DE July - August 2021 Edition // DE India

// July - August 2021 // DE INDIA

architecture & design magazine

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featuring

PATRICIA URQUIOLA

/

International Spotlight Interview

ESSENTIA ENVIRONMENTS CONFLUENCE MUSELAB FADD STUDIO STUDIO LOTUS QUIRK STUDIO

a beautiful home by

ESSENTIA ENVIRONMENTS

planned around open-to-sky gardens, landscaped courtyards & ingressed green bodies ing

and many more young architects & designers of India

VOLUME 02 ISSUE 04

PAGE 41

THE JEWEL OF JAIPUR THE JOHRI AT LAL HAVELI

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// July - August 2021 // DE INDIA

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MUTINA

OPENS ITS FIRST SPACE IN THE HEART OF MILAN, DESIGNED BY

PATRICIA URQUIOLA

VOLUME 02 ISSUE 04

CASA MUTINA #LetsTalkDesign

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// July - August 2021 // DE INDIA

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DE SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

PATRICIA URQUIOLA, STUDIO URQUIOLA, MILAN, ITALY

VOLUME 02 ISSUE 04

DESIGN ESSENTIA MAGAZINE

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// July - August 2021 // DE INDIA

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DE SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

HARDESH CHAWLA & MONICA CHAWLA, ESSENTIA ENVIRONMENTS, GURGAON, INDIA

VOLUME 02 ISSUE 04

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VOLUME 02 ISSUE 04

DE SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

VISHAL SHARMA & VINEETA SINGHANIA SHARMA, CONFLUENCE, NEW DELHI, INDIA #LetsTalkDesign

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// July - August 2021 // DE INDIA

a THE JEWEL OF JAIPUR VOLUME 02 ISSUE 04

architecture & design magazine

DESIGN ESSENTIA MAGAZINE

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DE//INDIA #LetsTalkDesign

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CONTENTS

DE//INDIA DESIGN ESSENTIA MAGAZINE

CASA MUTINA

JUL - AUG 2021 #LetsTalkDesign

//DE spotlight INTERVIEW with PATRICIA URQUIOLA PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT at

20

STUDIO URQUIOLA, Milan, Italy (on right)

ON COVER

//DE spotlight INTERVIEW with HARDESH & MONICA CHAWLA PRINCIPAL DESIGNERS PRINCI at

27

ESSENTIA ENVIRONMENTS, Gurgaon, India (on left)

//A BEAUTIFUL HOME BY ESSENTIA ENVIRONMENTS PLANNED AROUND OPEN TO SKY GARDENS, LANDSCAPED COURTYARDS & INGRESSED GREEN BODIES.

//DE spotlight INTERVIEW with VISHAL SHARMA & VINEETA SINGHANIA SHARMA PRINCIPAL ARCHITECTS

33

at

CONFLUENCE, New Delhi, India (on left)

CONTENTS

THE JEWEL OF JAIPUR

41

DE PRODUCTS

//ARCHITECTURE & INTERIOR PRODUCT SHOWCASE

BLUEDOT DESIGN

14

MIN STUDIO

17

DE impressions //TOP TRENDING DESIGN SHOWCASE (DE SPACES)

48 NAKED MUMBAI

By MUSELAB

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THE COURTYARD HOUSE

56

UPSTAGE CLUB

60

EXPAND LOFT

HOSUR

NEW DELHI

MUMBAI

By FADD STUDIO

By STUDIO LOTUS

By QUIRK STUDIO

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//YOUNG ARCHITECTS & DESIGNERS OF INDIA SHARE THEIR STORY.

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84

architecture & design magazine

CONTENTS

DE discover

//Editor’s letter ABOUT THE ISSUE With this edition DE INDIA introduces its fourth issue for 2021.

DE INDI INDIA celebrates design, with it’s new edition for Jul - Aug 2021. This edition we re-introduce our segment for Travel & Design with DE Voyager; showcasing the ‘Jewel of Jaipur’ - A new boutique hotel in the heart of the famous Johri Bazaar of the Pink City. Checkout this true gem!

For this issue our DE spotlight cover story showcases a beautiful home planned around open to sky gardens, landscaped courtyards and ingressed green bodies by Essentia Environments.

It was an exciting moment for me to have the international cover story conversation with one of the top international architects from Milan, Italy Patricia Urquiola, principal architect at Studio Urquiola, Milan. Patricia talks about her design journey and shares her latest collaboration for ‘MUTINA‘ in Milan with Casa Mutina.

Another studio for our DE Spotlight interview series is a New Delhi based studio, Confluence who share and talk about their prime housing projects in NCR.

//photograph by DE Studio

Various homegrown young architects & designers of the country share their latest works, while talking about creating that perfect environment through design.

Let’s highlight and celebrate the beautiful So, Let essence of design around us.

Let’s Talk Design with DE. Stay Safe & Happy Reading!!

ANIRUDH DATTA (Editor in chief) DESIGN ESSENTIA MAGAZINE //DE INDIA architecture & design magazine

PRODUCTS

ONLINE SOURCE FOR ARCHITECTURE & INTERIOR PRODUCTS. //SHOWCASE YOUR PRODUCTS WITH DE INDIA.

#LetsTalkDesign

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @DE_PRODUCTSs.INDIA

PRODUCTS

Introducing DE Products - our product platform specially for architectural and interior design products by DE India

Bluedot Design is a design centric furniture

company based in Mumbai which was founded by designer Swati Gupta, with the aims to design and manufacture distinctive, practical and affordable as well as luxury furniture for homes, institutes, restaurants, cafes and offices. The studio offers a wide variety of furniture across Mid-century Modern,Contemporary,Eclectic and Industrial styles. styles //below; Tissage collection by Bluedot Design. //on left; Swati Gupta - principal designer at Bluedot Design

www.bluedotdesign.in

//DEProducts / Lets Talk Design 14

| July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA

TELL US ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY. SWATI : Bluedot believes in developing design ideas that are powerful, distinctive and specific to a given space.We have adapted design philosophies to the need of time, while blending simplicity with functionality as the core strength.The goal is to bring apparently divergent ideas to a unified design,by using more sustainable materials like reclaimed Teakwood and natural rattan in our furniture. Our collections are inspired by the mid-century era, blending in the needs of the current times.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR LATEST PRODUCT COLLECTION. WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND IT’S INCEPTION? SWATI : TISSAGE - Woven Series, is an effort to address the environmental impact on furniture design and manufacturing, creating sustainable furniture, inspired by mid-century modern era. This collection’s handcrafted teakwood frame which is naturally seasoned and hand-woven cane has a simplistic beauty. Fine craftsmanship and exceptional detail are a seen from every angle.

//above; HARVEY chair from Tissage collection by Bluedot

MENTION ANY TWO OF YOUR TOP FAVOURITE PRODUCTS FROM THIS COLLECTION? TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS SPECIAL PRODUCT? SWATI : We started our series with the Oru Lounge chair, one of our favourites in this collection.

Another favourite of ours is the Harvey Armchair.The armchairs are inspired by the forms and shapes of post-modernism,where we adapted the ergonomics to cater to the Indian audience.

ORU, is inspired by the simplicity and sleekness of mid-century modern era. The enire chair is hand-crafted from reclaimed teakwood and woven in natural cane with a “Box weave” pattern.The armrest flairs out to make space for the arm to rest comfortably on it.The idea behind was to stay away from engineered materials and create a more sustainable design. design HARVEY, the stunning armchair is handcrafted with naturally seasoned reclaimed teakwood and hand-woven natural cane.It carries the beauty of natural cane in its blind weave with hexagonal pattern, which turns seamlessly from the back into the seat.The curved floating seat in wood and the contours of the arms have been designed for extra comfort.

//above; ORU chair from Tissage collection by Bluedot

Lets Talk Design /

DEProducts//

July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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WE AT DE INDIA ARE CELEBRATING THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR HOMES, STAYING INDOORS SAFE IN THIS PANDEMIC MADE US CONNECT WITH OUR HOMES MORE THAN EVER. HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE YOUR PROCESS TO CONTRIBUTE TO DESIGN A HOME THAT TRANSFORMS THE LIVING OF THE RESIDENT THROUGH YOUR HOME PRODUCTS? SWATI : Wood and rattan is beyond convention to create a statement decor at homes.The warmth of the fresh, natural materials bring a serene ambience to any space.This furniture is easy maintenance, durable and functional along with aesthetically appealing. Due to the Pandemic we are spending so much time at home.We need something which is easy on the eyes with neutral colours and is cozy.The beauty of rattan furniture lies in its sustainability which people now a days are sensitive about saving the environment TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THE CRAFTSMANSHIP AND MAKING OF THESE SPECIAL PRODUCTS. SWATI : The collection is made by our team of highly experienced craftsmen, who know how to work with wood and rattan.These products are hand-crafted from reclaimed teakwood and natural rattan.

The material and treatment is natural without any chemicals involved.The wood is just protected with a coat of PU polish to increase the life of the furniture.

Each piece varies slightly from another due to wood grains and hand-work, which has its own charm. //above; TALIA chair; //on right; HARVEY chair; from Tissage collection by Bluedot

check out more on www.designessentiamagazine.com

//DEProducts / Lets Talk Design

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| July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA

PRODUCTS

Introducing DE Products - our product platform specially for architectural and interior design products by DE India

Min Studiois anAhmedabad based design studio

that focuses on designing handcrafted and customized furniture objects.The studio collaborates with master craftsmen and various artisans across the globe. The studio is founded by Mirali Shah a Fiji born, Ahmedabad based product designer. The cross cultures are embedded within the design process of various products. pr //below; Cloud Table from the Tapa collection by Min Studio. //on left; Mirali Shah - principal designer at Min Studio

Lets Talk Design /

DEProducts//

July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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TELL US ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY. MIRALI : Craft has a deep human heritage,history, and ancestry, yet handicraft items are perceived as decorative elements.The aim is to reimagine the usability & applicability of these treasures to create products with a minimalistic approach, modern functionality and yet staying true to the art form.

Amalgamation is the foundation of our design philosophy. philosop TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR LATEST PRODUCT COLLECTION. WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND IT’S INCEPTION? MIRALI : Growing up, we were constantly surrounded by contrasting cultures, from the structured chaos in India to the laid-back melodies of the island.

//above; The Cloud Table from the Tapa collection by Min Studio.

MENTION ANY TWO OF YOUR TOP FAVOURITE PRODUCTS FROM THIS COLLECTION? TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS SPECIAL PRODUCT?

Craft has the ability to capture these notions in one way or the other.The intention was to mix modern design concepts along with age old techniques of tapa craft which is a traditional art form practiced across the pacific islands mainly by tribal women and used as a clothing item or household décor articles.The focus is to extend the tapa craft beyond souvenir items, to contemporary pieces that adorn the household. contempora

MIRALI : The hand beaten fibrous texture from the mulberry tree, superimposed with natural pigments in the form of tribal motifs becomes the central feature of these products.

The ‘CLOUD TABLE’ is a blend of teakwood, bark cloth, metal and glass circular tops which are constantly moving, overlaying, and shifting just like the clouds.The smaller tops can spread outwards to provide a bigger serving space and can be slid back in to make it compact whenever required. This allows the user to have multiple options to creatively display the product and adapt to the space available. ad The ‘DIVIDER FLIP’ is a complete knockdown screen which is assembled with a combination of bark cloth and teakwood panels detailed with brass pipes.

Each panel is rotatable, the motion of these individual panels creates different patterns within the space.

//DEProducts / Lets Talk Design

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| July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA

//above; The Divider Flip from the Tapa collection by Min Studio.

WE AT DE INDIA ARE CELEBRATING THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR HOMES, STAYING INDOORS SAFE IN THIS PANDEMIC MADE US CONNECT WITH OUR HOMES MORE THAN EVER. HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE YOUR PROCESS TO CONTRIBUTE TO DESIGN A HOME THAT TRANSFORMS THE LIVING OF THE RESIDENT THROUGH YOUR HOME PRODUCTS? MIRALI : Being locked up during the pandemic times, has given people time and space to observe and rethink their surroundings. Today, most furniture items owned in our houses are mass produced.While they might look good or have a functionality to them, they lack soul. Our intention is to have a human centric approach towards developing sustainable objects by harvesting a de relation between the craftsman and the designer to inspire more innovative products.These objects in its true essence capture the spirit of the craft, material, contrasting cultures, across diverse geographic locations which the consumers tend to value time and again.

//above; DIVIDER FLIP; //on right; DIVIDER SPLIT; from Tapa collection by Min Studio

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THE CRAFTSMANSHIP AND MAKING OF THESE SPECIAL PRODUCTS. MIRALI : Tapa making is a centuries old craft in Polynesia. The traditional practices of women artisans beating the inner bark of the mulberry tree to form the base cloth, to using natural pigments and stenciling tribal motifs continue.We design the products based on the formations of the bark cloth.

Our skilled carpenters and fabricators work towards making every individual piece unique and to authentic. check out more on www.designessentiamagazine.com

Lets Talk Design /

DEProducts//

July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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DE

Spotlight Interview PATRICIA URQUIOLA

is a Spanish architect and designer, Italian by adoption.

STUDIO URQUIOLA UR was founded in 2001 by Patricia Urquiola and her partner, Alberto Zontone, and it operates in the fields of industrial product design, architecture (hotels, retail spaces, residences, exhibitions and installations), art direction and strategy consulting.. consulting.

DE Editor in chief Anirudh Datta had a detailed interaction with the internationally acclaimed architect for the DE Spotlight interview series where Patricia talks about her design journey and shares her latest project CASA MUTINA for Mutina in Milan, Italy.

IN CONVERSATION WITH

PATRICIA URQUIOLA (PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT AT STUDIO URQUIOLA)

(MILAN, ITALY)

architecture & design magazine

#DEspotlight // cover story

By ANIRUDH DATTA

DESIGN ESSENTIA MAGAZINE//DEINDIA

Patricia Urquiola studied architecture and design at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (Technical University of Madrid) and completed her studies at the Politecnico di Milano (Technical University of Milan) where graduated under the mentorship of Achille Castiglioni. In Spain, she was awarded the Golden Medal for Merits in Art and received the Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic.

Patricia Urquiola has been the Creative Director of Cassina since 2015 and works with important design companies, including Moroso, Driade, Flos, GAN, Andreu World, Glas Italia, Kettal, Kvadrat and international groups such as Haworth, BMW, Boeing, Louis Vuitton, Missoni, Mandarin Oriental Hotels, Four Seasons, Marriott Group, Starbucks, Ferrari and Swarovski.

Patricia Urquiola’s work is exhibited in many art and design museums across the world, including the MOMA in New York, the Decorative Arts Museum in Paris, the Triennale

Museum in Milan, the Design Museum in Monaco, the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, the Vitra Design Museum in Basel, theVictoria & Albert Museum in London, the Design Museum in Zurich, the Stedelijk Museum of modern and contemporary art in Amsterdam, the Design Museum of Barcelona and the Philadelphia Art Museum.

AD : WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN? WHO WERE YOUR EARLY DESIGN HEROES AND ROLE MODELS? PATRICIA : I knew I wanted to be an architect since I was a teenager. So, I chose to study in Madrid, during a moment that was extremely vibrant in the city. I am proud of my education in Spain, even if it was more academic than in Milan. Indeed, when I started studying at Milan Politecnico, classes were very experimental, they were a blend of experimental architecture and design. I fell in love with design especially thanks to professor Castiglioni. He taught us the curiousness, the ability to connect things.

I have done my thesis project with him, a smart rug, in which you could plug in your phone, a lamp; but it was safe because in extra-low voltage. I also worked for 2 years as his assistant.

Of course, also Vico Magistretti was a great mentor for me when I started working at De Padova. He believed in me – we were a small group of designers, very close and essential.

But I also owe a lot to clients like Patrizia Moroso, who believed in me since the beginning, and Maria Reig, who made me design my first hotel, the Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona. And last but not least, Maddalena De Padova was the first entrepreneur who believed in me, she had such a vivid intuition. (on left) PATRICIA URQUIOLA July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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AD : TELL US SOMETHING ABOUTYOUR JOURNEY IN THE INCEPTION OF STUDIO URQUIOLA PATRICIA : Actually, it took me some time to take this decision. I remember, I was leading the design department at Lissoni’s and I was happy with my job. It was actually Piero Lissoni, who encouraged me to open my own studio, he told me that I was more than ready.

I think this helped me to open my own studio when I was really convinced and indeed things started out well and the team grew in an organic way.

AD : IN FEW WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE YOUR DESIGN PROCESS – PHILOSOPHY? PATRICIA : I am very present in both design and architecture departments. To me the design process is essential and sharing is very important.

I am very open to everyone in my team and I really believe that creativity is strongly connecting with the dialogue, both inside my studio and with the clients. //below; il Sereno - Hotel suite in Como, Italy.

Photograph courtesy : Studio Urquiola

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AD : YOU’RE MOST PROUD - FAVORITE PROJECT TILL NOW? ANYTHING SPECIFICYOU LIKE TO SHARE ABOUT THIS PROJECT THAT MAKES IT SPECIAL FORYOU? PATRICIA : Among architecture projects, ‘il Sereno’ on lake Como, Italy was very important to me and I am still really affectionate to this hotel. I was inspired by the color of the lake, and its glistening water, the nature of the dramatic mountains, and the adjacent village of Torno. The color palette is the lake itself. It includes green, light-blue, copper, grey and natural tones. For Il Sereno we used natural materials (stone, wood, wool natural fibers) for a sustainable style and timeless elegance. I wanted that the lake was always present in the hotel.

There are many other projects that have meant a lot to me. Among design projects, I am thinking of the work done with Cassina these years and I am especially affectionate to Sengu Sofa, which has a very domestic and sustainable soul, including innovative features, as a result of Cassina LAB work. Indeed, a 100% recycled fibre, made from PET mainly recovered from the sea, is part of the cushion padding in respect of the environment.

AD : HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE IN DESIGNING MUTINA’S FIRST SHOWROOM IN MILAN. ANY OF YOUR FAVORITE ELEMENTS FROM THIS BEAUTIFUL SPACE YOU WOULD LIKE TO TALK ABOUT?

//below; Casa Mutina, Milan, Italy by Patricia Urquiola Photograph courtesy : Studio Urquiola

PATRICIA : Casa Mutina is an investigation on the domestic space that goes beyond the concept of a showroom: the project is designed to express the different languages of the designers, who work with the company, to dialogue and create invisible contaminations.

Casa Mutina is based on a modular system of panels which, however, is not explicitly perceived, but is always understood.This is the intention and the beauty of the project. Not only the paneling, but also the boiserie and plasters are designed as a system to be inserted into the modules and to evolve. In reality, the only real fixed elements in the space are the bookcase, the kitchen and the long wooden runway that crosses the rooms’ enfilade.

It is a house, in which the play of natural shades expresses a gentle approach to matter rather than to explicit color, a criterion that has always distinguished the research work on the roots of ceramics I made together with Mutina. In the project, light colors coexist - from white to terracotta to ranges of gray to black - to communicate to the visitor the sensation of the com material.

CASA MUTINA July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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The architecture involves creating a boiserie that redesigns the different functions of the typical rooms in an apartment: entrance, study, bathroom, kitchen and living room.The tactile aspect of the tiles on the floor and wall (up to a height of 240 cm) creates a pleasant contrast with the texture textu of the ceiling. It is designed to create an intimate and familiar perception of the space making it very different from a conventional showroom.

The wooden walkway naturally guides the visitor through the different rooms as they unfold. At the same time, each room is defined by a texture that marks out and defines its specific function.

The floating floor and the boiserie break away from the existing structure of the apartment in which cleanliness, clarity and tidiness are the central concept throughout.The design is completed by the choice of floor tiles that are not attached to the wall and thus resemble rugs, and the pinkish unfinished walls above the boiserie, which reflect the rigour in all the rooms.

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AD : WE AT DE INDIA ARE CELEBRATING THE ESSENCE OF OUR HOMES. STAYING INDOORS SAFE IN THIS PANDEMIC MADE US CONNECT WITH OUR HOMES MORE THAN EVER. HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE YOUR PROCESS TO DESIGN A RESIDENCE THAT TRANSFORMS THE LIVING OF THE RESIDENT? PATRICIA : In this period of transition and in a post-pandemic world, design can play a crucial role in defining the “new normal”.

Especially, our houses will have to be increasingly flexible and there we will pay more and more attention to energy saving and to the relationship with green, both inside and outside our living spaces. In addition to this, architects are asked to design time and its passing as well as to design new behaviors. I believe that this historical moment is really interesting and full of challenges for us architects and designers. //images; Casa Mutina, Milan, Italy by Patricia Urquiola Photograph courtesy : Studio Urquiola

check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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patcha

designed by patricia urquiola A captivating composition of color and pattern comes alive in Patricia Urquiola’s latest collection for cc-tapis, Patcha.

Utilizing the patch-work spontaneity of mixed- media collage, Urquiola expresses the gesture of overlapping and assembles strips of mint green, lavender, taupe, burgundy and speckled technicolor fields. Layering one atop another to create inventive graphic compositions.

“I tried to emphasize the concept of spontaneity,” says Patricia for the process.

A myriad of textures, pile heights and colors meet in each rug, utilizing sustainable dyeing techniques which use less water and novel materials like cast- off silk from Indian Sari production.

Central to Urquiola’s creative process is the investigation of reused and upcycled materials, breathing new life into once discarded wool. The speckled technicolor fields are created by using left-over silk and surplus wool taken from the production fr from previous rugs. The result is a combination of woolen fragments that resemble jagged papers and colorful cardboard, assembled in an extemporized composition.

PRODUCTS

//Patcha - a Rug collection; designed by Patricia Urquiola for cc tapis.

check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

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| July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA

DE

Spotlight Interview HARDESH CHAWLA & MONICA CHAWLA,

the principal designers at Essentia Environments, Gurgaon founded in 1999.

Monica & Hardesh have h been designing and building dream spaces for their clients and have in the process redefined elegant luxury.

DE Editor in chief Anirudh Datta had a detailed interaction with the designers for the DE Spotlight interview series where Hardesh and Monica talk about their design journey at Essentia Environments and share their latest residece with DE INDIA.

IN CONVERSATION WITH

HARDESH & MONICA CHAWLA (DIRECTOR & CREATIVE HEAD AT ESSENTIA ENVIRONMENTS) (GURGAON, INDIA)

architecture & design magazine

#DEspotlight // cover story

By ANIRUDH DATTA

DESIGN ESSENTIA MAGAZINE//DEINDIA

Essentia Environments embodies global refinement and an indigenous design sense reflective of the contemporary & classic designs from the world of interiors. the creative calling of leading interior design duo Monica and Hardesh Chawla – Essentia Environments is India’s premier design and build company that also happens to be one of the most innovative. inn The design duo founded Essentia Environments in 1999 with the object of carrying out the business of interior design, turnkey execution, manufacturing and supplying furniture and home decor accessories to their discerning clients.

AD : WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN DESIGN? HARDESH : For me it was purely a business decision.We had set up a business in Russia, mainly focusing on commercial buildings, we decided to move to India and pursue the same line.We built our firm here, growing it incrementally and gradually, starting with commercial projects,then moving on to office and residential projects, which expanded overseas.We also started designing and manufacturing furniture, doors, sta kitchens, and all the paraphernalia needed for our projects,which has also flourished.Our diverse range of products is now available for customization by architects and interior designers.

MONICA : For me it was more a creative call. I have enjoyed beautifying and decorating spaces from an early age. Having worked in creative areas like graphic designing and advertising, interior decoration and styling seemed like a natural progression.

AD : WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF A PERFECT “HOME”, NOT AS A DESIGNER BUT AS A CLIENT? HARDESH : Whether as a designer or a client, the definition of home would be the same.A perfect home is where your loved ones live. But most importantly, it should be functional, and suit your lifestyle perfectly.However beautiful it looks,if it doesn’t manage your daily requirements, it doesn’t fulfill the definition of a home.At the same time, in order to fulfill all attributes, it should not put you in financial stress.

Then it is not perfect.A perfect home should be within your budget, offering maximum comfort, functionality and aesthetics.

MONICA : A perfect home should be a place you long to return to at the end of the day, and it should offer you the calm and peace you crave. It should also evoke a sense of novelty and beauty, so that you feel house proud, and want to invite friends over to flaunt it.

(on left) Jain Residence, Gurgaon, Haryana by Essentia Environments Photographer: Atul Pratap Chauhan

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AD : THIS PANDEMIC MADE US CONNECT WITH OUR HOMES MORE THAN EVER. HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE YOUR PROCESS TO DESIGN A HOME THAT TRANSFORMS THE LIVING OF THE RESIDENT? HARDESH : Since everyone needed to stay home for an extended period of time, it was imperative that the home needed to be self-sufficient, with everyone having his/her own private space. People are exploring whatever amenities they feel are needed –swimming pool, gym, a painting studio to indulge in their hobby, etc. Home offices have become common.Also, people want to prepare themselves better for future eventualities by fitting their homes with better futu ventilation and filtration of air. Earlier clients were not so involved in these kinds of matters, but they are now particular about air circulation within the homes. Also, since you can’t go out for entertainment, today everyone wants a home theatre. Our efforts are tuned towards offering everything the clients want.

MONICA : At Essentia, our endeavor has always been to create homes that fulfill all the aspirations of our clients, even those unexpressed by them. With lots of greenery, open spaces, good views, etc, we design homes that resemble calming retreats that the owners want to come home to.The serene environments that we create are also very functional to live, work and entertain in. So I believe our homes have served their owners really well during these tough times. se

AD : TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR LATEST COMPLETED RESIDENCE PROJECT. WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT THAT YOU FOLLOWED TO DESIGN THIS BEAUTIFUL ABODE HARDESH : Jain Residence; a modern contemporary home for a young family designed to suit their unique needs. We had earlier designed their parents’ home in Shantiniketan, Delhi. We designed and built the bungalow, and did the interior design. The layout is planned around open-to-sky gardens, landscaped courtyards and ingressed green bodies. So you cou have great green views out of each window.

MONICA : It’s a very functional home with minimal aesthetics that leaves a timeless impression. It has an abundance of greenery all around that connects the owners with the natural world and creates discreet privacy from the busy neighborhood.

//below; Jain Residence, Gurgaon, Haryana, India.

Photographer: ATUL PRATAP CHAUHAN

July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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JAIN RESIDENCE This four-floor bungalow in Gurgaon is home for a petite family of four.

Built on a plot of 700 yards, its 12,000 sqft space is spread over the four floors.

The bungalow is planned around open-to-sky gardens, landscaped courtyards and ingressed green bodies that provide not just a good view out of each window, but also offer complete privacy from an otherwise busy neighborhood. There are five bedrooms in all with family lounges and guest lounges on all floors, and a majestic atrium and a broad stairwell that connects all the floors.

The living areas and lounges, in true Essentia style, are furnished with lavish sofas, loungers and armchairs to offer luxurious seating.

Elaborate paneling on the walls adds richness and textures to the environment.The background also follows the Essentia philosophy of neutral palette made interesting by infusing rich textures, wonderful tonal variations and diverse geometric forms.Art works are placed in strategic places to make a bold a statement.“This house is also a very functional, minimal and sparsely decorated home. Most importantly, it functional caters to the every need of its inhabitants,” says Monica Chawla, Creative Head – Architecture and Interiors.

The vertical volumes of the atrium and stairwell are beautifully balanced with the horizontal expanses. Large, sculptural lights add bold features to the vertical spaces.The way the scale and size are managed leads to many surprising moments. While the interior design plan follows a minimal approach, what makes the home brim with vibrancy and interest are the superior materials used and the perfect forms they are shaped into.The interiors come alive with rich stones and marbles, luxurious carpets, velvet and suede furnishings, sculptural marbles lights, and other materials like wood, metal, glass.The custom-created artworks add character, colour and a bit of quirkiness to the environment.

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//below; Jain Residence, Gurgaon, Haryana, India.

Photographer: ATUL PRATAP CHAUHAN

AD : WHAT WERE YOUR FAVORITE ELEMENTS THATYOU ADORE THE MOST FROM THIS BEAUTIFUL RESIDENCE IN GURUGRAM. HARDESH : For me, it is the overall feel of the home filled with abundant sunlight, with greenery all around creating privacy.

MONICA : The skylight in the master bathroom, just above the tub, through which you can gaze out into the sky while enjoying a relaxing bath – that’s my favourite element. //images; Jain Residence, Gurgaon, Haryana, India.

Photographer: ATUL PRATAP CHAUHAN

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AD : THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN INTERIOR DESIGN TODAY? HOW CAN ONE ACHIEVE AND CONTRIBUTE TO IT WITH RESPECT TO INTERIOR DESIGN AS DESIGNERS? HARDESH : Today there are many materials and technologies available that allow one to achieve sustainability, but government policies must encourage the extensive use of them. Only then can it become commercially viable and make a big impact. Without which, large-scale implementation of sustainable practices becomes impractical. At Essentia Environments, we continue to educate ourselves about the sustainable practices, materials and technologies, and implement them in the best way we can.We believe in using locally available materials, and follow global best practices at every level.However,it is not possible to use solar panels everywhere yet.We are still a few years away from that.

MONICA : Our capability to manufacture in-house all furniture,doors,kitchens,etc,required for a project,allows us to ensure that all resources and materials are used to the optimum without leading to any wastage. //images; Jain Residence, Gurgaon, Haryana, India.

Photographer: ATUL PRATAP CHAUHAN

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Spotlight Interview VISHAL SHARMA & VINEETA SINGHANIA SHARMA ,

the principle architects at Confluence, New Delhi founded in 1999.

Confluence is an Architectural and engineering solutions firm, which is implementing best engineering management, practices to the ultimate satisfaction of its clients.

DE Editor in chief Anirudh Datta had a detailed interaction with the architectural duo for the DE Spotlight interview series whereVishal &Vineeta talk about their design journey at Confluence and share their latest projects with DE INDIA .

IN CONVERSATION WITH

VISHAL SHARMA & VINEETA SINGHANIA SHARMA (PRINCIPAL ARCHITECTS AT CONFLUENCE) (NEW DELHI, INDIA)

architecture & design magazine

#DEspotlight // cover story

By ANIRUDH DATTA

DESIGN ESSENTIA MAGAZINE//DEINDIA

Confluence is an architectural and engineering solutions firm, which is implementing best engineering management, practices to the ultimate satisfaction of its clients.

Founded in 1999, Confluence has become a leading regional multi-discipline consultancy. The key to their success is a strategic vision, dedicated team, innovative design and complete transparency in our functioning.

They have developed a large force of multidisciplinary professionals and an enviable network of associated Expertise. Confluence works with Corporate, Private and Commercial organizations to plan and build facilities and have and have gained insights across the spectrum of architecture, engineering and management endeavours.

AD : WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN? WHO WERE YOUR EARLY DESIGN HEROES AND ROLE MODELS? VISHAL : I was always inclined towards organized and graphical forms since my school days. I had a keen eye for perfection in terms of dimensions and design parameters in every building form I saw.As I grew up, my interest in building façade and structure design expanded and I knew for certain designing diverse forms of buildings and structures was my in-depth passion. passion Richard Meier for his award winning work and design style which is geometric, graphical, modular and monochrome has inspired me the most.

VINEETA : Aesthetics and beautiful patterns surrounding a particular space always inspired me and caught my attention. Creating different forms of art & sculptures was a hobby while growing up.And being a science student, I wanted to combine scientific art to designing a space or structure seamlessly.And from this came the inspiration to defining lifestyle and designing spaces for various sects of people with diverse needs.

One person who i have looked upto would definitely be Le Corbusier for his inspirational work as an influential architect and city planner whose designs combined functionalism with bold sculptural expressionism.

(on left) Cleo County, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India by Confluence Photograph courtesy: Confluence

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AD : TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY IN THE INCEPTION OF CONFLUENCE. VISHAL & VINEETA : Founded in 1999, Confluence was formed to create a design centre which can address the need for innovative spaces in India combined with the need of the surrounding environment. It was created as a collaborative design lab where every design was extensively researched and thought through before building a structure at site. Our vision was to ensure each of our project is a signature design stature.

Sta Started with just 3 Architects including the Founders, Confluence team has grown by leaps and bounds in the past decade and has become a leading multi-discipline consultancy today.The journey from 3 members to 60+ creative Architects and Interior Designers has been extremely enriching in lot many ways.The key to our success is a strategic vision, wholistic and planned thought process, a vivacious yet diligent team, innovative & sustainable design, and transparency in our inn processes.We have developed a large force of multidisciplinary professionals and an enviable network of associated expertise.

Our client base today caters to some of the renowned names in the industry that encompasses a range of specialised practice areas – Master Planning, Residential, Commercial, Workplace, Institutional, Hospitality and Houses. We have specialised and delivered some key projects where we have planned and built deli facilities and have gained insights across the spectrum of architecture, engineering, and project quality delivery endeavours. Integrating research, strategy, and spatial concepts for occupants, designers and owners is key to deliver projects which are unique, sustainable, and innovative in nature.

//below; Cleo County, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India by Confluence Photograph courtesy: Confluence

AD : IN FEW WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE YOUR DESIGN PROCESS – PHILOSOPHY AT CONFLUENCE? VISHAL & VINEETA : Confluence has always been committed to creating sustainable, environment-conscious structures. We anticipate the need for a shift to sustainable design that is built for optimal functionality: As the ecology changes, so must current architectural practices. Our vision is to deliver innovative, sustainable, and tangible business value by pro-actively engaging each client on their design intent and participate in the organic process of design. pa Much research goes into the design of our buildings, characterized by strong conceptual intelligibility, use of breakthrough materials and rigorous approach to detailing.We believe in creating projects that are socially responsible, economical, environmentally sustainable, and inspirational.

Constant use and awareness of new techniques and application of the latest technology helps in creating our visions to reality.

Our design practices utilize the best and latest in sustainable architecture with a dedicated team towards research in this area.The designs use building materials that are both conducive to environmental preservation and are cost effective. We incorporate additions to our design that can further reduce dependence on limited resources and recharge the environment to possible extent.

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AD : YOUR LATEST HOUSING PROJECT CLEO COUNTY HAS BEEN ENVISIONED AS A GREEN OASIS. TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROJECT. VISHAL & VINEETA : The project is inspired by both the functional and aesthetic aspects of ancient Egyptian architecture by taking the essence of the magnitude of the Egyptian pyramid to a human scale and translating it into design. The masterplan is developed around the concept of amalgamated integration with the complex planned as a blend of courtyards with ample light and ventilation, borrowing from the built heritage of Egypt. The façade is developed in an Ivory beige shade (the colour of sun-baked mudbrick), while also incorporating contemporary architecture in the façade using clean lines and fins with texture and screens to enhance the aesthetics. sc This Egyptian theme-based project has been envisioned as a green oasis and encourages living close to nature.The blurring boundary between the exterior and interior with large floor to ceiling window captures adequate amount of daylight into the apartments. This multi-family housing hosts a large set of amenities.

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//below; Cleo County, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India by Confluence Photograph courtesy: Confluence

AD : CONFLUENCE’S ANOTHER ONE; AN EXPERIENCE CENTER AT GULSHAN DYNASTY EXHIBITS A GLIMPSE OF ITS UPCOMING GRANDEUR AND LUXURY FOR THE HOUSING PROJECT. TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROJECT. VISHAL & VINEETA : This experience centre exhibits a glimpse of the grandeur and luxury of what the Gulshan Dynasty project would bring, incorporating some of the note-worthy features of the housing project into a beautifully designed and immersive space.

It consists of spaces such as a triple height lobby, conference room, lounge, architectural model con room, AV room, discussion room, design centre and a sample apartment to name a few.

This type of planning allows for the spaces to be transitional and flexible in nature and hence can be segregated, promoting social distancing. From the facility management point of view, fumigation and regular sanitization protocols are carried out regularly. The space has been designed ensuring a close relationship with nature and a connection between the inside and the outside through the waterbodies which flow into each space. spac The innovative design, which allows for abundant natural light through the ceiling high glass panels, features passive cooling techniques such as evaporative cooling and uses jaali as a second skin for the façade, is equal parts sustainable and creative in its design language. This allows the space to go beyond functional expression and allows the users to enjoy the experience and quality of the environment created //below; Gulshan Dynasty - Experience centre, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Photograph courtesy: Confluence

The experience centre also boasts of a café, which follows a farm to table concept, serving delicious food to the visitors which has been produced through indoor hydroponic farming at the site itself.The entrance of this experience centre is through a spacious triple height lobby which further splits into corridors which then lead to different dif spaces.

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AD : CONFLUENCE IS ACTIVELY PARTICIPATING IN PRACTICING SUSTAINABLE DESIGN IN THEIR PROJECTS. THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? VISHAL & VINEETA : The idea of sustainability, or ecological design, is to ensure that our actions and decisions today do not inhibit the opportunities of future generations. Sustainable architecture seeks to minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings. It uses a conscious approach to energy and ecological conservation is the design of the built environment. It is design with a conscience. This is the reason Confluence has designed a series of its projects which are green/platinum rated and the vision is to take it to Net Zero level.

Our designs and layouts ensure efficient use of all equipments.The designs are such that reduce heating in summers by blocking the sun and lets sun enter the habitable spaces in winters. We incorporate additions to our design that can further reduce dependence on limited resources and recharge the environment to possible extent

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Passive strategies, such as considering sun orientation and climate when siting and being thoughtful about window placement and operation, are used to best manage daylighting and natural ventilation and go a long way in reducing energy requirements for the building. In certain climates, thermal mass techniques can be used to harness solar energy. In such cases, thick walls absorb heat from the sun during the day and release it into the building at night.

Architects consult with mechanical and electrical engineers to implement high-efficiency electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other systems, which are designed to have small environmental footprints. By making it a priority to purchase steel, lumber, concrete, and finishing materials, such as carpet and furnishings, from companies that use environmentally responsible manufacturing techniques or recycled materials, architects up the ante on sustainability.

Landscaping choices can make a big impact in civic building water consumption. By using trees, plants, and grasses that are native to the area, architects can greatly reduce irrigation needs. Landscaping can also be used as part of a passive energy strategy. By planting trees that shade the roof and windows during the hottest time of the day, solar heat gain inside the building can be reduced.

//below; Gulshan Dynasty - Experience centre, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Photograph courtesy: Confluence

#LetsTalkGreen

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#GreenGazette

“JOIN US NOW IN THIS CLIMATE EMERGENCY”

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A green initiative by Design Essentia magazine//DE INDIA

A HAVEN IN THE HEART OF JAIPUR’S ICONIC JEWELERS MARKET, AN INTIMATE BOUTIQUE HOTEL

THE JOHRI AT LAL HAVELI TEXT: ANIRUDH DATTA (EDITOR IN CHIEF AT DE INDIA) DESIGN ESSENTIA MAGAZINE / DE INDIA Photograph courtesy : The Johri, Jaipur

THE 5 SUITE BOUTIQUE PROPERTY SERVES AS A KEY DEVELOPMENT IN THE RENAISSANCE OF THE OLD “WALLED CITY' OF JAIPUR, RAJASTHAN. THE JOHRI is a 19th-century home long known as Lal Haveli and lovingly restored to capture the elegance of a bygone era for a new generation of travelers. The latest project from the team behind 28 Kothi (featured on US Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List 2017 & Gold List 2018), THE JOHRI offers sprawling suites, a restaurant serving seasonally-focused food, an atmospheric cocktail bar, and personalized comfort at every turn.

architecture & design magazine

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#DEvoyager // the jewel of jaipur THE JOHRI is a beautiful boutique hotel located in the

famous Johri Bazaar - the jeweleer market of Jaipur.An almost 200 year yold haveli restored into this luxurious, themed hotel.

Founded by Abhishek Honawar (founder of Honawar Hospitality) in partnership with Siddharth Kasliwal (The Gem Palace) and is designed by New York - based designer Naina Shah.

The restoration of the ancestral haveli owned by Sudhanshu Kasliwal took him almost 9 years.The property was previously owned by his ancestor Fauzdar Dhanna Lal Ji Kasliwal in the 19th Century.

//above Photograph courtesy : The Johri, Jaipur

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the jewel of jaipur //

#DEvoyager

Each of the 5 suites, the common areas, and restaurant at THE JOHRI have been meticulously designed by NAINA SHAH, who combines contemporary and traditional aesthetics with an understated elegance. Shah whimsically brings her innovative use of pattern, texture and inn artwork to each space. Each unique suite overlooks an inner courtyard, and showcases a distinctive blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and comfort.

Across the hotel, a carefully curated collection of antique and custom furniture, textiles, and art from Rajasthan come together to create an environment of relaxed splendor.

“The revival of this legacy property captures the spirit and romanticism of an old-world Jaipur while also bringing to light the contemporary pulse of the city with bold colors, interesting patterns, and thoughtful amenities.” says Shah who is the director of a couture embroidery atelier based in New York and Mumbai. //above from left; Naina Shah and Abhishek Honawar

“We are thrilled to bring this boutique experience to the old city in Jaipur.

Our goal was to create a haven with a focus on elevated hospitality and simple luxury. It’s the perfect place to immerse oneself in Jaipur’s art, culture, and design.” says ABHISHEK HONAWAR (owner of Honawar HON Hospitality) “Our mission for showcasing the incredible culture, craftsmanship, and design heritage of India continues with The Johri,” says SIDDHARTH KASLIWAL, owner of the globally renowned jewelry house, the Gem Palace. “We want travellers, local and international, to experience and love Jaipur the way we do.”

//above Photograph courtesy : The Johri, Jaipur

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#DEvoyager // the jewel of jaipur The Johri located at the famous gemstone market in Jaipur comprises five spacious suites with a design palette based on 5 different gemstones - Panna (Emerald) , Moti (Pearl), Neelam (Sapphire) on page 45, Manek (Ruby) on right and Sona (Gold).

These suites are overlooking a traditional courtyard, a sanctuary in which to enjoy the cou season-focused vegetarian restaurant.

It also includes an intimate cocktail bar PUKHRAJ (below) with Hand-painted murals bring the wilderness of Rajasthan indoors. A special environment for essential comforts, the Pukhraj Lounge lays out our signature high chai service in the afternoon and transforms into an intimate cocktail bar serving house favourites and creative se cocktails with local bites Meticulously restored using local crafts and traditional materials, The Johri features a careful curation of antique furniture, textiles, and art from Rajasthan to create an environment of relaxed splendour.

The restaurant at The Johri serves an evolving menu of organic vegetarian Indian dishes focused on farm-fresh produce and inventive flavors, defined by the seasons.

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//below Photograph courtesy : The Johri, Jaipur

#DEvoyager // the jewel of jaipur

//above; The Neelam Suite Photograph courtesy : The Johri, Jaipur

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architecture & design magazine

//Let’s take an alluring journey through design with some of the exquisite & beautiful spaces designed by today’s design today trendsetters.

DE

Impressions //In background The Courtyard House, Hosur, Tamil Nadu by FADD Studio Page 52

Naked, Mumbai by MuseLab Location: MUMBAI, MAHARASHTRA Architect: MUSELAB Principal Architects: HUZEFA RANGWALA, JASEM PIRANI Design Team: Namrata Tidke, Huzefa Rangwala, Jasem Pirani Photographer: SAMEER TAWDE

architecture & design magazine

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RESIDENCE FOR TWO COLLECTORS

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aked, is a home that is undraped, undisguised and unexaggerated. A residence located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

The Interior Design is done by Mubai based MuseLab led by principal architects Huzefa Rangwala and Jasem Pirani.

“Our client's bold vision and unconventional unco brief required us envision a 1000 sq. ft. bachelors pad akin to Philip Johnson’s Glass House with an open plan sans walls and doors. Essentially, we had to create a pavilion for viewing the hillock in the distance, a lucid space that offers a seamless integration with the cityscape 15 floors above the ground. g ” says the architects.

architecture & design magazine

//above; Naked, MUMBAI by MuseLab Photographer: SAMEER TAWDE //on left; Huzefa Rangwala and Jasem Pirani; principal architects at MuseLab July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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The site offered us two 1 BR units each comprising of a living-dining space, a kitchen and a bathroom with large windows that gave us unobstructed views of the surroundings.We demolished all the walls to create one contiguous space that is further sprinkled with bare minimum furniture and in the process, we fashioned a home that is synonymous syno to a galerie de sculptures with (shockingly) no patterns or colours.

One enters directly into the central living space of the home.This comprises of a cluster of a Soderhamn Ikea sofa, a pair of Phantom Hands Easy Armchairs and Bent by MuseLAB, a metal profile chaise that all gather around a very architectural coffee table, Bloom (also designed by MuseLAB); all of these thoughtfully curated pieces rest on Autumn, a thoughtful hand-knotted carpet made of handspun high twist pure wool with handspun pure silk accents from the Nouveau series of Cocoon fine Rugs. Each piece of furniture exudes a certain amount of rawness in its tactility; the idea behind bringing together these pieces was to experience their materiality and silhouettes, silhouettes with visual and physical interactions.

NAKED, A RESIDENCE IN MUMBAI BY MUSELAB PHOTOGRAPHER: SAMEER TAWDE

“This particular project is extremely special for us as we are rarely presented with such bold briefs and bold clients.The process and our response to the programmatic requirement warrants us to focus on nothingness, on the essential elements. It made us think laterally; we had to de-clutter not only the space, but also our minds to design for what one needs and not what one wants. And before we go on and on, the home says “I want you to see me ‘naked’, unapologetic, gritty but honest.” says tthe architects. architecture & design magazine

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NAKED, A RESIDENCE IN MUMBAI BY MUSELAB PHOTOGRAPHER: SAMEER TAWDE

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The Courtyard House, Hosur, Tamil Nadu by FADD Studio

Location: HOSUR, TAMIL NADU Designer: FADD STUDIO Principal Designers: FARAH AHMED MATHIAS, DHAVAL SHELLUGAR Photographer: GOKUL RAO KADAM & ASHISH SAHI

architecture & design magazine

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ourtyard House, a home of dreams. This beautiful residence is located in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, India.

The Interior Design is done by Bangalore based FADD Studio led by principal designers Farah Ahmed Mathias and Dhaval Shellugar.

Nostalgic and traditional Indian elements come together with Spanish/Mogul/Moroccan motifs to create magic in a space that has no walls differentiating the inside from the out.The architecture and interiors are tightly woven together to tell a story of patterns, colours, textures and materials which are all carefully curated within each room.

architecture & design magazine

//above; The Courtyard House HOSUR by FADD Studio Photographer: GOKUL RAO KADAM & ASHISH SAHI //on left; Farah Ahmed Mathias & Dhaval Shellugar; principal designers at FADD Studio July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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The entrance is a spectacular vision of blue skies, green lawn, angular roofs, a deep mustard wall and dramatic walkway that creates shadows as a result of a laser cut pattern on the roof.The same design is then reflected in the pavers which bleed in a deconstructed manner into the lawn.

The water body on the left consists of square platforms of different heights that play hide and plat seek with the tropical plants and a gorgeous frangipani tree.A bright blue wall hallmarks the entrances which is composed of a solid wooden door and an old block print piece as the handle.

The landscape was designed to ensure that the interiors and architecture were an extension of each other. othe One of the most striking and exceptional features of the home is a set of columns that make the home stand out against any other.They create the Kerela style courtyard feature for the home. Instead of hiding them as structural elements, we chose to highlight them with a patina finish paint above and hand painted motifs below. Each column is different and unique and bel sets a very distinct sensibility to the home.And especially so, because a lot of them are experienced against a deep mustard passage wall that runs the length of the house from inside to the outside.The colours of many furniture items are derived from here and so are the room concepts.Another element that needs highlight concepts is the door detail.

The bedrooms are delightful and different in their use of colours and patterns derived from the columns.The wooden ceilings in the bedrooms make them warm and cosy and also enhance the pitch in the roof.

THE COURTYARD HOUSE IN HOSUR BY FADD STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHER: GOKUL RAO KADAM & ASHISH SAHI architecture & design magazine

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“To simply say that this house is unique isn’t quite enough. Uniqueness isn’t the USP and uniqueness without history and context is less than enough.While this home is certainly unique, it is much much much more than that. It is the very first home that FADD signed with only 2/3 years in the industry. indust It has been a labour of love for 6 years. In addition to our minds, we put our hearts and souls into each and every detail.

From the louver and metal elements on the door, to each motif on all the 12 columns; from creating patterns from a tool kit with infinite options to collating the complimentary textures and colours of each area; from knowing when to use an abundance of material to showing restraint when needed; needed from ensuring the outdoor landscape was synchronised with the interiors to making sure the interiors were synchronized with the client; and finally, from transforming our initial trepidation into steady confidence to making audacious strides and creating a home that only dreams are made of. ” says principal designers Farah and Dhaval at FADD. THE COURTYARD HOUSE IN HOSUR BY FADD STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHER: GOKUL RAO KADAM & ASHISH SAHI

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Upstage Club, New Delhi by Studio Lotus

Location: AEROCITY, NEW DELHI Architect: STUDIO LOTUS Lead Designer: PANKHURI GOEL Design Team: Ankur Choksi, Pankhuri Goel, Parija Chandra, Malika Grover Photographer: SURYAN // DANG

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pstage Club, a Contemporary Club that embodies the flagship brand’s business and hospitality experience at the Roseate House in New Delhi, India.

The Interior Design is done by New Delhi based Studio Lotus. The project was led by one of the design principles at Studio Lotus; - Pankhuri Goel As paradigms of luxury luxu continue to evolve, hotel chains are seeking to diversify and accommodate changing user needs and expectations of what a hospitality project constitutes.The Upstage Club reexamines the role of clubs as shared work and leisure destinations that can serve as catalysts for conversations and create new opportunities for business and growth. g architecture & design magazine

//above; The Upstage Club, Roseate House, New Delhi by Studio Lotus Photographer: SURYAN // DANG //on left; Pankhuri Goel; principal designer at Studio Lotus.

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While the brief called for a vibrant and transformational space, it required the overall experience to be in tune with Roseate's understated expression and sombre, albeit luxurious material palette.The club thus invigorates the brand's aesthetic sensibility by bringing in an undercurrent unde of playfulness with new inserts and décor elements.

The functional programme accommodates open, versatile, and flexible workspace configurations in combination with private pockets, allowing members to tailor the space to suit their needs. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by a five-metre long brass reception cum barcounter accented with horizontal bands that forms the focal point of the design scheme.A news ticker atop the bar counter displays the movie name being screened at any given time, connecting the lounge to other leisure facilities at the hotel. hotel The reception and bar is flanked by one wing comprising an informal lounge and the other featuring hot-desking areas, an independent cabin and a meeting room.The focus on multi-functional zones necessitated the use of movable partitions and lightweight furniture. For instance, a light folding timber partition wall delineates the smaller conference room — furniture from which can be easily transferred to create a performance area.

The back wall is articulated in vertical ribs of fabric cladding and serves as a constant backdrop to the experience.

Niches are carved out to create two-seater booths and private pods, as well as a full-height library with timber shelves, which frames the bar, and uplifts the otherwise neutral palette. palett Marking a subtle, yet playful addition to Roseate’s design approach while still retaining its brand essence, the Upstage Club creates a new typology for hospitality experiences: luxury co-working spaces for the city’s new-age working professionals as well as business travellers. tr THE UPSTAGE CLUB, ROSEATE HOUSE, NEW DELHI BY STUDIO LOTUS PHOTOGRAPHER: SURYAN // DANG architecture & design magazine

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THE UPSTAGE CLUB, ROSEATE HOUSE, NEW DELHI BY STUDIO LOTUS PHOTOGRAPHER: SURYAN // DANG

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Expand Loft, Mumbai, by Quirk Studio Location: MUMBAI, MAHARASHTRA Architect: QUIRK STUDIO Principal Designers: SHIVANI AJMERA, DISHA BHAVSAR Photographer: PULKIT SEHGAL

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xpand Loft, a corporate office in Mumbai, Maharashtra designed for an event management company.

The Interior Design is done by Mumbai based Quirk Studio led by principal designers Shivani Ajmera and Disha Bhavsar.

The open-plan 2,400 sq ft office is a concoction of elements that give the workspace a vibrant, exuberant & inviting persona.

Envisioned for a company that engages intrinsically with its clients' kudos to the nature of their services, the office space needed to employ a design scheme that was encouraging of interaction & collaboration.

architecture & design magazine

//above; The Expand Loft, Mumbaiby Quirk Studio Photographer: PULKIT SEHGAL //on left; Shivani Ajmera and Disha Bhavsar; principal designer at Quirk Studio.

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The roughly 14-foot high ceilings imbue the space with a sense of expanse which is further enhanced by floor-to-ceiling fenestrations offering abundant natural light & panoramic views of the city.The design identity of the space is centred around the industrial-style which is interspersed with bold hues of yellow, green & red tones that creates a welcome contrast against the overall neutral base - the result is an ingenious workspace with an impactful visual narrative.A sunny yellow as a hue is celebrated across the space in welcome doses & emphasizes the company’s very own brand identity as it happens to be a key colour in their logo & branding.

In terms of its spatial configuration, the office has been designed in the shell of the built floor to offer its inhabitants a functional, free-flowing & pragmatic layout of zones.The designated private cabins have been allocated peripheral positions in the layout.A suave monochrome identity, ergonomic sleek monoch furniture & foliage sprinkled around the cabins make them conducive to the team’s comfort & design ethos of the office.

Key areas like the conference & meeting room have a flexible layout that helps the end-users utilize the space in a versatile manner through the use of mobile partition systems.

Services & community spaces like the open pantry and cafeteria have been flanked to one side of the layout. flan The central lounge space acts as the heart of the office where the team members can congregate effectively & work flexibly.The open zone in the office also anchors the large hot desk section, booth seating & a semi-formal arrangement for lounging using statement furniture furnitu and a quaint swing; conjuring a space that acts as a nucleus for conversation & rejuvenation.The ubiquitous usage of glass across the office creates a sense of visual seamlessness in the volume, giving it a larger appearance.

THE EXPAND LOFT, MUMBAI BY QUIRK STUDIO. PHOTOGRAPHER: PULKIT SEHGAL architecture & design magazine

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The Expand Loft places

its end-user’s comfort, productivity & quality of life at the crux of the design process.This has resulted in the creation of a workspace that bears the potential to evolve with its user’s needs ev while creating the quintessential minimal collaborative space for the enthusiastic team.

THE EXPAND LOFT, MUMBAI BY QUIRK STUDIO. PHOTOGRAPHER: PULKIT SEHGAL

check full story at www.designessentiamagazine.com

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www.maison-objet.com/en/paris-design-week

architecture & design magazine

//Let’s discover an alluring journey through design, while in conversation with various young architects & designers of India.

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//In background Residence in Gurugram, Haryana, India by Studio Divine photographer: Tarang Goyal | Page 82

architecture & design magazine

Design Studio , Associates is a architecture & interior design studio

founded in 1980 by architect Manoj Sheth and is now led by principal architect Ruchir Sheth.

“Each of the projects p represents his very personal and expressive vision on architecture and planning.The design and management of projects,regardless of scale, complexity or building typology is approached on the same basis with the following core values of simplicity,efficiency and legibility being its driving force.” says Ruchir. @associatesdesignstudio (instagram)

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/ Architecture //in background; Samprat Bungalow, Vadodara, Gujarat by Design Studio Associates Photographer : Tejas Shah

RUCHIR SHETH

principal architect at DESIGN STUDIO ASSOCIATES, Vadodara, Gujarat, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? RUCHIR : At our studio, philosophies & inspirations find their roots in our prior knowledge & learnings from each space we engage with.This forms the foundation of our beliefs while we make room for newer experiments via design on a daily basis. dai Our core philosophy lies in honoring the past while paring the way for renewed learnings at site, via updated technologies & techniques.While form follows function, we believe this thought is further strengthened by the needs of the end-users. What we strive to create through our work at stri the studio is a balanced, aesthetic and purpose driven space regardless of its scale and genre. (on right - continued on page 68)

The Samprat Bungalow, Vadodara, Gujarat by Design Studio Associates Photographer : Tejas Shah July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION?

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN ELEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROJECT?

RUCHIR : Well it is very difficult to RUCHIR : “THE SAMPRAT answer what was our favorite design BUNGALOW" is located in Vadodara, elements associated with this project as Gujarat,India. “Samprat” one of all the the entire house is just very wonderfully projects we completed recently is very dear articulated considering every minute to our heart.The concept while designing details. But still my eyes got caught when Samprat was creating a huge stylish we look at the extended & elongated contemporary bungalow which was far more po porch at the entrance giving a monumental challenging due to its scale & exclusive exclusi imitation to the living fantasy.The dialect of requirements.It can be put forth as a test of the house at its best.The surrounded imaginative abilities when it comes to greenery gives us the sanity of the place. designing such massive space,as it is mandatory to define limitations in the first The gigantic main door done with minute place a similar scenario was perceived in this details using brass inlays gives the royal mansion,which is extraordinarily modern & feeling as we enter the entrance leads us ergonomic in function.The project is been to the heart of the house in which the er designed with ravishing details and courtyard holds the staircase talking about wonderfully articulated interior which it is being ornamented with brass railing restores a positive vibe in the house for the and customized with single stone elephant user as well as guests.The glamorous sculptu sculpture which is beautifully placed in collection of elements with a luxurious touch waterbody on the either sides of the impresses everybody & certainly is a‘dream staircase.The central family sitting with a house’ for many. double-height establishes a visual (below) connection & results in delusions of The Samprat Bungalow, Vadodara, Gujarat by Design Studio Associates grandeur simultaneously.

Photographer : Tejas Shah

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The Samprat Bungalow, Vadodara, Gujarat by Design Studio Associates | Photographer : Tejas Shah

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING AN ARCHITECT, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? //CLIMATE TALK!!

RUCHIR : Sustainability across the sphere of design is no longer a choice, it is the need of the hour, making it an integral part of architectural practices the thought here is to implement as many measures or changes in our design processes to be more mindful of the impact, Our creations have on the planet.

Locally sourced building materials, climatologically – responsive design, upcycling material Local at site to create a new element and exploring alternative technologies & products that help reduce the wastage at site is key these small yet significant choices are sure to make an impactful change, elevating the purpose of sustainability as a factor in design.

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architecture & design magazine

Aishwarya , Interiors is a Bangalore based young interior design

studio founded in 2004 and is led by principal designers Yogesh Deshmukh and Laxmi Deshmukh.

“AtAishwarya Interiors,there is no such thing as a‘stereotyped approach.We start each project with fresh eyes,fresh ideas,and thoughtful consideration of the client.We are responsible for designing people’s homes,so we need those spaces to represent them as much as possible.Of course, cours our overall objectives remain constant:every space needs to be warm, inviting,luxurious and comfortable,and reflect the heart and soul of the client..” says the designers @aishwaryainteriorsdesignstudio (instagram)

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/ Interiors //in background; Shriram Chirping Woods, Bangalore by Aishwarya Interiors Pvt Ltd Photographer : Sanjith Seetharam

YOGESH DESHMUKH & LAXMI DESHMUKH (FROM LEFT) principal designers at AISHWARYA INTERIORS, Bangalore, Karnataka, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? YOGESH & LAXMI :Treat every project individually At Aishwarya Interiors, there is no such thing as a ‘stereotyped approach.

We start each project with fresh eyes, fresh ideas, and thoughtful consideration of the client.

We are responsible for designing people’s homes, so we need those spaces to represent them as much as possible. Of course, our overall objectives remain constant: every space needs to be warm, inviting, luxurious and comfortable, and reflect the heart hea and soul of the client.

(on right - continued on page 72)

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION? YOGESH & LAXMI : “SHRIRAM CHIRPING WOODS " a 4bhk villa located in Bangalore,Karnataka.

White and wood interiors have a wonderfully light air about them,with just the right hint of warmth and texture coming from the natural grain.Having plain white walls helps to make a compact modern apartment feel more spacious within its constraints WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN ELEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROJECT? YOGESH & LAXMI : This project was inspired by a Scandinavian design palette.White and oak wood combination has done justice to overall look and feel we had on our mind.

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(below) Shriram Chirping Woods, Bangalore by Aishwarya Interiors Pvt Ltd Photographer : Sanjith Seetharam

Shriram Chirping Woods, Bangalore by Aishwarya Interiors Pvt Ltd | Photographer : Sanjith Seetharam Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

//CLIMATE TALK!!

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. AS DESIGNERS, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIOR DESIGN TODAY? YOGESH & LAXMI : Using sustainable materials in interior design is the need of an hour. slowly Indian market is getting matured in this direction. interior designers can help reduce the depletion of natural resources (and divert waste from landfills) is by opting for synthetic materials that were made from recycled waste or can be renewed/recycled at the end of their life cycle — when they are spent or people grow tired of them.

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architecture & design magazine

Dev & Kaushik , Architects is a Hyderabad based young architecture & interior design studio. The firm is led by principal architects Kaushik Abhinav & Nikhil Dev. @devnkaushik_architects (instagram)

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/ Interiors //in background; White Love, Hyderabad by Dev & Kaushik Architects Photographer : Ricken Desai

NIKHIL DEV & KAUSHIK ABHINAV principal architects at DEV & KAUSHIK ARCHITECTS, Hyderabad, Telangana, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? DEV & KAUSHIK K : A young design practice based out of Hyderabad, we strongly believe in creating spaces that are experiential in a holistic sense.We strive to get the basics right, achieve the best of light and ventilation, satisfying the client interests inte and designing spaces that are pleasant to maintain and healthy to live in.

We love designing spaces that are intertwined with landscaping wherever possible. Functional aesthetics is what we give a lot of importance too.

(on right - continued on page 76)

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION?

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN ELEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROJECT?

DEV & KAUSHIK K : For a site that DEV & KAUSHIK : “WHITE had the most exhilarating views on one LOVE" an apartment located in side, the builder’s plan didn’t do any justice.

Hyderabad, India. What we went ahead to do was a This is a home to a humble three th member complete re-planning of the layout.Walls family consisting of mother,father and their were planned to be dismantled to open up only son;the family had been very clear about to achieve the best of the views.What we their requirement when it came to the final finally achieved was something stunning. interiors.All that they asked for in the home very particularly was the colour theme to be The fabricated balconies in metal which “white”.The home has a wonderful asset to were a retrofit, made a great asset to enjoy boast about, about an asset that magically raises the the views.We realised this home is going value of the home to another level. to be blessed with abundant natural light.

At different times of the day the landscape Our aim was to capture the stunning views it looks different. has from indoors to outdoor.Spatially the layout is simple,and very functional.To be The light, the wind, the rain, all of these are clutter free and easy to maintain was the going to be really special here. Our other requirement.We achieved this simple favourite element of deign in this project is requirement with the use of materials that definitely “natural light”. were low maintenance. (below) White Love, Hyderabad by Dev & Kaushik Architects Photographer : Ricken Desai

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White Love, Hyderabad by Dev & Kaushik Architects | Photographer : Ricken Desai

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING AN ARCHITECT, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? //CLIMATE TALK!! DEV & KAUSHIK K : Sustainable practices have always been prevalent in a country

like India since time immemorial. It is saddening that we had slipped away into practices that have stressed out our environment to a great extent. Our take on a sustainable practice would be to learn and educate ourselves and our clientele as much possible to think environment friendly.We do make efforts to try and include materials that are less stressful to the environment.As a young practice we have always tried to design spaces knit around greens. Our love for using a lot of plants in our spaces is also visible in our studio in Hyderabad.

Hyderabad We also have used and collect arts sourced locally as a practice of sustaining Indian Art practices.

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architecture & design magazine

Nitin Bhardwaj , Architects is aVadodara based architecture & interior

design studio founded in 1994. The firm is led by principal architect Nitin Bhardwaj.

strongly believes that“to design Nitin st without any restrain by encouraging innovative ideas that generate curiosity,defy the notions of any‘isms’ of architecture, instead strive to deliver a design that is relevant to the context”. @architect_nitin_bhardwaj (instagram)

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/ Interiors //in background; Sequence Store,Vadodara, Gujarat by Nitin Bhardwaj Architects Photographer : Tejas Shah

NITIN BHARDWAJ

principal architect at NITIN BHARDWAJ ARCHITECTS, Vadodara, Gujarat, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? NITIN : We aim to explore architecture beyond the set boundaries.

With the key aim to deliver designs engulfed with simplicity and meaning parallel to the intangibles within humane conscience sets the foundation.

Nitin Bhardwaj Bha Architects is a multi-disciplinary design practice with expertise in architecture and interior design.

With an exceptional portfolio po of works ranging from institutional design, commercial showrooms, residential bungalow and planning projects, the firm strives to explore multiple possibilities, design development/concepts and model studies. (on right - continued on page 80)

Sequence Store,Vadodara, Gujarat by Nitin Bhardwaj Architects Photographer :Tejas Shah July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION? NITIN : “SEQUENCE" a 20,000 sq. ft. ethnic & bridal collection showroom, located in the city centre of Vadodara, Gujarat, India. A commercial project displaying the milestone in understanding the vivid ideologies, craftsmanship, and expertise’s brought together in building the store. sto The project encompasses interesting glimpse of the decked up mannequin through the embellished fenestration echoing royalty and a strong statement of its magnificence.A palace ambience created using perforated sandstone filigree pattern along with sandstone clad on pillars, pillars wooden ceiling with chandeliers matching the decor to give a character and luxurious approach in design to the showroom. (below) Sequence Store,Vadodara, Gujarat by Nitin Bhardwaj Architects Photographer :Tejas Shah

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WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN ELEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROJECT? NITIN : The design is based on fenestration's in wall (Aala) accompanied by Diya’s, wrought iron balustrades as well as custom made portrait accentuates the whole space with a unique character.To maintain and uplift the traditional feel, beautiful jharokha display is incorporated jha alongside an ornate Aala (niche) wall.

These small niches are lit up with Diya’s making the whole experience even more surreal.The exquisite monochrome backdrop creates perfect setting for the mannequin, which highlights the merchandise and bring forth the true colours.

The staircase stai space as a feature element combines intricate details of railing, head arches and steps with a wash of light hues creating a unique ambience.The detailed arches give a distinctive touch of traditional design and royalty to the whole space.

Sequence Store,Vadodara, Gujarat by Nitin Bhardwaj Architects | Photographer : Tejas Shah

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

//CLIMATE TALK!!

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING AN ARCHITECT, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? NITIN : Architects need to creatively think of ways to minimize adverse

impact and produce socially and environmental compatible buildings.The values of social responsibility and preservation of our environment is equally important.The answer might be as simple as focusing on green building materials that insulate, and endure and also achieving a target design which has proper consideration of light and ventilation. Basic design decisions regarding size, orientation, and form have a great impact on the sustainability, cost, and comfort of a building. sustainabilit July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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architecture & design magazine

NSN Studio , Divine is a New Delhi based young

architecture & interior design studio.

The firm is led by principal architects Rajat Behl & Shruti Kapoor.

The studio has offices, offices in New Delhi, Dubai and London;and offers full spectrum design consultancy services for projects ranging from corporate offices,hi-end residential interiors, software development centers to retail and hospitality ventures.“We maintain that our DNA (read= ( Design and architecture) believes that‘creativity counts’ and hence each project is an endeavor to create something new and distinct”.says the architects. @nsnstudiodivine (instagram)

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/ Interiors //in background; Residence in Gurgaon, Harayana by NSN Studio Divine Photographer : Tarang Goyal

RAJAT BEHL & SHRUTI KAPOOR (FROM LEFT) principal architects at NSN STUDIO DIVINE, New Delhi, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? RA RAJAT & SHRUTI : We know how to hear the customer- this is the most important thing for us. We do not do what we want, which is fashionable in the trend, but we realize their ideas. We embody the client’s dream of an ideal space and pay utmost attention to detail and pa longevity.

Our success determines our exclusivity, quality of services and a responsible approach to the work of our entire team of like-minded people who share our values.

(on right - continued on page 84)

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION?

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN ELEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROJECT?

RA RAJAT & SHRUTI : We fell in love RAJAT & SHRUTI : This was a with the place the moment we saw for the RA 4500 sqft project in Gurugram for an old arches because that gave us the base for couple whose brief was to give then a our design inception.We immediately home which was comfortable, warm and knew that we wanted to build around timeless. them and create a Modern Classical feel to the space.

Our intent was to do a mix of contemporary luxury and classical When it comes to architectural a details, an elements to create spaces that feel open, arch never goes out of style in the interior elegant, timeless but at the same time design world. From Moroccan-inspired functional. We have used intense colours doorways with carved notches to and delicate patterns with equal panache. sweeping arched passageways with The interiors for this space are refined smooth, clean edges, an arch goes a long and sophisticated, light-filled and airy, all way in elevating a room’s aesthetic impact. the spaces range in style from elegantly Modern Classical interiors look gorgeous traditional to luxuriously minimalist to with beautiful arches.Arched openings add glamorously unconventional. classy and elegant look to modern interior The idea was to build spaces around a a design and make decorating feel elegant, client’s family heirlooms, art collection, harmonious and pleasant. and knickknacks so that the room is Mi Mixed by classic design and the modern always a reflection of the individual. design, the result was the European modern classic interior design.And then (below) the same design language was extended in Residence in Gurgaon, Haryana by NSN Studio Divine Photographer : Tarang Goyal the entire space.

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Residence in Gurgaon, Haryana by NSN Studio Divine | Photographer : Tarang Goyal

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

//CLIMATE TALK!!

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING AN ARCHITECT, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? RAJAT & SHRUTI : Architects have a tremendous impact on the sustainability of an environment because they are the ones deciding which materials and products will be used and how ecologically people will be able to interact with their surrounding spaces.

We feel as responsible architects, we aim to design for longevity and flexibility, for a healthy environment and with low environmental impact whilst still helping you achieve your desired look and feel. Conscious interior design consumption can help conserve energy, reduce waste and pollution and help create more positive interior environments that are better for overall health. Sustainable interior design practices are better for our planet, economy and our wellbeing.

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architecture & design magazine

The Little , Studio is a young architecture & interior

design studio. based in Surat & Bharuch in Gujarat, India The firm is led by principal architects Vidita Choksi & Krishna Khatlawala @design.thelittlestudio2018 (instagram)

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/ Interiors //in background; Suramya 303, Surat, Gujarat, India by The Little Studio Photographer : Vidita Choksi

VIDITA CHOKSI & KRISHNA KHATLAWALA (FROM LEFT)

principal architects at THE LITTLE STUDIO, Surat, Gujarat, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? VIDI VIDITA & KRISHNA : The practice passionately believes in an approach that is specific to the requests of uses and needs which will help in defining what needs to be done and how it should be implemented. We intend to create user friendly, sometimes unconventional and unexpected, unco proposals that allow the spaces to reflect its own personality, while staying true to its core function. We like to play with materials and new configurations, leading to ideas that offer a constantly changing perspective. With a highly personalized approach to the design process, the end products are aesthetically and intellectually rigorous as well as financially informed. (on right - continued on page 88)

Suramya 303, Surat, Gujarat by The Little Studio Photographer : Vidita Choksi July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION? VIDITA & KRISHNA : “SURAMYA 303" is a residence in Surat, Gujarat, India.

The people in the space or the view vi from the window are more important to us while designing the interiors. Minimalism allows something other than the space to be the focus.The clients have extremely active lives and need their home to be restful.We have all the items in a space for it to function but still one can experience the clear, uncluttered spaces.

All of the furniture was purposeful—sofas to comfortably sit in, wall to hang a tv, zoola to swing.The art on the wall is simple in composition.The palate is monochromatic and colors are used as an accent leaving le the rooms draughty and bright. (below) Suramya 303, Surat, Gujarat by The Little Studio Photographer : Vidita Choksi

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WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN ELEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROJECT? VIDI VIDITA & KRISHNA : The tv wall partition that very effectively hides the huge size of the column falling in between the living room. It was also the start point of the design when we decided to merge the two apartments.

Suramya 303, Surat, Gujarat by The Little Studio | Photographer : Vidita Choksi

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING AN ARCHITECT, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? //CLIMATE TALK!!

VIDITA & KRISHNA : When it comes to sustainability in VIDI interiors, for us the materials are gaining a major place of importance and impact in design interpretation. Sustainable materials have valuable histories and stories to tell. They will reduce the environmental impact and their life cycles will bring empowering character to the design.

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architecture & design magazine

, Scapesmiths is a young architecture & interior

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design studio based in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.The firm is led by principal architects Nikhita Singh, Aman Lamba & Bhavuk Jain.

The studio offers of architecture,interior design and design coordination services for a variety of building types,including residential, educational,work spaces,retail & hospitality. @scapesmiths (instagram)

/ Interiors //in background; Escapade, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India by Scapesmiths Photographer : Studio BluOra

NIKHITA SINGH

principal architect at SCAPESMITHS, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? NIKHITA : All God’s creations are NIKHI unique and so every client brigs exclusive input to their project briefings.We at Scapesmiths aim to bring “Joy through design” to the ultimate user of the designed space.

We approach each project with a freshness in terms of design aesthetics so that in turn each of our projects evolves with its own unique brand identity or persona reflecting the client’s personality and the way they engage and interact with a given space. Each designed space should unfold to the client in its own unique way. un Scapesmiths is an environmentally responsible studio that considers the carbon footprint of the materials we use for each project.We strive for aesthetics that are both sustainable and functional. (on right - continued on page 92)

Escapade, Jaipur, Rajasthan by Scapesmiths Photographer : Studio BluOra July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION?

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESIGN ELEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROJECT?

NIKHI NIKHITA : In designing this practical NIKHITA : “ESCAPADE" carves a and yet a visionary delight we have NIKHI niche in Pink City’s healthcare sector, is this followed English psychoanalyst Anthony boldly done laser & plastic surgery clinic, Storr’s advice:“Originality implies being located at Mahesh Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan. bold enough to go beyond accepted norms”.And, loved how our whimsical We feel that a well-designed clinic is critical to color palette, clubbed with a variety of the health and well-being of the patients and patterns and textures, textu created a warm healthcare practitioners who use it on a daily yet diverse vibe for this project. basis.As a result, the main objective was to optimize patients experience through the The color scheme was designed to design of the built environment by creating provide the impression of open, spaces that were appropriate for the evolving weightless space. generations of patients as well as the demands We feel that the correct color can make of the workforce.To achieve this, the goal was or break a room, and we love how this to marry the clinic's mission with its ultra-cool vibrant color palette gives the area its interiors, which were made possible through own personality and, as a result, its own the utilization of design elements not typically unique identity. found in a medical facility.

All of this was planned to create an appealingly beautiful design that would inspire boldness and foster openness in client-doctor relationships.A place that is both functional and efficient in terms of space.

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(below) Escapade, Jaipur, Rajasthan by Scapesmiths Photographer : Studio BluOra

Escapade, Jaipur, Rajasthan by Scapesmiths | Photographer : Studio BluOra

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

//CLIMATE TALK!!

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING AN ARCHITECT, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? NIKHITA : We believe that the design process should consider sustainability via numerous lenses of functionality, accessibility, and aesthetic, with the people and planet as the only considerations.

To accomplish sustainability, there are two verticals to consider: design plans or layouts and the materials utilized in interior design. In terms of planning, spatial zoning should be used to maximize natural elements like fresh air and sunlight while reducing energy use.

When it comes to materials in our architecture and interior design businesses, the most essential criteria in material selection are minimal carbon footprint, reusability, recyclability, durability, and, of course, client comfort.

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Scribble , Studio is a young interior design studio

architecture & design magazine

based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.The firm is led by principal designer Dhaara Vora.

“Being a small start-up sta in 2016,it has climbed quite a few steps of success in these past years,spreading its reach to extend its work across Gujarat and looking forward to work PAN India.

We are versatile space designers providing design services in all sectors lilike Furniture,Retail,Corporate, Hospitality and Residential.‘ says Dhaara. @scribble_studio (instagram)

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/ Interiors //in background; Orchid Divine,Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India by Scribble Studio Photographer : Inclined Studio

DHAARA VORA

principal designer at SCRIBBLE STUDIO, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? DHAARA : We scribble in your thoughts & requirements with our ideas”.

That’s what connects us with the clients That to its utmost understanding.We prioritize clientele requisites in prior to conceptualizing design development. For us, it’s the process which is more enjoyable where we foresee a beautiful mess into an alluring array. It’s the balancing of function with the aesthetics which assists us to create a space which reflects our clients’ persona without them, compromising their ease of usability.

Our theme-based designing invites a viewer to connect & relate to all the adjoining spaces. In our studio, we keep evolving with different design notions & material experimentation and parallelly, our clients keep evolving with the space. (on right - continued on page 96)

Orchid Divine,Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India by Scribble Studio Photographer : Inclined Studio July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT DESIGN ELEMENT ASSOCIATED BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION? WITH THIS PROJECT? DHAARA : “ORCHID DIVINE" is a 900 DHAARA : When it comes to sq.ft. apartment in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. experimenting with materials, we loved how these 2 things which we truly adore Our young clients wanted the house to give out in this entire project, turned out this those youthful vibes. So, differing from the usual glamorous.We fell in love with the browns and ivory’s in current trend, we added differently designed partition within the tints/ tones of blue, medium greys to lit up the wall puncture behind sofa. It grabs your space. attention with the shaded thread th in contrast with the blue glass to form a Introducing shades of such colours makes the semi-open partition.

Int space look similar yet different, as different tones make each space look defined. Considering smaller This whole thing in turn functions as a carpet area and bigger requirements, we wanted it background to the wall clock which is to look spacious and distinct. Usage of brass made to hang in front of it, forming a fixtures with contrast coloured furniture, enhances different detail altogether. Latter is the the luxurious look. A little bit of wood has been casted terrazzo centre table. It has been added to guest and kid’s bedroom to break the an eye-catcher since beginning where we ad monotony and keep up with the choices as per made 2 materials like casted terrazzo respective ages. and metal (in the form of its legs) come together to form a gorgeous centre The whole residence is bridging through the table. shades of blue and with the constant of grey and white.The black colour and wooden tones kind of individualises the spaces as a whole but still maintains (below) Divine,Ahmedabad, Gujarat by Scribble Studio the design language making it look like one. Orchid Photographer : Inclined Studio

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Orchid Divine, Ahmedabad, Gujarat by Scribble Studio | Photographer : Inclined Studio

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

//CLIMATE TALK!!

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING A DESIGNER, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? DHAARA : Considering the current scenario, Sustainability has become

a necessity rather than a choice. Being an interior design studio, we cannot escape the use of certain materials like wood/ ply-wood, etc. but we can definitely minimise them and that’s what we practice. In relation with the proposed/ existing position of windows and doors, we can adjust the function of that area in a way they make use of maximum natural light and air-ventilation. Introduction of more plants (indoor/ outdoor), grass in balconies or as facades help too while bringing aesthetic value to the space. spac July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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Space , Theory is a young interior design

architecture & design magazine

studio based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.The firm is led by principal designers Swarali Shinkhedkar & Taha Lotia.

“We are delivering Interior Design Services PAN India and even in some parts of world.Converting your dream home/space into reality and bringing that happy smile on clients face is our motto” says the designers. @spacetheory (instagram) @spacetheo

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/ Interiors //in background; Biyani Tradelinks, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India by Space Theory Photographer : Inclined Studio

SWARALI SHINKHEDKAR & TAHA LOTIA (FROM LEFT)

principal designers at SPACE THEORY, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? SWARALI & TAHA : We at Space Theory dedicate ourselves & work to make your dream space come true.We believe to serve & work in the best interest of our clients.We prefer clean elegance, comfortable living and quality interiors.

Since 2016 we’ve had the privilege of working with many wonderful clients, implementing their own individual desires of their space and turning their dreams into reality. It’s more of a passion of our which we find very rewarding in seeing the completion of a project with dramatic results. results

(on right - continued on page 100)

Biyani Tradelinks, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India by Space Theory Photographer : Inclined Studio July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS WHAT WAS YOUR PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT FAVORITE DESIGN BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION? ELEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROJECT? SWARALI & TAHA : “BIYANI TRADELINKS" is a 890 sq.ft. office in Ahmedabad, SWARALI & TAHA : Gujarat, India. Our favorite element was the manager table and A office is a space where whe a person invest their time designing hidden partition. more than their home .It should create that positive vive and zeel to work more effectively and efficiently . The use of world map as an It is a paper manufacturer office dealing in Maharashtra artifact on the partition is the and Gujarat. Client gave a specific brief of designing the real elegance of the office as space so that it show wideness and creates a different that can be seen from almost Aura. every corner of the office.

The whole office is divided into 4 areas a : Welcoming the clients with reception area followed with a manager cabin with rest room , works station area , conference area and pantry Since our client visits Ahmedabad office for twice a month we have to give him a rest area as well, have created a hidden rest room beneath the manager cabin where he can come and relax for a while after travelling.Talking about the color palette has used earthen tones with a mixture of vibrant tones balancing the interior for showing elegance and vibrancy to the office.Since the office has small area to give a proper circulation space was most challenging for us, but client was very generous and have given his full attention in all the design discussions of the project p which helped us a lot in designing and (below) Biyani Tradelinks, Ahmedabad, Gujarat by Space Theory execution of the project. Photographer : Inclined Studio

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Biyani Tradelinks, Ahmedabad, Gujarat by Space Theory | Photographer : Inclined Studio

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

//CLIMATE TALK!!

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING A DESIGNER, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? SWARALI & TAHA : Sustainability is the major part which

every individual has to adapt.

As we have seen after this Covid19 occurrence economy has being scale down.As a designer we both suggest to support more of local businesses. Like in our projects we try to use more of do it yourself products for artifacts , supporting labor team and encouraging them to work. Reusing old materials and making a new furniture from it is the key motive of team SpaceTheory.

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Studio , Emerald is a young interior design

architecture & design magazine

studio based in Hyderabad, Telangana, India.The firm is led by principal designers Priyanka Ghattamaneni & Sri Lakshmi Putta.

“We specialise in both residential and commercial design.We have relationships with many local craftsmen and subcontractors.We are committed to delivering inspired designs that fulfil client inspi expectations through collaboration and exceptional service.” says the designers. @studioemerald.ids (instagram)

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/ Interiors //in background; Happy Head, Hyderabad,Telangana, India by Studio Emerald Photographer : RJ Rana Photography

PRIYANKA GHATTAMANENI & SRI LAKSHMI PUTTA (FROM LEFT)

principal designers at STUDIO EMERALD, Hyderabad, Telangana, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR STUDIO’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? PRIYANKA & SRI LAKSHMI : PRI While creating spaces that are not only visually pleasing, but also efficient, hence balancing Form and Function is essential.

Keeping each project super-personalized with the client’s personality and their environment lets us create exceptionally while being Flexible and Nimble.As interior designers, we take charge of different tones of a project, which by no means is a single person job.Working as a Team in close collaborations with clients, clients builders and vendors to ensure our designs become a reality.While creating chic and elegant designs, we wouldn’t want our spaces to go out of date, Timelessness is the key. And it doesn’t matter whether you are designing a residential or commercial, simplicity is always in trend. (on right - continued on page 104)

Happy Head, Hyderabad,Telangana, India by Studio Emerald Photographer : RJ Rana Photography July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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Happy Head, Hyderabad,Telangana, India by Studio Emerald | Photographer : RJ Rana Photography

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

//CLIMATE TALK!!

THE WORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING A DESIGNER, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY? PRIYANKA & SRI LAKSHMI : We feel, being an interior designer, the duty

falls upon us to explain our clients about sustainability and nudge them to go for it.

We can start off by using reclaimed or recycled materials. Using antique and vintage décor if you can, is an option for interior designers. Furniture and decorative items can be repurposed, refinished or otherwise refurbished to give them new life. Even carpets and fabrics can be made from recycled materials. Plan for energy-efficient lighting by cleverly incorporating windows and skylights to maximize the use of daylight and minimize artificial light.When artificial lighting is needed, LEDs and compact fluorescent light bulbs save energy and last longer.When you’re buying furniture or décor or even lights dig a little about the brand. furnitu July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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architecture & design magazine

Syzygy , Architects is a young architecture &

interior design studio based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.The firm is led by principal architects Abhishek Pandit & Romit Koundinya. “‘Syzygy’ in nature is a phenomenon when the celestial bodies of the earth, moon,and the sun align,giving rise to an awe-inspiring interstellar event.

Finding its roots in a similar sentiment, SyzygyArchitects founded in 2019 in Mumbai,strives to mould bespoke spatial narratives na that cohesively orient its our diverse yet reciprocal expertise.” says the architects. @syzygyarchitects (instagram)

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/ Interiors //in background; House TM-103, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India by Syzygy Architects Photographer : Prashant Bhat

ABHISHEK PANDIT & ROMIT KOUNDINYA (FROM LEFT)

principal architects at SYZYGY ARCHITECTS, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY? ABHISHEK & ROMIT : The firm envisions summoning forth the neoteric applications of Immersive Technology with increased fervour into their design processes, thereby providing their clientele with a tangible design experience.

The process p native to Syzygy Architects is one that places the end-user’s needs and aspirations at its nucleus, whilst piecing together a design grammar that preserves the primary intent of what the inhabitants visualise to call their ‘own’. The magic of watching spaces come alive ali for the studio is best witnessed at a site in its raw and untainted form, and that is where we delve ourselves into the process with all its tactility. (on right - continued on page 108)

House TM-103, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India by Syzygy Architects Photographer : Prashant Bhat July - August 2021 Edition//Design Essentia//DE INDIA |

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TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THIS WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PROJECT? WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT DESIGN ELEMENT ASSOCIATED BEHIND ITS DESIGN INCEPTION? WITH THIS PROJECT? ABHISHEK & ROMIT : “HOUSE TM-103" is a 1,500 sq. ft. ancestral home in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India that witnesses a complete design metamorphosis by Syzygy Architects into a new space while paying tribute to the home’s grounding sentiment.

ABHISHEK & ROMIT : Our favourite design element was the living room as the senses are engaged in a dynamic manner in this space - the water curtain as a backdrop to the zen Buddha sculpture, hints of natural greens, umber wood tones and copious The home had great g bones and is reminiscent of amounts of natural light meld together, togethe solid methods akin to older construction paying homage to the balance of forces techniques.The existing internal layout on the in nature that are replicated in this space. other hand was disunited and sporadically arranged.This resulted in the public and private zones in the home not abiding by any sense of spatial hierarchy, lacking required ventilation, and being devoid d of natural light. Our design intervention needed to be rooted to preserve the sentiment the clients harbored while reimagining the layout to create a cohesive and pragmatic scheme of spaces

It was pivotal for us to be able to create a home in every sense of the word. It was a residence that was lived-in, had memories attached to it and we had to base our design process upon being sensitive and accommodative of this fact.

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(below) House TM-103, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India by Syzygy Architects Photographer : Prashant Bhat

House TM-103, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India by Syzygy Architects | Photographer : Prashant Bhat

Check out full project on www.designessentiamagazine.com

//CLIMATE TALK!!

THEWORLD IS NOW SLOWLY REALIZING THE SERIOUSNESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. BEING AN ARCHITECT,WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE IN ARCHITECTURE TODAY?

ABHISHEK & ROMIT : More than ever, it is clear that sustainability is not a choice any longer; instead, it has morphed into an inextricable part of the design endeavours we need to pursue.As Architects, the inclusion of sustainable interventions comes into play at the primary stages of design conceptualisation. We can consider by first understanding the climatological profile of the site and thereby extrapolating that knowledge into devising natural lighting and ventilation systems that eliminate or minimise the need for mechanised/artificial systems. The introduction of a locally available material palette cinches back on costs as well as reduces the carbon footprint of the processes of procurement.Additional materials at active sites can be up-cycled to create renewed elements, allowing the wastage of raw materials to be curtailed.The overarching aim should be to reduce the ungauged usage of non-renewable resources in our processes, harnessing the utilisation of light, water and wind judiciously.

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1 October 2021 – 31 March 2022 www.expo2020dubai.com

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in background //CASA MUTINA //Studio URQUIOLA