Surfaces Reporter Magazine Issue May - June 2021

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April-May 2021

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India

SR Rendezvous - Ar Hafeez Contractor - Martha Thorne, Exe. Director Pritzker Architecture Prize Interior Design Trends - Ar Sunil Patil - Ar Bobby Mukherji - Ar Hiren Patel - Mr Sumessh Menon - Mr Dipen Gada SR Launch Pad - Century Laminate - Delta Faucet - Greenply SR Rising Star - Space Race Architects

TO BE OR NOT TO BE

Architect Sangeet Sharma

Some known, some untold stories

Vertica Dvivedi shares what’s NEW in the SUPER INTERACTIVE e-issues of Surfaces Reporter

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editorial

Quotes that make perfect sense for the Post Pandemic world You can still make something beautiful and something powerful out of a really bad situation."

- Gabe Grunewald

We are in this together - and we will get through this, together."

- Antonio Guterres

April-may 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 6

I love writing quotes as much as I love reading them.

Quotes are experiences of life solidified by time. In some of my worst phases of life, I found solace in some of the inspiring quotes which motivated me to move on. Quotes are a powerful collection of few words. When I look back, I am so impressed with the life-giving power of motivation through quotes.

If a book is a garden, quotes are the flowers!

- Vertica Dvivedi

The pandemic is telling us to change. We know, old ways won't open new doors so it is important to learn from this phase. Here are some of the quotes I find apt for the post-pandemic world.

"Someday everything will make perfect sense, till then, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears, and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason."

- John Mayer

"Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now, it is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less."

- Marie Curie

"In the face of adversity, we have a choice. We can be bitter, or we can be better."

- Caryn Sullivan

Remember, sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.

"The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old but on building the new."

- Socrates

- Dalai Lama

"Disruption isn't about what happens to you, it's about how you respond to what happens to you."

-Jay Samit

Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness."

- Ekhart Tolle

The greatest danger in times of turbulence is not the turbulence, it is to act with yesterday's logic.

- Peter Drucker

VERTICA DVIVEDI Editor-in-Chief, Surfaces Reporter | Founder, WADE ASIA Co-Chair, WEC, PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry vertica@surfaces.in

April-may 2021 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 7

SR Advertorial

readers' reviews Thank you readers for the responses! We can be contacted at hello@surfacesreporter.com

What people are saying about "Surfaces Reporter" Interesting discussion! I am glad I have joined at the right time. Thank you Vertica for bringing all the experts on one platform.

Mukhram Tewatia, Gurugram (Viewer from Greenply Launch Event by Surfaces Reporter)

Very good. Congratulations. This is a very innovative approach taken by Surfaces Reporter.

(Commented while watching hybrid launch of Delta Faucet by Surfaces Reporter on Facebook and dps STORE Ludhiana) Bhupendra Vyas, COO, Kajaria Ceramics

Awesome Mr Mario. It is always so nice to hear you talk. A great interview by Vertica Dvivedi.

(Viewer of Surfaces Reporter's Brand Buzz with Mario Schmidt) Palmira Manezes

I have been watching the successive interviews.

Some of them were very good. Nice articulation.

Dr. G. Shankar Habitat Technology Group, Kerala

Very nice and interesting discussion.

Ar Neelam Manjunath

I really enjoyed the discussion. Truly inspiring.

Congratulations Ar. Parul Zaveri. Thanks Surface Reporter and wish you all the best in your endeavour.

(Viewer from Ar Parul Zaveri's for SR Architect of the Week) Sumit Kaur, Former Chief Architect, Dpt of Urban Planning, Chandigarh

Good knowledge for new entrepreneurs. Thank you Bhavesh bhai (Bhavesh Vermora) and Surfaces Reporter team.

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Editorial: 6-7 Readers' Views: 8 Content: 10, 12 14- 25: SR News Updates 28-31: SR Rendezvous Key Learnings from Ar Hafeez Contractor & Martha Thorne 32-39: SR Interior Design Trends 2021 Ar Bobby Mukherji, Ar Sunil Patil, Ar Hiren Patel, Mr Sumessh Menon & Dipen Gada SR Launch Pad 40-44: Technology & Innovations as Drivers of Well being; Launch of Greenply E-0

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45-50: Delta Faucet Company @dps STORE Ludhiana

Cover Photography

53-57: Surface Design Trends 2021 with the launch of Century Laminate Lookbook 2020-22

press@surfacesreporter.com shivansh sharma courtesy/credits

images & research are done by going through encyclopedias, industry experts, wikipedia, various blogs, research, some images from web, books & reference, research journals, interviews published in various media and respected magazines, surfaces reporter's published issues and others, all for the sake of dissipating information and creating inspiration on the subject of article, write-ups, mostly through direct interactions with the designer/ business owner. editorial & correspondence: f-1118, chittaranjan park, new delhi-110019 email: vertica@surfaces.in, printed at Modest Print Pack Pvt. Ltd. C-52, DDA Shed, Okhla Industrial Area Phase-I New Delhi-110020 and published from f-1118, chittaranjan park, new delhi-19 by vertica dvivedi on behalf of bigsea marcom (i) pvt. ltd. we accept all materials and publish with care. however, we do not take the responsibility for the authenticity of the same. The views expressed in the columns of surfaces reporter are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher & they accept no responsibility for them. We take care that colour is matched but take no responsibility for complete matching. Final decisions should not be done about colour without seeing real product/sample. Every design showcased is not about what is available in india-it may as well be for inspiration.

No part of this magazine including advertisements' design, prepared by us or through us should be copied, reproduced or transmitted by anyone without prior written permission of the publisher. surfaces reporter and bigsea marcom wish to promote building material & product awareness in true & unbiased way. We do not claim to be experts so feel free to correct us if something needs correction. We are always eager to learn.

All disputes to be settled in delhi (india) jurisdiction only.

Total Pages - 110

Advertising queries Contact: +91 9867333972 madhu@surfaces.in

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58-67: SR Cover Story To Be or Not To Be; Ar Sangeet Sharma 70-72: SR Frontrunner Kamlesh Patel, CMD, Asian Granito India Ltd 73-76: SR Article World Wood Day Celebrated By Surfaces Reporter With Special Inputs From Dr. Benny Kuriakose, Dr Mp Singh & Ar Neelam Manjunath 77-78: SR Material News Bamboo Society of India signs MOU with COA to mainstream Bamboo in the building sector 79-82: SR View Point Ar Goonmeet Singh Chauhan, Founder Partner, Design Forum International 83-96: SR Spaces & Material Poetries - Home of Blended Pluralities by Ego Design Studio, Kerala - An Exclusive interview with Ar Diana Kellogg, New York 97-108: SR Rising Star Ar Thakur Udayveer Singh, Space Race Architects, Jalandhar

CONTENT in Visual I

58 28 SR Rendezvous

Key Learnings from Ar Hafeez Contractor & Martha Thorne

SR Launch Pad

40

To Be or Not To Be; Ar Sangeet Sharma

Technology & Innovations as Drivers of Well being; Launch of Greenply E-0

79

45

Delta Faucet Company @dps STORE Ludhiana

70

SR View Point

SR Frontrunner

Ar Goonmeet Singh Chauhan

Kamlesh Patel CMD, Asian Granito India Ltd

Founder Partner, Design Forum International

97

SR Rising Star

53

Surface Design Trends 2021 with the launch of Century Laminate Lookbook 2020-22

April-May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 12

Ar Thakur Udayveer Singh Space Race Architects, Jalandhar

SR News Bulletin

Worlds First 3D Printed School

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tudio Mortazavi, an architectural design agency based in San Francisco, Lisbon, and Paris, collaborated with non-profit organisation Thinking Huts to design the world’s first 3D printed school for a university in Fianarantsoa, Madagascar.

“Insufficient investment in physical infrastructure is one of the largest barriers to education,” explains Thinking Huts. “3D printing will bridge the opportunity gap while encouraging innovation and economic growth. We cannot promise an endall solution to all of the problems surrounding education, but we are promising a start,” they further added.

Design Details The 3D printed school’s design seems simple but quite effective.

It attributes a beehive pattern that allows for the connection of multiple schools. It also features solar panels and vertical farms. The school’s pilot project will be built of a hybrid design highlighting 3-D printed walls and locally sourced building materials for the door, roofs and windows. The design team used galvanised metal on the roof and covered it with native grass that blends in with the surroundings.

Different pods in school can serve varied functions, such as science labs, classrooms, and dance studios. 3D-printed concrete aggregate is used to create each pod. The mixture for construction is made from recycled materials to minimise CO2 emissions. Pod walls also contain “Pockets” that allow for vertical farms. Also, these can be doubled as climbing walls for children. Each hut will have operating windows, a secure April - May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 14

door, and internet access. The interiors of the school will house chairs, desks and tables.

The architect is confident that by the time the first school launches in the summer of 2021-22 (December to March in Madagascar), the entire world will be immunised from the raging pandemic. However, if, in any case, it does not happen, then the students will have to wear masks. He also says that they can easily add some plexi partitions on the desks. Also, sufficient air ventilation at the top of the walls will allow for fresh air circulation and keep the environment cool.

The design team said, “We will use locally-sourced materials, remaining conscious of our environmental impact, and implement more additive manufacturing processes as the technology advances, adapting to each community’s environment.”

The local involvement of people will teach community members how to optimize the 3D printer so that they can replicate the process to build more schools in the future, says the design studio. The school will be constructed in partnership with Finnish 3D technology company Hyperion Robotics has been used for designing the project.

Thinking huts is currently fundraising to help fund the school construction. The construction work is set to start in July or August 2021. www.surfacesreporter.com

Surfaces Reporter

Zaha Hadid Architects Reveals Design of Huanggang Port Area Shenzhen

Z

aha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has recently disclosed the design for Shenzhen’s Huanggang Port Area in Futian district, Shenzhen, China. According to the firm, this will be an important node of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen Science and Technology Corridor, creating a hub of scientific research and collaboration in industries such as microelectronics, material development, artificial intelligence, robotics, and medical sciences.

Huanggang Port currently serves 300,000 people crossing the border with Hong Kong each day. Reconstruction of the Huanggang Port building will enable the port’s 1.67 square kilometres of parking lots and cargo inspection areas to be redeveloped as a national centre for technology innovation.

Centred around two large public plazas, the Huanggang Port Area masterplan defines three interconnected districts: the Collaborative innovation area, the port hub, and port living zone. With its base grid established

by Shenzhen’s existing street layout to the west, the masterplan’s central spine is a wide pedestrian boulevard that connects its two primary public gathering spaces: the civic plaza at Fulin metro station in the north east and the large public square in the centre of the administrative hub at the Huanggang interchange in the south west.

A radial secondary grid centered on theses plazas further sub-divides the districts into clusters and creates additional circulation routes for functionality. The design accommodates the future expansion of the research studios and laboratories via shared podiums and bridging skywalks connecting with adjacent buildings.

In addition to the two primary civic plazas, each smaller cluster of buildings has its own ‘nucleus’ of an outdoor communal square ensuring spaces for nature are integrated throughout the masterplan that will also create a green belt of parklands and wetlands along the Shenzhen River. www.surfacesreporter.com

April - May 2021 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 15

SR News Bulletin

O-shaped Tower BY Bjarke Ingels for OPPO in China

B

jarke Ingels Group (BIG) has revealed a sinuous skyscraper featuring a Massive ‘O’ for OPPO’s new headquarter in Hangzhou, China. The headquarters are described as an “infinity loop” shaped tower that “connects [the] ground to sky in a continuous loop of collaboration”. The top and bottom surfaces of the O remain flattened just like a möbius strip that epitomizes China’s largest smartphone manufacturerOPPO’s infinite potential and innovative spirit. The main purpose of this skyscraper will be to chiefly serve as an R&D building for the smartphone company while representing as an “iconic landmark and gateway” to the commercial district.

After sundown, when the building lights up, the huge letter O of the tower will dazzle in Hangzhou’s skyline at night. It will serve as an iconic and awe-inspiring landmark within the city and strengthen Oppo’s brand through implausible architecture. The tower is anticipated to constructed alongside an extant lake and a 107,000-square-foot public park.

The building will have a spell-binding entrance as you walk right through the alphabet into a sizeable circular courtyard filled with greenery. Bjarke Ingels, founder of the Denmark-based architecture studio BIG, explained, “The central oasis and the surrounding [Hangzhou] wetland park expands the public realm into the heart of the complex.”

The tower has been fixed into something of a hollow column that sees a circular courtyard at ground level, with the boundaries of the glass tower seeming to “melt” around a central vertical oval that faces the entrance to the park within.

The building will have a spell-binding entrance as you walk right through the alphabet into a sizeable circular courtyard filled with greenery. Bjarke Ingels, founder of the Denmark-based architecture studio BIG, explained, “The central oasis and the surrounding [Hangzhou] wetland park expands the public realm into the heart of the complex.”

“The compact form folding in on itself provides large flexible floorplates with the daylight access and fresh air of a slender tower”, says Ingels. Inside the curving sides of the skyscraper, the architecture firm is planning to add a series of triple-height atriums and walkways. These will maximize views and create openness.

Further, the practice claims that the whirling louvers that twist up the sides of the polished façade were distinctively placed as per solar studies. Further, they will passively minimize solar and thermal heat gain by up to 52 percent without blocking views.

The O-Tower’s ground floors will house conference areas, R&D innovation spaces for outside companies, exhibition spaces, and a canteen.The 1.73 million square feet of office space on the upper floor will be connected with a series of triple-height spaces under the slanted frontage of the tower’s roof.

The building will clad in an adaptive louvre façade that will highlight slanted slats, looking like fingerprints. www.surfacesreporter.com

April - May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 16

SR News Bulletin

The First 3D Printed House ‘Gaia’ Built With Soil, Rice Husks, and Straws

I

talian 3D-printing technology developer WASP constructed a beautiful, eco-sustainable 3D printed house using natural materials such as soil and agricultural waste. It is built to demonstrate the abilities of the company’s 3D printer Crane WASP. The house was printed on-site in Massa Lombardo, a town in the Italian region in October 2018.

The project is named ‘Gaia’ because of its use of raw earth as the main binder of the essential mixture. The firm used 25% of soil taken from the site (containing 30% clay, 40% silt and 30% sand), 25% rice husk, 40% from straw chopped rice and 10% hydraulic lime).

The house was built with the modular Crane Wasp printer that can produce homes in a number of formats and sizes.

At first, the constituent mixture is layered using a 3D-printer hovering over through a crane making walls with vertical voids inside, which are then filled with the waste from rice production, such as chopped rice husks and straws for insulation. RiceHouse supplied the vegetable fibres for the project.

According to the firm, this insulating method keeps the temperature inside the house comfortable and warm, avoiding the need for using heaters during the winter.

The mixture is layered using a 3D printer suspended from a crane, creating walls with vertical cavities inside, which are then filled with rice husks for insulation.

They kept the outer cavity in the wall empty for proper air circulation in the structure and allowed for an energy supply to be fixed within the home walls.A bio-plaster for coating the structure’s internal walls and the roof are also made from rice husks to provide a layer of insulation.

The company finished the construction of the house within ten days (100 hours). Also, the mud mixture used to create the house cost them less than a thousand pounds. So, overall, it is a cheap and time-saving project.

“Gaia is a highly performing structure in terms of energy, with almost no environmental impact,” the company stated

April - May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 18

Gaia is a highly performing structure in terms of energy, with almost no environmental impact.

Based on the statements said by the WASP, ‘agricultural waste could become a major resource in the building industry.’

The company further said, “It is possible to conceive a future scenario in which one hectare of cultivated paddy field can become 100 square metres of built environment,” More at www.surfacesreporter.com

SR News Bulletin

A

Cyclone- Proof Structure - Need Of The Hour -

fter TAUKTE and YAS destruction, there is a desperate need for cyclone proof structures in order to keep the lives and property safe. SURFACES REPORTER (SR) spoke to the experts from Odisha, the state often ravaged by severe intensity storms and cyclones and understood how the design should be created to make them cyclone proof.

Location & Landscape The most important aspect for the design of a cyclone proof structure is location. Since the cyclonic storm approaches from the sea, the wind direction usually remain random due to high speed.

Still, there are few precautions that can be taken to reduce the brunt of the approaching cyclone.

According to Ar Akshay Kumar Beuria, Principal, Designers Forum, Odisha, “The impact of the cyclone can be reduced significantly with the right planning of a structure. For instance, during a cyclone, the gale swept from sea to land. So if the structure is designed keeping the possible direction of a cyclone in mind, then much loss can be prevented. Here a cluster design would be more appropriate instead of straight rows of housing which will bear more impact. During any cyclone, a large number of trees are uprooted which later become a major cause of live and property destruction. Therefore, landscapes have to be designed in such a manner so that even uprooted, they don’t damage the buildings and other structures.”

Foundation of the structure The foundation of the structure is a crucial matter. A home in Mexico Beach, Florida got famous for surviving the notorious Hurricanes Matthew and Irma while nearby homes were washed away as it was built on steel-filled concrete pillars 12 feet above ground level. The pillars were anchored on a 28 feet deep concrete foundation. The incident focuses on the importance of a strong foundation in coastal areas. According to the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM)’s directive for Cyclone Architecture, “In cyclonic regions close to the coast, a site above the likely inundation level should be chosen. In case of non availability of high level natural ground, construction should be done on stilts with no masonry or cross bracings up to maximum surge level, or on raised earthen mounds to avoid flooding/ inundation but knee bracing may be used.”

Protection for Walls and roof Typically, in the cyclone prone areas, RCC (Reinforced Concrete Cement) structures are most preferred as the material has the ability to withstand the strong air pressure. Another is Structural insulated panels (SIPs). These are sandwiched panels with an insulating foam core (usually polyurethane) between structural facings. When reinforced with steel, the finished panels are extremely strong and energy efficient. In addition to providing insulation, walls created with these panels are able to greatly reduced air leakage when compared with many traditional building materials. These can be pre-fabricated making them highly efficient for such conditions.

“For a brick wall, the lateral load due to wind can be resisted either by walls lying parallel to the lateral force direction (by shear wall action) or by RC frames to which the panel walls must be fixed using appropriate reinforcement such as seismic bands at window lintel level.” Ar Tara Dhal, Principal, The Design Group, Odisha, says. “The RCC wall thickness should be 75-100 mm for a cyclone prone area. A 200-250 mm thick AAC block wall with bands can April - May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 20

Ar Akshay Kumar Beuria

Ar Tara Dhal

also provide a good structural safety with right insulation.

The height of the wall should be also taken into consideration.

The terrace having RCC roof with right thermal and water insulation can be provided with proper installation,” he added.

Talking about the roofing and how to protect it from the wind pressure, Ar Akshay Beuria says, “If a structure is being created in a cyclone prone area, it must be designed to bear a wind capacity of 200-250 km/hr at least to reduce the impact. Everything from the roofing to the bolts has to be planned keeping in mind their load bearing capacity so that they could dampen the impact of a super cyclone. Roof is the most important part of a structure and bears heaviest burden during the cyclone. Once the roof of any structure give away, the entire structure could collapse. Therefore, if you made a RCC cement roof, the impact could be lessened to a greater degree.

While with the use of Pre-fab technology, the construction can be regulated and disciplined to create stronger elements with uniformed strength, unless these are not properly executed on site, everything is lost and there will be not protection from galling winds.”

Fenestration- seal any opening Façade, windows and doors are the most vulnerable sections of a structure during a cyclone. Any gap left could prove fatal during a disaster. According to the NIDM , “Glass windows and doors are, of course, very vulnerable to flying objects and there are many of these in cyclones. The way to reduce this problem is to provide well designed thicker glass panes. Further, recourse may be taken to reduce the panel size to smaller dimensions. Also glass panes can be strengthened by pasting thin film or paper strips. This will help in holding the debris of glass panes from flying in case of breakage.

It will also introduce some damping in the glass panels and reduce their vibrations.”

The way forward While hurricanes and cyclones are known to form in the predicted areas, the climate change has created newer depression zones in the sea causing severe intensity cyclones to form in the areas where they were unheard off earlier. SURFACES REPORTER (SR) says, it’s a wakeup call for the authorities, architects, designers, realtors and people to understand that nature is unpredictable. While buildings can be recreated, lives are precious. Hence all coastal areas, following the example of Odisha must create structures that are cyclone proof. www.surfacesreporter.com

SR News Bulletin

One of China’s tallest structure shook mysteriously leading to evacuation

I

n a shocking incident, one of China’s tallest skyscrapers, SEG Plaza, started to shake inexplicably leading to the immediate evacuation of the building recently.

The incident occurred at around 1:00 PM in the afternoon when the 300 m tall building suddenly started shaking leading to widespread panic and immediate evacuation.

Post the incident, the building was sealed shut as the expert probe the incident to know the probable cause as there was no earthquake at that time that could shake the tower.

According to the various media posts on China’s micro-blogging site Weibo, the 71-story plaza, home to major electronics market as well as various offices is now under investigation by the Emergency management officials who said that, “After checking and analysing the data of various earthquake monitoring stations across the city, there was no earthquake in Shenzhen today.” The statement by the district also clarified that everyone inside had been safely evacuated and that no further movements of the building had been detected.

While, there has been no further activities happened since the accident, it is yet to be cleared by the authorities that how are they going to handle the now threatened town in the middle of a city of over 12 mn people.

Named after the semiconductor and electronics manufacturer Shenzhen Electronics Group, whose offices are based in the complex, it is the 18th tallest tower in Shenzhen. Chinese authorities have already banned the construction of skyscrapers taller than 500 metres. The move is aimed towards encouraging architects, urban planners and developers to “highlight Chinese characteristics” and also banned tacky “copycat” buildings modelled after world landmarks. Moreover, building collapses are not a rarity in China as rapid urbanisation and faulty building standards have led to haphazard construction that often led to such accidents.

Last May, a five-storey quarantine hotel in the south-eastern city of Quanzhou collapsed due to shoddy construction, killing 29.

While, there has been no further activities since the accident, it is yet to be cleared by the authorities that how are they going to handle the threatened building in the middle of a city of over 12 mn people.

April - May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 22

The devastating 2008 Sichuan earthquake caused more than 69,000 deaths, and the disaster ignited a storm of public controversy over poorly constructed school buildings — dubbed “tofu dregs” — which collapsed killing thousands of students. www.surfacesreporter.com

SR News Bulletin

World’s Tallest Hybrid Timber Tower in Sydney

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ew York-based SHoP Architects, in partnership with Australian firm BVN and engineering firm Eckersley O’callaghan, has been designing Atlassian Sydney Headquarters, which they claim will be the “World’s tallest hybrid timber building” when completed in 2025.

The 40-story high tower, which is under construction now, will accommodate thousands of technology workers. Located next to Sydney Central Station in New South Wales, Australia, the skyscraper will have an internal mass timber structure enclosed by a covering of glass and steel.

“Combining the steel frame with mass timber interiors will create 50 per cent less embodied carbon in the construction process compared to a traditional tower,” estimates SHoP Architects.

The building will be 180 meters (590 ft) tall, which will make it the tallest commercial hybrid timber tower ever built once its construction work finishes in 2025. The firm is also designing the world’s skinniest skyscraper.

The other architecture firms working on creating hybrid timber towers, including Perkins + Wills’ scheme for a 120-metrehigh tower in Vancouver. Apart from this, Japanese architect Shigeru Ban has also proposed a 71-metre-high tower in the same city.

The tower will be built over a historic building called The Parcels Shed, which was built in 1906. Today it is the 480bed Railway Square youth hostel. SHoP Architects and BVN plan include integrating the youth hostel structure into the April - May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 24

Combining the steel frame with mass timber interiors will create 50 per cent less embodied carbon in the construction process compared to a traditional tower. lower floors of the project. The building is clad in electricity generating glass façade which has the “self-shade” capabilities to minimize direct heat gain inside.

The blend of mass timber and the innovative façade allows the project to control Sydney’s temperate climate along with helping in lowering carbon emissions and produce onsite energy. The steel exoskeleton will support “mega floors’ that will divide the building vertically into neighbourhoods, merging indoor and outdoor spaces.

The tower will have solar panels in the vertical facades that help generate green power onsite. This means the building will operate on 100 per cent renewable energy produced by these solar panels. There are elevated parks at multiple points in the skyscraper where people can enjoy or relax all year round. www.surfacesreporter.com

Surfaces Reporter

#MeTooEarth Awareness Campaign

By SURFACES REPORTER

S

URFACES REPORTER (SR) in its quest to bring out the untold stories of environment and nature to the forefront. has organised the campaign #MeTooEarth on this World Environment Day 2021 (June 5).

to healing it. This World Environment Day will kick off the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, a global mission to revive billions of hectares, from forests to farmlands, from the top of mountains to the depth of the sea.’

The idea

#MetooEarth

World Environment Day (June 5) is a crucial celebration of the pressing environmental issues to engage governments, businesses and citizens alike every year. This year’s theme, ‘Ecosystem Restoration’ takes its cue from the fact that, ‘every three second the world loses enough forest to cover a football pitch and over the last century we have destroyed half of our wetlands. As much as 50 per cent of our coral reefs have already been lost and up to 90 per cent of coral reefs could be lost by 2050, even if global warming is limited to an increase of 1.5°C.’

In order to do our bit, SURFACES REPORTER (SR) invited entries/ ideas/ initiatives on #MeTooEarth by SR. The subjects were

According to the World Environment Day website, ‘Ecosystem restoration means preventing, halting and reversing this damage – to go from exploiting nature

v Nature photography in b&w or colour v Projects with sustainability at its core v Other environment / sustainability initiatives (that have made a positive difference) We received an overwhelming response for the campaign. Selected entries can be read at www.surfacesreporter.com

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SURFACES REPORTER

SR Rendezvous KEY LEARNINGS

Ar HAFEEZ CONTRACTOR & MARTHA THORNE Architecture Post Covid World Planning of New Cities Affordable Housing Pritzker Prize & More...

April-May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 28

People like Ar Hafeez Contractor and Martha Thorne need no introduction.

While the former is known for leaving his mark in India and across Asia with his architectural projects, the latter is a well-known scholar along with being the Executive Director of the Pritzker Architecture Prize and Dean in the architecture school at IE University in Madrid.

Coming together of such personalities is a rare occurrence, made possible through Surfaces Reporter’s exclusive webinar that saw a viewership of several thousands and still counting, aptly in association with School of Architecture, Noida.

Here are the key learnings from the hour-long conversation, moderated by Vertica Dvivedi, Editor-in-Chief, Surfaces Reporter and Rajendra Kumar, Director, School of Architecture.

Contact us at: press@surfacesreporter.com

Surfaces Reporter

WATCH THE VIDEO /SurfacesReporter

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Guest of Honour, Deputy Ambassador, Embassy of Spain in India, Ms. Montserrat Momán Pampillo, with Martha Thorne, Exe. Director, Pritzker Architecture Prize (Bottom row) Vertica Dvivedi, Rajendra Kumar and Padma Bhushan Architect Hafeez Contractor (Top row)

Architecture in the post-Covid-19 World Hafeez Contractor v When talking about COVID-19, it is also important to mention climate change. v An analysis of the two together and the utilization of resources made me reflect on how the architects design buildings and the significant role they play. v In India, with a population of around 1.3 billion people, it is particularly necessary for architects to review how we develop existing cities and design new ones. v As one of the countries with maximum urban coverage, India’s architectural initiatives have to be in compliance with the Paris Accord and contribute towards the increase in its forest coverage. v Covid-19 created a situation of a housing crisis for migrant laborers. With no buying power, there is a need for a development scheme that enables them to purchase a house for Rs. 2-3 lakhs.

Martha Thorne v There is a need for architects to engage in an open dialogue with policy-makers, and there are two particular aspects that they should especially focus their attention on. v The first one concerns the visualization of urban sites as multifunctional spaces. For example, a recreational park has to be able to accommodate both playing children as well as exercisers.

In India, with a population of around 1.3 billion people, it is particularly necessary for architects to review how we develop existing cities and design new ones. v While currently our cities are full of car, the cities of future should be pedestrian- friendly and bicycle-friendly. v The second aspect involves the realignment of architectural priorities in favor of people’s needs.

From a Euro-American perspective, for instance, there is a need for the development of neighborhoods in cities that are both safe and healthy and meet our personal as well as professional needs.

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SR Rendezvous

Covid-19 created a situation of a housing crisis for migrant laborers. With no buying power, there is a need for a development scheme that enables them to purchase a house for Rs. 2-3 lakhs.

Every architectural project undertaken has to be in consideration of the resources available and the climate change.

Ar Hafeez Contractor

On Social Housing & Multi-functional spaces Across the globe, 25-30% of the population is living n some sort of slums.

We need to think about the longterm objectives of affordable housing.

AR Hafeez Contractor v Before we discuss the relationship between architects and policy-makers, affordable housing for every citizen is one of the major concerns in contemporary India. About 50% of people in Mumbai, and elsewhere, live in dwellings known as the urban slums. Unless there aren’t systematic efforts towards improvement, there can be no quality of life for them. v Our work, plans, and designs for slum settlements have in fact shown the government that it is possible to provide slum dwellers with affordable pucca houses and that indeed such a development scheme is financially viable.

Martha Thorne v One has to keep in mind the cultural context, climate, land, financial resources, and other socio-political differences when considering the development/evolution of existing or new architectural designs and plans. v Across the globe, 25-30% of the population is living in some sort of slums. v We need to think about the long-term objectives of affordable housing. In addition to being equipped with basic sanitation and security facilities, they also need April-May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 30

to have workspaces and cultural centers for educational purposes, etc. v In places where community serves an important function and there is little willingness to relocate, such as Brazil, consolidation, and improvement of existing sites is important than building new structures.

Surfaces Reporter

Importance of Pritzker Price Hafeez Contractor v Real Pritzker lies with people’s satisfaction and happiness. One should strive to offer services to people and do so in the most efficient and economical way.

Martha Thorne v It is an area that is still under evolution and could be debated about at length. v Different prizes seek to do different things.

The gold medals are for people already in the profession. However, some awards recognize the service of not just architects, but also the clients and community for a specific building, a specific site. v As far as Pritzker is concerned, it recognizes two aspects- service to humanity and the art of architecture. What it essentially rewards is the manner in which architects service the human community while taking forward the architecture discipline.

Architects can play a significant role in the reconfiguration of our built environment and rethinking our cities.

Martha Thorne

Pritzker Prize recognizes two aspects- service to humanity and the art of architecture. What it essentially rewards is the manner in which architects service the human community while taking forward the architecture discipline.

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Interior Design

Trends 2021

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Surfaces Reporter

With Special Inputs from

AR Bobby Mukherji

Founder & Principal, Bobby Mukherji & Associates, Mumbai

Ar Hiren Patel Principal Architect HPA, Ahmedabad

Ar Sunil Patil

Principal, Sunil Patil & Associates, Pune

MR Sumessh Menon Sumessh Menon Associates, Mumbai

Mr Dipen Gada

Principal Designer, Dipen Gada & Associates, Vadodara

After an unforgettable 2020, we have stepped into a new decade with the start of 2021.

The starting of vaccine drive is something the world is cheerful about! Let us see what we have in store in terms of design trends that can bring rays of sunshine into our interiors.

Although 2020 was wholly focused on hygiene, touchless technologies and designing a home office, there are a few yet significant changes that will mark the interior trends for 2021. Surfaces Reporter spoke to design stalwarts who provided their valuable inputs on how the interior scenario of 2021 will look. From using material that speak of luxury to designing timeless interiors, the experts predict the home trends in 2021. So, have an exciting read and tell us your opinion at Press@surfacesreporter.com

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SR Interior Design Trends 2021

Materiality is the key Materials are and will be the key to design beautiful interiors be it any genre, i.e., residential, commercial or hospitality. Materials including brick, natural stones, marble, wood etc are all time favourites but we are also seeing an influx of synthetic materials including Terrazzo that are going to be a big hit in a time to come.

Material of the Year- Terrazzo “Lately, a material trend that has been a favorite would have to be terrazzo. Even though it’s an old and classic material which has been used in temples, mosques etc. It basically depends on us how we reinvent it, play with different techniques and what we add to it- we can use it on the floor, on furniture tops, we could use it all over the walls for monochromatic bathrooms. For this we use both real and machine-made Terrazzo.”

Sumessh Menon

Bathroom design by Sumessh Menon April-May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 34

Surfaces Reporter

Collector's Office by Ar Sunil Patil

“2021 will be all about material. Due to Globalisation, a lot of materials have come to India while we are developing many materials back home. In India, the trend of using Glass is really catching up which will remain in 2021. While we have been working with materials like bricks, the trend of using steel and glass which has come from European countries Bathroom Design by Sumessh Menon

“In terms of materials only carpets are going out as much as they possibly can and instead, soft things have been trending like faux leathers or furs and, other cloth-based materials. Vitrified tiles are also going to go big because of the budget associated with

is going on in India. Exterior Wood is also becoming very popular. Our material palette has really increased.”

Ar Sunil Patil

them- Even in high-end projects.”

Ar Bobby Mukherjee April-May 2021 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 35

SR Interior Design Trends 2021

Timeless Interiors “Timeless designs matter more than trends. If you go by every years’ trends then it will become something that is bound to die every year. I always believe in doing something timeless be it classic, neo-classic or something on those lines. For me, I spend every year looking and researching for upcoming new materials and techniques in the market - those for me, are latest trends and not, some designs.”

Mr Sumessh Menon

Luxury WILL continue to stay in trend

Taj Bengal, Living Area by Ar Bobby Mukherji

“More focus in terms of trends will be on ‘outside the city resort projects’ which are in good environments whether it’s a 3-star or a 5-star. These will be built in hill-stations, holiday destinations like Goa, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Rishikesh, Shimla, Darjeeling, Sikkim, Coorg, and other beach areas. These are the places that show decent sales in terms of room occupancy even in these circumstances while the city hotels aren’t- so that’s the new trend.”

Ar Bobby Mukherjee April-May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 36

Surfaces Reporter

He further added, “These hotels would take time to open and the present ones are upgrading their properties and in terms of budgets also, it is more frugal than before so the natural and rustic feeling of wellness is showing up in these projects. After all the recent developments that has happened, the mindset of people has changed so everything has become understated in an outlook and, over-glamourous things don’t seem to be sitting well with these sentiments.”

Aamby Valley by Ar Bobby Mukherji

Le Meridien, New Delhi by Ar Bobby Mukherji

“Trends this year would be cozier but also very luxurious. People these days, aren’t willing to make compromises on any such matters. They want to maintain the homely feeling along with immersing into luxury as it is going to take the front seat as people have now realized its value.”

Ar Hiren Patel

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SR Interior Design Trends 2021

green & spacious workplace Hiren further suggests, “In terms of offices, spacious and better toilets would be a primary need along with more

Amoeba Office by Hiren Patel Architects

spaces for home-offices and other work places is going to be a must. Along with this, the connection with nature in workspaces is going to be a prime thing. Whether it is a view of the nature or the proper feeling of the same- this would be trending for sure!”

Futuristic Buildings “2-3 months back, I was actually pondering over a futuristic city where receptions will be on the top of the buildings while all sorts of deliveries will be made through drones. The travel mode will be air with people travelling in a small cabin which would take you to the pre decided destination automatically and the grounds would only be used for leisure activities like walks and morning strolls. Also, flats with Terraces will be sold more now as people would want to have their personal open space taking cue from the several months of Lockdown. but that will be mostly in the luxury segment.”

Ar Hiren Patel

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Surfaces Reporter

“With many people’s attitude on life changing after 2020 and many wishing they could get away from all this clutter; comfort, freedom is what they all look up to. A natural, earthy palette which reflects welcoming and warmth is what we will be looking forward to,” Mr Dipen Gada

Futuristic Buildings

With the lockdown and those who weren’t staying with their family, have missed them and are now looking towards

living together rather than nuclear family structure, which opens trends of combined or huge houses.

Project by Dipen Gada & Associates

While many have missed the freedom of travelling around the globe, a trend of global inspiration which reflects their personal choice of travel and their taste being reflected in their interior spaces. The houses would be filled up with nostalgia, items which connect them to their culture and identity rather than items just for mere decor. The space planning would be more towards open gardens and verandas rather than closed up spaces.

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SR LAUNCH PAD

Technology & Innovations as Drivers of Well being Media & Telecast Partner

Surfaces Reporter Launch of Greenply E-O As India is reeling from a pandemic, architects and designers have taken it upon themselves to work towards a greener environment and to construct spaces that can improve the well-being of the clients and end-users. This is all the more important because a strong link has been established between climate change and the recent coronavirus pandemic which has ravaged the world. Since the climate is changing, people also have to adapt to certain situations and adopt methods of sustainability that can extend and improve their health and that of their loved ones.

To understand this issue at a greater level, SURFACES REPORTER (SR) talked to some of the eminent professionals who answered our queries of sustainability, eco-friendliness, well-being, and architecture and how technology is going to link them all together and assist them in a better way. The panel included Ar. Tushar Kothawade, Co-Founder, Studio Infinity, Pune; Ar. Manishi Aggarwal, Co-Founder, Design Cosmos, New Delhi; Amit Porwal, Principal Designer, ICON Projects Inspace Pvt Ltd, Mumbai; Bhadri Sonpal, tHE gRID architects, Ahmedabad; Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj, Award-winning Skin & Wellness Expert; Mr. Manoj Tulsian, JMD & CEO, Greenply Industries Ltd; Mr. Shyam Shekhawat, Business Head, Greenply Industries Ltd. & Mr. Partha Nath, Deputy General Manager, Greenply Industries Ltd, Kolkata.

Vertica Dvivedi, Editor-in-Chief, SURFACES REPORTER, moderated the session.

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Surfaces Reporter

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Level of awareness among clients Amit Porwal: Well, because our country has made massive progress when it comes to the economy and social responsibility, our jobs as professionals have become much easier and simpler. People are still a bit unaware of emissions. However, when it comes to just pure awareness about safety, everybody is much more aware of their responsibility towards their projects and their homes, in this day and age. It’s not like when clients come to us, we have to tell them to make a conscious effort to be responsible. Instead, when a conscious design is concerned, we adapt it into our philosophy and bring forth the same ideas in our projects. In this way, we can make significant contributions to society.

Whenever industries such as the ply industry make a worthwhile innovation, we can act as the bridge between the industry and the clients and promote more efficient and sustainable methods and materials. Social awareness has always been present, and it’s not just because of the pandemic. Yes, the pandemic has made us much more aware and responsible towards wellness and our responsibility towards the clients. Nevertheless, if the industries are driven forward by significant leaps and bounds in innovation, then we are always ready to adapt these new ideas, so that we may make progress towards a better future.

So, there is a substantial amount of awareness among the clients and even in the industries about progressing in more sustainable ways and finding techniques and materials which can aid in terms of the clients’ well-being.

Considering the fact that we have numerous panellists here who are from different parts of the country, we would like to know their experiences when it comes to such ideas and the adaptability of the ideas into more concretized forms.

Mr. Amit Porwal Principal Designer, Icon Projects Inspace Pvt Ltd, Mumbai/Kolkata

Social awareness has always been present, and it’s not just because of the pandemic. Yes, the pandemic has made us much more aware and responsible towards wellness and our responsibility towards the clients.

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SR Launch Pad

Mr. Manoj Tulsian

In our country, we hire the specialists but we also have a thousand other unpaid specialists who have a myriad of advice. This is a change which we need to drive into the society that we should hire the right specialist for the job and listen to their recommendations only.

JMD & CEO, Greenply Industries Ltd

Tushar Kothawade: There is a certain amount of

awareness now thanks to television, computers, mobiles, and the internet in general. However, I must also add to the fact that I have an issue with this awareness. The problem here is that the general public’s level of awareness is actually quite shallow. For example, many people would want to use something which is endorsed by a celebrity. If a celebrity endorses a particular product and states a few benefits, then the people are likely to ask for the same product without knowing how it needs to be integrated, or what are its the prerequisites. Our attention span has already been lowered thanks to the usage of our mobile phones. So, we tend not to go into the required depth. We have a tendency to ape the West when our own country has actually been progressing beautifully in terms of sustainability. We need to have the right education which can promote awareness and products which aid in the well-being of the people, instead of the shallow bits of awareness which we might encounter on a television commercial.

Bhadri Sonpal: Drivers in well-being is a close-to-heart

subject for me. I strongly feel that we are drivers of well-being.

Many people would ask us about our contributions towards wellbeing, as we may not be a complete necessity. However, I think that we make a fair difference because we are the ones designing urban spaces, which will be utilized by the people. Moreover, this is exactly how a city develops. Also, people are aware of trends which are temporary. What is not temporary is Natural. This is what we need to incorporate into our fundamental philosophies of design. For example, the idea of biophilia in our homes, with plants, higher ceilings, and natural sunlight - these are ideas which we need to incorporate even further. There should be minimum cosmetic layers in our designs; if any at all.

Manishi Aggarwal: A lot has been said about awareness,

and I do believe that different clients have different levels of awareness. However, where we as designers struggle when we have to recommend green products, and products that have zero emissions. The problem today is that these products have certain overhead costs to the company. Moreover, they are not affordable for the clients, then it becomes difficult for us to recommend them, April-may 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 42

Ar. Tushar Kothawade

Co-Founder, Studio Infinity, Pune

Many people want to use products endorsed by a celebrity without knowing how it needs to be integrated, or what are its the prerequisites.

Surfaces Reporter especially when the clients have budgetary restrictions. So, the product affordability for more sustainable and zero-emission options that we have in the market right now is something that needs to be addressed. Only then will we be able to have more options and freedom, as well as move steadily towards sustainability and progress.

Innovative Products versus Price

Bhadri Sonpal: There is quite a challenge when it comes to convincing clients for getting zero-emission products or materials. Cosmetic overlays for displaying organic products are quite unnecessary. The best idea would be to go back to the roots. We need to combine architecture with agriculture and biophilia.

Tushar Kothawade: The responsibility of the

well-being of a space has to be shared by the designer, manufacturer, and the end-user. None of us can remove ourselves from this situation and state that it isn’t our responsibility. If we as architects and designers can incorporate these ideas of sustainability, then we would move forward properly. We need to make the clients our partners in this journey. If you look at it from the outside, then you can see different entities in the project, clients, architects, and the contractor or the construction team. There is going to be friction if everyone is working for themselves. We need to work together - only then will well-being be incorporated into the shared space. All of us need to be on the same line of the project and work in tandem.

Amit Porwal: The affordability factor is very crucial

for us. What I believe is that we need to put our foot down and not provide too many options to the client. Once we take up a project, we will act as advisors to the client on what is needed. However, we have to go against a thousand other people who may be advising the client as well. Once you have reached a certain stage in your career, it is much easier to be adamant and sure about your work. What I have noticed is that if you are adamant and convincing about what you think will work best, the clients are more than likely to agree with your ideas. We need to project ourselves in a more socially responsible manner.

Sustainable and eco-friendly designs for healthy living Tushar Kothawade: COVID-19 has changed our outlook. We need to be more sensitive towards our work and our environments. More importantly, we must actively take into account the idea of well-being in our homes and shared spaces. We have to look more at the respective end-user perspectives when we design our works and spaces, and how the spaces behave with the end-users. The main message would be to understand the sensitivity of the situation and to look more towards home. Our roots in India are more important at the moment than us looking towards the West.

Mr. Shyam Shekhawat

Business Head, Greenply Industries Ltd

The indoor air quality is spoilt now-a-days due to our lifestyle choices.

It is high time we understand and implement changes that can better our lives within the interiors.

Bhadri Sonpal: The one important thing that I

want the newcomers in the field to know is that we need to juxtapose agriculture, architecture, and biophilia. There is a dire need to stay away from cosmetic overlays and toxic materials. We have to look towards sustainability and nature if we are to introduce the well-being of the end-users into our designs.

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SR Launch Pad

ms. Bhadri Sonpal

Ar. Manishi Aggarwal

The idea of biophilia in our homes, with plants, higher ceilings, and natural sunlight, are ideas which we need to incorporate even further.

There should be minimum cosmetic layers in our designs; if any at all.

Technology is available to us now which allows us to visualize the projects that we are working on.

This helps us to educate the clients as well. Green building consultations must also become an important part of new projects.

tHE gRID Architects, Ahmedabad

Manoj Tulsian: In other countries, when a person needs

a project to be completed, they hire specialists to do the job. In our country, we have the specialists whom we hire, but we also have a thousand other unpaid specialists who have a myriad of advice. This is a change which we need to drive into the society that we should hire the right specialist for the job and listen to their recommendations only. Creating awareness also faces the hurdle of expenses, since we do believe that as clients, we have some idea about the cost. The cost often takes precedence over the benefits.

We need a certain push right now which will drive that innovation and mentality change.

Shyam Shekhawat: The indoor air quality is spoilt

now-a-days due to our lifestyle choices. Almost 50-60% area of our rooms are occupied with furniture which are usually made with structural grade plywood, necessarily using the formaldehyde resins that keep on emitting harmful emissions spoiling the indoor air even more. While our place may look clean, they are actually dirtier than we think which is harmful for our health. Sometimes, the outside air is 10 times cleaner than the inside air. All the chemicals we use also emit formaldehyde but with plywood it is April-may 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 44

Co-Founder, Design Cosmos, New Delhi

more harmful since it has the tendency to emit fumes and with poor cross ventilation and air conditioning, the problem worsens.

Due to the use of Formaldehyde, the interiors are not that clean as they apper to be. As a manufacturer, we took this responsibility to manufacture a product that ensures that at least 50-60% area is clean and not adding to indoor air pollution. This led to the launch of Greenply E.0, the zero emission plywood.

Amit Porwal: I do have a mantra which all of my colleagues have adapted, as well as the members of my office. I call it the five As. It goes as: Acknowledge it, Adapt it, Accept it, be Adamant, and Apply it. I believe that everyone in the industry should use this as well.

Manishi Aggarwal: I would like to tell everyone that as

we are in the thick of the situation, and as the industry, we must emphasize newer ideas, improvement, and innovation. Technology is available to us now which allows us to visualize the projects that we are working on. This helps us to educate the clients as well.

Green building consultations must also become an important part of new projects that we may endorse and work on.

SR LAUNCH PAD

New Showcase & HYBRID LAUNCH of

Delta Faucet Company @dps STORE Ludhiana Media & Telecast Partner

Surfaces Reporter ith a thought that celebrates the art of design & technology in architecture, Delta Faucet Company India and DPS Store Ludhiana have recently come together to launch a brand-new range of bath collections in order to enhance the bathroom experience of their clientele. Delta Faucet is the 66-year-old company, USA’s leader in faucet and shower sales and innovations in water experiences. If that wasn’t enough, Delta Faucet Company India caters to more than 40 cities in India.

The virtual launch was significant in many ways, i.e., notable architects from the Ludhiana city including Ar Sanjay Goel, Principal, Designex Architects, Ar Ashok Sharma, Principal, Ashok Sharma Architects, Ar Amrit Panwar, Principal, Architecture aNew and Ar Thakur Udayveer Singh, Principal, Space Race Architects, Ludhiana who along with Ravi Nindwani, Managing Director, Delta Faucet Company India & Asia and Preet Singh Kanwar, Design Director, DPS Store, came together to discuss the BATH DESIGN TRENDS across Punjab. The show was moderated by Vertica Dvivedi, Editor-in-Chief of Surfaces Reporter Magazine.

Delta x dps STORE launch was special. It was a hybrid launch, part physical & part virtual that happened on Surfaces Reporter platform on the 17th of April in 2021.

The success of this online launch prove that in spite of the pandemic, business can continue using newage use of Digital platforms by expert media houses. To know more about the online launches, write to us at: press@surfacesreporter.com.

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SR Launch Pad

People have an inclination towards experiencing something new in their bathrooms.

Many of my clients have begun to incorporate steam rooms in their homes as they cannot step out due to the pandemic.

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Surfaces Reporter

WATCH THE VIDEO

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EVOLVING BATHROOM DESIGNS Mr. Sanjay Goel: There has been a massive change in the bathroom designs of people living across the country, but especially in Punjab. People today are more concerned about beautifying their bathrooms just like their bedrooms or lounges.

Ar Ashok Sharma: 20 years ago, bathrooms did not have so many items. Mostly, it included a tap, faucet, and a shower head. However, as people started travelling and getting more exposed to new things, their awareness about bathroom design also evolved. The first things to change were the faucets and fixtures, followed by a change in color.

People are now re-structuring their bathrooms to get a spa-like experience.

Ar Amrit Panwar: Many clients ask for a range of shower heads in order to have a different bath experience every time they bathe. Also, people are getting more acquainted with new designs and concepts due to extensive travelling, such as faucets that can be operated even without touching them.

Ar Thakur Udayveer Singh: My clients always ask me to make their bathrooms bigger than their bedrooms. Some bathrooms are equipped with aesthetic landscape images on the walls while others are providing a direct view of the nature through one-way glass windows. This enables the person to enjoy the outside view while maintaining their privacy.

Mr Preet Singh Kanwar: People have an inclination towards experiencing something new in their bathrooms. Many of my clients have begun to incorporate steam rooms in their homes as they cannot step out due to the pandemic. In addition to that, there has also been a reduction in the water use.

DEMAND OF BATH PRODUCTS Ar Sharma: Most of my clients belong to the elite section of the society. Their demand has not changed much even though people are demanding new experiences and are willing to pay any price for it.

Ar Amrit Panwar: Punjabis travel a lot, especially abroad and thus very open to change. When some of my clients spot a particular thing during their travels, they make sure that they have it in their homes as well. Most of my clients have been focusing much on employing state-of-the-art facilities which are in sync with the décor of the bedrooms.

Mr. Preet Singh Kanwar: The impact of COVID-19 can be understood from the demands of my clientele as many of them have been installing steam rooms at home in order to protect them from the pandemic. Bathrooms are now being equipped with carpets, ACs, ventilation systems, and LED screens.

EFFECTS OF COVID ON BATHROOM DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE INDUSTRY Ar Goel: The instances of renovations and alterations have increased as can be witnessed in the case of installing sensory taps.

Ar Panwar: Many of my projects are still continuing even though there was a brief halt during the initial days of the lockdown. However, the work resumed from April onwards as the labor was stationed onsite.

Mr Ravi Nindwani: The demand for luxury bath products is increasing rapidly; there is too much pressure on us regarding the innovation. Our clients have a very high service expectations. They want our servicing agents to be fast and most efficient in their jobs.

People are re-structuring their bathrooms to get a spa-like experience. The first things to change ARE the faucets & fixtures.

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SR Launch Pad

SPECIAL Reporter from SURFACES REPORTER at dps STORE Ludhiana

HYBRID LAUNCH OF DELTA & BRIZO at dps store ludhiana

Mr Preet Singh Kanwar, Design Director, dps STORE, showing Delta & Brizo designs to the LIVE audience of SURFACES REPORTER

Ar Sanjay Goel

Principal, Designex Architects Ludhiana

Ar Ashok Sharma

Principal, Ashok Sharma Architects Ludhiana

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Ar Thakur Udayveer Singh Space Race Architects, Ludhiana

Surfaces Reporter

Ar Amrit Panwar

Principal, Architecture aNew Chandigarh

Many of my projects are still continuing even though there was a brief halt during the initial

days of the lockdown.

WATER CONSERVATION & LUXURY

especially when they are spending so much for their luxury. But as architects, it is our responsibility to make people aware about the water conservation.

Mr Ravi Nindwani: The balance of nature has been disintegrating with each passing day as there is no reciprocity on our part. We take a lot of from nature but do not return equally or even adequately. It is our responsibility to restore this balance.

Mr Preet Singh Kanwar: People are reluctant to waste and have often asked me before purchasing about the flow rate of shower heads. So, this is a pleasant surprise for all of us. They also store water separately for separate things such as spa.

Ar Thakur Udayveer Singh: I think people are well aware of the importance of water and try to save as much as they can. At the same time, since their bathrooms are very luxurious, the bathing time increases and consequently there is a little wastage of water.

I think there needs to be a “Smart Bathroom” in the future that can be operated by a single button. We are already progressing in this direction.

Ar Ashok Sharma: I recommend all my clients to save water. The awareness about water conservation is gradually increasing in Punjab. Almost 80% of my projects have included Rain Water Harvesting.

Ar Amrit Panwar: Everyone is not equally open to water saving. Many people think that there is no point in saving water

THE LAUNCH The unique aspect of this launch was the three-fold approach with the combination of physical real time showcase of products, while also virtually interacting with the esteemed architects who had joined the LIVE platform, and audience from across India who were watching the show.

Through SURFACES REPORTER’S website and social pages, Facebook & Youtube, LIVE audience were able to witness the impressive display of Brizo and Delta’s latest collection showcased at the Ludiana showroom.

Mr. Preet Singh Kanwar, Design Director, dps STORE showed through the exclusive showcase of Brizo and Delta collection.

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SR Launch Pad

Ravi Nindwani

Managing Director Delta Faucet Company India & Asia

Delta Faucet Company and dps STORE envision delivering curated bath and kitchen solutions to the premium and luxury segments of Ludhiana. It is also their mutual endeavor to bring together the notable community of architects and interior designers of the city and introduce them to the latest designs and technologies that can help in delivering unique homes.

About Delta and Brizo Brizo is a luxury fittings brand for those who understand that fashion is about lifestyle and about the home too. It offers fully coordinated design collections across faucets, showers, mirrors, lights and accessories along with some of the most innovative water experiences like the H2Okinetic™ showers. The brand speaks to evolved Indian consumers who are widely traveled and global in their thinking.

Delta is a premium fittings brand which speaks to home owners who are passionate about transforming a house into their home; who appreciate refined design aesthetics and are always looking for pioneering technologies to upgrade their lifestyle.

About dps STORE, Ludhiana Mr­Sarabjit Singh founded dps STORE in 1980 with the dream to be one of the best in the Tiles and Sanitation retail industry. Their products are chosen with care and concern. dps STORE is known for good after-sales service and support. Keeping true to his vision, he ensured the focus stayed on products with great performance and unique designs while offering curated solutions to customers of premium and luxury segments. And all of this, done with an unmatched passion for making every home unique.

Today, the dps Store is a 10,000 sq.ft. one-stop outlet that has the most exquisite product displays showcasing premium fixtures curated for residential and commercial needs. Ranging from faucets and shower systems to sanitaryware, plumbing, wall /

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We have brought in Brizo and Delta into India and after putting in 8 years of relentless work into developing products for India and putting up showroomdisplays across India, we are now servicing 40 odd cities. floor tiles, window coverings and bath/ wellness products, the assortment is impressively wide offering a host of options across categories.

Building on the strong foundation laid by Mr Sarabjit Singh, the next generation of Mr Harsimranjot Singh and Mr Preet Kanwar Singh are carrying forward the vision of their father. Preet Singh ji is an architect while Harsimran’s passion for technology and the environment helps them cater to the growing demand for exclusive, responsible and sustainable design solutions of today’s discerning customer.

About Delta FAUCET COMPANY Delta Faucet Company is USA’s leader in faucet and shower sales and innovations in water experiences. It’s a 66 year old company which did so well that its earnings were ploughed into creating the home improvement group of companies, Masco, which is listed on the NY stock exchange as MAS. It has come a long way since 1954 and has technologies like the water saving H2Okinetic™, the splash containing ShieldSpray®, the absolute word in flexibility HydraChoice™ and spot resisting LumiCoat to its credit. The company offers a wide range of special finishes and more importantly a reliable supply chain to be able to service orders across the 60 odd design ranges and the 15 finishes it offers!

Based in Gurgaon, Delta Faucet Company India is ably led by Managing Director, India and Asia operations, Mr Ravi Nindwani.

“We have brought in Brizo and Delta into India and after putting in 8 years of relentless work into developing products for India and putting up showroom-displays across India, we are now servicing 40 odd cities,” said Mr Nindwani during the interaction with the panel of architects and live audience.

BUY Surfaces reporter Magazine from

SR LAUNCH PAD

Surface Design Trends 2021 “Recognizing the need is the primary condition for design.” – Charles Eames

Launching of Century Laminate LOOKBOOK 2020-22 MEDIA & TELECAST PARTNER

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SR Launch Pad

WATCH THE VIDEO

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ith the dictum in mind to innovate, care and look forward, the architecture and design industry have embarked on a new journey, spurred by the coronavirus crisis.

Due to the onslaught of the pandemic, we have seen a reverse influx in public spaces, office spaces and the likes. Whether living spaces or not, a need to keep up with the times and prioritize hygiene, safety and cleanliness. Keeping the needs of the hour in mind, SURFACES REPORTER’S Surface Design Trends 2021 discusses the latest trends that are in vogue in the design industry now, supported by Century Laminate.

To discover best of the direction that design trends are taking in 2021, Surfaces Reporter got in touch with some leading experts who gave their valuable opinion on what 2021 holds in store in terms of design. Incidentally, the webinar happened alongside the Grand Launch of the Century Laminates LookBook 2020-2022 in the presence of the Executive Director of Century Laminates, Mr. Keshav Bhajanka. Here is an excerpt from the delightful conversation we had:

Surface Designs Trends, in terms of patterns, textures, colours or material Ar. Hiren Patel: There are a number of ways of creating surfaces. Interior surfaces, for humid climates, are preferred if they are easy to clean and do not require much maintenance. We love bringing the outside world inside to create a beautiful relation. Light colour palettes, earthen tones and grey surfaces work the best for interiors.

Ar. Vivek Gupta: The vocabulary of your design remains a personal choice. Client’s choice and climate are two essential factors that drive the rules of designs. For me, the colour and the textures change to suit the requirements and uniqueness of every project. I’d like to share an anecdotal reference here, while discussing texture. As I come from April-may 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 54

Surfaces Reporter Bikaner, the exposed brick texture didn’t sit well with a friend of mine. He asked if I was going to plaster the house after the rains had come and gone. Touch and feel surfaces are decreasing, but the texture patterns and the reflection of outdoors into interiors remains strong for households.

Ar. Santha Gour: It isn’t fashion – it is a particular choice.

Trends aren’t a great idea for permanent structures that stand the test of time. However, I can affirm there’s a definite shift in people’s choice for their home or office spaces. They are wanting to get a lot of natural greenery like stone textures and green walls as opposed to cold backgrounds of the erstwhile interior trends. A more rustic and earthy trend is being preferred at present.

Id. Monita Patel: There’s nothing like trends, it’s all very personal. As I come from Nagpur, I can assert that there has been a lot of change in perspective and understanding of people. Concrete finishes, exposed brick structures are very much in trend, in places like Nagpur. People now are specifically asking for textures – and going for the green element.

Material Selection Ar. Hiren Patel: Most people were working from home at the start of the coronavirus crisis, but now we have been talking about how to get them back into offices. The first talk has been about surfaces – how to make it safer. Temporary solutions are coming up for confidence building measures. If laminates and surfaces can come up with microbial structures where we minimize contact, we’d be looking at the future.

Mr. Keshav Bhajanka: As of April 2020, we’ve come up with Virokill Technology for all our laminates and ply products.

It has 99.99 percent efficacy against viruses and bacteria and with nano technology, we’re planning to reinvent the idea of surfaces.

Ar. Santha Gour: Looking at the positive side of the pandemic, our industry is innovating so fast that now we’ve high hygienic surfaces. Even after the pandemic has passed, these changes are going to stay with us, and lead us to a better future.

Looking at the positive side of the pandemic, our industry is innovating so fast that now we’ve high hygienic surfaces.

Even after the pandemic has passed, these changes are going to stay with us, and lead us to a better future.

Mr. Keshav Bhajanka Executive Director Century Plyboards India Ltd

Virokill has 99.99 percent efficacy against viruses and bacteria and with nano technology, we’re planning to reinvent the idea of surfaces.

Mr. Keshav Bhajanka: To make it easy to implement, all Century Laminates products have virokill technology, without any additional costs. We’ve reduced production costs, and we’ve made it possible for everyone to access it – even for public places that see a huge influx of people.

Ar. Vivek Gupta: Adversity teaches us a lot.

Innovations being done now are going to stay.

I hope the pandemic ends really soon, as to see so many people suffering from disease and demise hasn’t been great. But like Santha said: this is a great instance to show Indian architecture can always take a leap forward.

The automobile industry has a new innovation every year, because there’s an ongoing dialogue among industry experts and that’s a constant need. I think the architecture and design industry needs something similar.

Id. Monita Patel: The pandemic has got us thinking – and taken us in a different direction.

The demand to innovate to lead a better life is coming directly from our clients, and the entire industry and we are responding to that demand.

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SR Launch Pad

Ar. Santha Gour

Principal & Co-Founder at Infinitti Design Studio, Director at Planet 3 Studios Architecture Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai

They are wanting to get a lot of natural greenery like stone textures and green walls as opposed to cold backgrounds of the erstwhile interior trends. A more rustic and earthy trend is being preferred at present.

This is a great instance to show Indian architecture can always take a leap forward.

The automobile industry has a new innovation every year, because there’s an ongoing dialogue among industry experts and a constant need.

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Ar. Hiren Patel

Hiren Patel and Associates, Ahmedabad

We love bringing the outside world inside to create a beautiful relation. Light colour palettes, earthen tones and grey surfaces work the best for interiors.

Grand Launch of the Century Laminates Look Book 2020-2022: A Journey into the Interiors of Interior Design Mr. Keshav Bhajanka: At Century Laminates, we always believe in raising the bar and rising to the occasion. It is a long-term process, where we visit exhibitions all over the world and we take constructive feedback from all our suppliers. Our esteemed partners, channel partners, architects and designers give us their constant inputs on what they feel are the rising trends in the industry. We always have an on-going dialogue where we prioritize a collective consciousness in the team. We focus on the latest trends and believe that we’ve to strive day in and out to maintain quality no matter what.

Mr. Shankho Chowdhury, President of the Design Department introduces the Century Laminates Look Book 2020-2022 Mr. Shankho Chowdhury: At Century Laminates, ‘LOOKBOOKS’ define the way forward. It has been well over a decade that we have approached catalogues as lookbooks, for we believe the latter does justice to the hard work and finesse that goes behind its making. The theme for Century Laminates Look Book 2020-2022 is Picture Perfect Spaces.

Surfaces Reporter As architecture braces itself against the new challenges, 2021 is the year where we know Indian Architecture has the potential to rise to the occasion and lead the way for future inventions and innovations.

ID. Monita Patel Driving Force at Century Laminates Century Laminates believe there’s an artist inside all of us, and your imagination can design the canvas of your interiors. The latest LOOKBOOK is an inspiration and an ode to the artist inside you. The Designer Collection has new concepts, and innovations unmatched in brilliance like the new state of art virokill technology, known for its 99.99 percent efficacy. Team at CenturyLaminate believe this would help future builders pave the way for innovation, and excellence and help them in their quest of creating picture perfect spaces and places as they go forward.

Monita Patel & Associates Nagpur

Concrete finishes, exposed brick structures are very much in trend, in places like Nagpur.

People now are specifically asking for textures – and going for the green element.

The New Additions to Century Laminates Mr Anvesh Garg from CenturyLaminate introduced the 70 new introductions done in the Century Laminates Look Book, where 13 are in designer collections, 2 in lucida, 2 silk tuff, 3 veneer collection, 11 combinations, 28 new textures 7 woodgrains and 4 solids. Their newly introduced Designer Collections lays the groundwork for new designs that have entered the matrix like Wabi Sabi, Gradient, Graffiti, planks and Venezia – known for their perfection and top quality finish in trendy office spaces and retail outlets.One of the interesting collection is the Gradient Designs, this year where 4 exclusive designs in AI finish are known for their seamless finish and quality. Exotic Wood Grains designs are also doing wonders in the world at a global scale.

Century Laminates catalogues allow you to stop, feel and touch the design – so that you know what you are getting for yourselves. This unique experience is aimed to close the gap between you and the idea of perfect interiors with the aid of ideal combinations.

Parting Words Architecture in India is responding to the needs of the hour, and the crisis at heart. The innovations it has come up with to counter the coronavirus crisis would also stay on as paradigm instances of the leaps it is taking into the future of architecture. The future of Indian architecture is bright. As architecture braces itself against the new challenges, 2021 is the year where we know Indian Architecture has the potential to rise to the occasion and lead the way for future inventions and innovations.

Ar. Vivek Gupta Arvind Vivek and Associates, New Delhi

Touch and feel surfaces are decreasing, but the texture patterns and the reflection of outdoors into interiors remains strong for households.

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TO BE OR NOT TO BE

Architect Sangeet Sharma Some known, some untold stories April-may 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 58

Ar Sangeet Sharma, Partner, SD Sharma & Associates, Chandigarh Photography: Shivansh Sharma

Surfaces Reporter

his is about Architect Sangeet Sharma – some known and some untold stories regarding his life and work. SURFACES REPORTER made this the Cover Story because we felt that this conversation is important and should be shared with the design fraternity.

It is definitely a great blessing to have someone in the family who has reached the pinnacle of success in a particular field.

When the next generation joins the same field of work, they are likely to be bestowed with established work, recognition, knowledge and network. There is always a mentor and guide to go back to, and there is hardly any room for error.

The entry of second generation ushers new energy & ideas.

However, it is also likely that the long line sketched by the seniors may sometimes become difficult and heavy for others to maintain. If expectations are high, this may lead to pressure. We wanted to address this issue and come out with some positive ideas & outcomes.

Being an ardent admirer of legendary Architect Shivdatt Sharma, and knowing the fact that his son, architect Sangeet Sharma is doing equally well and in fact excelling in more than one field of work, SURFACES REPORTER was curious to find answers to some of our questions through an interaction with the multifaceted, second generation architect. v How to handle the burden of over expectations? v What are the opportunities and obstacles of working under first generation star performers? v When the line drawn by one generation is long, how to drive such firms? How to work under the shadow and outside of it?

Ar Sharma opened up with SURFCAES REPORTER to share myriad memories, some for the first time in his life.

v Is it possible to work under the wings while also grow one’s own wings and build own identity? v How to win over the dilemma of whether to ‘live under the shadow, grow or outgrow’ v What are the secrets of success for a second generation architect whose first generation has delivered superlative projects?

Ar Sharma opened up with SURFCAES REPORTER to share myriad memories, some for the first time in his life. Here is an excerpt from the conversation which throws light to most of the questions we have raised. Share your opinion with us at PRESS@SURFACESREPORTER.COM

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SR Cover Story

Sangeet Sharma is an architect based out of Chandigarh. Other than being a partner in SD Sharma & Associates, he is a published author of a bestseller, TEDx speaker, trained singer & guitarist, educationist, poet and a motivational speaker.

The firm SD Sharma & Associates was founded

by Architect Shivdatt Sharma in 1980. Many senior architects, structural engineers, civil engineers, estimators and other technical staff assist the firm, which has built a name as one of the leading consulting companies of the region.

In the last 40 years it has to its credit many prestigious Hospitals, Institutional buildings, Auditoriums, Housings, Trade centres and Advanced Technical buildings like Animal Houses, Pilot Plant, Roadways, Workshops for various services including highly advanced cold rooms and hospitals and mortuaries etc. The team provides total consultancy services of architecture, structure and execution under one roof.

Ar Sangeet Sharma has been conferred Honorary Doctorate by Berkeley University. His architecture is termed as ‘cubist modernism’ and is highly influenced by Chandigarh.

He is widely published, awarded and featured in prestigious journals in India and abroad. Ar Sharma has authored five cult books on architecture; his latest “Castles in the Air” took the profession by storm. He has been awarded two literary awards in authorship including ‘National Book Honour Award’-2017. He is also a poet and has penned his poems in English under the tile “The Touch of Moon”.

He was awarded the ‘Poet of the year’ by the poetry society.

He had delivered almost hundred and fifty talks including in many Universities abroad.

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My first and foremost Guru is my father Ar Shiv Dutt Sharma, from whom I have learnt the nuisances of architecture.

He has worked with the likes of Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeannette for building the Chandigarh city.

Surfaces Reporter

How would you describe about your inspiration in Architecture?

My inspiration is architecture is two words, i.e., Delight and Human Values. This is the basis of my work. From satisfying self to satisfying the masses, this is how I feel inspired to work.

My first and foremost Guru is my father Ar Shiv Dutt Sharma, from whom I have learnt the nuisances of architecture. He has worked with the likes of Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeannette for building the Chandigarh city. I have seen him being immensely involved in his work day and night, sharpening pencils, creating two-dimensional and three-dimensional drawings, visiting sites with him etc. It cultivated a curiosity in me about the work he was doing. When I started studying architecture, I learnt about his philosophy and works and started seeing him as beyond my father. At 88 years, he is still actively working which is a matter of pride for us.

It was not easy to grow under a famous father.

The initial hiccups and pressures tormented me and there was many a time a desire to de-align myself from the existing life-pattern.

Your Architectural Philosophy: My architecture should always be showing you something more- something beyond, that which is ahead of the visible.

In every frame I want geometry to roll and play an important part of cohesion and suspension.

I want my buildings to surpass the requirements of the client, or the bare necessities of the building – it is the predominance of the art in the form, and the nature which is beyond the visible that makes my architecture volatile.

There is profundity in the lines when they meet the point.

Architecture must be riveting; it must look into your eyes and must talk to the onlooker. It is the dialogue – that sensual dialogue that happens between the eyes of two lovers, so much be sorted with each other that must happen.

That makes great architecture.

To me it has become so easy. There is the discovery that the path followed by the brain in materializing a dream. Truthfully, the first vision remains almost intact – the appearances can change, but the first flash is always victorious. Everything interesting in art and architecture happens right in the beginning once you pass the beginning you are already at the end of it.

I am influenced by the 3C’s: 1. Chandigarh 2. Cubism 3. Corbusier The influence of my father, who worked with Corbusier, is immense and I carry forward the legacy engrained in me.

Chemistry Department at IIT Roorkee

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SR Cover Story

Himachal Pradesh Technical University, Hamirpur

Psg Itar, Coimbatore

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Surfaces Reporter

Share with us a valuable lesson that you have learnt in life.

Ar Sangeet Sharma - I have learned a lot of lessons from my mentors, teachers, father, gurus, but a very important lesson which I would like to share is: Architecture is about designing for human values and human comfort. So these values are what I work for and that’s what my architecture is all about.

Tell us about the process of evolution of design concepts.

Architects are always in the state of flux to bring those ideas on paper through the dexterity of their hands. So the first step is sketching your concept. After the conceptualisation, we try to put in all other aspects including form, function and human values to create the architecture narrative.

My doodling is very informative yet evolving which means whatever I doodle may not be valid tomorrow.

These conceptual sketches turn into drawings and the final outcome is the architecture form.

Share with us the uncut version of Ar Sangeet Sharma’s life story. What are the benefits and drawbacks (if any) of working under an eminent architect father, a tall figure and name in Indian architecture?

Ar Sangeet Sharma - There is always a certain sense of fascination in recalling the two decades when I worked as an apprentice under him. He is a tall personality— physically and temperamentally. He was clear-cut and focused in his directions.

When I joined him in 1989, I was broadly assisting him, driving him to various clients and meetings and absorbing the fundamentals of a very tedious profession called architecture. It was not easy to grow under a famous father. The initial hiccups and pressures tormented me and there was many a time a desire to de-align myself from the existing life-pattern. There were natural priorities and philosophies both in life and a profession that made my father behave in a particular way in those days. I later discovered that what I initially misunderstood to be an imposition on me was just the natural consequence of what happens when the second generation joins the first.

In the initial years my creativity was held captive for a decade. I was lying low so that it gives the elder the growth path. The fight was between a son and the self.

It was something in between sacrifice and sacrilege. I was subservient- it was my choice I gave priority to my heart and not my mind. Admiration, adulations and attraction all given to the man whom I felt truly deserved. May be somewhere I submerged, I should not have.

We would say somewhere you submerged to emerge stronger (smiling). So how did you manage to come to the surface?

A decade later my creativity stormed out. I think I was and am a timid personality. I knew I was made for things that mattered to the hearts more than the cruel private

Ar Sangeet Sharma Photo - Shivansh Sharma

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SR Cover Story practice of architecture. I kept my personality intact and did not give in to the attributes of the market. Some phrase I learned from my father “Humanity and hard work. You may lose a lac but you will not lack.” I pursued.

After few years I learned to free myself and give wings to my dreams. We gave space to each other. My vulnerability hit me hard. I had my share of bites from people. I trusted in work - Colleagues, consultants, clients, all. I would fall and get up again, not to avenge but to be stronger to face these challenges.

In fire, I turned my agonies into gold.

The initial bitter lack of self confidence in school made me stammer- I stood in front of large mirrors muttering the speeches as I concurred the ailment. The constant chides of classmates referring to me as ‘lanky’ pushed me to carry a hunch- I pursued physical exercise as I built myself upright.

Each time I fell, I rose from the sphinx many folds.

Tell us about your writing. When did you start writing?

In the wake of all this unplanned assaults of life I began to write; what started off as short notes, made me an author. I write to validate what I build - and I build to validate what I write. My poetry became my silence poured on to words. I reflected on inner thoughts and mental tabulations, not just penning verses on nature and birds. It harboured on spirituality. Writing fiction gave me tool to attack. My recent satire “Castles in the Air” is a cutting spite on professional practice and all that I spoke about in my earlier answers. It was a bestseller.

I would fall and get up again, not to avenge but to be stronger to face these challenges. In fire, I turned my agonies into gold.

Writing was a hobby that became a passion and is now an addiction. There is no antidote to this vice.

With three generations living together, how do you connect and work together yet preserve & explore your individual identities at work?

As an architect, I keep the style aside- imbibing only the values of all the influences. I am ferocious in my work not with human beings, spewed anger in forms that impressed my clients. The recognitions bought me laurels and I always credited to the people, who made it possible.

We all work on our projects separately under the same umbrella. We understand that creativity is personal, egotistical and subjective. We all have a varied outlook to architecture.

If I am modernist, my wife Purnima is classically contextual and my father is a purest who is superbly spanning his wings to perfect architectural solutions. My son is highly creative individual and has an eclectic approach to design- there are impacts on him by chances, technology and legacy. The third generation will make their unique mark.

Who were you trained under? Also tell us about the deep influences of some mentors in your life.

While essentially my training has been done under my father, I am also influenced by various architects and designers since I am a voracious reader and read a lot about others works. I am a disciple of Le Corbusier and try to follow Piet Mondrian and Leonardo Da Vinci. I am trained by all of them (not necessarily alive) since their work is there to inspire me. As Eklavya learnt Archery in the absence of an actual Guru still called Dronacharya his guru as he imbibed what he taught to others.

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Which are the latest books you are working on?

Till date I have written five books all on varied genres, i.e., fiction, satire (with which I cut my profession to bits), poetry, inspirational etc. They have become cult books as very few architects have written about their experiences in a system in which people react to them. Besides inspiring students and providing information, my books re-cultivated a habit of reading which we architects hardly do.

I recently reassembled my book of English poetry. I started writing poetry at the age of 12. The book has been released recently. I am also working on a book on sketches of my projects. It’s not really a monograph, rather, describes a brief journey of how I achieved a particular project. I am also writing a fiction story about a very famous architect. Name shall be revealed soon. I write two to three books simultaneously.

You are an architect, a poet, writer, and singer so many talents in one personality. SR is curious to know how you manage yourself and how do you manage so many things together.

It’s a very sensitive topic for me. My mind is like a transformer with different MCBs (personalities) together which I have learnt

Surfaces Reporter

Boys Hostel At Iit Roorkee

Innovation Centre At Univeristy Of Jammu

Library at NIT Jalandhar

The Auditorium on the hillock - Solan

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SR Cover Story

EDP Block, Sliet Longowal

Learn the art of Sketching.

Students must have the dexterity to put down their thoughts from the mind to paper.

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to switch on and off. I have learnt to keep some MCBs on and others off as every personality of mine demands attention.

At any moment if there is a vacuum, the personality asks for my time. Therefore I divide my time to give space to all my personalities. It is all time management. So it’s basically one powerhouse but divided into many sectors and equally divided.

So all of them are very nicely held together and I have learnt how to deal with this. I write during my travels. I am learning to sing during my evenings. That’s how I manage myself.

What are your understandings after decades of practice and your future aspirations?

Like me, my architecture too is ambivert in nature. The dictionary says that ambivert means: the balance of extrovert and introvert features in a personality. That is exactly what I am and so are the spaces that I create. They have in them at times a state of restful tranquillity; a composure. And at times, places that are cheerful and effervescent. I follow the tentacles of an organism that God created first. I think He must have indulged in a similar feeling of ecstasy while designing an amoeba, an octopus, a peacock, zebra, and Adam. I do not think He employed Autocad in His manifestations; His software must have been more emotionally drawn than mechanical.

I feel, I do not build to exemplify the philosophy of my life and I am not on the path to prove myself; I am here to please myself.

I leave a silent narrator in my buildings so that he does the talking, and works as a mute guide. Ultimately, architecture for me is like the spirit of writing a book—the forewords, prefaces, contents, context… all lead to a common epilogue. It’s strange, but true. The philosophy of my life is contrary to my profession.

I know, and realize that life is transient.

Surfaces Reporter

Humanities And Mathematics Block At Iit, Roorkee

I think, I am multifarious! Like me, my architecture swirls like a Sufi, is contemplative like a lovelorn lover, is robust like a rock, ecstatic like a monkfluttering its wings like a bird, flying to some mysterious abysmal land.

Ar Sangeet Sharma’s Message to Students of Architecture & Design: I am a motivational speaker and I like to talk to the students. Three things I would like them to learn: one is the art of Sketching. They must have the dexterity to put down their thoughts from the mind to paper. Two, they must know how to Express their design once formulated. You need to read and write.

Three, don’t look but Observe. Eyes are meant to observe and transport the observations to the brain and stored somewhere. Anything can change the direction of Architecture.

Everything interesting in art and architecture happens right in the beginning once you pass the beginning you are already at the end of it.

Ar Sangeet Sharma’s Message for Surfaces Reporter: I have been involved with SURFACES REPORTER (SR) for a long time now. It has transformed the meaning of meaningful architecture. All journals have the same intent to project Architecture methodology to show the projects to masses. But Surfaces Reporter comes in a very user friendly way. The team is always available for a dialogue and the connection you build. The journey, connection, content, projection, materials are all very original.

The people are projected in a fine way. I wish SR very best from my heart!

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SR Frontrunner

Surfaces Reporter in Conversation with

Kamlesh Patel CMD Asian Granito India Ltd

Kamlesh Patel

Established in the year 2000, Asian Granito India Ltd. has emerged as one of the largest ceramic companies of India in a short span of 20 years. AGL's leadership is marked by many successful challenges and its incessant pursuit of excellence. Brand AGL is the brainchild of two entrepreneurs, Mr. Kamlesh Patel and Mukesh Patel whose dream was to create the world’s most sustainable building materials company. Their inestimable experience together with a young and dynamic management team has created a formidable entity that is growing at an amazing pace. In the Frontrunner section, SURFACES REPORTER's Editor-in-Chief Vertica Dvivedi, is speaking to o ne of the company leaders, Mr Kamlesh Patel, Chairman & Managing Director, AGL.

CMD, Asian Granito India Ltd

Please tell us about the Journey of AGL? I started AGL in the year 1993 along with my brother Mukesh as soon as we completed our graduation. Initially, it was a small unit with a capacity of 200 boxes per day of 6x6 inch vitrified tiles in Gujarat. In the year 2000, we stepped into the manufacturing of big format tiles in a size of 8x8 ft. We created a family-owned Asian Group and started off with a capacity of 2500 sq Mt / per day and grown from 70 employees to 7000.

What were your Learning from Pandemic?

2020 was a very difficult period but a learning experience as well. We saw the good side of human nature with a zeal for living and helping others. We always believed that nothing is permanent and so will this period. We only have to continue working harder and smarter. During the COVID time, we came out rather stronger!

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What are the Steps taken during COVID? When the Lockdown started, the first three months went away as it was an entirely new experience for everyone. But when the situation continued, we learnt to fight back and started taking all necessary precautions with maintaining social distancing, creating awareness among the employees, business partners and consumers.

As the situation progressed, we noticed a boom in the ceramic industry while other industries were suffering. It was a great time for the ceramic industry.

AGL’s plans for 2021-2022.

The year 2021-22 is very crucial for us as we have planned to expand the AGL brand. While strengthening our presence in the domestic market, we want to expand our exports and keep focussing on innovations as well. Currently, we have 6500

Surfaces Reporter

We are moving towards our goal of reaching 2000 Cr in the next 3 years!

Grestek MarbleX by Asian Granito Ltd

touchpoints which we want to increase upto 10,000. We are also looking forward to create 500 showrooms for AGL in the next three years. We are exporting to 100 countries which we want to increase upto 120. Also, Quartz which are big format tiles are in focus right now and very soon we will be launching a new, innovative product in Quartz which could be a big hit in the international market. Last year, we did a business of Rs 12.25 hundred crores. By adding big format tiles in our portfolio, we are gaining momentum towards the goal of reaching 2k crore business in the next three years.

AGL's New product innovation.

Recently, AGL has launched an anti bacterial product which will be a great product for public places including schools, hospitals, restaurants, yoga centers etc because this product was developed during the COVID times itself. We have also created a Hi- tech

Laboratory to showcase the right size, variety and composition and quality of our products to govt agencies, major distributors, international buyers etc. We are planning to add Kitchen slabs also in the AGL portfolio. We are also looking towards big sizes, namely, 1600* 3200 ft that can be used in kitchen as well as big format tiles.

AGL’s presence in Bathroom products.

At AGL, we have dreamt to have the entire basket of bathroom products. While we already have the tiles variants including vitrified, GVT etc, we also included the composite marble and Quartz but still it was incomplete so we launched almost 160 sanitary ware products in December 2020. We have also launched 22 CP Fitting range as well. We have targeted to generate a revenue of Rs 200 Cr in the next five years with our bathroom products.

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SR Frontrunner

Life is full of plus and minus situations. But it depends on us how we fight and turn the tables around.

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What were the initiatl Challenges during AGL journey?

When we started off in 1994, we didn't have a huge amount of money at our disposal, neither did we have the experience.

While the rest of the Ceramic industry was busy making cups & saucers, we wanted to be different and hence launched tiles.

We started off with Rs 28 Lacs capital. Since it was majorly a handmade plant, the production was full of breakages. As time went by, we started producing better tiles and started selling in Gujarat and surrounding markets. While we were making 6×6 inch initially are now making 6×8 ft tiles. There are lots of challenges in life but we learn and keep growing.

Life is full of plus and minus situations. But it depends on us how we fight and turn the tables around. When your thoughts are positive then your body and mind act accordingly and help you in overcoming the challenge.

Future of AGL in the recent times.

In the year 2000, when we launched Asian Granito India Ltd, there was a limited demarcation between organized and unorganized brands and only 40-50 plants were present on the national level.

However, today almost 900-1000 plants are working to fulfill the ceramic industry demand at the pan India level. As an industry, we are present in almost 160 countries. I also predict that the current 35000 Cr industry will double itself in the next few years. The export will be 12-13 k Cr this year. Ceramic tiles are no longer a lifestyle but a necessity product. Currently, tiles form 5-6% of the construction industry. There are huge export opportunities as well.

While earlier it's was 15-20% of the total business, it has nearly doubled for almost every brand and it will soon reach to 50% as people have started to understand the rhythm of the international market particularly in the COVID times. Very soon, we will be the largest exporter of ceramic tiles in the world next only to China in the next five years. The vision for this year is 'Think Global.'

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Message for Network Partners.

I would like to thank all our dealers, distributors and channel partners for staying with us in these difficult times. While the situation is not going to stay for long, it's upto us how can we better it together!

AGL in the International Market.

At AGL, we want to increase our channel partners in overseas just like domestic and create the presence of AGL brand in the international market as well.

Tell us about the hashtag #ACTION TIME behind you.

Today, it's very uncertain times where negative thoughts are bound to come in the minds of people. There are many things that we couldn't complete in 2020 like training to channel partners, increasing manpower, travelling to strengthen our position in overseas market, R&D etc. While earlier all these things were done through meets, now they need to be fulfilled through the electronic medium. The #ActionTime is meant for all our channel partners, dealers and people that we need to buckle up for the next 20 years.

Message for Surfaces Reporter.

Surfaces Reporter (SR), in such a short period of time, has brought together a lot of people and created awareness among people. They have made people aware about technology, new products, brands etc. Other than the print version, the aggressive digital campaign started after the pandemic is making it special and different from its peers. Kudos!

WORLD WOOD DAY CELEBRATED BY SURFACES REPORTER SPECIAL INPUTS from Dr. Benny Kuriakose, DR MP SINGH & AR NEELAM MANJUNATH

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rchitecture and design have been a part of both science and the humanities since the age of man.

They have not only reflected on the ingenuity of man through scientific advancements, but also worked as a reflection of human nature and its artistic inclinations. Great architecture not only provides us with durability and practicality, but its design philosophy allows us to express ourselves to the best extent possible.

However, even these ideas have their limits. As the world continues to see the dangerous impacts of climate change, humanity continues to grow and utilize resources at a rapid pace. This has led us to the point where we are running out of natural resources – our artificial resources have continued to put serious amounts of damage to the environment, and the sustainable resources are yet to be considered; let alone enter the mainstream. On the occassion of World Wood Day 2021,

SURFACES REPORTER (SR) spoke to stalwarts like Dr. Benny Kuriakose, Principal Architect, Benny Kuriakose & Associates, Ar. Neelam Manjunath, Principal, Mansaram Architects and Dr. MP Singh, IFS. Dr. Benny Kuriakose is an academic, architect and designer who is espousing his philosophy of sustainable materials all over the world. Ar. Neelam Manjunath is the CEO and Founder of the Centre for Green Building Materials and Technology, Mansaram Architects, and is the Karnataka Chairperson of the Bamboo Society of India. Dr. MP Singh (IFS) is the current Director of the Indian Wood Science Institute (IWST) and Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education.

These panelists debunked some of the most common misconceptions related to the Timber construction and gave explainations to why Timber could be a great material for future construction: April-may 2021 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 73

SR Article

The eminent panelists debunked some of the most common misconceptions related to Timber construction and gave explainations to why Timber could be a great material for future construction.

Using timber on a mass scale for constructions, there are fears about fire and high cost.

Dr. Benny Kuriakose: Firstly, I would like to address the FIRE HAZARD argument. There is a misleading notion about timber that it catches fire easily which is farther from the truth. In a way, timber is one of the most fire resistant materials due to its manufacturing process. If it is used properly in the construction of frames for the buildings, then there is no question of timber catching the fire. Yes, timber constructed with the thin frames at the surface may feel the heat, but the thick frame which forms the basis of the timber does not catch fire which means that buildings made of timber cannot collapse due to the fire.

Also, cutting down of virgin forests for fresh timber is a strict no in our business and science. Till whatever extent possible, we use recycled timber from old buildings which have been deconstructed. Moreover, there is a possibility of it being quite ecofriendly because, as per my calculations, three to four fully grown trees are enough for 1000 square foot construction which is quite low, in all aspects. One thing we need to remember is that we have to protect timber from moisture and insects. For these problems, solutions are actually available quite easily.

Why is it that even till today, bamboo has not been readily accepted as a construction material?

Ar. Neelam Manjunath: What holds true for wood, to some extent, true for bamboo as well. People are readily accepting of the myth that bamboo is not fire resistant. In fact, dry bamboo is not. Bamboo, in general, is quite fire resistant.

The outer layer of bamboo contains silica, which is actually an ingredient used in fire retardants. However, bamboo does need to be worked on and implemented well in order to work. People are unwilling to talk about the nuances of designing and construction when it comes to bamboo.

We have to realize that familiarity breeds contempt.

Bamboo is so readily available everywhere, including bazaars, that people do not want to use bamboo for construction, as it may not make their work seem unique by nature. Another reason for bamboo not being used as much, is the fact that people end up using bamboo mainly for the construction of high cost and maintenance buildings. Bamboo is available, and can be used at a fraction of the cost of other building materials. It needs to be used for the benefit of the masses.

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Dr. M P Singh (IFS)

Director, Indian Wood Science Institute (IWST) Past Dir, IPIRTI

I urge the future generations to change this outlook of temporariness towards sustainable materials; materials which are readily available. To whatever extent possible, we must use these materials for future constructions and designs.

Surfaces Reporter How can we bridge the gap between the ideas of designing and construction, with academics? And, what would be your final message to the people who are entering this field?

Dr. Benny Kuriakose: One of the major issues with the education system is that we need to have the patience to inculcate these ideas and materials into our curriculum. This integration itself would take at least two to three decades. Another issue is that the faculty which comprises this education system, may lack the practical experience necessary to inculcate and integrate these ideas seamlessly. We, as practitioners, also have the issue of mystifying our own work. This does not make it easier for inculcation. Our craftsmen have been doing these things since time immemorial, while we are just putting it into a format for education and practice. We also have to understand that this cannot be seen as an alternate stream. These ideas regarding timber have to be seen as part of the mainstream, so that it is propagated to the masses in a manner which is easy for them to digest. We need to convince the future generations regarding this – in this age of social media, it is easier to work towards this goal. Although the senior practitioners such as myself may be bad at communicating and demystifying our field, I am quite hopeful that we have a worthwhile way forward in this field.

Ar. Neelam Manjunath: When I started working with bamboo, there was hardly any information. We need to standardize the data available, and share it across platforms. The collection of this data is very important because even in academia, there are very few people who are working on architecture with bamboo. Proper skill development and workshops are needed to spread awareness regarding the usage of bamboo for design and construction.

We have to provide recognition to the craftsmen who have been doing this for years, but do not have a university certificate.

Integration of such people into the academia would help our cause. Their knowledge and prowess with these traditional construction materials is unimaginably important in this sphere.

Dr. Benny Kuriakose Conservation Architect /Designer Noted for his sustainable practices and work with natural materials like Timber

These ideas regarding timber have to be seen as a part of the mainstream, so that it is propagated to the masses in a manner which is easy for them to digest.

Sridhar Conoor House, by Dr Benny Kuriakose

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SR Article

Bamboo, in general, is quite fire resistant. The outer layer of bamboo contains silica, which is actually an ingredient used in fire retardants.

Due to the temporary outlook towards bamboo, there is a lack of respect for it. So, we have to respect bamboo; we have to respect the material.

If we respect the material, we understand its value and we use it with reverence.

Ar Neelam Manjunath

Ar Neelam Manjunath CEO, Founder, Centre for Green Building Materials and Technology, Proprietrix, Manasaram Architects, Bangalore

If a database is created for this purpose, it could help us ignite the requisite interest, and bring the much needed clarity and confidence. Of course, industries also need to conduct the relevant research as per the market’s needs. We cannot count the economic factors which are also becoming exceedingly important in this field.

As for the one message, I’d say that we have to respect bamboo understand its value and use it with reverence.

Message from Dr MP Singh on World Wood Day. Dr. MP Singh: Our reckless usage of artificial materials such as aluminum and steel has impacted the climate. Not only we have changed the planet’s climate for the foreseeable future, but also recklessly abused the natural resources. I urge the future generations to change this outlook of temporariness towards the sustainable materials; materials which are readily available. To whatever extent possible, we must use these materials for future constructions and designs. This is the only way we can reduce the adverse impact that our actions are having on the planet right now.

There is even an economic factor to this, as the unorganized sector would see some much needed economic benefits from the utilization of sustainable materials. In other words, sustainable materials would not only help us ecologically, but also economically.

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SURFACES REPORTER | MATERIAL NEWS

Bamboo Society of India signs MOU with COA to mainstream Bamboo in the building sector

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onstruction sector, considered as a benchmark of development, is the biggest contributor to the increasing carbon emissions and the global warming. Architects, scientists, researchers, policy makers etc are trying to find solution to keep the much needed pace of development in the developing countries without increasing the emissions. Bamboo is one such very important solution. Available in plenty, fast growing, easily processed, it needs cheap labour and minimal transportation. These qualities are an essential in the tropics and subtropics where population is more and rapid development is required. Bamboo is capable of contributing to 13 of the 17 UN-SDGs.

Bamboo Society of India (BSI) was formed in a period when for the first time a group of pioneers in the country foresaw ‘Bamboo’ in the context of its massive economic potential in 1989. The society’s registered headquarters is situated in Bangalore, Karnataka.

Following their indelible footsteps today, under the Chairmanship of Dr Sunder Naik, IFS (Retd), BSI is endeavouring towards tapping the unrealised potential of bamboo sector. The society encourages scientific study and research on bamboo, constantly acquires data and disseminates it through conferences, seminars, workshops and exhibitions pertaining to value addition and utilisation of bamboos across various sectors.

The key to development and success of any sector is quality human resource generation through education,

The MOU aims at introducing Bamboo, an agro product, as a mainstream material for the building and related sectors training and skilling. Towards this endeavour, Bamboo Society of India has signed an MOU with the Council of Architecture (COA) a body constituted by the Government of India under Ministry of Education to include bamboo in the education and practice of architecture profession throughout India.

The MOU aims at introducing Bamboo, an agro product, as a mainstream material for the building and related sectors, for all kinds of buildings, infrastructure, rural development, etc, through awareness programs, seminars, workshops, short courses etc. as a concentrated effort toward mitigation of the adverse effects of mindless development, for general public, architects, April-May 2021 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 77

SR Material News

engineers, scientists, policy makers, artisans, farmers etc. for human resource generation and enterprise development to full fill the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiative.

It also takes into consideration the traditional knowledge of our rural and tribal communities and aims to utilise them and provide them livelihood security through developing the bamboo sector.

The five main areas of collaboration envisaged are: v Identification of Research Priority Areas and Networking for Bamboo as a mainstream building material, developing Centre for bamboo technology and design development etc; v Education, Skill development and Training of faculty, students etc through course development, training programs and skilling workshops; v Research and Design Development: Initiate and support student projects in the identified priority areas. documentation of traditional knowledge etc; v Dissemination through publications in print and media, exhibitions, seminar and conferences etc v Material resource and linkages for the availability of Bamboo and Bamboo based knowledge and Technologies for the industry As a precursor to the MOU, BSI. Maharastra and Karnataka Chapter along with COA-TRC, Pune held a day long webinar on “Mainstreaming bamboo in the Construction sector” on 12th March, 2021. The webinar was hosted by Prof Jayshree Deshpande, Director, COA-TRC, Pune and was anchored by Ex President COA, Ar Prof Uday Gadhkari who emphasised the need to get the academia and the industry together.

Ar Habib Khan, the current President, COA in his inaugural address emphasised the need to objectively understand and evaluate the viability and social acceptability of bamboo. He said that COA could collate all the information and data on bamboo to make to easily accessible for use by all. Ar Sunil Joshi, Chairman, BSI, Maharastra chapter, welcomed the gathering and informed that BSI has stalwarts of bamboo from all the disciplines to help the building sector. Ar Neelam Manjunath, Chair, Steering Committee, Architecture and Design, BSI, and Chair, BSI, Karnataka Chapter delivered the keynote address presenting the current global and national scenario, issues and the possible solutions to mainstream bamboo as a building material.

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Padam Shri Ar Dr G Shankar, delivered the valedictory address and spoke about the social benefits of bringing bamboo back in the construction sector. Other experts who shared their opinions through presentations and a panel discussion were Ar Dean d’Cruz, Ar Prof Jaisim, Dr Suvir Singh, Dr Jagadish Vengala, Ar Jaigopal, Vinay Kolte and Dr Hemant Bedekar.

The govt has directed COA to include bamboo in the architecture curriculum. Hence, this MOU is a significant step towards this goal for mainstreaming bamboo in the construction sector by Bamboo Society of India and the Council of Architecture, and a big leap towards sustainable development.

S U R FA C E S R E P O R T E R

Viewpoint

AR Goonmeet Singh Chauhan Founder Partner Design Forum International New Delhi

Architecture, Invertonomics, Design Education in India & more

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ne of the founding members of Design Forum International (DFI), Ar Goonmeet Singh Chauhan is a noted architect, designer, urbanist and now a published author. He studied architecture at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur and has since worked on numerous high-profile projects across the country. Known for designing the notable Select Citywalk mall, a-one-of-a-kind shopping destination way back in 2005, Chauhan has now published a book called, INVERTONOMICS, which could easily be called as a crux of his learning through-out his career. The book put forth the idea of ‘Dream for India’, a dream steeped in idealism, borne of inclusivity, and tempered with pragmatism. Additionally, the book offers eight transformative ideas to solve some of India’s most fundamental and chronic problems like Social Inequity, Air Pollution, Sanitation, Women Safety, Education, and Decadent rural economy and Governance deficit. In an indepth conversation with Madhurima Chowdhury, Executive Editor, Surfaces Reporter Magazine, he has spoken about his life as an architect, his works and dream for a better India.

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SR Viewpoint

Delhi High Court

Please tell us about your journey as an architect.

It all began by an accident as architecture wasn’t a conscious choice for me. I fell in love with the power of transformation after seeing the successful completion of my house. My first project was to design a unitarian shrine. But it was while transforming restaurants within the IIT Kharagpur campus that I realized the use of architecture as a tool to expand businesses. Seven days after our convocation, I along with my partners, started our own practice. I believe that we have managed to bring a certain process orientation to the delivery in an otherwise disorganized industry. Also, continuous participation in the design competitions has helped us secure the noted Select Citywalk project. Our practice has grown with the growth in the real estate environment. This growth is also fuelled by winning many competitions and rolling out successful deliveries. Around 2010, I realised that I enjoy public architecture more than the home renovations or consruction for the individual families and thus shifted my focus towards designing condominium complexes, townships, educational institutions, district courts, airports and community spaces etc. Overall, it has been a humble journey.

How was your experience working on the design of the Select Citywalk?

Select City Walk was a pioneering project in many ways. For one, it was the largest real estate development at that time.

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The more you listen, the better it is for your development as an architect. Also, the more openness and willingness is there to engage with constructive criticism, the better enriched your designs become.

Surfaces Reporter Select Citywalk

we went to many countries including Malaysia, Singapore, Jakarta, Dubai etc to research and understand about what goes into making a successful shopping center. I believe, we were able to capture the whole success formula based on these case studies.

What is the importance of collaboration in the architecture industry?

It is through collaboration with various international as well as domestic architects that I realized that the more you listen, the better it is for your development as an architect. Further, the more openness and willingness is there to engage with constructive criticism, the more enriched can your designs become.

Could you please speak a little about your book Invertonomics?

The book has been published by HarperCollins. It is basically about solving the problems in India; however, it also has implementable ideas that can be adopted by the developing countries across the world. It provides insight on on issues like scientific garbage management, better citizen participation, women empowerment, and how patriarchal constraints can be challenged to bring about legislationbacked reforms that strengthen their inheritance rights.

How can architects connect better with the citizens?

Earlier, as opposed to the medical profession, architecture was not considered to be contributing to the society. While it is true that some individuals venture into the field for self-fulfillment, however, there is a need for architects to understand that society also considers us professionals.

We should therefore reflect on our duties as members of society and determine ways in which we can contribute towards its development.

You are also engaged with the Invertonomics Foundation. Could you please outline?

After the publication of Invertonomics, like-minded professionals came together to start this foundation that would help in the conversion of ideas, in their original or reconditioned form, to the reality. It is made up of three components- ideation, advocacy, solutioneering- that work together to ensure that ideas are implemented as they were envisioned. At Invertonomics Foundation, we have worked on the Delhi Cycle-Walk Project and now we are working on the Sujivan Shiksha Ghar. We are also taking up a project called Paanch Guna Ped, Paanch Guna Paani, Paach Guna Naukari to deliberate on how we can ensure the availability of five times more clean water, green space, and jobs. The ultimate aim of the project is to counter the misguided notion that development is anti-environment and to establish ways in which they can work together to promote tourism, hospitality, arts, and technology.

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SR Viewpoint ITO Skywalk

Are there any projects you are currently working on at the DFI? At DFI, we are currently working on the Central Vista which touches the India Gate hexagon. Given its location, it is a very fascinating project and requires one to remain constantly conscious of the architecture vocabulary. Other than that, there is a building we are working on at the Zakir Hussain Marg. It is a judicial annex and the convention center for the Delhi High Court.

What are your views on the current status of design education in India?

The schools here are doing a great job in terms of imparting technical knowledge, but they lack in inculcating design thinking skills among students. The ability to genuinely solve problems, articulate design, and initiate conversations around it are some of the areas that our education system needs to focus upon.

Who has been your inspiration in life?

Early on, I was inspired by the integrity of my father and some of his bosses. Gandhi however is one figure who has been a source of inspiration throughout my life and represents for me the ability to devise practical solutions that could inspire whole communities to action. Among architects, I love Steinberg who has produced such thriving and humane architecture.

What is your message for the Surfaces Reporter Magazine?

It is a great platform to learn about the latest developments in the industry. I would suggest you focus more on the video content and the equal representation of craftspeople on your platform.

Your work on chronicling the products and professionals in the architecture industry of course is appreciable.

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Surfaces Reporter | Spaces & Material Poetries

Ar Jayaram.G.S, Ar Niranjan C Warrier Ar Sudheesh S, Ar Jerry Sam Joseph, Ar Abhilash UA EGO design studio

Kerala

EGO design studio is a Kerala based design practice founded in 2009 by a group of creative minds who shared commonalities in varied fields. The office started of an architectural design consultancy is now evolved into a socially relevant design practice involving in cultural and community projects in and around Kerala.

Standing: Ar Jayaram.G.S, Ar Niranjan C Warrier.

Sitting: Ar Sudheesh S, Ar Jerry Sam Joseph, Ar Abhilash UA

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SR Spaces & Material Poetries

A Home That Interacts With Nature April-May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 84

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r. Hareesh and Dr. Anju, well-known doctors in Trivandrum, Kerala, came up with the requirements of building their home, in a lush green site flanked by huge mango trees. Dr. Hareesh’s exposure to the world through travels required a modern house. The grandparent had memories of the times the old house was built and required experiences of traditional homes. Dr. Anju loved the modern and the traditional and was an avid collector of curios, which required spaces to exhibit them. Her interests in gardens and nature, the grandmother’s attachment to the three mango trees which she had seen grow to the stature they are in right now, the kids and pets made landscape an important part of the house. The parents, grandmother, two kids, and their pet, presented with us

Surfaces Reporter

a challenge to work with different generations and types of users.

This need for the dichotomy of spatial constructs was explored as the core content of the house.

Home of Blended Pluralities explores spaces of traditional content, entwined with the features of a modern home. Both the spatial constructs interact and explore each other, through the gardens associated with the mango trees- who existed before all.

No Tree Was Cut No Fertile Topsoil Removed The existing building on site had to be demolished to give way to the new home. The old building was a huge concrete block, flanked by the mango trees. As one moves beyond the building, it

The site sloped down about 20 feet along its length, creating natural drainage lines and an interesting topography along with it. There were huge trees and vegetation, which existed before any of its users.

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SR Spaces & Material Poetries gave way to a beautiful local wild landscape on a slope and lush green vegetation beyond the site. The suspense this created was enthralling.

The new building was also a product of this intuitive experience we had, The Home of Blended Pluralities is a choreographed movement from the street to the green beyond, with built spaces as encounters to spaces flanked by gardens.

The site sloped down about 20 feet along its length, creating natural drainage lines and an interesting topography along with it. There were huge trees and vegetation, which existed before any of its users. The building was placed such that it touched the site where the demolished building stood so that no tree was cut and no fertile topsoil removed.

The house moved away from, and made way for, any preexisting elements; keeping the trees intact, aligning with the slope, choreographing the movement along the site exploring its features- to build something that wasn’t loud enough, but speaks its own language.

Create A Unique Synergy Between Older and Younger Generations There exists a disconnect between the generations in terms of their spatial preferences, the elderly liked smaller spaces with a tinge of earthiness and warmth, the next generation aspired for white modern interiors, kids could be introduced to both, and the pets preferred nature and earth, The project is a collection of these

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spaces interconnected by gardens, landscape, architecture, humans and nature, alternating equilibriums between dichotomies.

The central white cube is sandwiched between the earthy sloped roof rain courts that surround it, while the gardens translate the dichotomies between people, spaces and experiences.

Homage to The Existing And Choreographing The Built The entry was received by an 8 feet exposed brick wall, dipped into the earth forming the guest area, sandwiched between the existing mango trees with a small void, drawingone into the greens beyond through ‘the dark stepped corridor’ with a promise of the greens.

The site slopes down almost 20 feet along its longer side; the built is choreographed along the slope amongst the existing canopy.

The stepped corridor with its brick screen walls hugging the slope, separates the architecture, landscape and the site, to one journeying through this threshold. This flight of steps takes one down in pursuit of the greens, encountering patios that house the living spaces along the journey.

As one journey through the stepped corridor wrapped by its porous wall, it hides, filters and stages the landscape and the built.

Its porous earthen materiality shields the presence of humans from the landscape, freeing nature to be used by its less hesitant occupants (birds, squirrels’ rodents & insects).

Surfaces Reporter

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SR Spaces & Material Poetries

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Project Details Project Name: HOME OF BLENDED PLURALITIES Architecture Firm: EGO DESIGN STUDIO Firm Location: Trivandrum, Kerala, India Project Location: Poojapura, Trivandrum Completion Year: 2019 Gross Built Area (m2/ ft2): 500 sqm Photo Credits: Ar Prasanth Mohan (Running Studios), Ar Niby Thomas

The hugeness of a single mass (of the old house) was reduced; the house had three parts (The guest area/ the common area and the family area) connected by a linear stepped corridor leading to the green backyard through choreographed landscaped gardens.

As we move along it, we encounter the house as isolated units sandwiched between gardens along the slope.

As one reaches the first level along the stepped corridor into a paved patio, one meets the white central cube, pushing the common family space pushed to a side, giving maximum openness to the patio. The cube contains the kids’ bedrooms overlooking the greens on either side from above, and the master bedroom with a private water court looking out into the green backyard. Moving down further, one encounters the family spaces, the kitchen and grandparent space overlooking the greens.

Nature Printed On Glass The old rain-filled courtyards have been a part of people’s nostalgia. They still long for them, but they fear rains, the dampness, the moisture, and little life forms that come with itTHEY FEAR NATURE. The project converted these memories into images on their glass windows, keeping the image while cutting out the experience. One can watch them unfold from within the comfort of glazed openings; but to be a part of it, one must venture out into the courts.

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Surfaces Reporter | Spaces & Material Poetries

Diana Kellogg Diana Kellogg Architects

New York Diana Kellogg Architects is an international, award winning firm established in 1992 and has worked primarily in high end residential design and non-profit community projects. The firm is committed to sustainable design, deference to an existing sense of place and history and creating spaces that provide for communal inter connectivity. Diana Kellogg Architects is a registered Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise and the firm has won multiple international design awards.

An Exclusive Interview with the Renowned New York Architect

Diana Kellogg Who Has Designed an Oval-Shaped Sandstone Girl’s School Amid The Mystic Thar Desert

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ould you imagine a school in which students are studying in the middle of a desert where sometimes temperatures soar to as high as 50 degrees Celsius?

An architectural marvel- Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl’s School has already taken shape in the mystic Thar Desert region of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. Designed by New York-based Diana Kellogg of Diana Kellogg Architects and conceptualized by CITTA founder Michael Daube, the school is built of local hand-cut Jaisalmer Sandstone amid the Desert.

SURFACES REPORTER (SR) had a heart-to-heart interaction with the well-known NY-based architect Diana Kellogg regarding the creation of The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl’s School complex, her inspiration behind using oval forms and symbols for the building

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and the challenges she faced while designing this, along with her architectural journey, her thoughts on sustainable design practice and more. But before jumping on the main conversation, get to know more about the project below: As we all are aware of the fact that Rajasthan in India is the state where female literacy barely touches 32%, this school is an attempt to serve more than 400 young girls- ranging from Kindergarten to Class 10- with education and training them with the essential artistry skills. Interestingly, the famous Indian celebrity designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee has designed the uniforms for the girls of this school. The school will be the first in a complex of three buildings known as the GYAAN Center, which also consists of The Medha - a performance and art exhibition space with a library

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SR Spaces & Material Poetries

Project Details Architecture Firm: Diana Kellogg Architects Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India Project Name: Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl’s School Photo Courtesy: Vinay Panjwani April-May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 92

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and museum, and The Women’s Cooperative where local artisans will teach mothers and other women weaving and embroidery techniques from the region to keep the traditional craft alive. The GYAAN Center is to empower and educate women, helping them establish economic independence for themselves, their families, and their communities.

This girl’s school in Jaisalmer is visually appealing, with an oval-shaped structure that blends well with its surroundings, almost appearing as it grew out of the shifting sands. Diana Kellogg also incorporated sustainable design principles while creating the building.

It took almost 10 years for Michael Daube, founder of CITTA, a non-profit organisation to conceptualize his plan of creating a building in this place and materialise it. For this, he roped in US-based architect Diana Kellogg, who devised the design.

Feminine Symbols Since the GYAAN Center is designed by a woman for women, Kellogg looked at feminine symbols across cultures when starting the design process -- specifically symbols of strength, landing on a structure of three ovals to represent the power of femininity and infinity, as well as replicate the planes of the sand-dunes in the region of Jaisalmer.

Sustainable Building Parameters The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl’s School is made entirely out of local hand-carved Jaisalmer sandstone by local craftsmen. It was vital to Kellogg to include the community in a building made for the community. Using local material to create infrastructure helped reduce carbon emissions, and Kellogg chose to build a solar panel canopy on the roof as a cooling system where temperatures peak close to 120 degrees. Both the canopy and jalis keep the heat out and the elliptical shape of the structure also helps bring aspects of sustainability creating a cooling panel of airflow.

SURFACES REPORTER (SR) had an opportunity to talk with the architectDiana Kellogg regarding the project, her journey as an architect, her future project/s and more. Here are the excerpts:

What was the brief from Michael Daube? Did you get freedom to create your design?

I met Michael Daube, Executive Director of CITTA, though a chance meeting with a friend. I was impressed by his approach to understand a community and not superimpose a one size fits all Western Idea of positive change. I was also committed to women’s issues and protecting girls. Michael and I had many conversations about design and helping less fortunate communities. I mentioned to him that my favorite quote is the one from Michelangelo: “every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it”. He responded to my non formulaic driven design sensibility and gave me creative freedom with this design. I am very fortunate that he believed in me and gave me this incredible opportunity.

What inspired you to design a building in the middle of the desert?

I was struck by the sublime beauty of the architecture in Jaisalmer - sacred geometries that register with our deepest memory - spaces relating to nature, body, path and history. For centuries in such unimaginable harsh and difficult climates, they had for centuries created monuments of incredible beauty - it was such a magnificent testament to hope and human spirit. I also learned that Rajasthan had a high rate of infanticide and the girls married young and the women and girls baring most of the burden working.

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I desperately wanted to create a safe haven for girls and I believed a saying I had heard in India: Educate a boy and you educate an individual, educate a girl and you educate a community.

Why have you chosen an oval-shape for the design?

I started looking at feminine symbols across cultures and specifically symbols of strength. I saw the oval as a symbol for womanhood across many cultures. Since I had more than one structure to build, I considered the form of repetitive ovals.

Once I started these sketches, this concept really resonated with me as the formulation of infinity. It reflected back to one of the things I was impressed by Michael’s projects - the rippling effect of the work, to continue beyond the site-specific space and effect communities beyond.

What were the challenges you faced while designing?

Although COVID-19 has been a frustrating challenge because I can’t travel to oversee the project in person, the most difficult challenge was the language barrier and the cultural differences.

I had an amazing all-women team of designers working on the project and we were committed to be in service of the girls and women in the area.

It was also a challenge to consider solar panels for this building because there was virtually no solar used in Jaisalmer when I began the project. I wanted to apply the same design approach to the solar as to the stone. Putting panels on the ground was both April-May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 94

unsightly and impractical as it is a shifting sand dune. I came up with an idea to have them work as a canopy/shading device with the metal armature to work as kind of an old fashion jungle gym with seesaws, swings, monkey bars etc.

Where does this concept come from? How much time did it take from conceptualization to final design?

I wanted to create a building that simultaneously blended and grew out of the natural landscape, much like the Jaisalmer sandstone. I also was committed to sustainability and using the stone in a modernized way to bring attention to the craftsman in the area as the skills were dying out.

Anything you would like to share about the interiors?

We had a lot of school furniture to make to fit out the interiors and again, I wanted to involve the community for this. It seemed logical to use someone near the school and an added benefit was that they wouldn’t have to leave their families and go to Mumbai.

A problem of reverse migration that I knew was happening in India. After so many attempts and inquiries, we finally went to the home of a father and son that did exquisitely carved furniture. We had them weave the benches and chairs out of their traditional charpai fabric. I did this purposefully for the comfort of our benches for the kids well as to illustrate this could be used in other applications and maybe around the world.

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How vital is it that we build more sustainably?

Since I had more than one structure to build, I considered the form of repetitive ovals. Once I started these sketches, this concept really resonated with me as the formulation of infinity.

Sustainable design is crucial. I am committed to creating places that provide for communal connectivity, a deference to an existing sense of place and history and sustainable design. In this building, I have used the ancient water harvesting techniques, Local materials and labor, Lime plaster, Recycled tiles for the roof, Solar panels and passive cooling methods.

What is your take on façades for the future buildings?

It depends on the building. The façade should be developed to compliment the configuration of the interior space and provide access to environmental conditions like light and air.

What are you afraid of regarding the future?

I’m very optimistic about the future. I think the pandemic has made us realize that we must work together to deal with global issues like climate change, poverty and racial inequality. The next generation is incredibly award of climate change and social issues and are actively looking for ways to improve living conditions. Also, I am incredibly overwhelmed by the response to this project. It’s been amazing how many people have reached out to offer help in India and internationally. I have tried to connect as many of the architects as I can with projects that need volunteers. It’s been very encouraging and rewarding after working so hard.

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Tell us in brief about your journey. When you were a child did you always want to become an architect?

Yes, I’ve always said you don’t choose to be an architect, architecture choses you. For better or worse its how my brain and senses perceive the world. It can be incredibly difficult a lot of the time, and a painful process but when a design clicks it can be like magic. I also very much like to have an aspect of every project I do have a component that is socially conscientious.

Which architect/s from the past you admire the most or who influenced you most in your works?

When I was first given the challenge to design the Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls school, I came across the METI Handmade school in Bangladesh and was incredibly impressed. This school to me embodied the essence of what a project like this should be about: the use of traditional materials like mud and bamboo, built by local craftsmen: beautiful, functional and built by the community.

Could you please describe an evolution in your work from when you began until today?

My practice of 20 years has mostly been high end residential in the United States - predominantly of celebrities and April-May 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 96

business tycoons with some community work. The high end residential had eventually run its course and become unrewarding and I was looking into non-profit work.

I wanted to use the knowledge I had acquired to help communities in need, I was interested in doing projects that addressed the needs of the soul, of community and nature.

I wanted to do work that could nurture and heal. That’s when I met Michael Daube, the Executive Director of CITTA.

Tell us something about your future projects?

I’ve become increasingly interested in women supporting women. My basic interest is supporting women and girls through international exchanges and spaces that heal and protect. With a focus on creating spaces and programs to give opportunities to advance women and girls. I believe a genuine exchange between cultures of both women and men results in all sides benefitting and learning from different perspective. To me a real collaboration is necessary for a program to be successful for all parties. We all have so much to learn from each other if we take the time to listen.

My next projects all involve some aspect of healing or women supporting women. I am now working on a school for a Tribal community in Andhra Pradesh following a similar approach as the bamboo will be gathered locally and the community will build it themselves.

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SURFACES REPORTER’S

RISIng Star Ar Thakur Udayveer Singh, Principal Space Race Architects, Jalandhar Tell us about your Journey?

I have had a very interesting journey. I started off as a lone ranger. At that time, somebody told me, “You should not be ashamed of doing any work. In your business, you can be an entrepreneur to a doorman.” Today, I can proudly say that I was not ashamed of doing any work. From site measurements, to drawings to delivering the lay-outs, I have done everything. With the grace of God, we got good clients and today we are a team of around 20-25 people excluding the management staff. Today, every architecture practice must have a separate team for management tasks. Our entire journey is a learning experience which is continued and will remain so till our last breadth.

What is the Importance of social media in today’s world?

Ar Thakur Udayveer Singh

Principal, Space Race Architects, Jalandhar Architect Thakur Udayveer started his career with MNC Arcop Associates Pvt Ltd based in Noida but soon came back to Jalandhar to start his own office. With a young and passionate mind, he is always dreaming about the new designs. Taking cue from the major architectural firms, he runs his architectural practice to avoid hassels and believes in thorough detailing while working on any project. He keeps on sharing his views and project details on Social media in order to inspire and impart knowledge to youngsters. In an exclusive interaction with SURFACES REPORTER (SR), he spoke about his experiences, life and more.

Everything has its positives and negatives. Frankly speaking, I wasn’t connected to social media through my personal phone and downloaded the same only some time back for the sake of live videos. While designing, I do not want any obstruction which is why sometimes I even switch off my phone as well while working on any design. Since social media is a way to convey ourselves, so firstly we documented all our projects and posted them online initially for the sake of showing our work to the clients and prospects. However, gradually we started getting recognition for our work on social media where people started liking our work and we even received DMs from students who wanted to understand how we did the particular project. While nobody told us how to overcome any challenge during our initial days, I felt it was my responsibility to convey my knowledge to the youngsters.

So we started doing Live videos for our projects. In time, this became beneficial for us as well since our clients also understood our thought process and became clearer about their projects. Moreover, in most cases, there are many discussions that are repetitive. So we are in the process of documenting the same.

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I advice young architects who wish to start their own firm to focus not only Architecture but also on building parallel management teams as you may create a good design but it is not enough till not executed well. This also put clients at ease as they do not have to worry about the delay in their queries.

It is still in nascent stage but we will definitely bring it in the system. We keep updating ourselves to answer the questions of people in the best way possible. Also, if our efforts help someone, then what is the harm? I believe that if we help someone, God will also help us in some way or other.

How do you manage creativity and management together?

The most important thing is Time management. For instance, I keep specific time for social media and have similarly created a system for managing all tasks. While initially everything was my responsibility, now my wife Ritika who is an MBA, takes care of all the backend tasks while I focus on the creativity and design process. Instead of just being an architecture firm, we run Space Race as a company where architecture & Design and Management are two different departments with separate teams to handle the same.

I advice young architects who wish to start their own firm to focus not only Architecture but also on building parallel management teams as you may create a good design but it is not enough till not executed well. This also put clients at ease as they do not have to worry about the delay in their queries. A creative person can actually be ‘creative’ if he is unoccupied by the trivial businesses.

How did you come up with Space Race?

I was working with an MNC’s in Delhi and when I moved back to Jalandhar, there was no plan of starting up my own firm.

I had already opted for masters in Abroad. However, one day I was going with Mr. Baljeet Rupra for a family project who pursued me to start practicing instead. It was then I started accepting the projects that were already being offered to me.

There were many names that were in my mind while selecting my firm’s name among which I finalised Space Race suggested by a very close friend. As every metro city right now is running after space, in some time, due to rapid urbanisation, same situation will happen in the Tier II & III cities too so with this space of race, I named my firm Space Race.

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What are the common mistakes that a new architecture firm make?

Don’t be afraid about any project. Your design and values should never compromise irrespective of whether the project stays with you or not. Your project defines your name and thus I do everything to make a client understand my design and creative. While we value a client’s thoughts, aspirations and requirements, there are many things that look good on paper but are not operational at the site. Many new people start following clients blindly as they are afraid of losing the project killing their creativity in the end. While nobody remembers the journey, it’s the end product that matters and I have been told by the clients that if I would have taken their advice and made changes, the whole project would have been spoilt. If you follow this rule, the client will surely want to work with you again. We have many repetitive clients who are happy with their initial projects and have thus come back to us with new project in hand.

I was very fond of architecture since I was a child.

I was even made the chief guest in one of school’s annual functions where the principal ask the parents to not worry about their kids’ future giving my example as someone who studied in the same school and later gave his services to it. It was very proud moment for me.

Tell us about the experience of designing your own school.

I was approached by my alma mater to design their new campus along with an old building to be converted into school near the old campus. So we converted the whole building, and designed a new campus. It was a very emotional yet exciting journey for me as I studied in same school since pre nursery and have seen the school grow with me. There were temporary structure where the classes where held while the new construction was going on. I still remember how the columns were cast and the curing was done though at that time I didn’t know what is being done yet I was curious. I saw the nuisances of the extension of an existing building and problems associated closely while studying in the school which stayed in my mind. So when I started designing the school, those observations benefitted me a lot. To be a good architect, it’s very crucial to be a good observer. Also, I not only solved those problems but also added more things which I always dreamt of having in a school.

I was very fond of architecture since when I was a child. I was even made the chief guest in one of school’s annual functions where the principal asked the parents not worry about their kids’ future giving my example as someone who studied in the same school and later gave his services to it. It was very proud moment for me.

What are your learnings from past work experiences?

I had very interesting experiences. During the initial days of my training, I didn’t even relax in my chair as I was completely terrified of what was about to come. During one instance, I was asked to do a section which I couldn’t do properly in one go. Then my reporting boss sent me back to do the entire thing again and when I did it again, he said ‘Yes’ and acknowledged

my efforts. Then, there was no fear and I started doing my work properly. I have kept a habit of learning from everything and everybody. I also learnt the difference between what was taught in the college versus the practical knowledge.

What is the difference between working with MNC versus running your own firm?

In MNCs, there is a structure and protocol of working with teams designated for every task with a larger scale of project.

Comparatively, when we started our practice, we used to do every project that came in our way be it a small room or a big one. I always aspire to be like them. It was a big learning experience. Just like them, I also follow 100 percent detailing right from the beginning. One time, I sent a drawing to a client with lesser detailing. He called me up and asked for the reason for lesser detailing and later told me to never lose this quality in me as this will make me a brand someday.

And here I am. Now each of my team understands all the details in the drawings and execute accordingly. So never compromise on drawings.

Your views about Surfaces Reporter (SR).

I really appreciate your style of working and how you share the work of not only the renowned or international architects but at the same time, publishes the work of lesser known Architects with the same zeal. It also helps young Architects to learn a lot. It also gives you a design inspiration. In addition, the digital platform also encourages others to also join and experience the working of a project from start to finish.

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FUSION VILLA he optimization of spaces to give a palatial feel is the prime philosophy followed. The outer façade of the abode resembles an ethnic European villa with rustic textures. The Mansion like appeal also attributes to the sloping roof which fulfilled client’s request and the classical columns that demarcates the inner entrance. Further, when one enters the built environment, it is beautifully embellished with a number of repetitive niches to add a bamboo feature to the wall on the left end and jasmine aroma at the right. The porch and the outer hardscape are erected with moulded bricks formulating herring and bone pattern. The use of bricks here not only gives a natural aesthetic and softer outlook with time but also tends to maintain warmth during the cold weather and moderates temperature in the summers. It also enables the water penetration to the earth due to its porous capacity, thus maintaining a healthy softscape around as well.

The inside area

The Main door of the mansion is unique in its own way; it is engraved with names of family members, funny quotes and some religious mantras.

As one moves inside, the foremost encounter is of a shoe console room for removing the footwear. This hints to shed away dirt as well as negative vibrations before entering the abode. The main door of the mansion is unique in its own way; it is engraved with names of family members, funny quotes and some religious mantras. Further, as we take a closer look at the layout of the ground level, we shall come across family lounge, formal sitting zone, kitchen with dining, prayer glass box and a powder room. Also, there is a Guest Bedroom allocated at NW direction on cliental demand at this level; though not a common feature in contemporary residences of our nation.

Architecturally speaking, the formal sitting area is provided with glass partitions on two sides to give a panoramic view of the exterior landscape. It is also connected with an outdoor sitting deck to promote engagement with fresh air and nature for a better life style. There is a Buddha water recycling fountain erected in the NE direction of this outdoor deck to all the more enhance the natural ambience.

This level is majorly marked by wooden flooring whereas first level and the main stairway are covered with carpet floors.

The main core of the mansion is recessed by a step to provide a water source inside the prayer room that uses the rain water harvested. The aspiration behind the same is to enhance the

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SR Rising Star

meditative nature of the prayer zone, which is why it is enclosed in a glass box that seems to be floating amidst the water channel.

The presence of magnificent chandeliers further adds to the play of light and shadows at the prayer glass box as it is covered with a skylight.

Materials used in the construction of this mansion are procured locally be it be the Indian Origin stones or the carpet from the nearby factory. The Gwalior stone cladding and mosaic arts at the western end act as thermal insulation for overall structure from the sun.

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The kitchen The kitchen being a major activity area for the home minister of the house is given a special attention. It is efficiently connected to the service core from outside, for unnoticed movability of the helpers. It has a C shaped counter to separate the three work stations that is, preparation, cooking and washing. The interiors of kitchen are inspired by neo-classicism style; it has got a rough black floor with Moroccan tiles in the center amidst white serene cabinets. The skylight provides a major source of light in this area and also disinfects the zone with morning east sun. Talking about the service core, it is connected to a stairway that leads to utility area at the first level and caretaker´s room at the second level. The space beneath the staircase is optimally utilized by giving a janitor room and cylinder storage.

The first level houses customized and highly secluded spaces of the mansion. It is provided with three live-able areas, one master bedroom and other two children’s bedrooms. The third area, which is the second child´s bedroom, is segregated into two parts with one as the sleeping zone with bunker beds and other as multipurpose zone with play area for the indoor activity.

There are a lot of Colorful niches created here to enable keeping their stuff. The space of master bedroom is defined with large King sized bed and a sitting area, both wonderfully canvassed with shades of beige to sooth the place. The dressing area leads you to washroom on one side and walk in closet at the other.

Bathing area is accustomed with a steam sauna catering to the health of the owners. Interesting flooring pattern and Egyptian

Surfaces Reporter

mural with overhung lights add to the royalty to space.

Black chandelier with matching tiles is the prime focus of this washroom.

The carpet flooring protects children from any injury during their playful activities. The multipurpose zone demarcates arched mirrors sandwiched with sharpened waste of colorful pencils to create an interesting element. Each wall of the bedrooms is treated in a unique fashion, where the first child´s room has a cartoonist caricature of the super heroes at the rear wall of the bed. The other wall is cladded with natural peels of bark of tree to give it a natural look. Also, the partition wall between the children´s room is embellished with colorful pencils glued in a mix of horizontal and vertical bars fashion at the rear end of the television cabinet. The washroom of the multipurpose cum kid´s room is elegantly laid with red matte tiles and black mosaic flooring clubbed with a black stone look wash basin. The walk in closet is placed at the rear end in this case to enable lighting it naturally by providing a circular skylight at the ceiling.

Materials used in the construction of this mansion are procured locally be it be the Indian Origin stones or the carpet from the nearby factory. The Gwalior stone cladding and mosaic arts at the western end act as thermal insulation for overall structure from the sun. This rustic appeal in the exterior is a contrast to the Neo-Classical paneling and moldings done inside with a soothing color pallet. The interiors of the mansion reflect upon Indian Dance forms with painting and murals. There is also a provision to play music of your favorite tracks from speakers in the ceiling. This clubbed up with the dancing forms imagery on the walls creates a delightful mood during movement in the corridor at upper level. Another highlight is the use of Indian artisan’s traditional metal than the golden imported sheets. The unique metal art which was evidently used in Indian traditional palaces is being highlighted in the ceilings and walls of the April-may 2021 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 103

SR Rising Star

FACT FILE Project Name: Fusion Villa Architecture Firm: Space Race Architects Project Year: 2019 Category: Residential Project Principal Architect: Ar. Thakur Udayveer Singh Specialist Design Team: Ritika Singh Plot size: 4805 sqft Built Up Area: 8400 Sq. Ft. Location: Jalandhar Specialist Manufacturers: Greenply, Grohe, Queo, Nexion, Hettich, Pergo, Asian paints, D Décor, Photography Credits: Purnesh Dev Nikhanj

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house in its own subtle way. The same work is also used in the framing of Photographs at the Adjacent wall as one climbs the upper level.

On a holistic understanding, the large glazing at the first level is protected with a roof extruding outside. The landscape around the mansion is designed to attract abode of birds to enable their chirping within the green zones. Besides this, the fresh air from windows flows all over the residence with water source in the center enabling to cool the air. This helps in a great way to maintain a micro climate and at the same time enhances the joyful mood. On a concluding note, the final highlight of the mansion is the Date Palm tree emerging out from punctured slab at the first floor level. Witnessing a tree from balcony at your eye level definitely makes you feel to be a part of the nature itself.

Surfaces Reporter

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SR Rising Star The sound of running water, the natural stone finishes, the tranquil views of landscapes greens, the sculptural birds all ameliorate the experience of the waterfall house.

I

nspired by the meditative forces of nature, theWaterfall house is a modern rendition of an urban sanctuary, and home to the Vashisht family in Jalandhar, Punjab. As one approaches the house, the exterior palette leaves a lasting impression. The facade is inspired by the rocky landscape and the snow-capped mountains of upper Himalayas.

Dual waterfalls mark dual entrances into the house. Much like the origination point of a river from its glacier, the waterfalls translate into grand points of initiation into the house.

The informal entry frames a view of a landscaped court just as one enters, blurring lines of separation between indoor and outdoor. The formal drawing room flanks the entrance.

Adjoining it are a shoe change area and the powder room, acting as filters, trapping dust and dirt from entering the meditative space. By clever placement of an elevator and the staircase, the architects subtly segregated the formal and informal areas of the house, while maintaining an open floor plan. Further, the informal TV lounge separates as well as unites the 2 bedrooms April-may 2021 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 106

on the ground floor. Meanwhile, a practical approach is taken for the kitchen, enclosing it in glass, catering to the requirements of Indian cooking while providing the visual connectivity of an open kitchen.

The exterior stone cladding continues into the interior spaces as well, adding a sense of continuity between outside and inside.

The play of light by a faceted mirror sculpture on the ceiling of the staircase enhances this illusion while evoking a feeling of transcendence as one ascends to the upper level. The tranquillity however does not come with the assumption of austerity. The needs of a modern lifestyle are met luxuriously through the modern features and technology infused into the functioning of the house. An example of this is the ‘Magic Mirror’ in the bathroom that doubles as a television. It makes for an exciting feature for children, adults and guests alike.

A gradual hierarchy from public to semi-public to private spaces is felt through the house. The experience of walking through these spaces is akin to retreating from the outside world into

Surfaces Reporter The exterior stone cladding continues into the interior spaces as well, adding a sense of continuity between outside and inside.

The needs of a modern lifestyle are met luxuriously through the modern features and technology infused into the functioning of the house.

An example of this is the ‘Magic Mirror’ in the bathroom that doubles as a television. It makes for an exciting feature for children, adults and guests alike.

your ownsanctum sanctorum. The sound of running water, the natural stone finishes, the tranquil views of landscapes greens, the sculptural birds - all ameliorate the experience of the waterfall house. Moreover, VastuShastra compliance adds to the spiritual vibes of the house. If bedrooms are the places of rest, the washrooms are the true spaces of private indulgence,where one can retreat and wind down. Like a rocky cave, its darker colour palettes and ambient lighting soothe the eyes. Luxuriously sized and opulently designed, with onyx finishing, large wardrobes, carpeted flooring to check slippage, the bathrooms are just as luxurious as the bedrooms they are attached to.

On the upper floor, the Pooja room is clad with a custom made Radha-Krishanwallpaper that transports you right into Vrindavan. Its open plan makes it welcoming to all family members, accommodating as many family members as required. A common study close to it also ensures that the peaceful aura is extended towards the children, as they study together in that space. A satellite kitchen and pantry for evening tea is present on the upper level as well that makes the whole floor self-sufficient when needed.

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FACT FILE Project Name: The Waterfall House Architecture Firm: Space Race Architects Project Year: 2019 Category: Residential Project Principal Architect: Ar. Thakur Udayveer Singh Specialist Design Team: Ritika Singh Plot Size: 66’ by 61’ Built Up Area: 7200 Sq. Ft. Location: Jalandhar Specialist Manufacturers: Grohe, Osram, Kone, Sirca, Green, Sonear, D Décor Photography Credits: Nakul Jain Content Writer: Shamita Chaudary Service areas are well segregated, with a separate access respecting the privacy of household members as well as the domestic help. The calm natural forces engage all senses of the occupants and maintain serenity, mentally and climatologically. A happy home leads to happy lives, and from the architects at Space Race, there was only one objective for this house – good vibes only.

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