Media Booklet

View of the mangrove from site

OUR FLAGSHIP PROJECT. A COVETED ADDRESS.

Located in Vikhroli, on the Eastern Express Highway, The Trees is Godrej Properties’ flagship project. This mixed-use development seeks to redefine established ideas about life in Mumbai by intertwining culture, technology, history, and landscape to align with both functional and aesthetic goals. In addition, the project offers endless panoramas of Vikhroli’s mangroves, the concept of live-work-learn-play, cutting-edge design and sustainability features. Maybe it’s why; The Trees has been in news since it’s launch. Till date, the project has been covered across 100+ publications spanning Print & Digital media in English and regional languages. It’s one of the only projects that has won some prestigious awards for various aspects. This booklet showcases same of the our recognitions and achievements.

AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

GODREJ ONE: IGBC – PLATINUM 2017

GODREJ ONE: EXCELLENCE AWARD

THE EMERSON CUP 2017 IGBC GREEN NEW BUILDINGS

THE TREES: MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT OF THE YEAR - ACEF

GOLDEN PEACOCK AWARD FOR SUSTAINABILITY

THE TREES MASTERPLANGODREJ ONEIMAGINE STUDIO

9TH CIDC VISHWAKARMA AWARDS, 2017

The Trees won the Best Construction Safety Health and Environment Award

NDTV PROPERTY AWARDS, 2016

Godrej One adjudged as The Best Commercial Building of the Year

ASIAN CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT FORUM (ACEF) PROPERTY AWARDS, 2016

The Trees won the Mixed Used Development of the Year Award

GOLDEN BRICK AWARDS, 2016

Godrej Properties won the Best Marketing Campaign of the Year for The Trees

THE BOSTON SOCIETY OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS (BSLA), 2014

The Trees awarded the Honor Award for Landscape Planning and Analysis

THE ILLUMINATING ENGINEERING SOCIETY OF NORTH AMERICA (IESNA), 2017

Godrej One given the Award of Merit for Meritorious Contribution to Lighting Design

ILLUMINATING ENGINEERING SOCIETY OF NORTH AMERICA (IESNA), 2017

Award of Merit given to Godrej One for Meritorious Contribution to Lighting Design

NDTV PROPERTY AWARDS, 2016

Godrej One adjudged as The Best Commercial Building of the Year

ARCHITIZER A+ AWARDS, MARCH 2017

Special Mention in the ‘Architecture + Metal’ category

LAMP LIGHTING AWARDS, MARCH 2017

Global shortlist (one of 25, the only project from India to be shortlisted globally)

THE WAN AWARDS, DECEMBER 2016

Global shortlist: Adaptive reuse  (one of 6, only project from Asia)

KYOORIUS DESIGN AWARDS, OCTOBER 2016

Blue Elephant Award: Cabinet of Curiosities, Temporary/Permanent installations category

THE WAN AWARDS, SEPTEMBER 2016

Global shortlist: Metal in Architecture (one of 6, only project from Asia)

THE FAST COMPANY INNOVATION BY DESIGN AWARD, SEPTEMBER 2016

Honorable mention in the ‘Spaces, Places and Cities’ category

KYOORIUS DESIGN AWARDS, OCTOBER 2015

Blue Elephant Award in the ‘Design for Space’ category

THE TREES’ VISION

Godrej Properties, the property development arm of Godrej Group, on Thursday launched its 35-acre flagship project in Vikhroli, Mumbai, which houses its headquarters and other group companies. Managing director Pirojsha Godrej  discusses the company’s plans and overall real estate scenario with Raghavendra Kamath. Edited excerpts:

CRISIL recently said the top 25 property developers are facing challenges in

terms of refinancing their debt due to decline in customer advances. What is your take?

There are serious challenges, no doubt. Cash flows are weak because of customer demand environment. Some developers have much more difficulties than others because of higher debt load and decline in customer advances. But we can not put everybody in one basket. Some developers are seriously struggling but some are doing

very, very well. There have been conflicting reports about the pick-up in the Mumbai residential market. What is your take on

The demand environment is subdued everywhere. I don’t think there is no demand. Many developers are seeing very good sales. For example, we have done more sales in the first half of this financial year than any other full financial year. For the right developer and right project, demand continues to be good. I am not only talking about us. There have been successful launches by other developer as well. For more full fledged recovery, confidence needs to improve more. Things are on the upswing and for full-fledged recovery, it will take six to 12 months. So, you believe full-fledged recovery will happen in the next 12 months?

By and large it will happen, but it could be different in different cities. But in 12 months, the sector will be in a much better position from what it is now.

Given that we have not seen decline in

pricing, what will drive this recovery?

I don’t think pricing is the most important thing in recovery. It is demand volumes, which is most important. People are getting confidence that prices are not going to crash. I don’t think any major crash is possible in the medium term. In the short term, if things worsen, anything is possible. Overall costs have gone up for all

developers in the past few years. If prices crash, developers won’t make any money in a new project. They won’t launch projects to lose money.

Since the group had this historical land bank, don’t you think Rs 1.7 crore for one BHK in this project is very high?

Well, we will obviously see what the response is. Our sense is that pricing is very fair. It is not that pricing is low, nor is the cost of doing the project low. We want to give a world-class project to our customers. I am yet to meet anybody who says prices are fair and too low in any city at any given point of time. In fact, real estate is expensive, given it involves land cost and construction cost.

Last quarter, you said the company plans to launch seven to eight projects in the coming months. Are you planning to tweak apartment sizes, ticket sizes, according to the current market conditions?

Look, it depends on the market, project and so on. There is demand across the board. There are people who want to buy a Rs 5 lakh flat. There are people who want to buy a Rs 5 crore flat. In Mumbai’s case, add a hundred to that and people want to buy that also. Depending on the specific land parcel, you have to find out who is the target customer, what is their affordability and plan accordingly.

IN 12 MONTHS, REAL ESTATE SECTOR WILL BE IN A BETTER POSITION: PIROJSHA GODREJ

GODREJ GROUP SEES REAL ESTATE TURNAROUND IN A YEAR

While several real estate players are struggling due to demand slump, Godrej Properties believes it has managed to buck the trend. Pirojsha Godrej, Managing Director and CEO of the Godrej group's realty arm said, “Many developers have seen good sales and subdued residential market this year. While the demand environment is subdued throughout the country, I don't think there is any case with absolutely no demand. For the right projects and developers, there continues to be good demand. However, for a more full-fledged recovery, confidence still needs to improve

and that will happen over the next six to 12 months. I think in a year from now the industry will be in a much better position," said Godrej, adding that their recent launches in Byculla and Badlapur have seen good demand and the new project 'The Trees' at Vikhroli has created a lot of excitement.

Spread over 34 acre, The Trees is Godrej's first mixed-use development in Mumbai while also being its largest in the city. It has a mix of commercial (9.4 acre), private luxury residential (6.7 acre) and, residential, retail and hospitality space (9.2 acre). The first phase of the development will have 374 residential units of carpet area ranging between 480 and 1,334 sq.ft. and penthouses between 2,043 and 2,465 sq.ft. The pricing ranges from Rs 1.7 crore all inclusive price for a 1BHK unit to Rs 8 crore for a penthouse.

On pricing of the project, Godrej said, "Our sense is that the pricing is very fair. It's not that pricing is low but neither is the cost of doing such a development very low. Here, we are talking about creating a truly world-class environment and hopefully the project will give our customers a sense of the quality of development we want to build," he said. In terms of revenues expected from the development, Godrej said, "We see a revenue potential of over $1 billion (Rs 6,600 core) from this mixed-use development that will be completed in phases over the next five to six years."

While the residential towers will be the first ones to come up, the company will simultaneously work on the second commercial tower. The high street retail

park and 5-star luxury hotel is still work-in-progress. "We are seeing a lot of interest from all the major luxury operators for this hotel project," said Anubhav Gupta, Executive Vice-President and Chief Design Officer, Godrej Properties. While Adi Godrej, Godrej Group Chairman had in a recent conversation told DNA that the company would eventually sell their commercial properties even if they were leased initially, it is still not clear if the same will apply to the 5-star luxury hotel asset that will come up in the mixed-use development. "We have not really decided about it yet," said Pirojsha Godrej.

On the real estate market, Godrej said, "I don't think there will be a major price crash over medium term. However, in the short term, anything is possible. One needs to understand that the cost side of the basket for developers has also increased in the last few years. If prices crash, any new project developers won't make any money."

Next question will be, why would the developers do a new project then? If they don't have a choice but to take a haircut they will make some losses and finish the development. So no one is going to bring new projects to market to book losses. "I think we saw a similar thing play out in the commercial real estate space over the last five to six years because there was too much supply in the market. But now things are starting to change because there is no fresh supply and demand has continued absorbing most of what was there, and will now present a situation where demand is now in excess of supply."

Published on 27 th November, 2015 in Hindustan Times

may differ from city to city, but by and large I think, the sector will be in much better position in a year.

Recently a Crisil report stated that refinancing of debt has become a big issue for realtors. What is your take?

There is no doubt that there are serious challenges in the sector, especially for the smaller players as the credit environment is difficult and cash-flows are weak. Even in the top set of developers, there are some who are in higher difficulty than others.

After the Abbott deal are you looking at more such asset monetisation deals?

Are you looking at newer markets to expand into?

In a limited sense…We are already in the top realestatemarketsofthecountryandweare now looking at adjacent areas. So in NCR, we have projects in Gurgaon and Delhi, but we don’t have projects in Noida. So we are very open to doing projects in Noida. In Mumbai, there are micro-markets such as Thane, where we are keen to do projects there.

Godrej Properties is looking to monetise more commercial real estate in its Bandra Kurla Complex project in Mumbai to cash in on the revival in the sector, Pirojsha Godrej, Managing DHirector said on Thursday. The company had recently sold 435,000 sq.ft. space in the complex to Abbott for Rs 1,479 crore. Godrej was speaking after launching a project - ‘The Trees’ - in Mumbai’s suburb Vikhroli. Edited Excerpts:

Mumbai’srealestatemarkethasbeenina slowdown for 2-3 years now. How do you see things?

The demand environment is subdued everywhere at the moment. But I don’t think it’s a case that there is no demand. Many developers are seeing good sales in some projects. We have sold more space in the first half of this financial year than in the whole of last year. But for a more full-fledged recovery, confidence needs to improve. It

Hopefully…That was a big deal, where we sold more than what we have left now in that project. I do think that the commercial real estate market is on an upswing, so we should be able to monetise that project completely over the next 9 to 12 months. We currently have a net debt of around Rs 2,200 crore. Over the long-term, we will continue to reduce debt, but that is not a concern at present.

After the RBI rate cuts, have you seen borrowing cost come down?

Cost of borrowing is certainly reducing for the whole sector. Our incremental borrowing isnowhappeningatunder10%,andaverage borrowing cost is now 10.5%.

THE COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MARKET IS ON AN UPSWING

The recent positive activity in Mumbai's premium residential market could be indicative of a market revival across the country.

When some prominent developers in Mumbai recently announced the launch of new residential projects, they were in for a pleasant surprise with the response they received. Homebuyers were surprisingly more open to closing deals after months of

inactivity. While this has certainly set a trend of sorts and created ripples in the Mumbai residential market, it remains to be seen if there will be repetition of the same in the Delhi-NCR and other realty markets. The flurry of activity in Mumbai included Godrej Properties Ltd selling 300 apartments within a week at its flagship project, The Trees, in Vikhroli. The project is a 34-acre mixed-use development project. The first phase of the

premium residential component of the project has 374 apartments, of which the companyclaimstohavesoldover80%inthe first week of the launch.

The apartments include 450 sq.ft. one-bedroom apartments and 2,400 sq.ft penthouses. Prices start from Rs 1.7 crore and penthouses cost Rs 8 crore. Prior to this the Lodha Group had launched limited edition residences at World One in Lower Parel and another project in South Mumbai’s Altamount Road where 415 apartments were reportedly sold. Oberoi Realty also claimed to have sold over 500 units during the launch of their Borivali project. Given buyer interest in Mumbai, one would certainly be interested inseeingifDelhifollowsMumbai’sleadandif some activity is seen in its markets. Real estateexpertssaythattherehasbeena30% jump in the number of residential sales in the country compared to the festive season last year, a clear indication that the residential market is looking up. Mumbai has started to lead the recovery process.

In terms of sentiment too, there has been a marked change in the Mumbai market and if it is able to sustain the recovery process for the next five to six months, it will set a benchmark for other real estate markets in the country. “Post the festive season, the sentiment has been positive and buyers are willing to close deals. If the trend in Mumbai continues for the next six to 12 months, Delhi-NCR may start reacting positively and see a turnaround in the next five to six

months but much of the offtake will be in the affordable housing segment,” says Mudassir Zaidi, national director, residential agency, Knight Frank India.

Agrees Getamber Anand, President, Confederation of Real Estate Developers Associations of India (Credai). “There is definitely a change in the mood. Housing sales have improved by 15% during the festive season helped by fall in price and lower interest rate on home loans. The launches in Mumbai are primarily new launches. The supply in Delhi-NCR is much more and hence there may be too few new launches. But there is still pent up demand for products in the affordable range.”

Godrej Properties Ltd sold 300 apartments withinaweekofthelaunchofitsproject,The Trees, in Vikhroli, Mumbai

Pirojsha

“Our endeavour is to make The Trees India's most exciting mixed-use development and this partnership (tie-up with the Taj group) is an important milestone towards that goal.”

A GREEN WAVE

With urban plantations, kitchen gardens and farming workshops, city developers are offering buyers new-age eco-friendly initiatives, creating community spaces and targeting the health-conscious.

Forthepastsixweeks,charteredaccountant couple Anshu Agarwal, 35, and her husband Virendra, 38, have taken to starting their day with hot lemon tea - thanks to the availability of lemongrass in the ‘urban farm’ at their residential complex, Rustomjee Urbania in Thane (West). “We were delighted when a mini farm-like garden was set up within the complex two months ago. We can access

fresh herbs right here, without having to pay a premium. In a city like Mumbai, this was unimaginable,” says mother of two Anshu.

Likewise, four-year old Darsh Rohindas decorated his house for Diwali with fresh flowers, tulsi and neem leaves plucked straight from a garden within Nahar’s Amrit Shakti residential complex in Chandivli. “This Diwali, we hardly purchased flowers and medicinal herbs; we mostly got them straight from the herb garden in our complex,” says Darsh’s father Neeraj Rohindas. With salad gardens, mini organic farms and outdoor kitchens, several city buildings are turning to new-age initiatives to build greenery within concrete Mumbai.

Expertsattributethistotheongoingtrendsin eco-friendliness in urban cities. “It isn’t new to have access to farm produce or plant your own, but the urban population is now aggressively seeking ways to make this consistently available,” says Avikal Somvanshi, Programme Officer, sustainable habitats at Centre for Science and Environment.“Thereisnowahugeinterestin sustainability, so when given the privilege to get fresh produce at your beck and call, while in urban Mumbai, everyone wants to grab the opportunity. Builders are catching in on to this.” “Other than the obvious health benefits, urban farming gives residents a feel of soil in a crowded city, where packaged products have led to people forgetting about what the idea of fresh food is like,” says Burgis Daruwalla, Chief Designer, Rustomjee Urbania.

URBAN PLANTATIONS

Residents of Rustomjee Urbania are involved in urban farming, at a dedicated space for organic produce. Currently, the farm includes neem, chikoo, white jamun, banana, guava, tulsi, tamarind, lemon and lemongrass trees. On Saturday, the complex is organising an Urbania Farm Fest, with lessons on home gardening, urban farming and farm cooking for children and adults. “We are exploring the logistics of the whole concept and devising a concrete plan to make the set-up self-operating. Roughly, we plan toallotcertainportionsofthefarmtosections of the building, and have a mentor who can manage and oversee the day-to-day

operations at the farm,” says Daruwalla.

MINI FARMS

At Nahar’s Amrit Shakti in Chandivli, soil and saplings are provided free of cost to residents, and expert horticulturists conduct workshops to demonstrate basics and ways togroworganicproductsthatcanbeusedin the kitchen. “There is growing awareness among young, well-travelled home buyers on the importance of living among green cover,” says Manju Yagnik, Vice-Chairperson of Nahar Group, a Mumbai-based construction company. “Largetownshipprojectshavetheadvantage of space, and can therefore allot more areas for gardens than standalone buildings.” Nabanita Mukherjee, a banker in Mumbai, set up her own mini-garden at home, with help from the nursery at Amrit Shakti. “I have small plants of tomatoes, green chillies, curry leaves and mint leaves growing in my balcony. I got the soil and seeds from the nursery, and the supervisors there assisted me to set it all up,” says the 35-year old resident.

A KEYHOLE GARDEN

This week, Godrej Properties is launching a pilot project called The Trees, at its Vikhroli complex. While the eventual goal is a full-fledged urban farm, in its first phase, The Trees will begin with a prototype of this farm, called a keyhole garden. “This urban farm prototype measures 8.5m by 24m, and is designed to allow residents to plant and harvest trees themselves,” says Anubhav

Gupta,ChiefDesignOfficer,Head-CSRand

Sustainability at Godrej Properties Ltd. The keyholegardenisdividedintothreesets.The first, with seasonal vegetables such as tomatoes, eggplant, okra, bell pepper, Italian basil and so on; the second, leafy and root vegetables; and the third, a tea garden with medicinal and flavour herbs.

“The idea for the keyhole garden is to get residents to participate in the planting of the seeds and harvest cycles, to connect with the land and soil, and to bridge the gap between growing and consumption. We hope to use these as community spaces for people to come and spend time together,” he adds.

ON THE FRINGES

Kalpataru’s Amoda Reserve: A gated community in Lonavla (below), here greenery comprises a fruit park, organic herb and salad garden, among 100 other plant species. “Residents can pick freshly grown ingredients from the fruit-themed garden and from the salad and herb garden. Also, the garden has outdoor cooking facilities for cooking organic meals,” says the company spokesperson of Kalpataru Ltd.

Lavasa: Here, residents can own a mini-garden, or can make the most of the plantation in the inhouse nursery, which spans 12 acres, within the township. “The nursery at Lavasa has dedicated 2 acres for fruits and vegetables and 10 acres for indigenous and ornamental plants,” says Krunal Negandhi, Head of Environment at Lavasa Corporation Ltd.

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE

PELLIE CLARK PELLIE - ARCHITECTS' TRENDSETTING DESIGN FOR GODREJ ONE

Godrej One, the new headquarters of the Godrej Group in Vikhroli is a new trendsetter in the city of Mumbai with its innovative design and sustainable features. This is possible, thanks to the group’s dedication to preserve green surrounding and a truly appreciable effort from internationallyacclaimed Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects for designing a modern landmark structure with LEED Platinum certification from the Indian Green Building Council. The global firm has skillfully combined transparent boldness by extensively using glass and opened up interior space to the lush green environs for this office, which is spread over 4 acres with a built space of 7.5L sq.ft. Additionally, they have implemented latest technological advancesandgreeninitiatives.“Smartdesign begins with green and being responsible towards nature,” says Rafael Pelli, Principal Architect of Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects.

Built out of engineered glass with cut-outs that create public spaces between office blocks, the structure has clean lines, simple forms with deep shading elements that also provide strong accent lines on the exterior. ThetwoL-shapedofficeblocksareorganised around a large central atrium spanning 12,000 sq.ft. This design allows the office space to have perimeter locations with light andviewsonallsides.Thespaciousentrance lobby has been designed as an interactive space. The glass panelled front visually mergestheindoorretailcorridorwithexternal

landscapes. With a contemporary decor and a cosmopolitan look, the lobby has been designed as more of a social space.

ATRIUM DESIGN

The central atrium on the first floor is the meeting point for all Godrej Group Companies and is the core of the building. Entirely built in marble, it opens up to a wide range of public areas such as conference centers with nine large conference rooms, a 238-seater auditorium, an Espresso Bar, food-court, library and open exhibition spaces. One of the admirable features on thisflooristhewaterbodyandindoorplants, lending its aesthetics to this space. The media wall is another interesting feature which showcases digital, graphical and physical displays of Godrej’s journey through time along with a series of interactive zones.

The atrium further opens up to a terrace that overlooks the upcoming trees development. Additional terraces on the 4th, 7th and 10th floorsprovidepanoramicviewsofmangroves. In continuation to the public spaces in the office, there is an event zone with an island bar on the 4th floor which extends onto the landscaped terrace. There are a total of five bridges on the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th and 10th levels hang from the roof truss via SS tension rods from Macalloy, Britain. All bridges have air- conditioning vents and they break the monotony of the tall structure, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding.

Explaining the design concept further Rafael says. “Beyond the obvious energy-efficiency benefits, green design also improves the occupant experience. We have created open spaces and plenty of interactive zones for the employees.”

Open, Flexible Workspaces for a Changing Infrastructure Flexibility is a core feature of workplacedesignthatisn'tjustthebackdrop to innovation, but one that actively courts it. Thedesignteamhasdevisedanopenflexible plan that adapts for team set-up and can be flexible for shuffling at a moment’s notice. Further explaining the concept, Anubhav Gupta, Chief Design Officer, Godrej Properties Ltd., adds, "Tremendous flexibility was important here as the group’s work culture has changed a lot in the past few years. We knew flexibility was the key to

making this work for the long term.” To meet these demands, the team divided the office space into three kinds of zones-the Open Workspace, Private Cabin space and Breakout Spaces/Huddle Spaces.

In order to break the monotony of the workspace zones, these spaces play an extremely important role. "These spaces act as stress busters or relaxation zones for employees. This in turn enhances productivity and nurtures creative ideas,” says Anubhav. One of the noteworthy features is that the space makes use of existing factory materials as conservation of heritage values of Godrej. Re-engineered material from demolished factories are used to make reception tables, coffee tables, bases for conference and meeting glass tables, company logos; they offer an

• Sustainability Features: The site for Godrej One ensures that passive sustainable strategies are built-in.

• The building is pre-certified Platinum by the Indian Green Building Council under the LEED.

• An internal building management system evaluates energy requirements, leading to overall energy costsavings of approximately by 28%.

• Regenerative drive elevators reduce power consumption to 25%.

• Roof elevation decreases energy consumption for cooling.

interesting contrast to the overall decor.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

The natural context of the site was the inspiration for landscaping around Godrej One. This property has been designed as a series of gardens, which envelop and embrace the building in a flowing rendition of water and greenery. The landscape flows around the building in a winding composition of aquatic and foliage plants, trees, paths and water bodies. The South-East and East garden forms the foreground to the south entrytoGodrejOne.“Twoexistingtreeshave been retained and incorporated into the landscape, reaffirming our commitment to being ‘good and green'. They stand tall and high, framing the building with their lofty presence,” says Anubhav. The glass facade

• Lighting layout is designed to reduce power consumption by 15% in all spaces.

• 50% of the materials are regionally manufactured by cost and overall recycled content is 10% of total materals used.

• Water efficient faucets and flushing fixtures: Recycling of water for flushing, HVAC water requirement and landscaping gives an overall water saving of at least 50%

• Efficient HVAC system design: With hybrid cooling tower and water-cooled centrifugal chiller of COP 6.36.

of the building mirrors the landscape, forming a series of reflections and creating a visage of green.

An existing Saptaparni tree has also been incorporated in the main water body at the southern entrance to Godrej One. A special planter was built around it to protect and weave it into the landscape of the entire site. The West and the North gardens follow the same ideas. With plenty of daylight flooding the interiors spaces and the interiors embracing a lush green surrounding, this corporate building is the perfect new headquarters of Godrej Group and a few companies who have acquired the leased space.

• Solar Photo-vaultic panels: The rooftops provide more than 1 per cent of the building’s total energy requirements.

• Glazing: 56% of the facade gives natural views and offer flow of daylight.

• Heat Recovery Equipment: Recovers heat from hot streams with potential high energy content.

• Charging Facilities: For electric vehicles and preferred parking spaces to encourage car pooling.

• Green Roof: High albedo finishes on the terrace reduces heat island effect.

The malaise of commercial design in India is dominated by the continual propagation of archaic planning concepts and modular aesthetic for work floor formats. Modern tradition is now starting to dictate a slight detour from these architectural legacies, wherein form, interaction and energy are instigating these evolving changes. The inspirations that define space reflect the open work culture and transparency that has been imbued in the organisations. While the format essentially remains unchanged, the ideological persuasions in space transformation vary from place to place. All the while, a simplistic thread does connect the thoughts across the architectural language in India – a quest to imbibe nature and openness into the very inception of its project.

A direct engagement of this scenario is established in the recently completed Godrej One – the headquarter premises of one of India's prominent business institutes, Godrej Industries Limited. Part of a colossal mixed-use development project undertaken by the company said, “We looked at design from a different perspective; it is not a business vertical but a business horizontal.” Anubhav Gupta, “The ground floor plan. Trees, the building unifies all of GILAC enterprises under one roof. Located on a site, with a footprint of four acres, alongside the dense suburban mangrove

sprawl of Mumbai, the architecture of US-based Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects intuitively addresses the context, its programmatic requirements and abstractions of the organisation's legacy.”

THE CONSTRUCT

At approach, the built form appears to sit lightly on the site. The materials make the buildingavisuallylightandsimpleconfluence   of forms and makes the entire design from a different perspective; it is not a business vertical but a business horizontal. Anubhav Gupta, Conceptualising the design. Anubhav Gupta, Chief Design Officer, Godrej Properties Ltd reveals the thought process composition still. Delineated through its clear construct, glass volume of the building is punctuated at various levels to provide balconies. Built out of engineered glass, the composition is of clean, simple forms with deep shading elements that provide strong accent lines. The energy of a system alive inside is captured and contained within the calm of its structure. The sunshades on façade was initially fabricated using a mild steel framework and covered on four sides with natural brindle grey granite. However, since the sourcing of large quantities of uniform quality granite was difficult, it was replaced with a lighter neolith stone mounted on an aluminium framework. The sunshades lend a pleasant relief to the all glass façade whilst acting as a shading

floors. Mounted across the complete length of the entrance lobby  is a perforated metal sheet that is embedded with the pattern of the neighbouring vegetation that surrounds the site - demonstrating a subdued statement of its identity and concept. The two L-shaped office blocks are organised around a large central atrium spanning 12,000 sq.ft.

The ‘empty centre’ organises the spaces around and establishes itself as a formal centre of the built structure - an ancient strategy implicit to Indian architecture. As one enters the atrium, an impressive spatial volumeenvelopesyouwithisausterebeauty.

Light filters through the canvas of glass that covers the space and keeps the entire passage illuminated throughout the day. It works as a visual connection and point of convergenceforalltheemployeesworkingin different areas of the building. Entirely built in marble,itopensuptoawiderangeof public programmes - conference centres with nine large conference rooms, a 238-seater auditorium, an espresso bar,  food-court, library and spaces for open exhibition. The galleries and workspaces overlook this central space borrowing light and a sense of cohesion from the atrium.

the team. The 20m-wide and 38m-high frameless glazing is composed of 90 glass panels, each weighing 350kg, supported on special alloy rods of 80 mm diameter. Installation of the CW08  posed various challenges like managing and positioning of heavy weight solid SS rods; balancing aesthetic and structural integrity; and handling of 2,170 mm x 3,880 mm glass panels. The overlooking 10 floors of the atrium were clad in glass, and in order to break the monotony of the internal fa ade along with the aim to provide  acoustic treatment, wooden slats  mounted on perforated acoustic  panels were installed along its the atrium also features five bridges at alternate levels that hang from the roof truss via SS tension rods connecting various work floors.

THE WORK ZONES

to make reception tables, coffee tables, bases for conference and meeting room tables, offering an interesting contrast to the   overall modern decor. The natural context of the site  was the inspiration for landscaping. The strong presence of water and the curved profiles in the  landscape is an interpretation   of the mangroves which form much of the lung space and floral heritage of Mumbai city.

THE LANDSCAPE

The natural context of the site was the inspiration for landscaping. The strong presence of water  and the curved profiles in the landscape is an interpretation of the mangroves, which form much of the lung space and floral  heritage of Mumbai. The landscape  flows around the building in a   winding composition of aquatic and foliage plants, trees, paths and waterbodies.

designed so as to decrease the ingress of heat thereby reducing the  energy consumption over cooling. Installation of solar panels also aides in contributing to the energy requirements of the  building.

One of the key architectural features of Godrej One is the suspended glazing that frames the atrium. Code named CW08, this has been an engineering feat ably tackled by

Workspaces are open and democratic and the organisation intentionally diminishes hierarchy typical to authoritative buildings, making the workings of this longestablished   company completely transparent. In addition to its workstations, the floors  imperatively house break-out and huddle spaces to act as stress busters or relaxation zones for employees to enhance productivity and creative ideas.  Various elements, across various  departments, make use of existing   factory materials as conservation of heritage values of the Godrej history. Re-engineered material from demolished factories are used

The complex of Godrej One also houses an experience centre that has been exclusively designed to resonate with the company's history, a urban farm and installations that strongly  integrates the past, present and future. Resurrection of one of the factory's chimney, its doors, panels, silos, etc. are deployed as an window to the organisations soul and identity. Augmenting its green proficiency, the structure is thoroughly equipped with a  Building Management System that evaluates energy requirements leading to overall energy cost savings by approximately 28%. The roof elevation is

The glazed facade helps  in harvesting the advantage of daylight, thereby reducing lighting needs throughout the day. The complex is also equipped with charging facilities for electric vehicles and preferred parking spaces to encourage car pooling  by employees.  The design of Godrej One   embodies a unique identity for the company thatenhancestheeffectivenessofworkplace and also composes itself as a strong   marketing and recruiting tool. It reflects the history of the company by its sensitive and intentional simplicity of thought and yet harnesses the ability to  accommodate the requirements of its heir. The materials, structure and theme of the built form aligns as an ultimate confluence of forward-thinking ideas rooted in its past.

THE CONCEPT

Godrej Properties Ltd. (GPL) was instituted over two decades ago. Given this, as a developer we have evolved and established our own design language, mainly  through our work in the residential segment. We maintain a modern, minimalistic and contemporary  tone for our designs, which are  not just imported from the West; instead it is referenced with respect to various

technological advancements, amalgamated with a certain aesthetic language and adapted to Indian context, while retaining its global plan.

While conceptualising the design brief for the headquarter building, one of the key points emphasised was that for the first time, all companies of Godrej Industries Ltd (GILAC) would be housed under the same roof. This included various verticals such as Godrej properties, agro, chemicals, consumer goods, food and beverages, etc. This was a   great opportunity for the teams  and departments to interact and  collaborate with each other, which  was earlier nonexistent.

The vast expanse of this land and its title has been synonymous with Godrej  for a long time. A large part of it is the mangroves that are more than 80-years old and also is now the  habitat for a range of exotic foreign   species of plants from across the world that was bought and planted here by the Godrej family through the years. With a pledge to conserve the mangroves and rooted in their belief to preserve and sustain the environment, the 35 acres of mixed-use development, was named The Trees, and also after the first house of the Godrej family, which was christened by the same name. The headquarter building is a part of this very development.

the aviation zone laws. Hence, in order to accommodate the large number of employees across the company's various departments, it was  inevitable that the building would  cover a substantial footprint; the  atrium was conceived as the result of this scale. The building code in India does not specify the need for an atrium. On the other hand, the cost for  constructing one is also much higher, as it brings in the additional expense of  constructing internal fa ades and does not benefit the developer fromtheFSIpointofview.However,wewere reallygladwithconceptionoftheatrium,asit not only provides an open visual connection across the whole building but also helps in harnessing daylight to the very core of the structure.

The work zones have been conceived as open floor plans with glass partitions to reflect Godrej's value as an institute that's constantly evolving and improving to pave way for its younger generation. The lobby, too, has  been visualised as a thoroughfare   connection, with a retail corridor that houses carefully programmed outlets such as a salon, supermarket, ATM, bookstore, cafe, etc., teamed with a common food court.

translated and realised as envisioned  by the designers and the architects.

We were fairly restricted in terms of the height for the structure, since it falls under

We strongly believe that there's a direct co-relationbetweenanemployee'sexposure to natural light and his/ her well-being, as it translates  directly from built form to actual   businessproductivity.Onthe exteriorfaçade of the building that overlooks the highway and further beyond unto the mangroves, we   havecarvedoutbalconiesateveryfourfloors that serve as break-out spaces. These open spaces, which are programmable with variousoptions,aidinboostingcreativityand innovation. The building in itself is primarily a glass box with chajjas, identifying with the company's ethos of maintaining transparency in its  work culture and also to maximise  views outside.

We would be shortly opening a cr che  and a number of nursing stations in the building. The aim is to address the requirements of every demography and accommodate their needs. Given that the building in its entirety has been enclosed in a glass envelope, the perceived problem of glare was tackled by deploying double glazed units for the façade along with the colouration of the glass. This allowed access to maximum daylight while keeping the glare and heat away. We are currently in the process of conducting a post occupancy survey and one of the interesting findsinitwasthefactthatwedidnothaveto use artificial lighting in the building  for most of the year and substantive part of the day.

THE DESIGN PROCESS

Developers in India deploy foreign architects for projects only up until the schematic design  phase. However, Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects had been involved in the project through its complete execution. This was one of the key differentiators, where everything  ideated on paper was actually

The Godrej family themselves were completely involved in the design process overlooking every aspect of the project. Therewere designcharrettesheldfrequently either here, in Mumbai, or at the architect's office in New York. The number of iterations and ideas that  have been delved over during these  charrettes, before we would finalise   one, is phenomenal. When the building was conceptualised, we looked at design from a very different perspective;  for us design is not a business  vertical but a business horizontal - it was not just about how it looks but how it works.

Given this, we set up the GPL Design Studio, with approximately 55 design experts spread across the country. In  Mumbai, we have a team of about  20-22 people with expertise in  specific fields such as architecture,  urban design, landscape architecture,  interior designer, environmental  planners and even filmmaking. All  the intellectual property that is produced is jointly owned by the GPL Design Studio team and the architects or any of the creative consultants we collaborated with.

We don't just co-ordinate and hand  hold the project but brainstorm,  sketch, draw, model and work through to achieve a perfect solution. Thus, the Studio helps us collate all subject matter experts and then collaborate

with the best and brightest in the industry to   produce work. Particularly with the   construction of this building, we  have been working with Pelli Clarke  Pelli Architects from the initial  stages and simultaneously with the  contractors, engineers and also with  the facilities team.

IMBIBING THE BRAND IDENTITY

The company takes keen interest on what value-adds design can bring about to its work culture; and this is not just aesthetic value-add,ratherit'sthewayofthinking-it's about productivity and innovation. The design derives its ethos of sustainability from companies motto to preserve its natural surroundings. Thus, the landscaping, too, is maintained to look as natural as possible rather than the manicured. The programming of the building also reflects the principles of the company, where we have tried to maintain transparency the auditorium, where the board meetings are held and the results are announced, also has glass walls.

The gallery space has provision to invite artists from around the country to work and present their designs. With the aim of integrating the past, we have used old artefacts from the factories and converted them as furniture - one of the reception desk is a boiler and the  support for some of the tables are  pipes. Thus, there was no loosing the past, there's just the reinterpretation of the past.

• Project Name: Godrej One, Mumbai

• Architect: Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects

• Project Management team: Surbana International Consultant Pvt Ltd

• Project Area: 4 Acres (7.5 lakh sq.ft.; Lease Area 3.5 lakh sq.ft. occupied by Godrej Group)

• RCC consultants: WSP Cantor Seinuk

• Liasoning consultants: Hemant Bhavsar & Associates

• Structural Engineer: WSP Cantor Seinuk

• Water & Electrical consultants: WSP Flack & Kurtz

• Civil contractors: Larsen & Toubro

• Electrical contractors: Godrej & Boyce

• Initiation of Project: 1st July 2011

• Completion of project: 31st Jan 2015 Old artefacts from the factories were converted and used as furniture

Actual site photograph

Vikhroli'sskylineisallsettoundergoasea change with the launch of The Trees in Mumbaifromrenownedandlong-standing real estate company Godrej Group.

high street retail park. The more private residential precinct would spread across 6.7 acres, and will house private parks and an iconic club house facility.

With a vision to develop Vikhroli, a suburb in central Mumbai into a fully integrated city-within-a-city, the Godrej Group has invested in the best global minds in design, urban planning, and construction of The Trees for quality living. Pirojsha Godrej, CEO, Godrej Properties tells, “We will maintain our promise to sustain and emphasize the natural beauty of the site so that Vikhroli remains proof that urban life and natural beauty can exist in perfect harmony. ”The Trees seeks to offer best aspects of city life while being close to nature. Just imagine living in a place where you see more trees than people and breathe fresh air-right in the heart of the city. The master plan consists of three precincts, all within walking distance, connected by a vibrantly programmed public realm. The commercial precinct is spread across 9.4 acres and houses recently completed global headquarters Godrej One and a second commercial office building. Offering Grade A office spaces, this is a clear demonstration of the brands commitment to quality and design. Separating the commercial precinct from the residential neighbourhood is the most active quarter, spread over 9.2 acres, and comprising a 5-star luxury hotel, cultural buildings and a

The residences at The Trees would be inviting spaces to connect with your community, your environment and, most importantly, ‘yourself’. Each residential tower will offer unique views while the landscape will connect the entire cluster through a series of courts with ample amenities. Courtyard trails, sculpted play elements, outdoor lounge areas and an urban farm will be just a step away for residents. With three apartments to a core, homes would be spacious and well-designed; allowing for a great degree of personalisation. As a proud resident at The Trees, choose between a range of sports and relaxation facilities including a swimming pool, squash court, golf putting green, gymnasium, health club, spa and the mini theatre. As for connectivity, this leafy neighbourhood enjoys the best urban connectivity, located directly along the EasternExpressHighway.Allpartsofcityare within convenient reach for you. So no holding back-its time for you and your family to make a trip to The Trees. In future, who knows,youmightbeaproudowner,relaxing under the greens at The Trees.

“The Trees is Godrej Properties’ mixed-use flagship project at Vikhroli. Our international award winning development has world-class amenities, verdant green cover and views towardsMumbai’sbestpreservedmangroves, enviable air quality and a vibrantly programmed public realm to offer residents a unique live, work, learn and play lifestyle.”

Anubhav Gupta Godrej Properties Limited

The sample apartments at The Trees are thoughtfully curated by our in house Design Studio to experientially imagine your life in the development. The narrative is based on demographic research carefully woven into story telling across various touch points for both the 3 and1bedroomapartments.Weevoketheideaof a family or home owners with distinct personalities that have chosen to make a home here. The experience begins when the viewer walks in, and interrupts a regular day in the family’s life whose preferences and personalities inhomemakingcanbefeltbuttheyseemjustout of sight. As they journey through the rooms, a number of sensory stimuli tickle their imagination to create associations and aspirations that assist in making spaces their own.

It is as if one entered through a portal into a painting with a paintbrush and began to fill in the missingbitswithonesimaginationtomakeittheir own and become a part of the painting itself. This experiencehasbeenverypowerfulwheremajority of our customers have requested us for information on how they can curate their homes. Functionally, we have experimented with various innovative ideas to make for a brighter and better

living at The Trees. Based on direct feedback and from sales velocities achieved during the launch (we were 70% sold out in the first 3 days), we found that customers not only appreciated our thoughtful approach but also gave us a big ‘thumbs up’ for solving typical concerns that one wishes could be slightly better in our homes. All homes will be of the highest green rating - IGBC platinum. As seen both in the 3 and 1 bedroom sample apartment, the homes come with luxury grade specifications and fittings. We have used flat slab construction to avoid beam drops and allow for clean volumes and purity of space. Columns have been limited mostly to the periphery of the apartments creating flexibility in configuringinteriors.Alllivingspaceshavefloorto ceilingglazingtomaximizedaylighting,viewsand natural ventilation.

Kitchens come with utility balconies while bathrooms are generous and well located. There are adequate storage space and utility areas to hide AC compressor units from the building facade. As seen in the 3-bedroom apartment, the larger units come with a double skin balcony that can be used as a conservatory or as an extension to the living room for additional space. Smaller 1-bedroom units are cleverly and flexibly planned to maximize the use and perception of space for the available carpet areas. The one bedroom unit has a large bathroom and the option to have a semi open kitchen, which was much appreciated by the customers. Our research reveals that the majority of our customers have purchased their homesforenduse-thisisabigtestamentforthe success of both the experiential and functional innovations that our Design Studio has put in place at The Trees.

The Trees is GPL’s flagship project and the first node in the development and regeneration of Mumbai's Vikhroli area. The Trees master plan carefully choreographs a robust programme of residential, retail, hotel, and commercial uses on a 34-acre site. The Trees

mixed-use development contains a commercial precinct spread across 9.4 acres, which houses Godrej One, the Godrej Group’s global headquarters.The mixed-use precinct, spread over 9.2 acres, will comprise of a 5-star luxury hotel,culturalbuildings,luxuryresidential,

and a high street retail park. The more private luxury residential precinct spread across 6.7 acres will house a community of residential buildings. The company's in-house GPL Design Studio works hand-in-hand with design partners from across the world to translate design

ideation into built form. Boston based Sasaki Associates are the master planners for the Trees. The Trees was GPL's most successful launch in terms of value of real estate sold with sales of Rs 1,225 crore within six months of the project's launch.

In an age where modernisation is deemed to be the key for development, people are rapidly moving towards creating advanced and concrete landmarks while ignoring the eco-friendly quotient. For such a scenario, recycled design is the need for the day. Studio Lotus & GPL Design Studio collaborated to create the Imagine Studio at Vikhroli by using adaptive reuse techniques that preach sustainability.

Vikhroli has always been a vibrant test bed for new visions, experimentation and innovation. More recently, the Trees. GPL's flagship development, has emerged as a successful prototype of a new way of thinking and delivering real estate in India. A brand new vision is currently underway - one thatcelebratestheGodrejlegacy,valuesand offers the opportunity for brighter living.

The development journey for the project offers an interesting insight into mechanisms for value creation in real estate. The Trees is Godrej Properties' flagship project and its success can be attributed in large measure to the clear and deliberate focus on design across scales from master planning to innovations at the dwelling level. The narrative of Imagine? Life in the Trees.' has consistently influenced the project's positioning and product strategy, design,

visual identity, place making, marketing communication, and customer outreach strategy' in one seamless narrative.

Designed as the experience centre for the project, the Imagine Studio was envisaged as a microcosm of the mixed-use master plan, and as a place-making device within the development. The 3900 sq.m. Imagine Studio complex is an attempt to re-envision the customer journey with a narrative groundedin authenticityand weaving nature, heritage and urbanism through a compelling story of evolving contexts.

The collaborative project between Studio Lotus and the GPL Design Studio transformed the small cluster of non-descript industrial buildings and its surrounding landscapes into commemorative identities seeped indelibly in the Godrej legacy yet an invigorating part of its new purpose. The intent was to illustrate an engaged public realm as a microcosm of the masterplan while preserving the site's industrial heritage. Existing buildings and its elements were recycled,notonlytounderlinetheirrelevance in the bygone era but also to add meaning as important design punctuations in the narrative.

Programmatically, the spaces of the Imagine Studio are adapted into a marketing office,

sample flats, meeting spaces, a small cafe, as well as several outdoor spaces. Two former co-generation plants and a boiler were repurposed to accommodate new functions of a studio, workshop and a cafe respectively. A tall chimney redolent of bygone industrial aesthetics stands as a graphic memorial. The newly designed intenor experience derives inspiration from the 'memory' of the metalsilosthatoccupiedthesite.Oldlouvers of the primary' plant, now the studio, were recovered and repurposed in corten steel and perforated with patterns. The design stimulates the filtering of light from the leafycanopy of rain trees at the site- changing as the day-progresses and connecting the spaces to key memories and identities.

Creating the gateway to the entire development with the studio, the second co-generator plant has been transformed into the workshop. A multi-functional space, it houses sample apartments, a meeting area and a multi-purpose gallery for cultural events such as art shows, talks and performances connecting the development back to the city and its people. The existing boiler plant between the studio and the workshop buildings was converted in to an all-day cafe. Coupled with the large chimney, the studio, workshop and boiler cafe frame a

large plaza ideal for activities embodying the project's positioning of - 'Live. Work. Learn. Play’. The public spaces come alive through events, a market street, an urban farm, an amphitheatre and spaces for art installations. Sustainability' is a key development principle forthisproject.Salvagedindustrialscrapand found objects have been thoughtfully integratedwiththelandscape.ACortensteel stripinsertedintothelayoutactsasaguiding pathway that subtly indicates the key experiences of the entire experiential journey to the avid discoverer. ’Cabinets of Curiosity - a collaborative art installation with artists Ali Akbar Mehta and Vidha Saumya provides an interesting glimpse into the Godrej's group's history that mirrors nation building and is depicted through the past, present and future within found silos clustered together in the legacy park of the complex.

The sample apartments at The Trees are thoughtfully curated by the GPL Design Studio to experientially imagine life in the development. The narrative is based on demographic research carefully woven into story telling across various touch points for both the 3 and 1 bed apartments. Evoking the idea of a family or homeowners with distinct personalities that have chosen to make a home here, the experience begins when the viewer walks in. and interrupts a

regular day in the family's life whose preferences and personalities in home making can be felt but they seem just out of sight. As the observer journeys through the rooms, a number of sensory stimuli tickle their imagination to create associations and aspirations that assist in making spaces then-own. imbuing the experience with a powerful personal.

STUDIO LOTUS

Studio Lotus is a multi-disciplinary design practice that believes in delivering enriching design solutions through a value-driven process empowering all stakeholders and the environment. The practice was founded in 2002 by Ambrish Arora, Ankur Choksi and Sidhartha Talwar Studio Lotus follows an iterative and incremental methodology of innovation and roots its learning in history and local context. It aims to craft solutions that are benchmarks of sustainable design in the way they address society’s changing ways of living and working.

GPL DESIGN STUDIO

The GPL Design Studio at Godrej can be described as | an open source framework that applies the principles of Design Thinking and powers the organisation to -'make good business sense, by design. ’ The Studio’s collaborative co-creation format that has

helped create tremendous intellectual property and shared value across geographies,agencies,projects,scalesand experiences. The Studio’s strengths are a narrative based story telling approach acrossspaceandmediawithworkspanning designservicesacrossscales.

Offering the finest and trendiest picks from India, design and architecture musings from across the globe, art updates, seasonal shopping options, eco alerts, the latest gizmos, exploring the great outdoors, indulging in spa wellness and inspiring hooks to browse. Plus our curated selection of new releases by an array of brands.

ANUBHAV GUPTA

The Chief Design Officer and Head CSR & Sustainability, Godrej Properties Ltd gives a tour of the multifunctional complex called Imagine Studio at Godrej campus in Vikroli, Mumbai.

Envisioned by Delhi based Studio Lotus and GPL Design Studio, the complex - a cluster of non-descript industrial establishments has now been shaped into the Imagine Studio. This is meanttobeanexperientialprojectconsistingofa cafe,workshop,legacypark,urbanfarm,openair theatre and market plaza. Abhinav narrates the journeyashegivesusawalkthrough.Buildingthe idea "The site was in a nasty shape originally but we ended up saving the structures. Two electricity plants were converted into a studio and workshop. The roof and form were retained, however Corten steel was used on the exterior so that it felt like it was part of the old edifice."

The Trees with sample apartments. The boiler plant will soon be home to a cafe."

Website: www.godrejthetrees.com

Clockwise, from left, the interiors of the studio features inserts instead of a wall, invoked from the silos on the site; The silo park showcases the past, present and the future of Godrej by means of screens and photos; Aerial view of the Imagine Studio, Anubhav Gupta.

SEE THROUGH

Glittering, gleaming and glamorous, a great mirror lends personality to any room. Take a look at the new collection by Inhabit. We are particularly smitten by the grid mirror finished in natural teak wood tones and accent painted with white distress antique finish.

Available at Rood 10, Zahara Nagar. Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 34. Tel.: (040) 23358223

MERRY & BRIGHT

Current use "The studio is used by our sales team. The workshop that started as a sketch in my book is now a gateway to residential project

For kids as well as grown-ups, lights remain a magical part of the holiday season. The Purple Turtles’ Wabl Sabi Collection of Illuminators provesfestivecheercancomeInsmalldosesbut still create a heroic Impact. Representing a Japanese view that accepts Imperfection and transience, the lamps display the austerity of cement without the burden of weight. Website: www.thepurpleturries.com

Over the years, interior design has transitionedfrombeinganafterthoughtto a well-thought entity. People today have become increasingly conscious about their lifestyle and status. Interior design is onesuchcomponentthatputsforthone’s status. Hence, luxury interior design has become almost essential for high end clients. But, for the common consumer, is it an added luxury or a necessity?  In the past, interiors were put together instinctively as a part of the process of building. As human needs have evolved andbecomemorespecificandvaried,the need for specialised design to address those needs developed in tandem.

Just as homes expanded to accommodate the widening requirements of owners, work spaces have also become increasingly complex, requiring specialised knowledge. Also,thearenaofavailablematerialshasalso multiplied, and with it the needs for specialisedprofessionalstobestutilisethem.

In this vision of urban living, interior design is much more than decorating -it marries functional requirements with spatial planning and yet at the same time is more soulful and much more individual. “Interior design createsaunifieddesignnarrativeforaspace, sets up the lifestyle proposition and ties disparate design cues together to create a unique identity.

curating spaces using a palette of elements from the latest pieces in design collections to old classics,” quips Anubhav Gupta, Chief Design Officer and Head CSR & Sustainability, Godrej Properties Limited.

Interior design is a human-centric approach that has allowed designers to design spaces that work quietly, simply, elegantly and unobtrusively, to make life enjoyable everyday for generations alike. “Our interior design led product development approach is to provide maximum flexibility in terms of space usage that would evolve over the lifestyles and life stages for our residents,” adds Gupta. Interior design is not just about thelooksofthebuilding’sinterioritisalsothe functionality because even the largest premise can lack space if having a poor interior design, while a tiny apartment can be transformed into a cozy residence with enough space for just about everything with the right design and the use of a contemporary staircase. Interior design is indeed much more important than it may seem at a first glance and can be easily compared with the importance of architecture in terms of design of a space.

It allows for personalisation with both designers and homeowners comfortable

Sachin Goregaokar and Rajan Goregaokar, Directors, GA Design sum up, “We believe that interior design is more of an art, than a science. It provides a space optimum functionalityaswellasincreasesitsaesthetic appeal. A well-thought out interior design reflects the personality of the user and enhances its visual appeal by creating a specific look or following a design concept.

The use of various materials, colours, textures and lighting create a symphony within the space, thereby accentuating it.”

NEED FOR INTERIOR DESIGN

A sense of space’ can be a rare commodity indenselytexturedcities.Theideaofbrighter living through this sense of space is a key proposition and each project should be planned to maximise on space, light, ease of use and sustainability. Interior design helps put together well thought through design details that form the glue that hold efficiency, flexibility and space together. Curiosity, creativity and the desire to use space effectively with optimum functionality has perhaps lead to interior design evolving into a

commercial profession. Interior designers can transform living or working spaces into stylish and comfortable places where people are happy to spend time believes, “The primary function of a design is to define a space and not merely occupy it. In my view, interior design accentuates a space and gives its occupants a nimble nudge to embrace it.”

TRANSITION OF INTERIOR DESIGN

The profession of interior design has been a consequence of the development of society and the complex architecture that has resulted from the development of industrial processes.

The pursuit of effective use of space, user well-being and functional design has contributed to the development of the contemporary interior design profession. Also in the current times, there has been a clear change in the mindset of people, especially of the newer generation who is not hesitant to express their views and social status in all aspects including personal style, work ethic and lifestyle choices. There is no doubt that an increase in the trend of luxury livinghasledtoaninfluxofhighendprojects, luxury brands and cutting edge design. In today’s day, newer and innovative materials are being explored in ways never done before. Furniture has been transformed into pieces of art while art is increasingly used and adapted to define and help modify the space to add elegance, and style to the end - product. According to Directors of GA Design , “As economies grew in size and prospered, the materialistic need to display wealth to establish a status in society resulted in the business of interior design growing rapidly. This paved the way for skilled artisans, artists and several traders and vendors to be recognised under the broad umbrella of interior design.”

CONCEPTS

The transition of concepts in interior design has been immense in the last century.

als being invented through innovations in science and technology. For example, up until the mid-century, wood was widely used as a finishing material for furniture. However, veneer started gaining popularity as it was more versatile and then eventually glass, laminate, corian, powder coated metal followed. Thus, the design ideas and concepts also went through a change and keep evolving even today. People are mixing looks and price points. Expensive sits easily with cheap and cheerful.”

LUXURY QUOTIENT

It is a well-known fact and an accepted society norm today that the way one dresses, one’s lifestyle choices and the home and environment one live in reflects their social standing. It is therefore not unusual that the concept of luxury living, an ever-evolving concept is definitely here to stay. Luxury is a state of design and experience. For true luxury, spaces must be well designed to offer great experiences.

This has been mainly due to different materi-

Luxury also means different things to differentpeopleandisfluidacrosssegments. Interior design works within a wide range spanning - thoughtful luxury, affordable luxury and high-end luxury to create special spaces for everyone. “From a design perspective, we think out-of-the-box in preserving past legacy, enhancing present

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

thinking and anticipating future trends of what luxury may encompass,’ says Gupta. “Sustainable materials are a new trend with avant-garde furniture/ accessories such as hand-formed plastic furniture with unusual, soft- looking structures making a debut at international fairs and finding resonance in the city. It is heartening to see the shared interest in sustainable sources and their application in design. Trends vary and yet we’ve seen consistent focus on blurring the lines between lighting, furniture and technology,” comments Gupta. Apart from the advent of new materials, designers are also consciously coming up with innovative concepts by either adhering to current trends, mix-matching them, creating

concepts of their own, going by the clients’ design idea and further enhancing it.

At the end of the day, everyone strives to achieve the perfect lifestyle that not only becomes one’s comfort zone and an extension of one’s personality, but is a luxury quotient. Today, homes and stores have graduated from being just comfortable living/work spaces into the luxury segment that was earlier associated only with the hospitality industry. “Interior design and styling of one’s space has become intrinsic to this expression of the self, almost becoming a story told through design. The spacesarebeingpassionatelyconvertedinto ‘objects’ of possession reflecting the social

status of the owner and his personality,” elaborates Khanna. Khanna explains, “Going by the current trend, there is change in two aspects—the behavioral trend and the design aspect. Now, people don’t feel the need to have a matched look. Instead, people are picking up things and mixing; a three-seater sofa from some brand, different armchairs from another, and an altogether different coffee table. The modern world today is a reflection of advancement in science and technology. People are subject to all kinds of exposure due to social media. In fact, it appears that social media helps people gain popularity and thereby establishes their status in society.

A lot of people in the modern society resort to splurging on luxury, be it in interiors or assets or travel, which directly decides their statusinsociety.Moreover,inthisfastpaced hectic life, luxury is often associated with comfort and is the need of the hour for peoplewhocanaffordit,”opinetheDirectors of GA Design.

INTERIOR DESIGN- AN ADDED LUXURY OR A NECESSITY?

For many people, the term ‘Interior Design’ conjures images of high end designers producing opulent interiors for the private homes of wealthy individuals, or perhaps as part of expensive branding for luxury hotels. However, there is growing evidence that well-designed interiors can genuinely enhance the lives of ordinary people. Khanna

believes, “Making sense of our environment isparamounttohealthandqualityoflife.Well considered interior design can help reduce anxiety among its occupants by providing cues to help people make sense of their surroundings. Hence, interior design is a necessity more than just luxury. Luxury may still have its place in society but good interior design should be accessible to all to make happy spaces.”

A professional interior designer can transform a simple home or office into a stylish and comfortable place where people enjoy spending time. Any person irrespective of his financial or social circumstances would like to spend time in a comfortable environment.Havingsaidthat,interiordesign is a necessity today due to the rise of the popularity of social media. People work hard to earn a living and would like to show their earnings unapologetically. Interior design is also a reflection of good taste and therefore a necessity in progressive society. This necessity can easily transition into a luxury if you have the means. “Our interior design approach is predicated on the idea of timelessness - a sense of space, light, warmth and expansiveness. Each project narrative also encompasses unique design and cultural cues from the city it sits in to set it apart. Apart from aesthetic sensibilities, climatic response and sustainability play a critical role in material selection and interior finishes. Well designed spaces work quietly, simply, elegantly and unobtrusively,

Actual photograph of sample flatActual

and, are in the true tradition of luxury, held in trust as precious heirlooms and worthily passed on from generation to generation,” explains Gupta.

Anubhav Gupta, Chief Design Officer and HeadCSR&Sustainability,GodrejProperties

LimiteInteriordesigncreatesaunifieddesign narrative for a space, sets up the lifestyle

proposition and ties disparate design cues together to create a unique identity. It allows for personalisation with both designers and homeowners comfortable curating spaces using a palette of elements from the latest pieces in design collections to old classics.” Sachin Goregaokar and Rajan Goregaokar, Directors,GADesign“Webelievethatinterior design is more of an art, than a science. It

provides a space optimum functionality as well as increases its aesthetic appeal.

A well-thought out interior design reflects the personality of the user and enhances its visual appeal by creating a specific look or following a design concept. The use of various materials, colours, textures and lighting create a symphony within the space,

therebyaccentuatingit.”AmitKhanna,Head, AKDA Design Studio “Interior design and styling of one’s space has become intrinsic to this expression of the self, almost becoming a story told through design. The spacesarebeingpassionatelyconvertedinto ‘objects’ of possession reflecting the social status of the owner and his personality.”

flatActual photograph of sample flat

Beyond Imagination studio lotus and GPL design studio collaborate to design the imagine studio, which is a thoughful example of adaptive reuse.

The Imagine Studio is the experience center for the Trees, Godrej Properties' flagship project at Vikhroli. An innovative adaptive reuse project designed by Studio Lotus and GPL Design Studio, it consists of gallery and exhibition spaces; a cafe, a wifi-enabled public plaza and a small urban farm. “It is an attempt to re-envision the customer journey for our new mixed-used development called The Trees" explains Anubhav Gupta, Chief Design Officer and Business head, Vikhroli for Godrej Properties Ltd. “The intent of the project was to illustrate an invigorated public realm as a microcosm of the master plan, while preserving the essence of the site's industrial heritage."

Conceptualized as the gateway to the development in Vikhroli, two co-generator plants were transformed into an exhibition space and a marketing studio respectively. The boiler room became a cafe, together with a large chimney these frame a 3,900 sq.m. plaza playfully peppered with event plazas, a market street, an urban farm and spaces for public art installations.

the buildings was preserved and reinterpreted in new materials like corten steel to create a more modern aesthetic. “This reflect Godrej’s rich heritage and an evolving narrative compelling anyone who sees it to embrace our values and the story of The Trees” says Anubhav.

Sustainability is a key development principle forthisproject.Salvagedindustrialscrapand found objects have been thoughtfully integrated into the landscape. A Corten steel strip inserted into the layout acts as a guiding pathway that subtly indicates the key experiences of the entire experiential journey. “We stayed away from following best practices or industry benchmarks,” says Anubhav.

‘Cabinets of Curiosity’, a collaborative art installation in collaboration with artists Ali Akbar Mehta and Vidha Saumya provides an interesting glimpse into the Godrej’s group’s history that mirrors nation-building and is depicted through the past, present and future within the silos clustered inside the legacy park.

The design strategically re-purposes a heritage landscape in a more urban, community centric setting. The structure of

Overall, this is a successful attempt in capturing Godrej’s vision and commitment to openness and equity; both the design teams have together created a layered and transparent series of spaces connected to nature.

Far from being a passing fad, green construction continues to attract developers who want to create value with a premium product that offers a low life cycle cost.

The complexities of constructing high-rises arc never-ending. While real estate developers are well-versed with building tall structures, there are several aspects that need careful consideration. Right from soil test to structural analysis to wind load, not to forget checking every material that goes into making the tall storey stand for decades to come are just some of the considerations. Over the last few years, developers are also required to adopt materials that help in conserving energy and water, generate less heat and waste and minimise maintenance costs. It started as just another trend. However, the green construction movement has since gained much-needed momentum, more so in the recent past, after its merits have caught the attention of developers and end-users alike.

Estimates suggest that even in advanced economies, the climate is highly impacted by energy consumption from commercial and other buildings. It is for this reason that reducing energy and water usage, and supplementary measures, are turning into key drivers for the green construction crusade. Along with conserving natural resources, green or sustainable buildings also aim to reduce construction waste by optimising the consumption of materials and lowering greenhouse emissions. As a matter of fact the whole objective cf the green construction technique is to design and construct buildings that use resources wisely for creating healtnier

buildings. And developers have started valuing the benefits provided by such buildings, whether it is more natural lighting, better air quality with adequate circulation, or conserving water and electricity. With awareness among consumers rising, such buildings are becoming a popular choice for users, who are willing to spend on such premium products in the short-term to enjoy staggered benefits overtime. In turn, green buildings are also raking in improved profits for the deve'opers that build them.

PRESENT STATE

While there could be minor variations about India'scurrentsituationandglobalrankingonthe basis of the total area covered with certified green construction, there is no doubt tnat the country is among those top-ranked, internationally.Thisiscommendableforacountry that commenced its 'green journey' only in the last decade or so. Of course, there have been numerous helping hands along the way. The Indian Greer Building Council (IGBC) is one such monitoring agency that was formed in 2001 as a part of the Confederation cf Indian Industry (Cll).

M Anand, Principal Counsellor, CII-IGBC, says, "The green buildings journey in India has been both inspiring and fulfilling. Today, as a result of concerted efforts, with over 463 billion sq.ft., India stands at number two in the world, in terns of the largest registered green building footprint with projects spread across the five climatic zones of the country. The IGBC aspires to facilitate 10 billion sq.ft. of green building footprint by 2022."

Dr Niranjan Hiranandani, founder & GMD, Hiranandani Group, and founder and first

president. National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO - Maharashtra), states, "Indian real estate understands the positives of green construction. The advantages of green buildings are all too apoarent, and this is a segment that is gradually rising in terms of demand from enc-users as also projects planned by real estate developers."

Ashish Rakheja, Managing Partner, Aeon Integrated Building Design Consultants LLP, agrees, "Incia continues to exert its dominance in the green building movement across the globe. The last two decades of the green movement have generated awareness amongst professionals engaged in construction activities. The Government has also chipped in by providing benefits to developers and mandating a green rating for new buildings that are under construction."

Rajesh Pandit, Managing Director, Asset Services & Global Workplace Solutions, CBRE South Asia, also echoes this view on India's achievement when he suggests, "Indiaranksthirdamongthetop10countries in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rankings 2017, carried out by the United States Green Building Council. Cana da topped the green rankings, followed by China and India. As per IGBC, with a small beginning of 20,000 sq.ft. green built-up area in the country in the year 2003, today (as on August 2017) more than 4,205 green buildings projects are coming up."

MIGRATING TO GREEN

Ever since the debate over global warming

and the need for green initiatives has begun, too clear objectives that have emerged are reducing energy usage and conserving water resources. These have since been coupled withsimilartargetssurroundingthereduction of construction waste and greenhouse emissions. Pandit points out. "Buildings are currently responsible fer more than 40% of global energy ard one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions. With rising urbanisation in the past few decades, extensive use of bricks, cement, concrete and steel in buildings has led to climate change and local environmental destruction."

Though the goals seem challenging, the long-term benefits to all stakeholders makes migration to the green method vital. Anard points out that, "Green buildings have become the new global order and stakeholders are going that extra mile to convert their existing and upcoming buildings into green ano earth-centric ones. This augurs well for a greener tomorrow."

Anubhav Gupta, Chief Design Officer and Head, CSR & Sustainability, Godrej Properties, proudly suggests that 92% of their portfolio is green-certified. They are even exploring options for their older buildingstoberedevelopedtomovetowards their goal of 100% certification for their entire potfolio. "Building green and with user-led sustainability in mind has been part of the foundation and bedrock for all developments by Godrej Properties. Our goal in creating green homes is not only to be responsible to our environment, but also help our customers optimise their use of resources

and live greener lives. The true benefits of a green, home are realised by the homeowner through reduced energy and water usage and a higher quality of life through better indoor air quality," believes Gupta.

Rakheja hits the nail on the head when he proclaims, "Green is a mind set and not a product. Adoption of sustainable strategies in a building commences with the intent demonstrated by the owner that is converted into design by architects & engineers, which in turn becomes a reality with practices adopted by the construction workers & building operators, and is thereafter embraced by the end-user."

Explaining how this is achieved, a Kalpataru senior spokesperson offers, "Kalpataru has incorporated the .norms of green buildings in the design and development of most of our projects and has defined a Green Building Design Guideline1 for various departments. Kalpataru adopts an integrated design approach for the projects covering several fields like Architectural, Structural, Electrical, Plumbing, Landscape, Energy and Environment. This approach ensures a holistic design and enhances project value."

As of August 2017, Kalpataru claims to have a cumulative green building footprint of 32 million sq.ft. Getting projects grcen-certified by IGBC and LEED agencies is becoming a keytrendinthemarket,withtheGovernment also encouraging and incentivising such projects. Shabbir Kanchwala, senior VR K Raheja Corp, professes that, "We have been ahead of the curve in the green development

sector. As a responsible developer, we have a 'Green Vision’ that all our commercial as well as residential projects across the country will be LEED & IGBC green-certified. Various initiatives are taken up under these green rating programmes to increase awareness and optimal utilisation of green developments."

SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION

Stakeholders from the industry are unanimous in their opinion regarding one aspect that green turns into clear savings for everyone, including the end-consumer. This isbecausegreenorsustainableinitiativesare spread over the life cycle of the project and hence the benefits planned are over the longer term and more sustainable.

"Initiatives towards embracing green construction methods & materials continue to be reported from various parts of country. This trend can easily be witnessed today, wherein India is a leader in the adoption of new technologies like flyash block, water-efficient plumbing products, Variable Frequency Drives (VFD), LED lamps, inverter ACs etc.," feels Rakheja. "The green movement has also spurred India-specific studies in related areas like thermal comfort benefits of day-lighting, energy & water conservation, green & lean construction codes etc., which are at par with work being done in developed countries," he adds.

Anand concurs, "Stakeholders are incorporating the latest and emerging green building technologies, software tools which

are going a long way in addressing national priorities and enhancing the quality of life for the occupants. Today, recycled or recyclable green building products and technologies are gaining increased importance in the building design philosophy."

Ashok Mohanani, Chairman and MD, Ekta World, opines, "Since the environment is an imperative stakeholder when buyers make a home buying decision, it should be their priority to scout for sustainable property, which focuses on the usage of less water, is high on energy-efficiency, produces reduced waste,preservesmorenaturalresourcesand has an improved indoor ecological quality than a regular building."

Explaining their stance, Amit Ruparel, MD, Ruparel Realty, Supplies, “Green homes help in reducing artificial heating and cooling as

they make use of energy-efficient and strategic insulation. Even the materials used to construct green homes are locally sourced, biodegradable, non-toxic, and renewable. Apart from the usage of natural sources for lighting in common areas of the house, we have also used a rainwater harvesting system. In addition, we have also added a waste water recycling plant to remove contaminants from waste water and reuse it as a water supplement to maintain green premises in the vicinity." He further adds,“Theinitiativesadoptedareecofriendly, sustainable and can function using natural resources like solar power, rainwater, etc."

MAKING IT VIABLE

The best part is that there is complete agreement on the belief that the green approach is totally viable in economic terms.

Mohanani explains, "On an average, green buildings cost about 12-18% more than normal buildings in India. But in the long run, green buildings save up to 25-35% on energyuse.Greenbuildingshelpaddressthe global concerns of water depletions, energy savings, reduction of fossil fuels and conservation of natural resources. Significantly, these concepts also enhance the well-being and health of the residents.''

Ruparel echoes this sentiment. "From a builder's perspective, it allows us to make wise choices of materials and reduce the carbon footprint, whereas from the buyer's point of view, he benefits from a more natural home that's also easy maintenance," he says.

Kanchwala too emphasises this ‘value for money'argument,whenhesuggests,"Going green net only helps in saving money on operating costs, but it also provides a better return on investment than less efficient buildings. Use of technology helps in the green efforts, benefiting both the workforce and society as a whole, reducing operating costs anc elevating brand value." Some of the innovations and technologies employed at K Raheja Ccro’s projects include Net Zero Concept (zero energy and zero water concepts) and water recycling etc.

Gupta reveals that Godrej Propeties has tested this economic viability challenge. He says, "We were also able to prove that green buildings may not necessarily cost significantly higher than regular buildings, and there were ways and means to make up

the delta in spends. Finally, as part of our CSR mandate, we established sustainability as a key priority measured against reducing energy, waste, water and emission footprints. Today, we are managing to sustain our busi ness alongside doing the right thing for the environment.”

Dr. Hiranandani sums this up well, when he says, "I would not agree that going green is expensive, as green materials and technologies are available at cost-efficient prices. Also, we need to keep in mind that the Government has made all green compliance mandatory in the planning and design stage."

With the direction for the future well-defined and widely understood, one cannot be complacent in acknowledging the challenges ahead. As Rakheja warns, "The biggest challenge ahead is the lack of training amongst the construction workforce and operator/maintenance practices that threaten to make the capital investment redundant.'

Hence, the need for a well-trained team led by a competent project manager cannot be disregarded if one has to achieve success within the green construction sphere. After all, no matter how strong the intent to go green, it’s crucial to have an infrastructural framework to support that quest. Fortunately, things are quickly falling into place in India, and the country seems ready to witness a greener tomorrow.

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

New housing projects are going beyond luxurious amenities-instead, creating experiential havens.

Findinga'dream'homeforthefamilyisagoal almost even,’ individual aims to realise during his or her lifetime. Whether it is for a sense of security, as a symbol of achievement, or the simple desire to have place where you can be yourself, this quest is a perennial one. For the real estate market, it means identifying how this need can be met in the most contemporary form. If the latest luxury projects are any indication, buyers are being intrigued by integrated home automation solutions, design stamp from international architects and designers, spectacular

landscape design, and some more. "Luxury is a relative term. What is probatly most soughtafter in today's market is an aspirational lifestyle. Therefore, whilst all the 'traditional' luxuriesarenowseenasstandard,onehasto go beyond the norm," says Tushad Dubash, Director, Duville Estates.

Prospective home buyers are scouting for modem buildings with an "international feel". In his experience, Dubash has seen that buyers are willing to spend on a quality product and "they rightly understand that these are the long-term aspects which will bodewellforthemaswellasthevalueoftheir property." For long, prominent locations and accessibility to leading business and retail hubs have been a determining factor in luxury projects, but now there is much more that is being sought after. "While the spoke residences and the overall lifestyle experience serve to define the segment, the concept of 'Green luxury living'- resource-conscious, environmentally - sensitive and, yet, indulgent homes - is becoming increasingly popular," mentions Jaimin Desai, Head - Design and Sustainability, Mahindra Lifespace Developers. Luxury means different tilings to different people and is fluid across segments, says Anubhav Gupta, chief design officer, business head - Vikhroli, Head - CSR Sustainaility, Godrej Properties. "For us, luxury is a state of design and experience. From a design perspective, we think out-of-the-box in preserving past legacy, enhancing present thinking and anticipating future trends of what luxury may encompass."

He has found that customers now have a

renewed sense of the qualitative aspects of residential planning, wherein integration of daylight and Green features that contribute to better health and air quality is considered paramount - aspects that are redefining luxury. It's not about packing a project with 'world-class' amenities - be it parks, spas and intemational-designer- landscape, the objective is to create an experience. "At Isprava, luxury means incredible and completely thought- through experiences for our customers," states Nibhrant Shall, founder and CEO, Isprava. "It is about going above and beyond, to make life easy for the customer. It is more than just comfort, it is about revolutionising the way one looks at luxuryliving-bothinIndiaandinternationally. Luxury housing projects, today, demand transparency, clean land titles, integrity, convenience, comfort and exquisite as well as unique projects being delivered on or before time." In this conversation, architect Anupam De, principal, Anupam De Associates, believes it is important to consider the well-being of the individual as a crucial 'luxury' parameter.

Well-being can be socio-economic conditions. Simple tiling like natural light could contribute to the mood of theperson.Spaceplanningisalsooneofthe parameters. In our metro cities, travel is a big concern - so pack in all amenities within the project, so that they don't have to travel. But the larger picture is, bigger peripherals which istodayabsentinthemetropolis,"heshares. With brands competing with each other to provide different and unique amenities, real

estate has redefined the concept of luxury by setting new benchmarks like swimming pool balconies, game and theatre rooms, spa bathrooms, rooftop terraces, colonnades and landscaped gardens - points out a Lodha spokesperson. Even in these aspects, there are revisions and upgrades taking place. Projects are no longer considering landscapingasastand-alonefeature,butthe possibility of creating an entire natural ecosystem - that most urban dwellers crave. The Park by Lodha is expected to incorporate a butterfly garden, an organic farm, a reflexology garden and lotus pond,

GO LOCAL OR INTERNATIONAL?

Charles Correa gave us Kanchenjunga that stands as an iconic structure - a contextual, luxury project like no other. It wasn't the location that determined its luxury, nor the amenities; it is the unique design that allows it to still stand tall.

We asked our real estate experts if their faith in Indian architects has diminished now, to deliver such luxury projects? Jaimin Desai of Mahindra Lifespaces states, “The ideologies in modern architecture post-independence and post-millennium have seen a sea change.Inthe70sand80s,pre-liberalisation era, there was an intense search for an indigenous Indian identity and language amongst architects. However, with the strong blowing winds of globalisation, Indian architecture is now part of the global stage. I do not see Indian architects and international architects being part of two separate

domains. Architecture, for India, has truly become without borders - where cross country collaborations are pushing the envelope of good design and setting new trends with each project." Pointing out current trendsetters, Nibhrant Shah of Isprava, comments, “The faith in Indian architects has not diminished at all. After Charles Correa, we have architects like Architecture Brio, ADRG, Malik Architecture and many more who are commendable. Luxury is always about the relationship between the users and the end product." Elaborating on the selection process, Anubhav Gupta of Godrej Properties, explains, “We are currently partnering with well-known firms, both in India and globally, across design disciplines.

We typically spend a fair amount of time matching the right consultants with the right project. It is essential to get the creative right each time, to deliver value for our customers. We have a rigorous selection and interview process by invitation only' to shortlisted specialised firms. Previously delivered work of high quality; a project-specific approach note/pitch; availability of partners/ownei s to consult on the project; the particular design team and skill sets available; ability to quickly deliver per most efficient time, cost and quality parameters - all lead to our decision for making a suitable appointment. All intellectual design property produced is co-created and co-owned between GPL Design Studio and oui partners. In the recent past, we have collaborated with the following firms: SOM, Pelli Clarke Pelli,

Sasaki Associates, Nikken Sekkei. Perkins Eastman, Woods Bagot, Broadway Malyan, Lotus, RSP Architects, UAW, DADA Partners and AECOM, among others." Some may think there needs to be legislation to prevent excess international bids, but ultimately what a consumer wants will dictate everythingsays architect Anupam De.

A consumer will dictate to the developer what he wants, the developer will see the aspirational needs of the consumer and then satisfy by choosing an international/ Indian architect. Any legislation won't change this. In the Middle East, the regulation for an international architect is to set up an office with a requisite number of staff to do a project of this size. There are no such regulations in India. It's a market-driven scenario."

SUSTAINABLE LUXURY

According to a recent research report, more than 20% of emerging luxury consumers in Lidia, USA, UK, UAE and China are keen on sustainableoreco-friendlyhomes,pointsout Desai. Mahindra Lifespaces wants to pursue Green design and make it a foundation of all their residential projects, including those in the luxury segment - namely Luminare in Gurgaon, L'Artista in Pune and The Serenes in Alibaug. "For example, the design elements of Luminare include energy-efficient walls and roofs; low-flow fixtures and STP-treated water; solar water heating systems; eco-friendly air-conditioning; and parking with electric charging facility - all of which contribute to substantial reduction in electricity and water

consumption by the project," explains Desai. Duville Estates' newest project, Riverdale located at Kharadi, Pune, is also going the Green route, obtaining IGBC Gold pre-certification. "Solar power generation is used to supply electr icity to common areas which, whilst reducing the cost of electricity, also ensures the project is illuminated," explains Dub ash. Eco-friendly waste disposal; water treatment systems to recycle waste water; non-smoking areas to encourage a healthier lifestyle; and spaces designed with consideration for the differently-abled, are other benchmarks of this project.

BuildingaGreenprojectisjustonesmallstep, the real test comes iii post-occupancysomething that needs to be critiqued. "The biggest challenge in all the mega projects is

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

the life cycle cost of the buildings and how they are going to be run," believes architect De. "Maintenance cost of these buildings are going to skyrocket. With all the amenities that you are giving, there is an added facility maintenance cost, which will surely hit the pockets. When you can get efficiency in those, it will

HOSPITALITY MEETS RESIDENCE

Creating an experience that is unique to the residential scene, Four Seasons Private Residences bring the luxury of a Four Seasons hotel or resort into a home. Expected to he the city's most exclusive new address and a flawless setting for elegant living, it is nestled right next to the Four Seasons Hotel in Worli, Mumbai. From single-floor residences, North and South duplexes, garden duplexes and penthouses, this extremely luxurious property will have secure private entry lobbies with keyed elevator access. Four Seasons Piivate Residences Mumbai have on offer some of the largest floor areas and room sizes in the city. In the duplexes, families will enjoy the spaciousness of multiple living areas with the main living and dining areas sprawling over 1,600sq.ft.Bedroomsaregenerouslysizedin all residences, with master bedrooms measuring up to 650 sq.ft, and he option of a second master bedroom catering to modern-day multi-generational living. Spacioushisandherswalk-inclosetswilllead into elegant five-fixture master bathrooms.

The interior design palettes are carefully

selected by Yabu Pushelberg, an international design firm with studios in Toronto and SoHo, New York, founded in 1980 by Glenn Pushelberg and George Yabu. The project is being undertaken by Provenance Land, India's highest spoke lifestyle developer. The group has built five greenfield hospitality projects in partnership with Hyatt International and Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts. This is the first-of-its-kind Hotel Branded Real Estate development to he associated with an international luxury hospitality brand in Mumbai. household to make living comfortable, convenient, healthy and sustainable. "With advanced security, features such as surveillance cameras, locking systems, fire detection and lighting systems; home automation is considered an appropriate solution to keep homes safe. Therefore, it is essential to ensure projects are equipped with state-of-the-art security, adding to the end users' comfort," believes Gaurav Sawhney, President - Sales, Piramal Realty.ArchitectAnandShanna,founderand principal, Design Forum International, too, reiterates that automation tools are great for implementing security and convenience. "Smart homes add to the luxury quotient of a residence - wherein technology, lighting controls, etc., also are used to enhance the ambience while saving energy," he says. With the introduction of automation in residential spaces, the processes have been expedited. The ability to control light, sound and facilities around a residential space, at the tap or touch of a button, is the greatest luxury that a home-owner could have.

The Lodha spokesperson opines that intelligent homes are becoming a reality that end-users want, to raise the bar of then- life style. But if s not just about comfort and convenience; the need for better security measures is truly driving this trend. "Your home becomes your castle offering remote surveillance, central locking and notification of activities in real time, even when you are away from home," explains the spokesperson. Energy efficiency is another desirable goal in the endeavour to provide luxurious, automated homes.

LOCATION

While location will remain a key factor for luxury development, there is also a greater demand for a place that connects with nature, offers calm and serene surroundings - an environment that facilitates well-being.

PROJECTS TO WATCH OUT

For exquisite by Oberoi Realty consists of three towers of about 50-storeys each, comprising 3 BHK apartments and exclusive 5 BHK duplexes and penthouses. The duplexes are perched high above at the 46th floor and provide an expansive living-room deck, with larger-than-life view of the greenest patch of Mumbai - Aarey. The project has been designed in a unique architectural style where triangular towers ensure maximised space usage and views.

Another distinctive quality of exquisite is the double-glazed windows which provide constant source of natural light and minimise ambient noise as compared to traditional windows. Riverdale Residences-I by Duville Estates has three exclusive towers of 3 BHK apartments located on the banks of the Mulla

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

team that has worked with the legendary Norman Foster"; Principal ArchitectsKIPA Architects; Structural Engineers - JW Consultancy and Landscape ArchitectsWaho; with Shapoor ji Pallonji, Master Planning & Designing as the main contractors

Villa Capella by Isprava, located at Parra, Goa, is fully furnished with antique furniture and artefacts sourced from palaces and mansions in India and Europe. With a plot size of 600 sq.m., the villa occupies 450 sq.m. amd comprises four en suite bedrooms, swimming pool, sit-out, large terrace, storage room, utility room, separate

Mahindra Lifespaces at Gurgaon is IGBC Gold pre-ceitified and offers each residence a corner apartment, with its own private elevator lobby and a unique wrap-around balcony offering an unobstructed view of the Aravallis on one side and the cityscape on the other. An urban river, state-of-the-art clubhouse, gym, squash court, infinity pool and amphitheatre add to the experience for residents. L’Artista, Pune, offers 3-4 BHK art-inspired, bespoke residences, with only two spacious and stylish apartments on each floor.

Designed by the London/Mumbai- based

integrated with sustainability, L'Artista is also responsible towards the environment; rainwater harvesting, top-soil preservation, alternative building materials and health-friendly interiors - ensuring the project is truly in harmony with nature. New Cuffe Parade by Lodha boasts a 75,000 sq.ft. clubhouse, the largest in India; and is the only development in Mumbai to house designer residences by two world-famous interior designers- Philippe Starck and Kelly Hoppen.The15acresofopenspaceisthree times the size of Wankhede Grounds, a rarity in Mumbai. Residences are detached from

centralatriumforfreshairandsunlight.There are private garden residences in every tower, complete with a Frangipani tree.

The development has multi-utility greens and gardens in the form of a greenhouse coming up, which will double up as a tea shack. Also on the anvil is an organic farm and an herb garden. tion must come from acknowledging not only the immediate, but the larger context of what we build. A design must respond to site, site conditions, the city fabric, the sodo-urban situation and the complexities of identity in the modern-day world These days, most of the luxury

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residences are being moved away from the city chaos - to the countryside; allowing for a better habitat," states architect Sharma. These days, luxury homes are also typically second homes, or intended for end-use purposes. "For the most part, second home purchases comprise luxury homes for periodic retreats away from core city areas, with the main purpose being to relax and rejuvenate. These second home buyers seek large, comfortable spaces, interesting facades and themes, and amenities that enable leisurely weekend getaways amidst scenic, natural surroundings," says Desai. These homes are, therefore, usually located away from core urban areas, towards the outskirts of the city or in popular weekend destinations.

CHANGES AND IMPROVEMENTS

"Development is our right. But again, sustainable development is our responsibility," asserts Gupta, when questioned about improvements and changes the real estate sector needs to witness. "In cities, especially Mumbai, infrastructure is severely burdened, complex ownership/land tenure have complicated matters for redevelopment, the building permissions process is tedious and fraught with unanticipated delays impacting the economic viability of most projects - political will and civic pride have limited priority. In such a hostile environment, large-scale redevelopment remains a challenging

proposition," he explains. His trick will be in formulating viable mechanisms to share responsibility and accountability in implementing solutions.

From an architect's perspective, this proves to be a massive hurdle too. "Each state has its bv-laws. If an architect has to practice in different states, he has to know about the latest developments in those particular states. Each state is revising their development plans. For me, this is the biggest challenge to balance and still keep the project running," shares Desai. Since the approval process is tedious and time consuming, Sawhney suggests, "Using innovativeconstructiontechniquesshouldbe one of the key focus areas in the real estate projects, in order to meet the ever-increasing and changing customer needs and requirements." A key detriment in unlocking the true potential of luxury projects is that there can be an over-emphasis on the builder's requirements as opposed to that of the end users. "It is mainly the commercials that are looked at, while the end-users' requirements cannot be taken into consideration if builders are looking to maximise their profits as mudi as they can," warns Shall. "At Isprava, we are re-defining luxury real estate by only catering to our end-users' needs while keeping in mind the aesthetics of the home as well."

growing vertically now - "So there are more open spaces, wider infrastructure and roads, better connectivity and educational spaces." She also feels it is important to have a local expert on board, especially for landscapes. "Landscaping from Europe and Singapore, has brought a major change, but it is not practical if sustainability, maintenance or tropical growth are not considered," she adds The development sector cannot ignore the environment concents in their race towards productivity and profitability, with energy consumption and emissions cycles increasing, "In fact, for a country that is

urbanising as rapidly as Lidia, with a significant part of its cityscapes yet to be built, Green homes offer many opportunities to achieve widespread energy savings while reducing costs and emissions. The luxury homessegment,inparticular,offersscopeto implement innovative, environment-friendly ideas and initiatives that might be ahead of the curve," feels Desai.

At Mahindra Lifespaces, our sustainability journey is driven by our focus on positively impacting the environment and Standing tall and offering residents a panoramic view of

Manju Yagnik, Vice-Chairperson, Nahar Group, believes that we need to focus on

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the sea, Indiabulls' upcoming project is a residential glass house like no other. “In the Indian architectural context, users or clients can't experience or enjoy the expanse of glass from floor to ceiling - those residences aren't common as yet. In a way, our project scores here. The landscape, structure, amenities and concierge services would be reminiscent of New York or Chicago architecture; concepts that predominantly highlight the glitz and glamour quotient along withfunctionalrequirements.However,along with glamour and sheen of glass, for Indian customers, privacy is an important feature that is one of the highlights of this project," states Sukhiya Kulkarni, VP- Engineering & Design (Indiabulls eal Estate). Architect Anupam De, principal, Anupam De Associates, desired a particular shade of blue which didn't exist in the then portfolio of Saint-Gobain Glass India. The team at Saint-Gobain Glass India developed a new product in SGG Nano series to meet the architect's vision. The product comes with advanced solar control and thermal insulation, allowing solar and thermal benefits at one go, providing inhabitants all-year comfort. With optimum light transmission, the views are clear with reduced glare, taking the luxury quotient sky-high. The energy efficiency and optimum daylightingarewellalignedwiththeproject's vision of sustainable design. "This is one of the select cases where all three of us - the builder, the promoter and the glass maker -

collaborated for a world-class residence and a truly luxurious landmark of the skyline of Mumbai," shares Kulkarni. the communities surrounding our developments, while also ensuring profitable growth and adequate returns to stakeholders. As one of the first companies in India to launch the Green homes movement, today all our developments incorporate Green architecture and a sustainable supply chain. Our first affordable housing project in Lidia.

Happinest, Avadi - has recentlv been awarded Lidia's first IGBC Platinum certification J for Green Affordable Housing. "We have partnered with TERI to drive research on Green buildings and materials specific to Lidian climate zones, and are a foundingmemberoftheSustainableHousing Leadership Consortium - a CEO-led think tank that aims to mainstream Green buildings in the country," adds Desai. The widespread adoption of resource-conscious design,developmentandbuildingoperations can ensure an equitable and inclusive future for our cities and towns. But it also important to note that the cost of good design cannot come cheap. "The common man must understand the value of good architecture and design - and must recognise the consequence of an architect on board. This change of thought will bring about a change in our built environment," hopes Sharma. People, today, have higher aspirations compared to the previous generation, says the Lodlia spokesperson.

The change in mindset of the second generation of customers is a positive force leading to the escalation in this trend. Even though the first-generation entrepreneurs made money, they were reluctant to spend on luxury housing - but this generation beHeves that luxury must be enjoyed. After seeing the success of their parents, the second generation of consumers is ready to take the standard of Uving to the next level, wanting to enjoy their success and even inspiring their parents. As an architect, Desai cautions that luxury projects shouldn't be associated simply with a high-priced market.

"Itshouldtalkofthespacethatisavailable,in context of the city, and how it can enhance the lifestyle of a person who resides in that project." Luxury needs to be more concerned with providing an experience rather than multiple amenities, such that it can contribute to the holistic well-being of a person.

Actual photograph of sample flat

The kitchen, with its metal and glass skin, sits at the heart of the homebetweenthelivinganddining areas From Above The living room comprises sepia toned furniture anchored against the lush green of the conservatory balcony; The kitchen features clean lines and simple geometry, lending it an uncluttered appearance

A FINE BALANCE

Anubhav Gupta of Godrej Properties describes his vision behind this airy show apartment in The Trees, Mumbai , that facilitates a city dweller’s everyday routine

THE SHOW FLAT…HAS BEEN THOUGHTFULLY CURATED TO EXPERIENTIALLY IMAGINE LIFE IN THE DEVELOPMENT

Actual photograph of sample flat

Actual photograph of sample flat

Actual photograph of sample flat

ELLE DECOR LOVES

The show flat for Godrej Origins, the signature residential asset at The Trees in Vikhroli, Mumbai, has been thoughtfully curated to experientiallyimaginelifeinthedevelopment.Thenarrativeisbased on demographic research carefully woven into storytelling across varioustouchpointsfortheapartments.Evokingtheideaofafamily for homeowners with distinct personalities who have chosen to make a home here, the experience begins when the viewer walks in and interrupts a regular day in the occupant’s life whose preference and personality in homemaking can be felt but may seem just out of sight. As the observer journeys through the rooms, a number of sensory stimuli tickle their imagination to create associations and aspirations that assist in making the spaces their own. Bespoke furniture was developed in collaboration with design partners, Mangrove Collective. The ensemble furniture was customised for each room with signature materials and details integrating it all together – maple wood, fabrics, blackened steel with accents of brass, stone and leather. Anubhav Gupta

Clockwise, from Top Minimal furniture, blooming shrubbery and eclectic collectibles adorn the young lady’s bedroom; A corner in the same space is imagined as a cosy and inviting study area; A signature set of shelves along the corridor offer residents the opportunity to showcase travel memories with an everchanging collection of curios, pictures, art and books; The master bedroom suite offers the unique luxury of an integrated sitting area. Photographs courtesy Godrej Properties

Actual photograph of sample flat

Actual photograph of sample flat

Actual photograph of sample flat

Actual photograph of sample flat

MEDIA COVERAGE ON

PHASE-WISE LAUNCH

GODREJ PROPERTIES LAUNCHES

IN VIKHROLI

Realty player Godrej Properties today launched a mixed-use development project 'The Trees' at Vikhroli in the megapolis. Spread across 34 acres, the mixed-use development project contains a commercial precinct spread across 9.4 acres, which houses Godrej One and the Godrej Group's global headquarters, the company said in a

statement.The central mixed use precinct, spread over 9.2 acres, will comprise a 5-star luxury hotel, cultural buildings, luxury residential, and a high street retail park.The more private luxury residential precinct spreadacross 6.7 acres, which is now open for sale,will house a community of residential buildings with private parks and clubhouse

facility,itsaid."Vikhrolihasbeenintegraltothe Godrej Group's history and it is our hope to transform it into a fully integrated city-within-a-city that offers its residents the highest quality of urban life", Pirojsha Godrej, Managing Director and CEO, Godrej Properties said. The first phase of residences in the project contains a total of 374 apartments with a saleable area of around 5 lakh sq.ft. “We have collaborated with renowned architects and engineering consultants to design this visionary project.

SasakiArchitects,themasterplannersforThe Trees, have developed several projects including the Beijing Olympics Masterplan”, he said. “Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects, the lead architects for Godrej One, are well-known for designing architectural icons such as Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur. Perkins Eastman are the principal design architects for the residences”, Godrej added.

Artist's impression.

'THE TREES'

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

Published on 26th November, 2015 in Economic Times

GODREJ PROPERTIES LAUNCHES

MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT 'THE

Mumbai: Realty player Godrej Properties on Thursday launched a property development project, The Trees, in the Mumbai suburb of Vikhroli.

Spread across 34 acres, the mixed-use development project contains a commercial

precinct spread across 9.4 acres, housing Godrej One and the Godrej Group's global headquarters, the company said in a statement.

The central precinct of more than 9.2 acres willcomprisea5-starhotel,culturalandluxury

residential buildings as well as a high street retail park.

The more private luxury residential precinct spread across 6.7 acres, which is now open for sale, will house a community of residential buildings with private parks and clubhouse facility, it said.

"Vikhroli has been integral to the Godrej Group'shistoryanditisourhopetotransform it into a fully integrated city-within-a-city that offersitsresidentsthehighestqualityofurban

life," Pirojsha Godrej, Managing Director and CEO, Godrej Properties said.

The first phase of residential project in the project comprises 374 apartments with a saleable area of about 5 lakh sq.ft.

TREES' IN MUMBAI

GODREJ LAUNCHES MIXED-USE REALTY PROJECT IN VIKHROLI

Godrej Properties has launched a mixed-use development project spread over 34 acres in Mumbai’s Vikhroli suburb. sThe project will include commercial development spread across 9.4 acres including Godrej One and the Godrej Group's global headquarters that has already been developed. The central mixed-use zone, spread over 9.2 acres, will comprise a 5-star luxury hotel, cultural buildings, luxury

residential and retail space, the developer said in a statement. The residential development will be spread over 6.7 acres and the first phasewillhaveasaleablearea of 5 lakh sq.ft. This is one of Mumbai’s largest real estate projects and the first step towards the larger development opportunity in Vikhroli, the company said.

Godrej Properties sells 300 apartments in flagship project in first week

Godrej Properties’ most successful ever launch in terms of value of real estate sold."

The value of apartments sold is in excess of 700 crores making this Godrej Properties' mostsuccessfuleverlaunchintermsofvalue of real estate sold

Godrej Properties, the real estate development arm of the Godrej Group, today announced that it has sold 300 apartments within one week at The Trees, its flagship project in Vikhroli, Mumbai. This represents more than 80% of the 374 apartments it opened for sale in the first phase of this project. "The value of apartments sold is in excess of 700 crores making this

It saidThe Trees mixed-use development contains a commercial phase spread across 9.4 acres, which houses Godrej One, the Godrej Group’s global headquarters.

The central mixed use precinct, spread over 9.2 acres, will comprise of a 5-star luxury hotel, cultural buildings, luxury residential, andahighstreetretailpark.Themoreprivate luxury residential precinct spread across 6.7 acres, which was recently opened for sale, will house a community of residential buildings with private parks and an iconic clubhouse facility.

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

Realty firm Godrej Properties has sold 300 flats worth over Rs 700 crore in just one week in its project at Vikhroli, Mumbai, even as the housing segment is facing a huge demand slowdown.

Mumbai: Realty player Godrej Properties on Thursday launched a property development project, The Trees, in the Mumbai suburb of Vikhroli.

Spread across 34 acres, the mixed-use development project contains a commercial precinct spread across 9.4 acres, housing Godrej One and the Godrej Group's global headquarters, the company said in a statement.

The central precinct of more than 9.2 acres will comprise a 5-star hotel, cultural and luxury residential buildings as well as a high

street retail park.

The more private luxury residential precinct spread across 6.7 acres, which is now open for sale, will house a community of residential buildings with private parks and clubhouse facility, it said.

"Vikhroli has been integral to the Godrej Group's history and it is our hope to transform it into a fully integrated citywithin-a-city that offers its residents the highest quality of urban life,” Pirojsha Godrej, Managing Director and CEO, Godrej Properties said.

The first phase of residential project in the project comprises 374 apartments with a saleable area of about 5 lakh sq.ft.

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

GODREJ PROPERTIES SELLS 300 APARTMENTS IN A WEEK

Godrej Properties Ltd on Monday said it has sold 300 apartments in a week at its flagship project, The Trees, in suburban Mumbai's Vikhroli. The apartments have been sold at more than Rs 700 crore, the Mumbai-based developer said. The Trees is a 34-acre mixed-use development project, which has a commercialprecinctspreadacross9.4acres

GODREJ PROPERTIES SELLS FLATS WORTH RS 700 CR IN VIKHROLI

that houses Godrej One, the Godrej Group's headquarters.Thefirstphaseofthepremium residential component of the project, which was launched in the last week of November, has 374 apartments, of which Godrej said it sold more than 80% in the first week of opening it for sales.

Godrej Properties Ltd, the real estate arm of the Godrej Group, has sold 300 apartments within a week at its flagship project - The TreesatVikhroli.Thevalueoftheapartments was over Rs 700 crore, making it the firm’s best launch, the Mumbai-based developer said in a release.

Shares of Godrej Properties rose 1.21 per centandclosedatRs338.55ontheBombay Stock Exchange after the announcement. The shares rose as high as Rs 352 in intra day trading.

Godrej Properties launched the first phase of the premium residential component of the project in the last week of November. The project has 374 apartments, of which Godrej said it sold more than 80 per cent in the first week of sales. Apartments at the 34-acre hybrid project, comprising residential and commercial spaces, range from 450 sq.ft. one bed room apartments to 2,400 sq.ft. penthouses.TheapartmentsarepricedatRs

1.7 crore and above apiece and penthouses at around Rs 8 crore.

The apartments, which are of various sizes and with a saleable area of 500,000 sq.ft., have private parks and a clubhouse.

The group owns 4,000 acres of land in Vikhorli and has started monetising its real estate through this move. The project also houses Godrej One - the group’s headquarters.

“We are thrilled with the customer response tothelaunch.Wewilldoeverythingtodeliver ourcustomersanoutstandingandinnovative project,” said Pirojsha Godrej, Managing Director and CEO, Godrej Properties.

The project is priced at a 15 to 20 per cent premium to competing products in the region, underling Godrej Properties’ strong brand equity, IDFC Securities, said in a research report last week.

The brokerage expects total sales potential of Rs 7,000 crore in the next five to six years.

The announcement comes at a time when the market outlook is depressed. A recent report from Jones Lang LaSalle said, “Aggregate residential unit sales in Mumbai in previous four quarters jumped 28 per cent when compared to the corresponding period one year ago. This shows an improvement in the otherwise lacklustre market.”

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.Artist's

GODREJ PROPERTIES EYES RS 700 CR REVENUE FROM NEW PROJECT

Realty firm Godrej Properties expects a sales revenue of about Rs 700 crore from the second phase of its luxury housing project at Vikhroli in Mumbai launched today.The company, which is real estate arm of the Godrej Group, had in November last launched the first phase of its housing project 'The Trees' comprising 374 units. "We have launched the second phase of The Trees comprising 256 apartments. We got a very good response for the first phase with 95 per cent of the total unit already being sold,"

Godrej Properties MD and CEO Pirojsha

Godrej told PTI. Asked about the expected sales realisation, he said: "the revenue potential of the second phase of Trees is about Rs 700 crore". He hoped that the company would sell a "good part" of the second phase of the project in this fiscal only.The project 'The Trees' is a mixed-use development project, spread over 34 acres, which houses Godrej One, the Godrej Group's global headquarters. It would have residential, commercial, a 5-star luxury hotel, culturalbuildingsandahighstreetretailpark.

"Vikhroli has been integral to the Godrej Group's history and it is our hope to trans-

form it into a fully integrated city-within-a-city that offers its residents the highest quality of urban life," Godrej said. Asked about the plans for the Noida market where the company has recently forayed partnering with local developer Lotus Greens, Godrej said the project would be launched in the next fiscal after getting the necessary approvals. On sales bookings, Godrej said the the company achieved a robust sales in the first three quarters of this fiscal.In the first nine months of this fiscal, Godrej Properties has achieved a sales booking of Rs 4,422 crore, up 96 per cent from the year-ago period. Godrej Properties is currently developing residential, commercial and township projects spread across approximately 10.67 million sq.m. (115 million sq.ft.) in 12 cities.

photograph.Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

GODREJ LAUNCHES THE TREES, PHASE 3 RESIDENTIAL

MUMBAI-BASED developer Godrej Properties, has launched phase II of its flagship residential project called The Trees in Mumbai after successfully selling phaseII, which was launched in November 2015. Spread across 34 acres, The Trees is one of the largest mixed use real estate projects in Mumbai and is the first step towards the greater development opportunity that will unfold in the eastern suburb of MumbaiVikhroli With overwhelming response for its phase - I residential project, the company sold 348 apartments for a total of Rs 862 crore within a month of the project launch, a statement issued by the firm said.

The second phase of residences comprises of a total of 256 apartments with a saleable

areaofapproximately3,44,000sq.ft.Withan approximate base price of Rs 16,300 per sq.ft., the apartments will cost between Rs 1.6 crore and Rs 9.5 crore. Customers can choose from 1 BHK, 2 BHK, 2.5 BHK, 3 BHK, 3.5 BHK apartments, duplexes and penthouses with carpet areas ranging from 463 sq.ft. to 1,151 sq.ft. Duplexes and penthouses are offered in the range of 1,553 sq.ft.to2,215sq.ft.Theprojectcomprisesof four towers of 18 floors each and one tower of 12 floors.

All these residences offer premium specifications and are designed to offer spectacular views, the company said in a statement. It said the construction of phaseII would start in the second half of 2016 and

it would take about four years to be ready for possession. “We are very excited to launch the second phase of The Trees. Vikhroli has been integral to the Godrej Group’s history and it is our hope to transform it into a fully integrated city-within-a-city that offers its residents the highest quality of urban life,” Pirojsha Godrej, Managing Director and CEO at Godrej Properties told Financial Chronicle.

“The Trees is Godrej Properties' mixed use flagship project at Vikhroli. Our international award winning development has world class amenities, verdant green cover and views towardsMumbai'sbestpreservedmangroves, enviableairqualityandavibrantlyprogrammed public realm to offer residents a unique live, work, learn and play lifestyle,” said Anubhav Gupta, Chief Design Officer and Head, CSR and Sustainability at Godrej Properties.

He claimed that 95 per cent of the residential units of its phase - I residential project has already been sold out. “Building on this interest, we have just launched phase - II, which offers some of the best views and aspects that the city has to offer,” Gupta said. Situated in the heart of the city, Vikhroli is well-connected to all of Mumbai’s major transit points and business hubs. The Trees is just 0.1 km from the Eastern Express Highway and offers connectivity to BKC through the Santacruz Link Road (SCLR) in just 15 minutes and to Fort through the Eastern Freeway in just 30 minutes.

INDEPENDENT VIEW

“Strategically situated in the heart of the maximum city, Vikhroli is well connected to all of Mumbai’s major transit points and business districts. What works really well for

Vikhroli is its proximity to the Eastern Express Highway, which offers excellent connectivity to Fort (Mumbai) by reducing travel time to less than 30 minutes. Also, the Santacruz Link Road (SCLR) enables easy commuting to the major business district of BKC in just 15 minutes.

Some of the future planned infrastructure projects in the city, including the bridge from Nava Sheva to Sewri and the proposed new international airport at Navi Mumbai, will provide much needed impetus to the real estate profile of Vikhroli and the entire eastern belt.” - Ramesh Nair, COO - Business & InternationalDirector,JLLIndia.

GODREJ PROPERTIES SELLS 1000 FLATS FOR RS. 1,000 CR

Realty firm Godrej Properties today said it has sold over 1,000 apartments since March in its three new housing projects at Mumbai, Pune and Greater Noida for around. Rs 1,000 crore. Godrej Properties said in a statement it has “Sold over 1,000 apartments across three new project launches - Godrej Origins at The Trees in Mumbai, The Suites at Godrej Golf Links in Greater Noida, and Godrej 24 at Hinjawadi, Pune - since March 2017. Mumbai-based developer, which is a real estate firm of Godrej group,sold130flatsintheMumbaiproject,500 flats in Greater Noida and over 450 units in Pune. When contacted, Godrej Properties Executive Chairman Pirojsha Godrej said the sales value of these apartments is “almost Rs 1,000crore.”Statingthatthecompanyhasgot astrongresponsetoitsnewlaunches,hesaid, “Welookforwardtobuildingonthismomentum inthemonthsahead.”

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

IMPACT OF THE TREES SUCCESS ON GPL

GODREJ PROPERTIES UP 5%, LAUNCHES REALTY PROJECT IN MUMBAI

"The real estate development arm of the Godrej Group today launched its flagship project, The Trees that has an area of 34 acres," the Mumbai-based real estate developer says in its filing.

MONEYCONTROL BUREAU

Shares of Godrej Properties gained 4.6% Thursday on launching residential real estate project in Mumbai.

"The real estate development arm of the Godrej Group today launched its flagship project - The Trees that has an area of 34 acres," the Mumbai-based real estate developer says in its filing.

The first phase of residences in project contains a total of 374 apartments with a saleable area of approximately 46,000 sq.m. (5 lakh sq.ft.), it adds.

The project consists of 1 BHK, 2 BHK, 2.5 BHK, 3 BHK, and 3.5 BHK apartments with carpet areas ranging from 45 sq.m. to 124 sq.m. (480 sq.ft. to 1,334 sq.ft.) and Penthouses with carpet areas ranging from 190 sq.m. to 229 sq.m. (2,043 sq.ft. to 2,465 sq.ft.).

At 14:27 hours IST, the scrip of Godrej Properties was quoting at Rs 325.00, up Rs 9.50, or 3.01% on the BSE.

GODREJ PROPERTIES SURGES 4.2% AFTER LAUNCHING MUMBAI PROJECT

Godrej Properties (GPL), the real estate development arm of the Godrej Group, witnessed a rise in share price on Thursday after the company today launched its flagship project, The Trees in Vikhroli, Mumbai.

With an area of 34 acres, this is one of the largest real estate projects in Mumbai and is the first step towards the greater development opportunity that will unfold in Vikhroli.

Shares of Godrej Properties are trading at Rs 324.90, up Rs 9.4, or 2.98% at the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) on Thursday at 1:49 p.m.

The scrip has touched an intra-day high of Rs 330.00 and low of Rs 315.00. The total volume of shares traded at the BSE is 33,095.

Published

Total volume of shares traded on the bourses todaywaslowerby39.57%to135,864compared with 22-day average volume of 224,836.

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.Artist's

GODREJ PROPERTIES SELLS 300 FLATS IN A WEEK, STOCK JUMPS 5%

The 2015 festival season for Mumbai-based realty companies was better than the previous season as firms received a better than expected response for new launches. Oberoi Realty, Lodha Developers were among the highprofile names to report higher numbers and now they have been joined by Godrej Properties. The Mumbai-based realty firm from the Godrej Group said on Monday that it has sold 80% of launched apartments, or 300 units, at its newly-launched project in Vikhroli.

Lodha Group - which launched phase - II of Palava City on the outskirts of Mumbai, limited edition residences at World One in Lower Parel and an entire project in south Mumbai’s Altamount Road — has sold over 415 apartments in the last one month includingsalesatitsprojectslaunchedearlier, a spokesperson said. Oberoi Realty, another Mumbai-based developer, has sold 543 apartments during the launch of their Borivali project. These numbers on its own may not indicate a broad-based realty sector as many companies are still grappling with bad

consumer sentiment, poor investor interest, incomplete projects and high debt, but a pick-up of some sorts appears to be happening, according to industry analysts, consultants and company executives.

“Housing sales in Mumbai has been going steady,wearenotwitnessingmajordeclinein sales anymore,” said Samar Sarda, Lead Analyst, Real Estate at Kotak Institutional Equities. According to developers, end-users are buying now because their wait for a reduction in prices has not yielded any result and is unlikely to. “Prices have not gone up in the last five years,” said Vikas Oberoi, CMD, OberoiRealtywhileexplainingreasonsbehind home-buyers’ response.

photograph.Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

FESTIVAL DEMAND PUSHES HOME SALES UP 15%

Estimates show sales of housing units across the country increased 10-15% during Oct-Nov this year compared to the corresponding period previous year

Is real estate sector witnessing signs of revival? Experts vouch that at least in major markets such as Mumbai, Delhi-NCR (National Capital Region) and Chennai, they are witnessing buyer-interest. For instance,  Godrej Properties sold about 300 apartments worth Rs 700 crore within a week of launching its project, The Trees, in Mumbai. Estimates show sales of housing units across the country increased 10 to 15% during October to November this year compared to the corresponding period previous year. “We are seeing improvement in demand. Prices have come down 15 to 20% bin the past one-and-a-half year and there is no further scope for reduction. Also, we saw sales increasing 15% during festival season, especially Diwali,” said Geetamber Anand, President, Credai and Chairman of ATS. Honey Katiyal, founder and chief executive officer, Investors Clinic, a real estate consultancy,echoedsimilarviewsand said there has been slight uptick in sales in the festive season. “We have already started

seeingsignsofrevival.The realestate market is all about sentiments and they have turned positive. Even the activity on the ground has increased slightly,” he said. An affordable projectlaunchedbyAmrapalilastweekinthe

National Capital Region for serving and retired government employees got huge response from users. The company expects to book at least 1,000 units in the coming 10 days. It has a total of 5,000 units. Similarly,

The sector has also been marred with high inventoryanddevelopershavebeenfocusing on clearing the stock rather than launching new projects. Pirojsha Godrej, Managing Director, Godrej Properties, in an interview to Business Standard last month, had said, for therightdeveloperandrightproject,demand continues to be good. “For more full-fledged recovery, confidence needs to improve.

Things are on an upswing. Though, I don’t think pricing is the most important thing in recovery. It is demand volumes, which is most important. People are getting confident that prices are not going to crash. I don’t think any major crash is possible in the medium term,” Godrej said.

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

GODREJ PROPERTIES UP 2% ON THE TREES' PHASE-II LAUNCH IN MUMBAI

"TheTreesisoneofthelargestrealestate projects in Vikhroli, Mumbai. This second phase of residences contains a total of 256 apartments with a saleable area of approximately 32,000 sq.m. (3,44,000 sq.ft.)," says the Mumbai-based real estate company in its filing. Shares of Godrej Propertiesgained 2.4% intraday Thursday on launch of residential phase - II of flagship project - The Trees - in Mumbai.

"The Trees is one of the largest real estate projects in Vikhroli, Mumbai. This second phase of residences contains a total of 256 apartments with a saleable area of approxi-

mately 32,000 sq.m. (3,44,000 sq.ft.)," says the Mumbai- based real estate company in its filing.

First phase of project was launched in November 2015. "In first phase, we saw rapidsaleswith348apartmentsrepresenting 93% of total available units sold within one month of launch," the company says.

TheTreesmixed-useddevelopmentcontainsa commercialprecinctspreadacross9.4acres.

At 15:06 hours IST, the scrip of Godrej Properties was quoting at Rs 280.10, up Rs 1.85, or 0.66% on the BSE.

Published on 10th May 2016 in Moneycontrol.com

GODREJ PROPERTIES STOCK HITS 52- WEEK HIGH

Godrej Properties stock hit 52-week high on Wednesday after the company said it had sold 1,000 apartments since March. Godrej Properties, the property development arm of Godrej Group, sold about 1000 apartments across three new projects in Mumbai, Greater Noida and Pune since March 2017, the company said on Wednesday. The company sold 130 apartments at Godrej Origins at the Trees project in Mumbai within the first week of the launch. It sold 500 suites at Godrej Golf Links in Greater Noida and another A-50 apartments in Godrej, in Pune, the firm also stated.

Published

THE TAJ – AN ANTICIPATED NEIGHBOUR

TAJ GROUP TO MANAGE GODREJ PROPERTIES’ MUMBAI HOTEL PROJECT

Realty firm Godrej Properties has tied up with the Taj Group to develop a luxury hotel project in Mumbai. Godrej Properties said, “It has partnered with Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris to develop a world-class Taj brand hotel at its flagship project, The Trees, at Vikhroli".

The Taj hotel will manage this property offering about 150 guest rooms and suites. This is a 35-acre mixed-use project comprising housing,office,retailandhospitality, the company said in a statement. On the tie-up with the Taj Group, Pirojsha Godrej, Executive Chairman, Godrej Properties said, "Our endeavour is to make The Trees India's most exciting mixed-use development and this partnership is an important milestone towards that goal."

Rakesh Sarna, MD and CEO, Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris, says, "We are very pleased to be associated with a group like Godrej, which is synonymous with trust, integrity and quality.

We look forward to bringing world-class hospitality to this great location." Godrej Properties, the real estate arm of the Godrej Group, is developing residential, commercial and township projects spread across about 133 million sq.ft. in 12 cities of India. Established in 1902, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is one of Asia's largest group of hotels, comprising 99 hotels in 62 destinations across the globe, including presence in India, North America, the UK, Africa, the Middle-East, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bhutan and Nepal. Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris is part of the Tata Group, India's Premier Business House

Published on 18th April, 2017 in The Financial Chronicle

Godrej Properties (GPL) has partnered with Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris to develop a Taj brand hotel at its flagship project, The Trees, in Vikhroli, Mumbai. The Taj at The Trees will offer approximately 150 guest rooms and suites along with dining, entertainment, and conferencing facilities, the realty firm said. The Trees mixed-use development contains a commercial precinct spread across 9.4 acres, which houses Godrej One, the Godrej Group’s Global Headquarters.

Published on 18th April, 2017

Actual photograph

Artist's impression. Not an actual site photograph.

Registered Office: Godrej Properties Limited, Godrej One, 5th Floor, Pirojshanagar, Eastern Express Highway, Vikhroli (East), M umbai - 400 079

This is not an offer, an invitation to offer and/or commitment of any nature between us and the recipients. The images includes artistic impressions and stock images. The Designs, dimensions, cost, facilities, plans, images, specifications, furniture, accessories, paintings, items, electronic goods, additional fittings/fixtures, decorative items, false ceiling including finish ing materials, specifications, shades, sizes and color of the tiles and other details shown in the image are only indicative in nature and are only for the purpose of illustrating/indicating a possible layout and do not form part of the standard specifica tions/amenities/services to be provided in the flat. All specifications of the flat shall be as per the final agreement between the Parties. Recipients are advised to use their discretion in relying on the information/ amenities described/shown therein.