Design Connect : July - September 2021 by Design Connect

VOLUME 04 ISSUE 03 JULY-SEPTEMBER 2021

Rs.100

DESIGN CONNECT PROMOTING GOOD TASTE

SUPERSALONE 2021 REKINDLING OUR LOVE AFFAIR WITH DESIGN

THE VACATION HOME STUDIO IAAD DESIGNS THE PERFECT VACATION HOME IN GOA

D525 BARCELONA A SUSTAINABLE RENOVATION

GOOD DESIGN IS SIMPLE, BEAUTIFUL, ENGAGING AND CARING: AN INTERVIEW WITH ILARIA MARELLI, ARCHITECT, DESIGNER AND FOUNDER OF ILARIA MARELLI STUDIO

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rofessionals and businessmen alike are building vacation homes in exotic locales to escape the monotony of a disciplined life and unwind. This has given architects and designers a new challenge to work on. The challenge lies in the fact that a vacation home is expected to offer a significant change in atmosphere from the clients permanent home, so as to let visitors truly unwind and bask the vacation spirit; but at the same time it must also offer the same level of comfort, functionality and ease as the permanent home, so that there is no ‘transition time’ needed to adjust to the residence. Apart from different locations pan India, Goa is fast emerging as one of the most preferred choice for building vacation homes, thank to its crystal clear pristine beaches and the 24 * 7 party mode.

Editor’s Note

Apart from vacation homes, farmhouses too have persuaded urban minds to fall in love with diverse locations and far off suburbs. In Delhi, Chattarpur is one such haven which is known for its farm houses.Nestled in the sprawling farmhouses of Chattarpur, New Delhi is Ansal Villas a project designed by RSDA. Located on a plot of land enveloped by greenery, this charming modern farmhouse represents a seamless integration of minimalism, green vistas and white hues to deliver a design experience that is timeless. Design approaches in architecture and design are aimed at addressing creative challenges and at times it can become a complex affair. However seasoned designers know simplicity is the key to good design. Ilaria Marelli, Architect, Designer and Founder of Ilaria Marelli Studio furthers this notion and points out that good design is simple, beautiful, engaging and caring which connotes a proper balance between needs and dreams, functionality and emotions, innovation and memory, habits and new social rituals, without forgetting to care for people and the environment. Read the complete interview inside.

Editor Vikas Bhadra vikasbhadra@designconnect.biz Designer Darshan Palav

Cover Page Forestami, Photo Courtesy: Diego Ravier

In our photo feature section we bring to you two innovative projects. Terrazza designed by M3H Architects in Zeeburgereiland, Amsterdam, a project whose innovative building design addresses the key factor of social engagement without compromising on aesthetics. The other project christened as Sandcastle is located 16,631 km away in Sydney’s Point Piper at the crest of a steep sand embankment, the name Sandcastle serves as an apt reference to the towering castle-like appearance of the home above the streetscape. Despite huge on site challenges including a forty-five-degree slope which even a mountain goat would find challenging, Luigi Rosselli Architects and Raffaello Rosselli collaborated together to bring this project to life.

Design Connect and logo are registered trademarks; any unauthorized use of the same is prohibited. All the information contained in the ezine may not be reproduced whether in part or in whole without the written consent of the editor. Design Connect and its team members accept no liability for loss or damage which may arise out of the material published in the ezine.

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The Vacation Home Studio IAAD designs the perfect vacation home in North Goa

Designed to Engage Terrazza, a project by M3H Architects in Zeeburgereiland keys in the factor of social engagement in its design

In Conversation with Ilaria Marelli, Architect, Designer and Founder of Ilaria Marelli Studio

Supersalone Rekindling our love affair with design

Ansal Villas: A Sanctuary In The Outskirts of Delhi Designed by RSDA, Ansal Villas is nestled in the sprawling farmhouses of Chattarpur, New Delhi,

Sand Castle A three-storey residence is based in a small, harbourside eastern suburb of Sydney

Colston Arrives in Mumbai: The Colston Design Centre is located in the design-rich locality of Shakti Mills, Mumbai

A Sustainable Renovation: The renovation of D525 Barcelona, an office building in Barcelona, Spain by Sanzpont Arquitectura

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The North Goa Residence by Studio IAAD

The Vacation Home 6 Design Connect|July-September 2021

The North Goa Residence by Studio IAAD

Located on a site lies above a high water table area Studio IAAD designs the perfect vacation home which offers stunning views of the sea and lets the occupants experience the best parts of Goa any time of the day. Project Designed By: Studio IAAD Photo Courtesy: Bharath Ramamrutham

Design Connect|July-September 2021

The North Goa Residence by Studio IAAD

The trend of second homes is on the rise, many professionals prefer to utilise a vacation home to take intermittent breaks. Ideally such homes are located in a vacation destination, like residential homes these vacation homes have to be designed very carefully keeping in mind individual tastes as also the comforts desired. Rachna Agarwal, Founder & Design Ideator, Studio IAAD says “A second home, particularly set in a vacation destination, needs to strike a careful balance between two aspects. It must offer a significant change in atmosphere from the permanent home, so as to let visitors to truly unwind and feel the vacation spirit; but it must also offer the same level of comfort, functionality, and ease as the permanent home, so that there is no ‘transition time’ needed to adjust to the residence.

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The North Goa Residence by Studio IAAD

Additionally, vacation homes should be built to have low upkeep and be easy to maintain, so it is easy to manage the residence without frequent visits.”

Most of the second homes designed for vacationing are located in exotic locations, many infact are what can be labelled as beach front properties. In such cases they come seemingly close to what is often referred to as luxurious properties but there are differences in the design approach. Design Connect|July-September 2021

The North Goa Residence by Studio IAAD

Elaborating further Rachna adds “From a design perspective, there are very different approaches to creating a permanent home versus a vacation home. The difference in purpose influences the way certain areas and amenities are arranged. For a vacation home, we would prioritise the family spaces as the central feature of the home and focus on building around them, as they tend to be the most used spaces during vacations. Private spaces like bedrooms become less important as they are used primarily for rest. A permanent residence requires the opposite approach - private spaces need to be prioritised as the most important areas, and family spaces are then arranged around them. Vacation homes also do not require the inclusion of storage spaces and utility areas like study rooms, which are very important in a permanent home.”

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Most of aforemeintioned design detailing which Studio IAAD abides by is visible in a residential project: Cove - North Goa Residence which they have designed in Goa. Incidentally this project also serves as the clients vacation home. The home was designed for real estate developers who are actively involved in multiple projects and developments across the country, including various properties in Goa itself.

The Cove is located close to the main city. This project which took 36 months to complete is spread across 5000 sq.ft. The time span of completion was a bit lenghty since time was required to obtain the necessary construction permits for building within the coastal regulation zone. Then there were other challenges too as the site lies above a high water table area. This made the construction as well as the building of the basement-like area tricky to plan. Furthermore, the Goan rains were a persistent obstacle, making construction impossible for several months during the monsoon.

The design of the Cove represents a collaborative process of the designers with the the clients to understand and implement their vision. Says Rachna “We employed specific strategies to maximise the limited floor area, by optimising the bedroom sizes and making the family spaces the highlight of the home. The home was designed to blend in with the Goan cultural aesthetic, and being a beach house, the deck was also allocated ample space” The project accomodates six broad areas - the living or family spaces, the dining area, kitchen, bedrooms, the top balcony, and the front deck. Segregating the spaces was not difficult, but had to be done cleverly owing to the limited floor space. The designers used travertine and leather finished stone for theflooring of the home. The interior walls have a bright paint scheme, while the exterior of the home is covered with an American anti-absorption finish to give it protection from the elements.

Design Connect|July-September 2021

The North Goa Residence by Studio IAAD

Designwise the home espouses a concoction of Goan aesthetic touches coupled with the clients’ aesthetic preferences. The sloping roof and front deck are adapted from the local architectural context, while touches like abundant window space were added on to suit the project vision.

The Cove is a project with many highlights, thanks to it seamless design which keeps you serenaded in the magical sorroundings of Goa, summing it up Rachna says “I believe that the collective atmosphere created by all of the multiple components of the project is its prime highlight. The home is built to let one enjoy the sea and the outdoors, even when one is inside. The stunning sea view from the top floor balcony and the sea deck let you experience the best parts of Goa any time of the day. The roof also architecturally unites the home, housing modern comfort and luxury within a traditionally inspired architectural design.” The North Goa Residence by Studio IAAD

Connect Online@ www.iaad.in

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13 The North Goa Residence by Studio IAAD

Terraza by M3H Architects

DESIGNED TO ENGAGE

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In a timeline when numerous building designs fail to address or key in the factor of social engagement, Terrazza designed by M3H Architects in Zeeburgereiland, Amsterdam comes up with the right answers without compromising on aesthetics.

Project Designed By: M3H Architects Photo Courtesy: Luuk Kramer

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As we become globalized day by day its impact on the built environment and the buildings which surround us have been a matter of both debate and scrutiny. In the view of such developments architects and designers consistently try to come up with better designs for buildings. Designs which will offer the occupant the much-needed comfort of a home and also let them socialize with the world outside their home.

Terraza by M3H Architects Design Connect|July-September 2021

Terraza by M3H Architects

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Terrazza designed by M3H Architects in Zeeburgereiland, Amsterdam is one such project. Spread across 3000 sq.mts this sculptural building establishes a connection with the neighborhood on every side. In a way Terrazza is a home not only to the residents who live there, but also to everyone in the neighbourhood because of the public courtyards. It is an open space where anyone can meet, socialize and enjoy a bit of green in the new district of Amsterdam.

Two green gardens are situated between the brick buildings. Each courtyard with its own character and surrounded by houses with a small garden or a balcony screened off with a brick edge. This creates intimate green courtyards, a habitat for people, plants and animals. In short, its a residential building for the entire neighborhood which takes into account green and social sustainability.

Terrazza has a different view from every angle. Staggered balconies and the alternation of large fronts and slit windows provide a lively and spatial image. This is also due to the different masonry bonds. Two sand-colored bricks from Brunsummer clay, from the Engels Steenfabriek in Oeffelt were utilized to good effect. The colors of the frames, roof trim and the prefab concrete match tonsur-ton with the colors of the bricks.

The building design is a testament to the foreplay of craftsmanship and design variation. Even the 122 letterboxes have been designed with great care. The reflection of design diversity is not only limited to the external part of the building but also its interiors. Each home has a specially designed floor plan. The buildings contain a wide variety of residences, both in size and type. The architects designed no less than 44 floor plans for this project. From compact study to roof villa: it can all be found in Terrazza! Connect Online@ www.m3h.nl

Design Connect|July-September 2021

Terraza by M3H Architects

The public-friendly character is even more reflected in the design of the building. The facades have a special appearance due to the horizontal and vertical stacked brick. The spacious double-height main entrances and the large fronts at street level make the building feel very accessible. The ensemble consists of three building parts that rise in steps. The height of the volumes is in line with the surrounding buildings; on the north side 12 meters high and on the south side the height accents up to 36 meters.

In Conversation with Ilaria Marelli

GOOD DESIGN IS SIMPLE, BEAUTIFUL, ENGAGING AND CARING It responds to new needs and desires which come into play as a result of changes in social and cultural conditions says Ilaria Marelli, Architect, Designer and Founder of Ilaria Marelli Studio.

What is your idea of good design? Good design is simple, beautiful, engaging and caring. It connotes a proper balance between needs and dreams, functionality and emotions, innovation and memory, habits and new social rituals, without forgetting to care for people and the environment.

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Photo Courtesy: Diego Alto

What led you to become an architect and designer, as opposed to, let’s say an engineer or a female loco pilot? In Conversation with Ilaria Marelli

I consistently craved for a profession where I could put my artistic pursuits and the love for science to good use. The world of design, with its concoction of creativity and the science of manufacturing thereby emerged as a natural choice for me to pursue. When it comes to architecture or product design is it an expression of the designer’s creative intellect or a culmination of form, function and desire…are both one and the same?

I believe that one of the most important quality for a designer is listening. The needs of the b2b customers is a summation of what the users and society are vying for. To be able to develop a project, that is not only formal but also responds to these collective impulses, that makes sense to the people and can be proactive and innovative is what creative expression is all about, I don’t believe that creativity serves as an end in itself.

Ilaria Marelli Design Connect|July-September 2021

I was lucky enough to start with two great mentors: as a student, in the university, I collaborated with Ezio Manzini, with whom I studied the themes of service design and social design and in my profession with Giulio Cappellini, a great talent scout and art director, who also gave me the opportunity, at the beginning of my career, to work with the top of international designers such as Paul Smith, Jasper Morrison, the Bouroullec brothers, Jean Marie Massaud, Tom Dixon, to name a few, and that was really inspiring.

Using fabric, wood and plaster as the key materials the essence of Vienna coffeehouse was brought to life Andrea Collection by Olivieri Mobili

Photo Courtesy: Luca Casonato

In Conversation with Ilaria Marelli

In the initial days of your design journey who are some of the designers you worked with?

Corporate Design Consultancy for Brand Como Audio

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Photo Courtesy: Paolo Luppino

Design maintains its cultural roots as it is evident in Italian design as also designs which have emerged from different nations. Having said that, design is dynamic in nature, it responds to new needs and desires which come into play as a result of changes in social and cultural conditions. For this reason, today’s design is certainly a different, more open, hybrid matter: more globalized, but also more attentive to local cultures, this distinctiveness puts it in a league which is perhaps different than what modernism envisioned.

The COOK collection: An artistic use of industrial production Design Connect|July-September 2021

In Conversation with Ilaria Marelli

When it comes to contemporary design, do you believe it is an evolution of design as defined by modernism?

In Conversation with Ilaria Marelli

Photo Courtesy : Luca Casonato

As an Italian designer and also as a member of the first Italian Design Council, what makes Italian design so invigorating? Globally which are a few countries you believe offer a similar experience (or match up to this aura) in architecture and design as also product design? I think the primacy of Italian design derives from a happy combination of elements. The artistic tradition that surrounds us Italians is one key aspect, it induces the varied elements of beautiful design in our sub-conscious on a day-to-day basis. Another key aspect is the coexistence of artisanal manufacturing with the capacity to rev it up to the industrial scale based on requirements. This allows each product to be scrutinized carefully in terms of its utility, reception and popularity before large-scale production can respond to the demand. Finally, a widespread entrepreneurial culture makes it easy to ‘do business’ here.

Exhibit Design for American Brand Tivoli Audio

Communication design for the office catalogue of Gaber

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In Conversation with Ilaria Marelli

Pebble Bed by Dorelan: A soft bed (and a pouf ) inspired by the shape of smooth river pebbles

Today there are several nations that have similar pre-characteristics, their different cultural roots helps them impart different features in the design they offer: to simplify the Anglo-Saxon American world, has a more managerial imprinting, the Nordic countries are more effective on “young” mass consumer goods, China is undoubtedly stronger on the mass market production, Japan has an unparalleled accuracy of details, India may be one of the next leading nations in design, thanks to its vibrant culture and excellent resources in the IT sector.

Sedimenti by IVV952: A limited series of vases designed by Ilaria Marelli

Design Connect|July-September 2021

In Conversation with Ilaria Marelli

You have worked with different brands, as a designer, how easy or complex is it to maintain the distinctiveness in design which each of them crave for? When I start a collaboration with a company, I give an immense amount of consideration to its heritage, its value and try to figure out how my design could reflect those characteristics in a positive way. That’s why what I design for a company could be formally very different from what I design for another company – my distinctiveness is not in shapes but in the approach to a design collaboration, so that each product reflects a certain level of individuality. What does a global design congregation like the Salone del Mobile mean to you? Which are some of the other events you attend?

Salone del Mobile, which we have missed so much as a result of the pandemic, means a lot to me, not only in terms of business, but also as an opportunity to share ideas about design with an international public. It is a creative confluence which consistently inspires me, allows me to discover new trends apart from meeting colleagues with whom I haven’t been able to catch up. In Italy, I am also addicted to Venice Biennale. I used to tour the European events quite regularly. Events such as Maison&Objet in Paris, London Design Week, Light and Building in Frankfurt sometimes Koelnmesse and Stockholm Design Week, or New York ICFF. I have not yet had the official opportunity to participate in an Asian fair for a client or a specific project but I look forward to it.

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The entrance of the new Electrolux plant in Susegana

My office “Ilaria Marelli design” offers 360 ° design consultancy: art direction, product design, interior & exhibition, so at the moment, we are working on multiple projects: In interior design, we are working on two interior design projects for two different plants of Electrolux company. In art direction, we are engaged in the start up and development of two new furniture brands, our association with an Italian company in the field of upholstery will also be keeping us busy, besides which we are also supporting an American company in the audio sector.

In product design, we are focussed on furniture and lighting design apart from a project in sport equipment, details of which were evealed at the Salone fair. In exhibit design, we are finally working on new projects for design shows, that are reopening after the pandemic period. Moreover, I am also teaching at Naba University in Milan in the field of design innovation. Connect Online@ www.ilariamarelli.com

Design Connect|July-September 2021

In Conversation with Ilaria Marelli

Which are some of current architecture and design projects you are working on?

Salone Diaries 2021

Forestami

Supersalone : Rekindling Our Love Affair With Design 26 Design Connect|July-September 2021

Salone Diaries 2021

Photo Courtesy: Diego Ravier

Supersalone was akin to a shot in the arm for the architecture and design enthusiasts in a timeline when Covid-19 induced situations have made offline events an impossible task.

Design Connect|July-September 2021

“Yes it’s finally happening,” said Valerie . It was almost midnight in Mumbai and I was getting ready to hit the bed. “Well, Valerie, if it’s happening and you are lucky enough to be there, do keep me posted.” I responded and snoozed off in la la land. Next morning as I filtered through the emails in my inbox an official mail from Salone confirmed what I had heard the night before.

To facilitate individual success stories in design and deliberate on the pressing topics in design Supersalone held The Makers Show and Open Talks. Through its collaboration with ADI/Compasso d’Oro Award, Supersalone also hosted an interesting project-installation titled Take Your Seat. The exhibition which showcased 130 chairs utilised it as a narrative for showcasing design responses to newer cultural paradigms in the society.

Salone Diaries 2021

Photo Courtesy: Andrea Mariani

Amidst a timeline when businesses were keen to reorient themselves and resume operations it was reassuring to know that Salone Del Mobile 2021 or Supersalone, as it was being referred to, was finally happening. For many people like myself and Valerie it was a special moment. Although we were in different countries Salone was akin to that common design element which brought us together for conversations and more.

Sustainability has been a key element of design. Numerous designers have consistently furthered the cause of sustainability and implemented it in their design. With the looming pandemic, the need for sustainability on revitalising a life entrenched in wellness and good health has been amplified. Effects of this phenomena were witnessed in Supersalone as well, beginning with the ForestaMi project. While passing through the entrance of Super Salone visitors made their way through 100 medium height trees, 100 more were placed inside the venue. All these trees are now in the process of being planted in the city Milan, thus implementing the Forestami project.

Supersalone lent a much needed encouragement to the design students who graduated amidst the pandemic. 170 projects from students who graduated between 2020 and 2021, from 48 leading design schools in 22 different countries exhibited their products across a large portion of Halls 2 and 4 at Rho Fiera. The exhibition titled “The Lost Graduation Show” was curated by Anniina Koivu, this was for the first time this exhibition was held and it brought together different faculties of design together.

The Lost Graduation Show

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Sillage d’Hermès armchair

Salone Diaries 2021

Photo Courtesy: Andrea Mariani

The spaces made available to the companies inside the fair were designed to ensure that the products stand out, while keeping the use of support structures to a minimum. All the materials and components of the installation conceived by Andrea Caputo – long parallel sets designed for the specific goods categories – and by Stefano Boeri Interiors – the communal areas: food courts, arenas, lounges – were achieved using a reduced quantity of chipboard panels (1,230 mc ), made from 100% recycled wood, which will then be channelled back into the production cycle with a view to circularity, saving 553,500 kilograms of CO2 from being emitted into the atmosphere.

Photo Courtesy: Hermes

The impact of the pandemic did not diminish the exposition of brands which Salone is known for. In Supersalone 425 brands showcased their wares, 16% of these were from countries other than Italy. Though Indians were unable to make it to the event in view of the Covid 19 restrictions in place, Indian design did find representation at the fair. Bijoy Jain’s papier-mâché armchair and table for Hermès Home, were on display at Supersalone.

Take Your Seat Design Connect|July-September 2021

Photo Courtesy: Diego Ravier Photo Courtesy: Diego Ravier

Salone Diaries 2021

Take Your Seat

The Flexlux Stall at Supersalone

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Photo Courtesy: Diego Ravier

Supersalone also merged the physical event held at the Rho Milan Fairgrounds with an online one and in doing so it redefined the digital footprint of the event. The new Salone del Mobile. Milano TikTok account, onto which 19 videos were uploaded during the first 5 days of “Supersalone,” had more than 630,000 views in total, while the first three episodes of the Super! Podcast were streamed 2,000 times, immediately making their way into the Top 100 Italian Apple Podcasts. The social channels (Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter), registered 15 million impressions, 25,000 interactions and 50,000 video viewings. The Supersalone has bolstered the confidence of designpreuners and event organizers across the globe. It has brought back the enthusiasm and focus on good design and in years to come, it will also be known as an event, which rekindled our love affair with design in difficult times. As far as the difficult times are concerned, well ‘This too shall pass’ and gradually it is being witnessed across different parts of the world.

Salone Diaries 2021

Connect Online@ www.salonemilano.it

Photo Courtesy: Andrea Mariani

The Lost Graduation Show

The Makers Show Design Connect|July-September 2021

Ansal Villas by RSDA

A SANCTUARY IN THE OUTSKIRTS OF THE CITY Project Designed By : RSDA Photo Courtesy: Rajit Kumar

Designed by RSDA, Ansal Villas, nestled in the sprawling farmhouses of Chattarpur, New Delhi showcases a design that is contextual and instantly lends the built structure a character, that responds to the unique and specif-ic site conditions

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Ansal Villas by RSDA

As cities expand more and more people are choosing to set up their dream homes in the outskirts of the city. More so because the design sense in the city, many believe tends to become mundane. The space becomes a premi-um in terms of price but the distinction which design can offer tends to wither. More so, because a city get defined, at times in a way, which may or may not gratify individual design tastes or consider them to be uber. Such projects are not only unique in terms of design but also a testimony to the fact that good design can be created in a limited budget. Nestled in the sprawling farmhouses of Chattarpur, New Delhi is one such project designed by RSDA. The owners, a family of four, are one of the leading dealers of Mitsubishi Air Conditioning Systems in India.

Design Connect|July-September 2021

Christened as ‘Ansal Villas’ the project which has a total built up of 5000 sq.ft was brought to life on a 9900 sq.ft plot in a years time.

Ansal Villas by RSDA

Speaking on the project, Shobhit Kumar, Founding Principal, RSDA says “With the aim to provide a compact house for their family and cater to the context and site restrictions we have divided the plot into an entrance porch and private lawn. With a compact footprint and offering complete justice to the site, the overall design revolves around the wilderness that’s around.”

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The entrance, paved with concrete, leads one to the entertainment area in the basement that can be accessed by an external staircase, where the formal area of the house is located. As one proceeds, further along, a few steps transition uninhibitedly into an entrance foyer, into a double-height space that is finished with steel and wood, scaling the height of the structure and giving it a sense of freshness. Every site has its own challenges and designing the Ansal Villas was no different.

Ansal Villas by RSDA

“The site offered various constraints along the way,” says Shobhit “but with the right strategy and approach we were able to provide a house with a large green footprint. The plot was divided into the entrance porch leading to the main entrance foyer- accentuated by a tall wooden ceiling and simultaneously it also led to a paved entrance to the basement area which featured the entertainment zone. The rest of the house which includ-ed the living, dining and bedroom spaces abided by Vaastu requirements.”

In this project the overall material palette was kept minimal. The interiors feature the use of Italian marble while, on the outside granite and kota stone have been employed. Externally, the house is painted in white with a stone finished aesthetic with certain areas of the landscape integrating the use of slate and kota stone wall cladding.

Design Connect|July-September 2021

Ansal Villas by RSDA

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Ansal Villas by RSDA Design Connect|July-September 2021

Ansal Villas by RSDA

In designing this project RSDA has ensured it espouses sustainability as well, Shobhit adds ”The project does tick most of the boxes for sustainability with the use of rainwater harvesting to feed the ground water, solar geysers. Likewise there is the presence of a conscious green envelope to mitigate harsh summers. For lighting LED has been used besides which locally availa-ble materials have also been incorporated into the design.”

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Apart from being sustainable the project also evokes a sense of exclusivity in terms of the accessories utilised. Most of the interior accessories seen in this project were in fact custom designed to suit the clients sense of aes-thetics and their requirements. The accessories also played an important role in the defining the colour strategy of this project. The overall colour scheme was kept intentionally a bit sober accentuated with the pop of col-ours used in the furniture and decor that adds a dash of vibrancy

The house recieves a lot of natural light, thanks to its Vaastu compliant posi-tion. While the windows and openings are guarded by the surrounding green envelope. For ambient lighting LED concealed light fixtures were used apart from chandeliers and pendant/ floor lamps which were procured from various vendors in Delhi.

Ansal Villas by RSDA

In designing the Ansal Villas, Team RSDA have created a design that is con-textual and instantly lends the built structure a character, that responds to the unique and specific site conditions. A visit to Ansal Villas is like a walk in the park. A house that proves minimalism, green vistas and white hues are all you need to design a timeless abode. Nestled inside a plot of land envel-oped by greenery, this charming modern farmhouse is a perfect getaway from the perils of city life. Connect Online @www.rsda.in

Design Connect|July-September 2021

Sand Castle by Luigi Roselli

Sandcastle

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The three-storey residence is based in Point Piper, a small, harbourside eastern suburb of Sydney.

Project Designed By: Luigi Rosselli Architects Photo Courtesy: Prue Ruscoe

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Located at the crest of a steep sand embankment, Sandcastle is built on a block many considered too difficult to build on; a forty-five-degree slope that presented a climb to reach the house even a mountain goat would find challenging. Yet despite this, and the added constraint of a sewer main running through the middle of the site, the clients were not discouraged when they bravely chose to purchase the site in Sydney’s Point Piper to create their home.

Sand Castle by Luigi Roselli Design Connect|July-September 2021

Sand Castle by Luigi Roselli

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The clients approached Luigi Rosselli Architects with the vision for their project, Besides Luigi Rosselli his son, Raffaello Rosselli collaborated on this project in tandem with running his own architectural practice.

The construction was made somewhat difficult by the nature of the terrain as sand tends to behave like a fluid if it is not stabilised. The excavation of large amounts of sand was required for both the lift tunnel and the house. Once excavated the sand was stored on site in large bags and then used to reconstruct the site’s original topography. Raffaello Rosselli defied both the engineers and the landscapers in refusing to construct a series of retaining walls to hold the sand in place, instead a method generally used to stabilise sand dunes, which uses horizontal layers of geofabric to wrap back the sand layer over layer was employed. The sand substrate was then covered with native grasses and plants.

As a name, Sandcastle references the towering castle-like appearance of the home above the streetscape. The threestorey rise of this home is a result of the intention to lower the entry as close as possible to ground level, raise the upper levels to take advantage of the aspect of the site, and create a vertical link from the entry to the living and bedroom levels on the upper floors. Sand as a theme for the site is continued in the robust masonry, handmade bricks by in a custom light colour mix have a rich textural and timeless appeal. Sun screens using the same bricks were designed to provide transparency and shade without weakening the structure. To the middle level of the home there is a private, north facing courtyard with a flat surface to allow the children to play soccer or basketball or cricket without losing the balls down the house’s steeply sloped landscaping. Connect Online@ www.luigirosselli.com

Design Connect|July-September 2021

Sand Castle by Luigi Roselli

The resulting design was mindful in maintaining the natural slope of the site with minimal encumbrances such as stairs and retaining walls, instead the street access at the bottom of the site was partially hidden below ground next to the garage. One follows a winding set of stairs to re-emerge above the entry gate onto a small plateau that offers a view towards the beach across the road. From there a steep garden stair with a rope handrail leads to the front door. Those in the know can hop in the lift, positioned at the end of a tunnel at the street entry level.

THE COLSTON DESIGN CENTRE IN MUMBAI IS READY TO WELCOME YOU Photo Courtesy: Safal Bhandare

A Quiet Sanctuary by Barker Associates Architecture Office (BAAO)

Photo Courtesy: Vikas Bhadra

Located in Shakti Mills, Colston’s first Design Centre is a sprawling and interactive luxury zone that lets visitors experience their innovations up close and personal.

44 Design Connect|October-December 2020

On 25th September 2021, Closton one of India’s leading luxury bathware brand launched its Design Centre in the design-rich locality of Shakti mills in the heart of Mumbai. The flagship store located in Mumbai is an addition to their existing experience centre in Delhi and a symbol of their indispensable presence in the world of luxury bathware. The brand also built on its legacy of constant innovation by unveiling a new collection of the De Banos series bath products, and a range of designer bathtubs and jacuzzis at the inauguration.

A Quiet Sanctuary by Barker Associates Architecture Office (BAAO)

Colston prides itself on combining luxury with intelligent design, and the Design Centre is inspired by the exquisite Palladian style of architecture from Italy, and includes eight different bathroom design lounges that replicate different themes and typologies of the Colston brand. Some of the highlights of the centre are the swimming pool zone, the live shower walk, and the high street display lane. Other stand out areas include the interactive conference room and Colston meeting lounge, both integrated into the centre’s design.

Speaking on the launch of the new design centre, Anil Ahuja, Managing Director of Colston Bath & Spa Pvt. Ltd said “The Design Centre is created as an experiential space, it’s a perfect platform to exhibit the Colston’s futuristic and advance approach in bathware designs and technology. It has an expansive floor plan with multiple functioning areas that showcase some of our most popular innovations and products. Colston is constantly innovating in the field of luxury and wellness design, and the Design Centre lets visitors immerse themselves into the complete Colston experience.” Established in the year 2000, Colston is market leader in bathroom design and wellness fittings in India. It has established a prominent presence as an innovative and trusted brand, built on its two decades of expertise in the field of bathroom interiors. Colston seeks to create a new standard of luxury bathing through its range of technological innovations, and world class design that excels in both aesthetics and functionality. Connect Online@ www.colstonconcepts.com

Design Connect|October-December 2020

D525 Barcelona by Sanzpont Arquitectura

A Sustainable Renovation 46 Design Connect|July-September 2021

D525 Barcelona by Sanzpont Arquitectura

The renovation of D525 Barcelona, an office building in Barcelona, Spain by Sanzpont Arquitectura incorporates environmental and wellness benefits in its design. Project Designed By: Sanzpont Arquitectura Photo Courtesy: David Cardelús (courtesy de Naturgy), Dani Rovira (courtesy de Colonial) y Sergio Sanz (courtesy de Sanzpont) Design Connect|July-September 2021

D525 Barcelona by Sanzpont Arquitectura

D525 Barcelona is an office building located in Barcelona, Spain that is designed through the concept of sustainable renovation. More than just an avant-garde building, the project also offers environmental and wellness benefits. The new headquarters of Naturgy group in Barcelona, a building property of Inmobiliaria Colonial, is located at Av. Diagonal 525. The project was designed by Sanzpont Arquitectura based on the concept of sustainable renovation, with the aim of reducing its environmental impact and extending its efficient, useful life. Its execution was carried out with materials that strictly respect the environment, and according to an environmental quality management plan.

48 Design Connect|July-September 2021

The original building was used for housing in the ‘70s and presented several structural challenges. However, despite those challenges, the project incorporated all of the design and construction requirements necessary to achieve LEED Gold certification.

D525 Barcelona by Sanzpont Arquitectura

More Natural Light & Purer Air The project incorporates a main façade based on large windows that provide abundant natural light, defined by unique photocatalytic krion 3D modules. These modules give the building a unique identity but, more importantly, have the ability to purify the air through their photocatalytic material. The krion material’s KEAST technology takes it one step further by extrapolating its benefits beyond its surface with the ability to decontaminate the air. The design, comprised of clean and aerodynamic lines, creates an avant-garde image of movement.

Design Connect|July-September 2021

50 Design Connect|July-September 2021

D525 Barcelona by Sanzpont Arquitectura

Greater Eco-Efficiency & Cleaner Energy The building envelope and its systems have been designed to render it an eco-efficient model, improving its performance, thermal insulation, and energy consumption. The design of the south façade incorporates a treatment of photovoltaic louvers, providing protection from the sun in the warmer months of the year, and generating clean energy through part of its electricity consumption. The photovoltaic louvers create enough energy to power 1,562 points of light for 4 hours per day, for up to 35 years, free of CO2 196 emissions.

Sustainability & the Building Skin To develop the project, a detailed study of the climate and the environment was conducted to determine the characteristics of the architectural envelope and its response throughout the year. This considerably improved the performance and efficiency of the building in terms of energy savings and sustainability. In addition to a rooftop garden, the design and improvement of the architectural envelope includes its orientation, thermal and acoustic insulation, solar control louvers, and production of renewable energy.

Developed & Coordinated in BIM The project has been developed using the latest BIM cloud technology for its complete coordination. Virtual models of architecture, engineering, interior design, and urban environment were integrated in order to generate a coordinated digital building. Connect Online@ www.sanzpont.com

Design Connect|July-September 2021

D525 Barcelona by Sanzpont Arquitectura

More Green Space & Native Plant Species A large part of the building’s roof is designed as a natural green space. It incorporates low-consumption native plant species that provide an extra insulation layer, thus minimizing the environmental impact, improving the microclimate, and helping to mitigate the heat island effect.

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