A picturesque location can spur the least entrepreneurial spirit into becoming a hotelier. So it would only be natural for established real estate firms to venture on tried and tested grounds. Adamo Resorts, a part of the Ajmera Group, asked architect Reza Kabul to turn a residential complex at Calangute, Goa, into a holiday resort. “Existing structures always come with their peculiar problems as the columns and slabs cannot be shifted,” says Kabul. “What worked in our favour was that the residential units were all independent blocks.” The central block has the reception; the other buildings line the plot’s two sides. A spa and suites are planned as part of the resort.
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FACING PAGE Spread over 4.1 acres, the Express Inn at nashik has almost 200 rooms in phase A and B.
SHELAR PROPERTIES, MuMBAI
RaISIng THE baR Great spaces are made when there is an extraordinary symbiosis between the exteriors and the interiors. Shelar Properties recognise this well, as is apparent from architect Reza Kabul’s experience with them. He was approached to work on Express Inn, their second hospitality project together. “They came to us with a small, 32-room property earlier. The new one was to be a premium hotel in a fantastic location on the main highway to nashik,” says Kabul. The finished structure surpassed all expectations. So much so, that to match up, the interiors had to be given a facelift. Spread over 4.1 acres with dynamic utility spaces, such as the coffee shop, business centre, boardrooms, a gigantic banquet hall, a health club, a swimming pool, gaming zone, etc. that accommodates 5,000 people, as well as luxurious 91 suites make quite an attractive package. The front facade done in all glass is icing on the cake. Headed by narayan Shelar, the company put full faith in Kabul’s talent. The demand for long-stay service apartments, especially by foreign consultants working in the vicinity, compelled them to plan a second phase of development. Currently, work is in progress on studio and mid-sized apartments for longer stays. A swimming pool, spa and a health club are also on the anvil.
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“It was to be a business hotel but the end result turned out to be a premium hotel.�
- Reza Kabul
“Hospitality is absolutely a different ball game. It requires detailed planning. Reza and his team collaborated extremely well to create one of the most outstanding four-star properties in nashik. His strategy to create high quality interiors coupled with great looking exteriors enables us to compete with the neighbouring hotels. Innovatively planned, finedining restaurants and lavishly laid out banquet halls add to the experience at Express Inn.� - narayan Shelar, director, Express Inn chain of luxury hotels 28
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THIS PAGE The 91-room Express Inn at nashik features a coffee shop, restaurant, banquet, a lounge and a business centre.
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COMMERCIAL/RETAIL
FACING PAGE The unsupported organic shaped roof is the focal point of Raghuleela Mall in Vashi. Architect Reza Kabul devised it to create an atrium without supporting columns. THIS PAGE The project encompasses retail and office space apart from a six-screen multiplex, gymnasium and banquet facilities. All the spaces have their independent entrance and exit points.
“The unsupported organic shaped roof is a masterpiece in itself.� - Reza Kabul
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RAGHuLEELA MALL, nAVI MuMBAI
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10 floors of office space and a health club, a six-screen multiplex, a mall with 4,50,000 sq ft of retail space and separate banquet facilities make up the 12,63,000 sq ft development of Raghuleela Mall and IT Park. Thriving on the challenges that the large-scale project posed, architect Reza Kabul came up with an out-of-the-box solution for the mixed-use project. He decided to use a gigantic steel frame that would not only cover the retail space, but also serve the function of an atrium. The members of the 40,000 sq ft frame have been individually fabricated and assembled at the site using the ‘ball and socket’ technique. “Two layers of glass cover the space frame, keeping the heat and glare out while bringing in light,” says Kabul.
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“As the escalators move to the extremes with each floor, the atrium space opens up. This helps in disguising the building’s triangular shape.”- Reza Kabul
FACING PAGE A wave-like steel frame forms the atrium at Mega Mall in Andheri. The escalators have been fanned to the sides of the upper levels to enable a complete view of the mall. LEFT The four-storeyed mall building takes inspiration from the triangular plot. Multiple levels of basement parking have been provided.
MEGA MALL, MuMBAI
lay oF THE lanD A great design idea is often spurred by the diktat of the land. The plot was the biggest challenge that architect Reza Kabul faced while designing Mega Mall in Andheri, Mumbai. The building’s triangular design is a result of the plot’s contour. To make the interiors appear spacious, the zoning has been done in a manner that shops line the sides of the building while the central area has been left open for the atrium. The atrium is capped by a steel framework arranged in a wavelike grid and covered with glass. The escalators, usually stacked one over the other, have been deliberately shifted to the extremes with each floor rise such that a person on the ground floor has an unobstructed view of the steel framework.
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THESE PAGES Reliance Mall’s compact plot did not allow space for an atrium and so the 30 ft front facade has been set up in a glass box and serves as a focal point. The interior space planning carefully navigates around the central escalators.
RELIAnCE MALL, MuMBAI
CuBOId IMPRESSIOnS Visibility is an important factor in the popularity of any retail development. So when architect Reza Kabul was asked to build a mall on a tight site in a prime shopping hub, his immediate concern was to make the building’s entrance as attractive as possible.“We couldn’t have a store at the front entrance because we had just 30 ft space after providing for the minimum offset,” explains Kabul.“Instead, we decided to have a focal feature, something like an atrium, right at the entrance. This is how the design for the glass facade at the entrance came about. ”The illuminated facade is complemented by two glass elevators. This entrance foyer serves multiple functions in drawing the crowds, conducting promotional activities as well as in enabling smooth movement of shoppers. Inside, the 60,000 sq ft retail space is spread over four levels. Escalators have been put at the centre so that shoppers can get a complete view of the items on display even as they make their way around the retail zone. The expansive shopping space, occupying 60,000 sq ft, is spread over four floors. Two levels in the basement provide ample car parking space in the tight site. “Enough space for shoppers to move and spill out has to be provided in any retail space,” says Kabul. “Fortunately, this mall has been given to a single user and offers enough space.”
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“This project has been extremely challenging since the site was too small for a mall.”
- Reza Kabul
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THESE PAGES The eight towers of Bharat diamond Bourse have been planned on 20 acres. Keeping in mind that the workers require as much maximum light as possible while sorting or cutting diamonds, the buildings’ design includes wide windows. Other parameters such as security, logistics, etc too play a role in space planning.
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“Even though the project took nearly 12 years to complete, it was transformed into a landmark of its own.”- Reza Kabul
BHARAT dIAMOnd BOuRSE, MuMBAI
magnum opuS If any project has the distinction of being the most challenging as well as the most satisfying one for architect Reza Kabul, it is the Bharat diamond Bourse in Mumbai. Recently inaugurated, it is a mammoth project spread over 20 acres with two million sq ft as built-up area enclosed within eight towers. The project had started in the 1980s and had changed many hands before it finally progressed under architect Reza Kabul. “Buildings had to be pulled down and restructured amidst a brief that was not always final. There were many limitations and many parameters but I think we did a great job,” says Kabul. Work finally finished in 2011 and the complex is now resplendent for its clear glass walls.
THESE PAGES The 40,000-sq ft area of Trade Centre is spread over 11 floors at Bandra-Kurla Complex. Two basement levels feature a ‘puzzle parking’ system to accommodate 400 cars at a time.
TRAdE CEnTRE, MuMBAI
GAME FOR WORK Most of us spend a greater part of our waking hours in office. It is the focus on details that separate the ordinary spaces from the unique ones. Architect Reza Kabul focussed on these insights while designing the Trade Centre. “Since this site is in Bandra-Kurla Complex, our prime concern was to provide as much parking space as possible,” says Kabul. He worked in consultation with German experts to accommodate ‘puzzle parking’ – a single slot that can hold three vehicles – in the building’s basement. “We’ve also budgeted 10 elevators so office-goers don’t waste time in queues,” says the architect. Each of the 11 storeys have flexible floor plans, so leasing companies can customise their spaces.
“It’s the emphasis on smaller details that make the ambience of this office building comfortable and convenient.”- Reza Kabul REZA KABUL BLACK BOOK BY HOME TRENDS
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“The playful interaction of solids and voids coupled with an intricate lighting design adds glamour to the hallmark plaza.” - Reza Kabul
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THESE PAGES Hallmark Plaza makes the most of the site it stands on. The 12-storeyed commercial building offers small and large office spaces.
HALLMARK PLAzA, MuMBAI
a gRanD maKEovER The Hallmark Plaza is located in Mumbai’s suburb of Bandra, near the busy Bandra-Kurla Complex. The 51.17-metre structure is complete with two basements, a commercial complex and 12 floors. The office sizes range from 2000 sq ft to up to 25,000 sq ft. One experiences a large space in the lobby when coming from the main doors. The front facade is a complete glass elevation. “To break the monotony of glass, I have added punctures that became terraces to the offices and introduced special lighting on these terrace pockets,” says Kabul.
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THESE PAGES different levels of the two-storeyed mall at Express zone have been connected by way of a ramp as well as escalators. The project also includes two office buildings. Each zone has a separate access. A glass sheet in the centre allows in light.
ExPRESS zOnE, MuMBAI
MIxInG BuSInESS WITH PLEASuRE Given the cost of land in urban centres, it is not unusual to explore a site for multiple functions. When asked to develop a mixed-use development, architect Reza Kabul used the opportunity to experiment with forms and materials. Two buildings on the extremes make up the office spaces while the central area has been used for a mall. The side elevations of the buildings are inclined in a way that the floor levels recede as they go higher. The mall stands out for its atriums, the canopies of which are made of stretched canvas. “The design and materials of these canopies make them stand apart. Also, we’ve replaced escalators with ramps to do things differently,” says Kabul.
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“Light has been harnessed into the mall through the canopied atrium and into the offices through the terrace gardens.”- Reza Kabul
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“We the building with glass panels in a curved, sculptural form.”- Reza Kabul REZAcladded KABUL BLACK BOOK BY HOME TRENDS
THESE PAGES Energy-saving glass panels have been clad in an angular manner on the front facade of the dheeraj Corporate office building. The interiors receive light but not the heat as the glass bounces the light back. Landscaped areas have been created on alternate floors of the 11-storeyed building.
dHEERAJ CORPORATE OFFICE, MuMBAI
a SCulpTuRal FoRm Very often a building, thanks to its design or facade, becomes a landmark in the neighbourhood. This was dheeraj Group’s intention when they approached architect Reza Kabul to design their corporate office. “The narrow plot has a big frontage and widens at the rear. This has resulted in two wings, with the one on the road getting a sculptural form,” says Kabul. A curved facade with angular glass panels runs through the front elevation and folds at the top, where its steel frame has been treated like a pergola. The angular glass panel cladding continues in the other wing where alternate floors have been given landscaped areas.
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RESIDENTIAL
THESE PAGES A combination of four towers, Ajmera Cityscapes in Kandivali, Mumbai is a landmark that is tough to miss. With two towers of 47-storeys and other two of 20, Ajmera Cityscapes comes with four levels of podium parking.
“it is the biggest compliment when first-time clients come back for their other projects as in the case of the Ajmera Group. We are now working on several properties, including hotels and resorts.” - Reza Kabul
AJMERA CITYSCAPES
Woven in context The Ajmera Group, having developed nearly 21 million sq ft space over the last four decades, has established itself as one of the leading construction houses in the country. With a development of over 40,000 residential apartments through its various companies, the group’s footprint is perceptible in Mumbai and other urban centres. Architect Reza Kabul’s association with Alpesh Ajmera of Ajmera Cityscapes is evidence that every journey starts with a small step. The relationship that took off with the commencement of Ajmera Iconic, a soaring residential complex in Mumbai’s suburbs, is now extending to the developer’s hospitality and other projects in Mumbai and beyond. “It is the biggest compliment when first-time clients come back for their other projects as in the case of the Ajmera Group,” says Kabul. “We are now working on several properties, including hotels and resorts.” Kabul has planned Ajmera Iconic around the concept of a traditional courtyard. Four towers, two 47-storeyed and two 20-storeyed, are located at the corners of a central courtyard, which is a traffic-free zone. The four towers are planned to be of varying different heights to maximise and enable wind movement, cross-ventilation, and channel light into the central space. REZA KABUL BLACK BOOK BY HOME TRENDS
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“Our association with Reza spans several projects. Reza’s vision and insight into the consumers’ minds makes him unique. His experience and practical approach make him stand apart from the others in the fraternity. His down-to-earth attitude is a delight.” Alpesh Ajmera, Managing Director, Ajmera Cityscapes,
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“Customers’ needs have pushed Ekta World to demand more out of us. And their expectations propel us to deliver more.” - Reza Kabul
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FACING PAGE The 14-storeyed Ekta Parksville in Virar offers serene views of the city. It has a central podium, which is a traffic-free zone so that children have space for their leisure activities.
EKTA WORLD, MUMBAI
StRenGth to StRenGth “It was early in my practice that we started working with Ekta,” recalls architect Reza Kabul. Interestingly, the first project that was conceptualised by Kabul, a site in Bhandup, never took off. “But soon after the firm’s chairman approached us for another project in Borivali and we’ve been working with them ever since,” says Kabul. That is mildly put for an association that has endured over two decades in India’s rapidly transforming and increasingly competitive real estate industry. Ekta and Kabul have put landmark projects on the skyline and are constantly challenging stereotypes in newer territories. Apart from developing residential properties in Mumbai’s prime areas, Reza Kabul Associates is striving to achieve the same end result for Ekta in Virar, Pune and Nashik as it has with the Lakes Homes project in Powai.
The real estate firm had launched Lakes Homes at a time when the property market was facing a recession. More significantly, the location was known as the hub of Hiranandani Builders. Despite the challenges, Reza Kabul Associates executed a sample apartment, a restaurant, a clubhouse with a pool and a banquet on the site in 45 days only. Due to an overwhelming response on the day of the launch (04-04-2004), Ekta World decided to convert its planned 1- BHK units into 2-BHK or bigger apartments. The five phases of Lake Homes comprise 2500 apartments over multiple buildings, including Lake Superior, which boasts of a terrace garden for each apartment. This was the first city building to offer private car parking on every floor. “This project was a turning point for Ekta World and today they are considered to be among the finest developers,” says Kabul. REZA KABUL BLACK BOOK BY HOME TRENDS
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THESE PAGES Spread across 12 acres of green surroundings, Ekta Greenville houses meticulously crafted and spacious apartments and villas for luxurious living. Each apartment is distinctly designed and 60 exquisite and secluded villas are also well nestled in the project offering a relaxing and soothing environment to the residents.
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BELOW Lake Homes, in the heart of Powai, Mumbai, boasts of 2500 apartments. A range of 2, 3, 4 BHK along with duplex apartments are complemented by superior amenities such as a club house with a pool, banquet halls, etc. FACING PAGE Each of Ekta’s Lake Superior 4 BHK apartments stresses on exclusivity for its residents. The massing of positive and negative spaces stands out in the facade.
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THESE PAGES Ekta Empress is a premium residential project in Bandra. Despite a restricted plot, a health club and a pool have been accommodated.
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FACING PAGE The form of Symphony, a high-end residential building in Chembur, draws inspiration from an hourglass.
SHUBHAM GROUP, MUMBAI
PAvinG the PAth New entrants in any field bring with them a freshness of ideas and the bravado to explore beyond the norm. A comparatively new and a young firm, Shubham Group, under the leadership of Dinesh Shah and Nimesh Dalal have fast become the talk of the real estate town. Their special interest lies in high-end developments. The group initially approached Reza Kabul Associates with a few properties in Chembur. The first project undertaken in the area by Kabul was Sapphire, which was coincidently the first standalone project of the Shubham Group as well. With Sapphire, the two brought a project that featured an elevated car parking in Chembur for the first time. A gymnasium and space for residents to host people as well as banquet services are also provided.Kabul says, “When they first came to us, we could see the eagerness and the fire they had in them to grow. The group is very ambitious. They are always ready to experiment and never want to compromise on quality.� The shared willingness to work outside comfort zones has formed a strong basis of partnership between the Shubham Group and Architect Reza Kabul Consultants. With the landmark Stellar, a commercial building in Sion and Sapphire in Chembur successfully completed, Suprasheela and ten more projects, primarily residential, are in the pipeline.
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“the group is very ambitious, willing to experiment and never compromises on quality.” - Reza Kabul
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RIGHT Sapphire is the first residential project in Chembur to feature elevated car parking. FACING PAGE A commercial project, Stellar is well connected to central and south Mumbai and offers best-in-class facilities for office spaces.
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“Reza has designed several innovative projects. In fact, he and his team have been the driving force in making our company an acclaimed and credible developer. Today, our buildings stand tall and their residents are testimony of the same.� Dinesh Shah, Director, Shubham Group
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“Often elegant structures are derived from the most simplistic forms.” - Reza Kabul
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“Reza Kabul’s style is unique. He has ideas that very few architects can match or think of. His team is efficient and is able to translate our vision perfectly. Reza understands our requirements and comes up with innovative features. These have added tremendous value to our project.”
FACING PAGE Sited on a 13,774 sq m plot on LBS Marg in Bhandup, Neostar Pinnacle is a mixed-use project, comprising retail, commercial and residential spaces.
Gajendra Pawar, Director, Pinnacle Group
NEOSTAR PINNACLE, MUMBAI
BReAKinG BARRieRS The Pinnacle Group, having spent over 20 years in the real estate industry, has developed a strong ideology for their projects. The group has carved a niche with its innovative and eco-friendly buildings that also make a strong aesthetic statement. It was for these reasons that when the group entered the Mumbai market, they decided to work with architect Reza Kabul. Situated on the busy LBS Marg, in Bhandup, a trapezoidal mass of glass makes up the commercial structure of this mixed-use project. A chunk of mass has been extracted such that the upper sections appear to be floating
over a vacuum. A mid-sized floor has been cantilevered on columns in this void. “This floor can be used as a restaurant or a terrace area,” says the architect. “The ground floor has the shopping component while commercial and office spaces take up the rest of the structure.” The residential towers have been ensconced at the rear to keep noise and pollution at bay. A 50-metre drive from the commercial building leads to the podium parking levels from where two, 35-storey towers rise magnificently into the sky. 2 and 3 BHK apartments give way to 4 BHK units and a penthouse at the upper levels. REZA KABUL BLACK BOOK BY HOME TRENDS
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“Since this is our first project in Mumbai, we wanted it to be a landmark, and provide exclusive facilities to our residents. When we met Reza and his team, they had a lot of inputs such as an area earmarked for elderly citizens, which was so far unheard of.� Jaideep Mane, Director, Neostar Infra
THESE PAGES Bridges connect the two residential towers, which have been situated at the rear of the plot to avoid noise and pollution. The commercial wing at the front has a cantilevered floor that appears to be floating.
FACING PAGE The green building boasts of private gardens, maximised ventilation and solar-powered lights. The ‘villas in the sky’ are supported by three levels of car parking, recreational facilities and a health club.
AUM CONSTRUCTIONS, MUMBAI
UndeR the BlUe SKy To stand out in the crowd, one needs to break through the clutter and carve out a niche. This is easier said than done, as it requires an ability to perceive hard-to-define needs and transform them into fulfilling spaces. When real estate firm Aum Constructions needed a residential project that was like none other, architect Reza Kabul, who has worked with the owners before, upped the ante by planning one with exclusive services, such as that of a concierge, valet and a café on the premises. “We’ve planned several projects with Aum Constructions, but none match the luxury and finesse of 11/11 Sky Villas,” says Kabul. “The smallest detail has been paid attention to and the quality of finishing in each apartment is top notch.” At the core of the idea, explains Kabul, is the need to treat each residence as a privileged entity with plenty of privacy and abundant spaces so that each unit feels like a private villa. This concept has given rise to an 11-storeyed structure with a duplex per floor, Each duplex is complete with its independent terrace and garden. Biometric elevators open inside each of the duplex units, spread over an area of 6500 sq ft, thanks to its expansive rooms. Solar-powered lights, renewable materials and stress on maximising natural light make this premium project an eco-friendly one too.
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“A discussion with Reza about the market enabled us to develop 11/11 Sky Villas, the first project of this scale in Chembur.� - Sharan Jadhwani, Partner, Aum Constructions
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RIGHT The 33-storey structure, Amethyst distinguishes itself with its egg-shaped design. Inspired by natural forms, it is ideal for offices or hotels and employs top-of-theline architectural planning skills and techniques. BELOW The 45-storeyed, 150 m Shreepati Arcade in Tardeo, Mumbai, is a 1,18,000 sq ft development. It overcame several site-related restrictions before being completed in 2002. FACING PAGE An iconic structure in itself, the mixed-use project Shreepati Gardens will be located in Parel, Mumbai. A combination of residential and commercial, some of its salient features include an Olympic size swimming pool, expansive sundecks in each flats and a rooftop observatory.
“Shreepati Arcade was a turning point for our practice.”- Reza Kabul
SHREEPATI GROUP, MUMBAI
inteRPRetinG the fUtURe Passion alone doesn’t drive extraordinary achievements; it has to be backed by strong ambition to leave a mark for posterity. Shreepati Group and architect Reza Kabul have managed to achieve this with their first project, Shreepati Arcade, registered in the Limca Book of Records in 2003 as the tallest, standing residential building in India. Interestingly, even Kabul didn’t think it would be possible to build a 150-metre skyscraper on the tight plot when he first visited the site, which was brimming over with hundreds of tenements and chawls. “When I saw the site, I wondered if we would even be able to build the planned 39-storeyed building,” remembers Kabul. “The access to the plot was just 10 ft wide, which would have made it extremely difficult for trucks and machinery to operate in the premises. The tenants too were being cleared in phases.” Gradually, as more and more tenants were rehabilitated and the space on the site expanded, the construction pace quickened. The podium and the shopping arcade took shape once all the tenants moved out. Six more floors were also added to the original plan and work for the 45-storeyed structure was completed in 2002, nearly five years after being planned.“It was an immense challenge. Each day was exciting as we would discover new things at the site,” says Kabul. “But as we saw each floor take shape and eventually when the building was unveiled, it gave us tremendous happiness.” 72
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FACING PAGE Shreepati Jewels is a township including seven high-rise towers with exquisitely planned apartments, duplexes and penthouses located at Girgaum, Mumbai. Each of these buildings are well-equipped with amenities like tennis and basketball courts, spa and gymnasiums. Each flat has an open sundeck. Business centres, hospital, fire stations and IB schools are all located within the complex.
“Shreepati Arcade designed by Reza Kabul has been featured in the Limca Book of Records in 2003 as the tallest building in India and continues to be one of the tallest residential buildings in the country. Reza Kabul has worked with us on several projects and has displayed an innovative streak on each one of them.� - Rajendra R. Chaturvedi, Chairman and Managing Director, Shreepati Group
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FACING PAGE RIGHT Shreepati Skies, an 81-storeyed structure, stands out for its curved form and aerodynamic design. The redevelopment project will offer 2 and 3 BHK as well as duplex and penthouse apartments. FACING PAGE EXTREME RIGHT Shreepati Estate, a mixed-use residential and commercial project offers 21/2, 3, and 4 BHK houses along with duplex and penthouse apartments. A premium project, it is located in the heart of the city and boasts of facilities like swimming pool and gymnasium to refresh after a long working day. BELOW The club house with a health club and swimming pool in the 81-storeyed Shreepati Skies located at Tardeo.
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FACING PAGE Aura Biplex has been designed to be a mixed-use project to take advantage of its busy location. The 38-storeyed residential tower, layered within the retail and commercial zones, tapers towards the top to provide aesthetic relief.
AURA BIPLEX BY BHOOMI GROUP, MUMBAI
GRIT AND GRACE Prompted by the desire to push stereotypes and go beyond just building structures, Bhoomi Realty has undertaken challenging projects and consistently delivered on providing innovative spaces. Established in 1975, the company’s focus on customisation led architect Reza Kabul to develop a mixed-used project for the company wherein he has ingeniously turned a drawback of a plot into its biggest advantage. The plot sits on the busy SV Road in Borivali. Given the bustle and the noise that besieges the plot, Kabul took advantage of the existing, high footfalls on the road and formulated Aura Biplex, a commercial and residential development. “The ground+one shopping zone has been provided to draw in crowds from the road. The space has been designed to have exclusive shops for brands,” says Kabul. “Although this is our first project with Bhoomi, they’ve allowed us a free hand in exploring the plot to design a multi-user project.” An eight-storey commercial parking shelters the 38-storeyed residential tower from the bustle of the street. The buffering continues with nine levels in the residential tower provided for parking and the recreational facilities. “The curvilinear form adds to the aerodynamic nature of the building,” says Kabul.
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“Bhoomi Group has allowed us a free hand in utilising the plot to design a multi-user project.” - Reza Kabul
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“Associating with Mr. Kabul has given our project, Aura Biplex, instant recognition in the industry. Despite the challenges, Mr. Kabul has been able to conceptualise Aura Biplex as a visionary project.” - Jayant Parekh, Managing Director, Bhoomi Realty
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“We had to maximise the plot area, for Gym view. Shikhar, in Andheri, had to be an upscale home to the stars.” - Reza Kabul
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THESE PAGES A recreation zone has been devised atop the podium level in Shikhar, a 35-storeyed structure in Oshiwara, Andheri. Amenities include a swimming pool, tennis courts and a health club.
MIDCITY INFRASTRUCTURE, MUMBAI
URBAn excellence Isn’t it wonderful when someone else understands exactly what you need even though you may not always be able to articulate the nuances? Such clear crystallisation of ideas and thoughts often form the basis of successful partnerships. This is one of the reasons why Rajen Dhruv of MIDCITY Infrastructure ropes in architect Reza Kabul for projects at prestigious locations. The 9001-2008 certified real estate company has collaborated with the architect on two of their leading projects, Gym View and Shikhar. Given the constraints of redeveloping Gym View, the architect has accommodated the needs of the existing residents while ensuring that the newer apartments are expansive spaces. With one apartment per floor, Gym View is now a 16-storeyed building with provision for a pool on each level. The view of Khar Gymkhana has been maximised for every apartment. Shikhar, on the other hand, is a towering building with 35 floors that is typified by a decorative light at its pinnacle. Two spacious flats make up each floor. The east-west orientation of the structure enables the apartments to benefit from cross-ventilation. “Since the location, Oshiwara, is popular among actors, we knew that privacy would be a prime concern for these potential residents. So we have provided elevators that open inside the apartments,” says Kabul.
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FACING PAGE Originally a 12-storeyed building, architect Reza Kabul has transformed Gym View into a premium, 16-storeyed structure. Each apartment has been built to accommodate a pool overlooking Khar Gymkhana.
“We have had a high success rate every time architect Reza Kabul has designed a project for us. His designs are a huge selling point. He offers a deep understanding of our requirement and ensures that he delivers every project on time, every time.� - Rajen V Dhruv, Director, MIDCITY Infrastructure REZA KABUL BLACK BOOK BY HOME TRENDS
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“the range of projects that we have collaborated on with the PG Group is immense. their expertise in the field and valuable inputs contribute to the success of every project.� - Reza Kabul
PG GROUP, MUMBAI
Rich diveRSity While most businesses try to cater to specific needs, PG Group is one that adorns many hats with effortless élan. After having spent over two decades in Mumbai’s real estate sector, the group, headed by Prakash Gidwani, has realised that one size does not fit all, especially in a city like Mumbai. As a result, their repertoire of developments not only includes highend projects but also redevelopment of buildings and budget homes. “The range of projects that we have collaborated on with PG Group in the last two decades is immense. They may not always agree or voice a different view on things, but they always give weight to our inputs,” says architect Reza Kabul, who has been working on several different kind of projects for Gidwani, such as
Paramount, Park Royale and Uday Bhanu. The crux for Paramount has been to accommodate as many apartment units on the plot given the restriction of height due to proximity to the airport. Resultantly, 10 apartments find place on each floor of the 10-storeyed building. The varying configuration of the apartments has resulted in the curvilinear design of the building as the smaller 1 BHK units have been stacked at the centre. Paramount sharply contrasts Park Royale, another project in Mulund, which lays stress on offering spatial environs, or from Two Roses and Uday Bhanu, both residential projects that offer expansive, premium homes.
THIS PAGE The Uday Bhanu redevelopment project features three levels of parking. A recreation area serves the residents of the 3 and 4 BHK apartments.
“Reza exceeds expectations every time. Being associated with him adds tremendous prestige to our projects and helps build immense trust among our clients.” Prakash Gidwani, Managing Director, PG Group
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LEFT The curvilinear facade of Paramount is due to the different sizes of the apartments 1 and 2 BHK. 10 apartments per floor have been supplemented by elevators and two staircases to accommodate many apartments while not increasing the building’s height BELOW EXTREME LEFT The challenge in Two Roses, a redevelopment project in Bandra, was to give bigger homes to the existing residents while providing exclusive one-apartment-per-floor area on the upper levels of the two wings. BELOW LEFT Park Royale is a high-end apartment complex in Mulund. Both the residential wings feature 4 BHK apartments complemented by a health club and a swimming pool.
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“Since the plot was restricted, we had to grow vertically to maximise the available space.” - Reza Kabul
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FACING PAGE Clean, straight lines typify the facade of the 38-storeyed Flora Heights. The glass volumes on top break the monotony of the concrete structure.
FLORA HEIGHTS, MUMBAI
toWeRinG edifice The most significant parameter that can possibly pre-determine the success of any real estate project is its location. It works well to try and maximise this strength to one’s advantage even though the size of the site is a challenge. Flora Heights is an endeavour in this direction. “This is a high-end development and since the plot was restricted, so naturally we had to grow vertically,” says architect Reza Kabul. The 38-storeyed building, atop six parking levels, majestically rises to provide breathtaking sea views. Recreational facilities over the parking level have added an edge to this project. In this space, the swimming pool is unique, shielded by a pergola, and the health club offers a range of advanced facilities. The structure’s massing is consistent save for the upper levels that house the duplex units and penthouses that have been given a glass facade. “Glass adds aesthetic value to the structure,” explains Kabul. He adds that his long-term associaton with the developer, Amit Jalan, has only deepened with the commencement of this project. “This is his first project and every developer wants his project to be unique and the most beautiful.” REZA KABUL BLACK BOOK BY HOME TRENDS
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“Flora Heights is a multi-storeyed tower and is well-appointed with high-end luxury in every nook and corner. Reza’s personal, handson involvement has brought a touch of class to this project, which we always aspired for.” - Amit Jalan, Director, Flora
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“crescent developers’ reputation with the residents of Marol and Andheri is popular due to their projects. So when they planned to expand to dahisar, we knew we had to back their ambitions with a strong project.” - Reza Kabul
LEFT The three towers of Crescent Hills, the company’s first residential project in Dahisar, stands out for its solid volumes. The project is also the only one in the neighbourhood to have a retail component. BELOW The positive-negative space arrangement of Crescent Exotica in Andheri balances its facade.
“Reza Sir’s mix of ideas and planning initiatives is in line with our slogan - ‘shaping the future’.” - Hilal Merchant, Chairman and Managing Director, Crescent Developers
CRESCENT DEVELOPERS, MUMBAI
exPAndinG hoRizonS It’s never easy to step out of a comfort zone. The sheer number of obstacles can be enough to bog down the most daring adventurists. But if one is armed with the very best, a gruelling journey can become an enjoyable ride. As in the case of Crescent Developers and architect Reza Kabul. “When the Crescent group wanted to expand from Andheri to Dahisar, we had to back his ambitions with a strong project.” The design for Crescent Hills draws attention from afar. Three solid, concrete towers rise over the shopping complex. All the apartments feature wide, open balconies that stand out in the facade. Comparatively, Crescent Exotica is a smaller development in the company’s domain area of Marol.
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“We wanted to optimise the view and so we have planned a deck for each apartment in the 38-storey structure. this feature is what gives the building its name, JP decks.” - Reza Kabul
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FACING PAGE An exclusive deck for each apartment ensures a vantage point for residents to enjoy the greenery that surrounds JP Infra’s residential project, JP Decks. FACING PAGE BELOW The facade of Amar Square takes inspiration from the irregular shape of the plot. The project combines retail and commercial components.
“Architect Reza Kabul has translated our vision to the hilt. We appreciate the attention he pays to each project.” -Vijay Jain, Chairman and Managing Director, JP Infra
JP INFRA, MUMBAI
chAllenGinG noRMS For JP Infra’s Vijay Jain, understanding the city’s real estate environment was a smaller part of the big picture, which was to ensure the best-inclass aesthetics and function for all his developments. “This need has been translated in the group’s debut projects in Mumbai,” says architect Reza Kabul. “Both Amar Square and JP Decks enjoy unmatched conveniences in terms of architecture and facilities.” JP Decks is a residential development where each of the 10 apartments per floor features a special lookout point i.e. a deck. At Amar Square, two levels of shopping prop up the commercial spaces. Modern architectural concepts and superior technology are features aimed at elevating the corporate stature to greater heights. REZA KABUL BLACK BOOK BY HOME TRENDS
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Finished to perfection, Flora looks splendid at night
“The group goes into the smallest details and harnesses the potential of any 98 REZA KABUL BLACK BOOK HOME TRENDS new technology inBY order to help conserve resources.”- Reza Kabul
THESE PAGES Stressing on eco-friendly construction materials, every feature at Tirumala Habitats in Mulund has been selected to reduce carbon burden on the environment.
TRANSCON GROUP OF COMPANIES, MUMBAI
A ScUlPtURAl foRM More than its path-breaking designs, the one thing that Tirumala Developers takes pride in is in providing homes that respect and conserve nature. “They go into the smallest details and harness the potential of any new technology in order to help conserve resources,” says architect Reza Kabul. This is apparent in two of the group’s many projects that he has been a part of, Tirumala Habitats and Tirumala Upnishad. With a massive 40,000 sq ft garden at the podium level, Tirumala Habitats in Mulund is a serene retreat. A chunk of land at the rear of the plot is also being developed as a green zone. Everything from the raw materials to solar lights as well as rainwater and sewage treating plants have been accommodated to make this a sustainable project.
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“Our effort has been to offer apartments, which allow maximum natural light and ventilation, so as to make ideal living conditions for all seasons. All our projects are designed to offer maximum open spaces and conform to green guidelines for conservation of water and energy. Obviously, we couldn’t have achieved much of this without the vision and expertise of Mr. Reza Kabul.” - Kirit Kedia, Transcon Developers
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FACING PAGE Tirumala Skies is a modern-classic residential property in Bandra. With a simple clean structure, it uses the concept of terraces at alternate levels. The building enjoys a rear side sea view. THIS PAGE The buildings in Tirumala Upnishad have been positioned to benefit from cross-ventilation, without shadowing any of the neighbouring structures.
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“Whether it’s a pool or lush, landscaped gardens, Raunak city has all these amenities plus the luxury of space.” - Reza Kabul
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THESE PAGES Spread over 30 acres, Raunak City is a self-sustaining township in Kalyan. The first phase will see the development of 11 buildings with apartments ranging from 1, 1 ½ and 2 BHK. Landscaped gardens and surrounding greenery make this project a green haven.
RAUNAK GROUP, MUMBAI
eMeRGinG deStinAtion Creating homes that are close to nature is key to all Raunak Group projects. The group, established in 1981, has been responsible for developing over 20 lakh sq ft area in and around Mumbai and Pune. Their next project, in association with architect Reza Kabul, is a large scale venture that aims to allure many to an idyllic lifestyle at Raunak City in Kalyan. Spread over nearly 30 acres that will be developed in phases, Raunak City is a planned, self-sustaining township with proximity to educational institutions and transport hubs. The first phase is spread over five acres and comprises 11 buildings of 15 storeys each.
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THESE PAGES Fountain Heights at Kandivli, Mumbai, is a residential project that offers 2 and 3 BHK apartments. Its two wings stand on a podium that uses aluminium louvers to cover a main water pipeline.
FOUNTAIN HEIGHTS
A RefReShinG oUtlooK Masking a problem such that it appears to be an aesthetic feature and not an unwanted element calls for ingenuity. The site of this residential project in Kandivili called for a similar approach. A large plot was segmented into two zones by a main water pipeline running through it. To allow maintenance, local laws didn’t permit construction directly over the pipe. “So we decided to cover the pipe with large aluminium louvers at what would have been the third level. The areas adjacent to the pipe underneath the louvers becomes the parking space,” says architect Reza Kabul. The podium has been taken to house the health club and other recreational facilities. Two residential towers, 17-storeyed each, rise from the podium level, and overlook a landscaped area inspired by the Mughal Gardens.
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“due to the existence of a main water pipeline on site, a landscaped podium evolved� - Reza Kabul
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“The on-site contour was a guiding factor in the design. Respecting the existing site led to playful terraced landscaped lawns which are coupled with waterbodies.” - Reza Kabul
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THESE PAGES Socorro Gardens is the first project between Nitin Developers and architect Reza Kabul. The site’s contour adds to the drama of the buildings’ design.
SOCORRO GARDENS, GOA
AMIDST NATURE When nature presents a bulwark that is hard to bypass, creative minds find solutions to work with the problem. Goa-based Nitin Developers, a recent player in the Goan real estate market, found like-minded architect, Reza Kabul, who saw a sloping plot as an opportunity. Their association has resulted in Socorro Gardens shaping up as a high-end residential complex in Socorro, Goa. The unique element of this complex is that it is completely built on a slope. Conical cap-like structures above the apartments and penthouses give the buildings a hint of Goan architecture. The landscape design binds the waterbodies with lush green lawns.
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“We’ve provided top of the line amenities in this project as it will cater to high-end customers.”- Reza Kabul
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THESE PAGES Dheeraj Insignia can be conveniently accessed from opposite directions – Bandra-Kurla Complex and the Kurla-Kalina Road. Six, 15-storeyed buildings make up the complex that is complete with recreational facilities and three levels of podium parking. A glass box atop the building is a decorative light feature.
DHEERAJ INSIGNIA, MUMBAI
leAvinG A MARK The vicinity of any commercial hub often becomes a hot-bed for residential developments. Dheeraj Group spotted the opportunity early in coming up with a residential project proximate to the BandraKurla Complex (BKC). Dheeraj Insignia has been designed to cater to a premium clientele with professional links to BKC. The complex has six residential wings of 15 storeys each and can be accessed from BKC and Kalina-Kurla road. Multiple podium parking space, a gymnasium, a swimming pool and a recreation area complement the 3 and 4 BHK and duplex apartments. “All the duplex apartments have their private terraces,” says architect Reza Kabul.
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INTERIORS, RENOVATION & REFURBISHMENT
THESE PAGES When converting the mall into an office space, the elevators and escalators were left as it is. The rest of the areas have become workspaces in the new plan.
ARCIL, MUMBAI
A neW oUtlooK Projects once constructed are tough to alter but architect Reza Kabul, with his focused space planning and effective use of design technique, transformed the 35,000 sq ft commercial wing of Shreepati Arcade into an office for financial company Arcil. The project, when given out to Kabul, was already complete. But the interiors had to change to suit the newer needs. The elevators and escalators were retained and boardrooms, chairman’s room, a dining room for the staff and a gymnasium were added. Kabul adds, “We did not want to over-accessorise the areas and have designed the office to ensure maximum functionality.”
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“Since there were many malls in the area, we transformed the arcade into an office” - Reza Kabul
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THESE PAGES The wear and tear of nearly a century had run down the structure of Shiraz Mosque. Renovation work included filling the cracks in the walls, steps and the hauz that were a result of a fissure running through the plot. Most materials, such as onyx and baked ceramic tiles, and accessories have been imported from Iran.
SHIRAZ MOSqUE, MUMBAI
UPholdinG tRAdition
BEFORE
Renovating a historic monument, especially a place of worship, is a responsibility. Architect Reza Kabul took on the challenge of refurbishing a 100-year-old mosque. A huge fissure ran through the plot of Shiraz Mosque, resulting in cracked walls and steps. The drainage for the hauz (a pond meant for mandatory ablutions before going for prayers) was also affected due to the fissure. “We repaired the damage due to the fissure and clad the two ft thick walls of the mosque with onyx tiles brought from Iran,” says Kabul. “We repaired the wooden trusses above the walls, stitched the roof with steel plates and covered them with Manglore tiles.” A retaining wall has been built adjacent to the hauz and the pond has been cast again in RCC to cover the cracked areas. The entrance, with four minarets, has been clad in baked ceramic tiles. Accessories were especially imported from Iran. AFTER
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“There were challenges, such as understanding the original architecture, finding an all-Muslim team, etc but it was a great honour to get a chance to work on such a project.” - Reza Kabul
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