Surfaces Reporter Magazine December January 2022

editorial

the Story behind the Cover Story!

This Cover Story is very special to my heart. The story has a lot to learn from and to document for future. We do not see Partnerships often in the architecture & design field. So, when we came to know, after 31 years of managing SJK Architects, Shimul decided to get into a partnership with her three women colleagues, we were inspired to know more.

I know Shimul Javeri Kadri for years. My understanding about her is from my visit to her Mumbai office as well as our interactions during WADE ASIA in New Delhi and World Architecture Festival in Singapore. Without a blink I can say, this is one woman I love so much.

Clear-headed and strong are the words I use to describe Shimul. She agrees to the first but has a different opinion about the second. Hmmm... that's Shimul! We talked at length about Partnership, Projects, Leadership during crisis, Organic team building, Architecture Education, Women, Feminism and so much more.

During my interaction with other partners, Vaishali, Sarika, and Roshni, they found a common thread that connected them all. It was exhilarating for me to be a part of that special moment!

Shimul and her women tribe set a tone for all ambitious women who want to make it big, take bigger responsibilities, and do not to forget to live a life along with work! Their long journey from being colleagues to partners is remarkable to know and documented in the special Cover Story by Surfaces Reporter Dec - Jan 2022!

VERTICA DVIVEDI Editor-in-Chief, Surfaces Reporter Founder, Women in Design, Architecture, Art & Engineering - WADE ASIA December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 4

INFRATOP. INNOVATIVE CEILING SYSTEM The innovative ceiling system Infratop is an original and aesthetic finishing of roofs and ceilings.

Colours and shapes are reminiscent of wooden facades.

For outside and inside use.

VOX BUILDING PRODUCTS PRIVATE LIMITED 6th Floor, Leela Collonnade, The Leela Palace, No.23, HAL Old Airpo Road, HAL 2nd Stage, Kodihalli, Bengaluru - 560008, India Ph No: +91 8043741810. Email: customercare@voxindia.co, voxindia.co

Follow us on:

SR Viewpoint

Architecture & Technology Metaverse, Gaming, and digital opportunities The last few years have seen tremendous overhauls not just in the manner in which we live our lives but also in the way we communicate, work, spend our time and even invest. And a big addition in 2021-22 was not just the COVID vaccine but also a huge push towards digital money, bitcoins, crypto, NFTs, and of course Metaverse.

A whole new world seems to be unfolding each day as we get immersed in the digital world more and more.

Did you know as per reports, real estate deals in Metaverse exceeded $500 million in 2021 and are expected to double in 2022? Recently, MetaMall - the metaverse of high-end real estate, incepted in 2021, has sold more than $1 Mn of land as NFTs in its virtual skyscraper shopping mall, within 7 days of its release.

These NFTs can be used to build stores, experience centers, arenas for VR experiences which can further be rented or staked to earn revenue.

Recently, we also heard about James Law, Founder of James Law Cybertecture International being named the Chief Architect of Satoshi Island, slated to become the crypto capital of the world. The construction will be done using sustainable smart modules which can be combined and placed into hundreds of positions to create different amenities, homes, etc. And to top it all, anyone can own a piece of the island by acquiring Satoshi Island Land NFTs that can be bought and sold easily, without any of the complications associated with the transfer of the traditional real estate.

What does NFTs mean for architects and designers?

NFT stands for non-fungible tokens or digital files.

Authenticated Architectural renderings, Furniture designs, Graphic designs etc can be made available for sale on blockchain where they can be minted, bought,

and sold using cryptocurrency. They can be bought and sold over online art marketplaces.

Gaming Architecture is another field that is generating a lot of interest. Last September Zaha Hadid Architects entered the virtual gaming world. The firm has partnered with the popular video game PUBG Mobile, to bring exclusive and cutting-edge designs to their map updates.

The Good thing is, there are lots of non-traditional opportunities to explore. Does that mean, hand sketching, traditional architectural work is out, not at all? This will just be an addition to what we already do. Albeit! Chaotic but exciting times I say :) Please reach out to me at: Instagram: @chowdhury_madhurima Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/madhurima-chowdhury Facebook: www.facebook.com/madhurima.chowdhury.142 Write to me at madhu@surfaces.in

Madhurima Chowdhury Executive Editor - SURFACES REPORTER

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 6

readers reviews Kolkata designers, thank you for the responses! We can be contacted at hello@surfacesreporter.com

What people are saying about "Surfaces Reporter"

Talk of Town is a great initiative by SURFACES REPORTER. I would like to be a part everytime it will be held in Kolkata. It is a good event to understand the market & trends.

I think that The Talk of Town is a really great platform. It really helps bringing out a lot of ideas. As I always say, only that when people meet and when they share ideas, that a new culture is born.

Ajit Jain

Ar Monica Khosla Bhargava

Principal, Studio wb, Kolkata

Principal, Kham Consultants, Kolkata

Surfaces Reporter is doing very good work. You should do such events on a regular basis in Kolkata as here the architectural scenario has changed a lot. It’s not the type of same things that were happening earlier. Good architects are there who are trying to do new things which such events can bring forward.

Talk of Town is a very good initiative.

You must do these interactions on a regular basis.

Debasish Kar Director General, Institute of Urban Management, Kolkata

Tamal Chaudhuri Principal, Architect Tamal Chaudhuri & Associates, Kolkata

Surfaces Reporter Thanks for the informative session on ACP, one of the important facade materials, now-a-days.

Kyra D'souza Student

Very interesting and Informative Session.

Had a privilege of attending this event.

(Kolkata Talk of Town Architecture Event) Uttam Gupta Kolkata

SUBSCRIBE TO PRINT & DIGITAL COPIES ONLINE

www.SurfacesReporter.com

/SurfacesMagzin /SurfacesReporterMagazine

https://www.surfacesreporter.com/subscribe

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 8

ALFA ICA

Vol. 10 Issue-07 december 2021-January 2022

press@surfacesreporter.com

To Buy a copy of old/ latest issues and to Subscribe www.surfacesreporter.com/subscribe

editor-in-chief

vertica dvivedi

vertica@surfaces.in material stories & market research pragath dvivedi executive editor madhurima chowdhury madhu@surfaces.in bureau chief komal gupta editorial support rajiv parashar rekha joshi fuloriya mehak ahluwalia production control swapan das

advertising & sales

Whatsapp: +91-9867333972 madhu@surfaces.in

where to buy SR?

www.sur facesrepor ter.com/subscribe

subscription queries

subscribe online at- www.surfacesreporter.com/subscribe queries at - subscribe@surfacesreporter.com

content submission

press@surfacesreporter.com 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 - 102

Editorial: 4 & 6 Readers' Views: 8 Content: 10 & 12 14-22: SR NEWS UPDATES 23-26: SR Talk of Town Post Pandemic Design Shift in Architecture & Interior Design, Kolkata 27-42: SR COVER STORY The Journey of SJK ARCHITECTS, Mumbai FROM Colleagues to Partners Shimul Javeri Kadri, Vaishali Shankar, Sarika Shetty, Roshni Kshirsagar 44-45: SR ADVERTORIAL CenturyPly's New Central Distribution Center 46-51: SR EVENT The Future of Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP)- From the lens of architects, fabricators & distributors 52-55: SR LAUNCH PAD Aristo India Launch of O'Series Wardrobes 56-57: SR TREND Whats in store for 2022- Experts View 61-66: SR SHOWCASE An assortment of latest and best products & materials from architecture and design industry 68-81: SR SPACES & MATERIAL POETRIES v House connected with Nature by Technocraft, Indore v Kreepanidhi by INNATE, Kolkata v The Ochre House, Crafted Spaces, Hyderabad

Advertising queries

82-86: SR STONE STORY Natural Stones in Architecture and Design - Architects’ Perspective & Market Trends

Contact: +91 9867333972 madhu@surfaces.in

87-90: TILES OF SPAIN AWARDS Innovation in Tiles 2022-23

subscriBE www.surfacesreporter.com/subscribe

92-99: SR RISING STARS Kunal & Pinal Engineer, Inceppt, Surat

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 10

CONTENT in Visual I

27

Cover Story The Journey of SJK ARCHITECTS, MUMBAI

FROM Colleagues to Partners Shimul Javeri Kadri | Vaishali Shankar Sarika Shetty | Roshni Kshirsagar

Aristo India Launch of the O’Series WARDROBES

THE FUTURE OF ALUMINIUM COMPOSITE PANELS (ACP) FROM THE LENS OF ARCHITECTS, FABRICATORS & DISTRIBUTERS

52

56 46

What's in Store for 2022 - Experts' View

82 Natural Stones in Architecture and Design - ARCHITECTS’ Perspective & Market Trends

68 SR SPACES & MATERIAL POETRIES

92 SR Rising Stars

Kunal and Pinal Engineer, Inceppt, Surat December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 12

SR News Bulletin

Facts about India’s longest 594 km long Ganga Expressway

P

rime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the 594 km long Ganga Expressway connecting Meerut to Prayagraj traversing through 10 districts of Uttar Pradesh. Deemed as country’s longest expressway, here are some of the facts about the dream project of PM Modi by SURFACES REPORTER (SR).

Expressway with an airstrip The 594 km long expressway will start from Bijauli village in Meetrut along NH-334 and will continue till Judapur Dandu village near the bypass of NH-2 in Prayagraj thus wandering through almost ten districts of Uttar Pradesh including Hapur, Bulandshahar, Amroha, Sambhal, Badaun, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Unnao, Raebareli and Pratapgarh. Notably, at Shahjahanpur, a 3.5 km long airstrip is proposed for the emergency landing and takeoff for fighter aircraft.

The six lanes expressway (expandable upto eight) will have 120m wide roads with a proposed 3.75 meter service road at one side for the smooth transportation among the nearby villages.

Benefits to People

expressway will shorten the travel time between Delhi to Prayagraj to only seven hours, a journey which normally takes more than 11 hrs. According to the statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, the expressway is being built on PM Modi’s vision to provide fast paced connectivity across the country. The budget for the same is over Rs 36,200 cr.

The project covers a major part of the western UP region and being projected as the ‘milestone’ in the infrastructure development of the state as it will provide direct connectivity to the NCR from Eastern UP region. The six lanes expressway (expandable upto eight) will have 120m wide roads with a proposed 3.75 meter service road at one side for the smooth transportation among the nearby villages. The proposed

Further, there will be nine public convenience centres, seven railway overbridges, 14 major and 126 minor bridges as well as 381 underpasses on the expressway. An industrial corridor is proposed to be built along the Ganga Expressway to give a fillip to multiple sectors including industrial development, trade, agriculture, tourism etc. The expressway, which was approved on November 26, 2020 will become operational by 2024.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 14

SR News Bulletin

MVRDV Recycles Champagne Bottles To Create A Dazzling Jade-Like Facade For Bulgari’s New Store in Shanghai

K

eeping up with the Christmas spirit, Dutch firm MVRDV has given a green facelift to the new Bulgari store opened up in Shanghai Plaza 66. The dazzling green-hued facade of the luxury retailer’s new flagship store appears to be embedded with emeralds but in reality, these are recycled champagne bottles. The recycled glass panel resembles jade and is expertly encased within an art deco brass frame. The facade of the building takes on the materiality of fine jewelry with panels that look like China’s most precious stone.

The firm drew inspiration from various things including cornice motifs used for Bulgari stores in Rome along with the art deco style that characterizes both the brand and the city.

The outcome is an intricate design, with multiple layers of cross-cultural reference including art deco style with a jewellery resemblance, merging the best of western and eastern culture.

Also, the gold-color brass frame gives it a look of jade jewellery.

The backlight in the facade is engineered to reduce its energy footprint. It gives an enigmatic glow at night.

“The glass is completely recycled, produced at the Magna factory in Teutschenthal, Germany, which specializes in glass treatment. The project demonstrates the potential of sustainable recycled materials, even in luxury contexts, and takes one step towards MVRDV and Bulgari’s goal of store designs that are built using 100% circular economy materials,” said Jacob van Rijs, co-founder, MVRDV. “Meanwhile the backlight is engineered to minimize the facade’s energy footprint, using less than half the energy of a typical comparable installation.”

Project Details Project Name: Bulgari Shanghai Flagship Architecture Firm: MVRDV Location: Shanghai Plaza 66, China Completion Year: December 2021 Founding partner in charge: Jacob van Rijs Partner: Fokke Moerel Design Team: Aser Giménez Ortega Simone Costa Giovanni Nardi Elien Deceuninck

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 16

SR News Bulletin

Revamped Kashi Vishwanath Corridor’s first Phase Opens up

P

rime Minister Narendra Modi has recently inaugurated the first phase of Kashi- Vishwanath Corridor in the Varanasi district of Uttar Pradesh. One of the most revered temples of Hindus, the Kashi Vishwanath Temples was falling into ruins due to the ever-increasing encroachments making it difficult for the pilgrims to reach the temple.

Kashi Vishwanath Dham Facts One of PM Modi’s dream projects, the project is being designed by noted architect Bimal Patel. The corridor will be a 320-meter long and a 20-meter wide walkway connecting the Kashi Vishwanath temple with Manikarnika and Lalita ghats of the river Ganga.

The first phase of the project is reportedly spread across an area of about 5 lakh square feet and comprises 23 buildings with a total cost of Rs 339 crore. The entire project cost is estimated at about Rs 800 Cr covering a total area of 5,000 hectare.

Now being known as the ‘Vishwanath Dham’, the last restoration of the temple was carried out by Maharani Ahilyabai

about 250 years ago.Completed in the record 21 months, the construction is mainly done with Chunar’s Pink Stones. Around seven types of stones are used to construct the temple premise.

The temple complex will also house the statues of Adi Shankaracharya, Maharani Ahilyabai, Bharat Mata, and Swami Kartikeya. According to the Ar Bimal Patel, “The corridor will be 320-meter long and a 20-meter wide walkway. It will connect the Kashi Vishwanath temple with Manikarnika and Lalita ghats of the river Ganga. The first phase of the project is reportedly spread across an area of about 5 lakh square feet and comprises 23 buildings.”

Over 300 properties have been acquired, and around 1,400 shopkeepers, tenants, and homeowners were rehabilitated to implement the grand plan, the government said.

In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office said at least 40 ancient temples were rediscovered during the work on the project. They were restored while ensuring there is no change in the original structure, the PMO added.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 18

SR News Bulletin

Nine Frozen Ice Cubes Feature The Xinxiang Cultural Tourism Center in China | Mathieu Forest Architecte | Zone of Utopia

T

he Xinxiang cultural tourism center in China has become an architectural icon owing to its nine superposed and offset ice blocks, each about 17m in height. The texture of the distinctive glass facades is composed of several tangled semi-transparent ice crystals that sieve the light and the views from the interior. The ice cubes receive the light and then reflect it.

Designed by Mathieu Forest Architecte and Zone of Utopia headed by architects Mathieu Forest and Qiang Zou, respectively, the project aims to form a solid urban indicator that joins the entire district and catches the attention of local and international visitors. Although the unusual facades of the blocks give a straightforward appearance, they become more complex as one reaches the building thanks to the tangled and translucent ice crystals that receive and emit light.

“It is a question of hiding – while showing – to provoke mystery and the desire to approach. The ice crystals capture the light and give it back. The building thus seems to emit the light it receives like a mass of inhabited ice,” state the architects. The architects designed the sculpture center in a way that looks different from every angle. From the south, the structure looks more balanced to complement the tranquil

ambiance of the lake, whilst from the commercial street to the west, the cube atop shifts to the side. On the northern side, the primary pedestrian access, the ice cubes come closer together to compose a 34m vertical gap that allows visitors to enter the sports center. The topmost cube which is transparent and suspended in the sky contains a relaxation and contemplation space. The building has been designed in a way that it seems like it floats on the lake water.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 20

SR News Bulletin

Ar. B V Doshi wins 2022 Royal Gold Medal, UK’s Highest Honour for Architecture

S

URFACES REPORTER (SR) feels delighted to share the news that Balkrishna Doshi- India’s most distinguished architect and the first Indian architect who won the Pritzker Prize 2018 (aka the Nobel Prize of Architecture)is conferred with Royal Gold Medal 2022- one of the world’s highest honours for architecture.

B.V Doshi will be awarded with UK’s highest honour for his outstanding contribution to the art of architecture, the craft of construction and the practice of urban design. The Royal Gold Medal is approved personally by Her Majesty The Queen of England. On hearing this news, B.V Doshi said, “What a great honour! I feel truly overwhelmed to be bestowed with the same award as my guru, Le Corbusier.”

At the age of 94, Doshi is being recognised for his career spanning seven decades, with over 100 built projects, across India. Each of his projects, ranging from low-cost housing to cultural facilities and administrative buildings, combine pioneering modernism with vernacular, informed by a deep appreciation of the traditions of India’s architecture, climate, local culture and craft. Doshi will be honoured with this award at a special ceremony in 2022.

RIBA President Simon Allford said, “It was an honour and a pleasure to chair the committee in selecting Balkrishna Doshi

as the 2022 Royal Gold Medallist. At ninety-four years old he has influenced generations of architects through his delightfully purposeful architecture. Influenced by his time spent in the office of Le Corbusier his work nevertheless is that of an original and independent thinker – able to undo, redo and evolve.”

Indian Real Estate will reach $1 trillion by 2030

I

ndian real estate industry will reach upto $ 1 trillion by 2030 and will become a major contributor to the GDP, as suggested by report titled ‘Indian Real Estate Industry’

by India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF). A report by SURFACES REPORTER (SR).

Robust demand causing rise of real estate sector The report suggests that real estate, which is the second-highest employment generator, after the agriculture sector will grow to Rs. 65,000 crore (US$ 9.30 billion) from Rs. 12,000 crore (US$ 1.72 billion) in 2019 and expected to reach US$ 1 trillion in market size by 2030, up from US$ 200 billion in 2021 and

contribute 13% to the country’s GDP by 2025. Retail, hospitality, and commercial real estate are also growing significantly, providing the much-needed infrastructure for India’s growing needs. According to the report, the sector has witnessed high growth in the recent times with rise in demand for office as well as residential spaces. Reports suggests that in the third quarter of 2021, India’s net office absorption reached 5.85 million sq. ft., up 8% YoY in key cities. Three cities—Delhi-NCR, Mumbai and Pune—accounted for 62% of the total volumes recorded in the quarter. Between July 2021 and September 2021, a total of 55,907 new housing units were sold in the eight micro markets in India (59% YoY growth).

Recently, Niti Ayog CEO, Amitabh Kant too has commented over the role of real estate sector for bringing a multiplier effect in the development of the economy and expected its market size to reach USD 1 Trillion by 2030 during a virtual conference held

by CII. “The real estate sector plays a multiplier effect in the development of the economy and the ecosystem of the country.

The sector is expected to reach a market size of USD 1 trillion and contribute 18-20 per cent of the country’s GDP by 2030,” he said.

The smart city project with a plan to build 100 cities is a prime opportunity for real estate companies. Make in India and India’s growing might as a digital economy has spurred our warehousing and industrial segments. As we move ahead, technology will be a key game changer,” he further added.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 22

SR The Talk of Town

Post Pandemic Design Shift in Architecture & Interior Design, KOLKATA With SURFACES REPORTER

Also known as the 'City of Joy', in Kolkata, SURFACES REPORTER (SR) successfully organised the 13th edition of 'The Talk of Town' in asociation with Amulya Mica. The event was a huge success with almost all the notable names from the architecture and design fraternity of Kolkata registering their presence. While the first panel discussion was on 'Architecture and Culture', the second was on 'Design Shifts Post Pandemic - East Region'. With a participation of more than 100 guests, the event was the first Offline event by SURFACES REPORTER after the pandemic. Here we will talk about some of the salient points discussed during the second talk where eminent names including Rupande Shah, (Principal - Rupande Shah & Associates), Anirban Bhaduri, (Principal Architect and Founding partner of Innate), Amber Chandgothia, (Principal - Amber Creations), Ayan Sen, (Principal - Ayan Sen Architects Urban Designers & Planners), Pooja Bihani, (Founder - Space & Design), PK Palit, (Head-Projects, Amulya Mica) voiced their opinions. Here are the excerpts of the same. To view the entire video, log onto www.surfacesreporter.com

The Shift in mindset after Pandemic Ar Anirban Bhaduri: A change that we have felt in the past few months is that elderly people or the seniors among us, have started feeling more comfortable in their own dwelling houses. Rather than living in a shared space or condominium, they prefer their own spaces. Social distancing has taken people apart from each other. No one is comfortable about sharing an elevator or staircases in an apartment. But after the pandemic is over, there will be multiple changes in the scenario.

Many people are trying to choose personal houses over living in an apartment.

Scope of Work From Home Culture in Architecture and Design.

Rupande Shah: With the pandemic, the architects have well adjusted to the work from home scenario.

Work from home is not always a great option for architects. They need to be physically present to understand how the project is adding up.

Rupande Shah

Principal, Rupande Shah & Associates, Kolkata

Our job seldom involves single person.

It is a collaborative project most of the time.

Usually, it is a collaborative project that requires constant team efforts. Physical presence of all the members is always beneficial for the project itself. It will be difficult for some of them to work in a space without being present. A screen does not always help to get the project done.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 23

SR The Talk of Town Ventilation for the kitchen and bathroom is extremely important.

I have noticed that there are multiple apartments with flaws like less ventilation.

Many people are misled into buying these spaces. Proper ventilation, a terrace or verandas should be a compulsion in some buildings. This way the people living in the building get a proper amount of sunlight and air for their good health.

Amber Chandgothia

Principal, Amber Creations, Kolkata

Scope for interior design Pooja Bihani: Architects are space planners. And pandemic is all about maintaining a safe distance. The problem can be solved with the right ideas.

Designing Interactive Public Spaces Post Pandemic Pooja Bihani: We love our homes. It gives us a sense of personal space. At the urban level, people who can afford, have been going for larger homes. Based on the number of people you have in your family, there should be an equal number of rooms present. When it comes to public spaces, there has been a lot of awareness towards the per square feet idea. Many people are still skeptical about the designs of multiple spaces like clubs, hotels and restaurants. But open spaces are becoming more popular now than it was before.

New Finishes and technologies for better hygiene P.K Palit: In the pre pandemic designs, there were not much open spaces. However, as the Pandemic ravaged our lives, their is a clear shift towards open spaces. In offices and other areas, there is always an increased need for pollution and bacteria free air. Here is the need for good quality laminates which are antibacterial and promotes hygiene by inhibiting the growth of any sort of microbial life. There are a lot of changes in terms of technology when it comes to products.

Changes in by-laws to eMphasisE on a healthy environment Amber Chandgothia: A lot of importance has been put in the case of health and fitness. Ventilation for the kitchen December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 24

Pooja Bihani

Founder, Spaces & Design, Kolkata

When it comes to public spaces, there has been a lot of awareness towards the per square feet idea. Many people are still skeptical about the designs of multiple spaces like clubs, hotels and restaurants. But open spaces are becoming more popular now, than before.

Surfaces Reporter

and bathroom is extremely important. There are multiple apartments with flaws like less ventilation.

Many people are misled into buying these spaces.

Proper ventilation, a terrace or verandas should be a compulsion in some buildings. This way, people living in the building will get a proper amount of sunlight and air for their good health. A residential building has a sunlight penetration ratio. Based on the space, the necessary changes should be made.

High density building designs, a conflict to the notion of a healthy environment Ayan Sen: If you see some cities like Tokyo and New York, high rise buildings are very popular. And going high is the best option. A combination of different parameters can help to build a ‘healthy’ building with the right sunlight, artificial ventilation and shaft ratios, followed by the bylaws.

Changes in Tier II and III cities Ayan Sen: Very little change has been happening in the Tier II & III cities. Large crowds are still gathering without wearing masks even though COVID is still very much present. There is a consciousness among every industry about the evolving nature of the virus.

People are slightly more concerned when it comes to healthcare. This has led to multiple changes and market demands being created due to post pandemic changes. And the government has started to make proactive changes around the city.

Ayan Sen

Principal, Ayan Sen Architects Urban Designers & Planners Kolkata

If you see some cities like Tokyo and New York, high rise buildings are very popular. And going high is the best option. A combination of different parameters can help to build a ‘healthy’ building.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 25

SR The Talk of Town

Anirban Bhaduri

Social distancing has taken people apart from each other. Many elderly people are uncomfortable about sharing an elevator or staircases in an apartment. Everyone is taking extra care to stay safe. But after the pandemic is over, there will be multiple changes in the scenario. Many people are looking for personal houses over living in an apartment.

Architect & Founding Partner, INNATE, Kolkata

Key Design Shifts v Many people do not prefer sharing spaces. This leads to an increased need for private spaces. Measures are being taken in order to make the community feel safe and inclusive. v Architects often find it difficult to work on projects without being physically present. Hands on experience always makes it easier to improve a project. v Multiple changes are required at the urban level as people are still skeptical about using open public spaces like parks, clubs, etc. v With an increased need for hygienic spaces, laminates are a popular finishing material used in interior design. It keeps the environment safe by using their antibacterial features. v Proper ventilation and a good sunlight-space ratio should be maintained. Dark spaces are always prone to bacterial growth and less sunlight can cause multiple health related problems. v A solution to the ever-growing need for space is to ‘go high’. Vertical buildings provide us with the right amount of sunlight, ventilation and the much needed space.

In the present scenario, the architecture and design industry is all about making designs to survive. The industries are looking for ways to constructively respond to the pandemic. Design and innovations are constantly getting morphed to meet the requirements of the people.

The goal is to build a safer community where people can feel comfortable in their own space and stay healthy in order to fight the pandemic.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 26

P. K. Palit Head-Projects, Amulya Mica

In the offices and other areas, there is always an increased need for pollution and bacteria free air. Here is where the use of laminates comes along. There are antibacterial laminates and plywood that prevents the growth of bacteria. There are a lot of changes in terms of technology when it comes to products.

Cover Story

January 2022

The Journey of SJK ARCHITECTS, MUMBAI

FROM Colleagues to Partners Shimul Javeri Kadri | Vaishali Shankar | Sarika Shetty | Roshni Kshirsagar

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 27

SR Cover Story

Passion and ideas

SJK has always

have many takers, if

given me abundant

there is commitment

freedom and

and communication.

opportunities to

This is not a lone

grow. Partnership is

journey—find mentors

a big extension

and collaborators, and

of the same.

learn to delegate.

Shimul Javeri Kadri

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 28

Vaishali Shankar

Surfaces Reporter

I have witnessed my

My attitude towards

entire journey at SJK

so many things in

Architects from being

life, outside of work,

a young woman to

has changed due

becoming a mother. While

to everything that I

working together for

have learned here

years, we have developed

and the way I have

certain ways of bonding

grown here.

with each other.

Sarika Shetty

Roshni Kshirsagar

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 29

SR Cover Story

Thirty two years ago, when Shimul Javeri Kadri founded SJK Architects, she started out as a one-woman army. Now, as three of her long-time colleagues join her at the helm as partners, the renowned architect demonstrates how power, when shared, can only grow more incandescent as a guiding light. Vertica Dvivedi meets the four women torchbearers of SJK to understand their individual journeys that led to this remarkable evolution, and how they intend to support and inspire each other at the intersection of authority and partnership.

Shimul Javeri Kadri has long been in the habit of questioning norms—be it as an architect in a maledominated building industry in India, or as a woman refusing to shrink her dreams in a patriarchal world.

In the late 80s, fresh after her marriage to architect Rahul Kadri, most people expected her to join the family enterprise headed by her father-in-law, I M Kadri, the stalwart who drew the blueprint for numerous landmark institutions in India and around the world. Shimul, though, decided to rough it out by starting her own firm, SJK Architects. At a time when it was easier to take on interior designing projects for residences, she sought architectural assignments. Long before sustainability became a fashionable word, she worked on a building ethic that was rooted in an uncommon environment consciousness and a deep love for the earth.

Now, with a prolific career behind her filled with prestigious accolades and an enviable roster of top-league projects—just when one would expect her to bask in that sunlit space of hard-earned glory and prominence— the 59-year old architect has nudged her crown aside by forging a partnership with three of her long-time colleagues: Vaishali Shankar, Sarika Shetty, and Roshni Kshirsagar.

When you ask her the reason behind this unexpected move, her answer is steeped in minimalism just like her signature designs: “I have great faith in the power of the collective. Architecture is all about team work—which is what we have been doing at SJK. This is a way to formalise the structure, and reward people who show commitment, talent and responsibility. Over the years, all these three individuals have shown tremendous initiative. They are part of the reason the firm is where it is today.”

Though Shimul refrains from glorifying her decision, over several online meetings SURFACES REPORTER delved into the many moments of empathy and team spirit that eventually paved the way for the new story of SJK Architects.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 30

Surfaces Reporter

The Dasavatara Hotel Hospitality I Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh Client: Marasa Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. Area: 1.15 Lakh Sq. ft Photographer: Rajesh Vora, Himanshu Sheth Team: ShimulJaveri Kadri, Sarika Shetty, Michelle Pereira

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 31

SR Cover Story

Boat Club Apartments Residential I Chennai, Tamil Nadu Area: 16,500 Sq.ft Status: Completed 2020 Photographer: Niveditaa Gupta Team: Shimul Javeri Kadri, Sarika Shetty, Nikita Shahadadpuri, Priyata Bosamia

What were the early challenges that you faced? How different was the real action from what was taught in architecture school?

Shimul: There is so much that you don’t learn in architecture school! I recall a project to transform a burnt-down shed in Kala Chowki into an office. It was the first-of-its-kind prototype of an industrial shed that was converted into a designed commercial office space. New details and innovations were required at every turn. A product manufacturer—of a watch or a handle—makes endless prototypes before the product is launched. In architecture, where are the prototypes? You build an entire building incorporating millions of products and services without any prototypes. And the building must withstand all the forces of nature over several decades.

Though you married into a family of architects, you started your own firm and did not join IMK Architects.

Shimul: I have had no role in that firm, whatsoever. I considered myself fortunate that I didn’t inherit a practice—that can be difficult. Personality-wise, my husband Rahul is able to handle that better. When we talk about somebody who is larger than life—a father-son practice like that—it can get difficult to create your own identity and establish your voice within that. Rahul has been able to do that in his own gentle way. For me, being part of a family practice was not even an option.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 32

I seek a lot of clarity at all times, and I hate clutter of any sorts— whether it’s visual, emotional or mental.

I think those aspects are also reflected in the work that we do at SJK Architects.

Surfaces Reporter

Automobile Design Studio Workspaces I Mumbai, Maharashtra Client: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd | Area: 25,000 Sqft Status: Completed 2015 Photographer: Rajesh Vora Team: Shimul Javeri Kadri, Vaishali Shankar, Roshni Kshirsagar, Nidhi Shah, Riddhi Shah, Amal Roowala, Vrinda Khaitan

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 33

SR Cover Story Actually, I cannot tell you how glad Rahul and I are that we practise separately. We have very different things to talk about at the end of the day. We don’t get in each other’s way. I continued my work through those difficult years of bringing up my two children. I had started a practice and intended to keep it going and make it work. Had I been a part of the family practice, it would have been really easy to step back a little at that time.

I never stepped back. It was mostly ‘go, go, go’ through it all.

If the triangle that includes society, your client’s aspirations, and your aspirations isn’t a fairly equilateral one, the pulls and pushes can become difficult to maneuver.

You have said ‘no’ to many clients when the equation wasn’t working. What is your advice for young firms that may not find it easy to turn down projects when they run into friction with a client?

Shimul: In the early years, it is difficult to reject a client.

However, over time, one learns that it is an important decision.

Whenever I sensed that I would not be able to work with a client or there was an incompatibility, I always chose to make an exit.

I think that’s a very important lesson for anybody to follow—to listen to your instincts. The client is the person who hires you but also society at a larger level, because the building will remain in the public realm well beyond the lifetime of the client.

When we look at our most successful projects, it is that meeting of aspirations that has ultimately shaped our best work.

If the triangle that includes society, your client’s aspirations, and your aspirations isn’t a fairly equilateral one, the pulls and pushes can become difficult to maneuver. So, the patronage and the nature of the client, as well as their ability to absorb and understand, coupled with your ability to enjoy their aspirations, can come together to become the most precious part of a project.

That said, even at this stage of my life, I make mistakes.

It is a difficult one, Vertica, and I am glad you questioned it because even though intuition does play a big role, sometimes you have to kiss a lot of frogs to get that handsome prince. Maybe those mistakes are meant to be, and are a big part of one’s growth.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 34

Boat Club Apartments, Chennai

Surfaces Reporter

Boat Club Apartments, Chennai

Don’t try to be superwomen!

I see you as a strong and clear-headed person. How do you see yourself?

Shimul: Clear-headed sounds fairly appropriate. I seek a lot of clarity at all times, and I hate clutter of any sorts—whether it’s visual, emotional or mental. I am always looking to de-clutter my head and my emotions. That is one reason I journal a lot.

But I don’t see myself as the rock that most people see me as.

I can be very vulnerable and sensitive, and I think those aspects are also reflected in the work that we do at SJK Architects. I see myself as being very open and collaborative. SJK Architects does not represent a single typology that gets repeated across places and projects. Even the approach to problem-solving or design varies so much with each project.

You have a women-dominated office.

Is that a direct outcome of your ardent belief in feminism?

Shimul: From a very young age, I have been headstrong and opinionated. My views often clashed with those held by my father. My first eye-opener to feminism was when I landed a job as a teaching assistant for Women’s Studies at University in the USA. I studied Urban Planning but took classes in theories of feminism, race, class and gender in Latin America, and other issues related to development in the third world. Even when I came back to India, I was fortunate to work with many strong women and feminist groups.

Having said that, I never consciously pursued any objectives of having a women-dominated team. But I am proud and glad anyway to have nurtured a workspace full of strong women.

What is your advice for young women architects?

Shimul: Low pay and long working hours are detrimental aspects of the profession. Let’s just say there are two magnets at work here. One, you have to work your way up to earn a significant amount as pay. During that phase of working your way up, the other magnet comes into play. This involves the demands of your personal life—childbearing and childrearing. When the first magnet of income is not good enough, the second magnet can just take over and pull women out of their professions. Unless that changes, architecture will continue to be a difficult profession for women to practice.

But then I also wonder why should a woman subjugate her life and her fantastic brain and capabilities for two years of child-rearing? Why is it her sole responsibility?

Young women can communicate their ambitions, their joys and their ideas to friends, family and other potential collaborators.

Passion and ideas have many takers, if there is commitment and communication. This is not a lone journey—find mentors and collaborators, and learn to delegate. This is true of childcare, homecare and of the power of professional teams. We have to create these bridges with husbands, fathers, clients, consultants and & contractors. Don’t try to be superwomen!

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 35

SR Cover Story

Hotel at Bodhgaya Hospitality I Gaya, Bihar Client: Marasa Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. Area: 76,000 Sq.ft Status: Completed 2020 Photographer: Niveditaa Gupta Team: ShimulJaveri Kadri, Vaishali Shankar, Roshni Kshirsagar, Ipsita Mallick, Aparna Kale December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 36

Surfaces Reporter

The Leaf House Residential I Alibag, Maharashtra Area: 6,500 Sqft Status: Completed 2012 Photographer: Rajesh Vora Team: Shimul Javeri Kadri, Vaishali Shankar, Roshni Kshirsagar, Sonali Bhargava, Priya Dedhia, Foram Vakani

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 37

SR Cover Story

Among all the projects, will you name five that instantly come to mind?

Shimul: The Textile factory in Karur, an office of Nirvana Films, The Leaf House in Alibaug, the Automobile Design Studio for Mahindra’s, The Dasavatara Hotel at Tirupati, and the Hotel at Bodhgaya.

The idea about architecture being iconic is so misleading.

I would say, just focus on architecture that generates relationships and is gentle to the earth.

What about the projects that you are working on at present?

Shimul: There are many projects that I regard as very dear to my heart. One of them, under construction, is a Museum for Jain Heritage. Then there is a Boat Club Road apartment that we worked on last year. We are also working on a beautiful commercial office building in Nagpur, besides another computer science academic building in Warangal. There are many other exciting projects, but let me just stop at these for now.

Any message for the architecture and design fraternity?

Shimul: The idea about architecture being iconic is so misleading. I would say, just focus on architecture that generates relationships and is gentle to the earth.

What is your message for the Surfaces Reporter team?

Shimul: Support work and people that you think are doing meaningful work. The strongest thing about being a journalist is that you are communicating what is right. You have the power to give energy to something that you think should be believed in.

So, think carefully about what to believe in and focus on that.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 38

Surfaces Reporter

The Crafted Workspace Industrial I Karur, Tamil Nadu Client Synergy Lifestyles Pvt. Ltd. | Area: 30,000 Sq. ft Status: Completed 2004 Photographer: Pallon Daruwalla Team: Shimul Javeri Kadri, Vaishali Shankar, Rubel Dhuna, Sonali Bhargava

Vaishali Shankar Vaishali started out at SJK Architects in 2000, fresh after completing her research programme on sustainable architecture from IIT-Mumbai. Under her leadership, the firm designed M & M Design Studio, the Hotel at Bodhgaya, and the Karur Factory (which is also a testament to her abiding passion for sustainable architecture). Vaishali has also been involved with several educational buildings in Warangal that largely rely on wind and shade to create comfortable environments for social interactions. Currently, she is working on a multi-use commercial building in Nagpur that uses radiant cooling systems (and has all the makings of a Leeds Gold win).

“SJK has always given me abundant freedom and opportunities to grow. Partnership is a big extension of the same.”

“Shimul was deeply considerate and empathetic when I gave birth to my son, Anirudh. She could relate to and resonate with what I was going through and the difficult choices that I needed to make. She helped me find solutions to many challenges that I faced as a young mother. I could bring my son to office and manage work at the same time. Our office is a professional environment, but to be able to bring a child as young as a one-year-old into that environment and still be able to keep things fairly professional—that is something Shimul could visualise. She has a nurturing nature that helped me bridge that gap. I think it’s easier for women to relate to us. Of course, irrespective of gender, it’s important for anyone joining the firm to understand our bonding and the connections we establish.”

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 39

SR Cover Story

Sarika Shetty Sarika joined the firm as an intern in 2001, and was guided by both Shimul and Vaishali.

With her passion for design plus a rich experience of 20 years in project execution, she has all that it takes to be a natural leader.

Some of her remarkable projects include creating a brand identity for Fabindia’s flagship home store at Kalaghoda; the awardwinning office building for Nirvana Films in Bangalore; the Dasavatara Hotel in Tirupati (winner of the 2016 French Prix Versailles Award for Architecture & Interiors); a 100bed rural community hospital in Raigad; a luxury duplex apartment building in Chennai; a multi-generational home amid a mango orchard; and a museum for Jain heritage in Ahmedabad. Her two latest projects include a house in Alibaug and a set of public pavilions, made from sustainable timber, in the Jain pilgrim centre at Palitana.

“This partnership is special because it is the future that we all are seeing together.”

“When I joined the firm, Shimul’s kids were very young. That was also a time when Vaishali and I were thrown at the deep end, quite often.

We learnt and stood up for ourselves, to try and grab our individual projects. Shimul was completely embracing of every situation that unfolded, and she trusted us with what we did.

I think that’s how we really grew. We were a firm that did everything from brief-taking, to costing, to BOQs, to integration, to setting up the space for a handover. Those were back in the days when PMCs were not an established entity. We learnt the tricks of the trade because we were a practice that saw architecture holistically right from its inception to handover, valued what matters most to the clients, focused not just on the client’s aspirations but figured ways and means to deliver those aspirations within their budget.”

“I have witnessed my entire journey at SJK Architects from being a young woman to becoming a mother. While working together for years, we have developed certain ways of bonding with each other. People who connect with humanity, and men who have looked up to their mothers and sisters will appreciate our value system and understand how womencentric firms work.”

“My first project was a large engineering campus for which I did the grills of the entire first block. Twenty years down the line, that project is still close to my heart and we continue to build on that campus.”

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 40

We learnt the tricks of the trade because we were a practice that saw architecture holistically right from its inception to handover, valued what matters most to the clients, and figured ways to deliver those aspirations within their budget.

Surfaces Reporter

Roshni Kshirsagar Roshni, the youngest partner who joined the firm in 2007, is the head interior designer at SJK Architects. Her portfolio includes hospitality, retail, cultural, commercial, and residential works. Recently, her interior design for the Hotel at Bodhgaya drew wide attention for its core concepts of Buddhist studies and symbology and their influence on spatial design. Besides this, her range of innovative work during the pandemic, such as retail design for Forest of Chintz, the office space of a leading headhunting firm, and a new space for Penguin Random House India, has cemented her position as a formidable powerhouse of talent.

Nirvana Films Studio Workspaces I Bengaluru, Karnataka Client: Nirvana Films Studio | Area: 8,000 Sqft Status: Completed 2011 | Photographer: Pallon Daruwala Team: Shimul Javeri Kadri, Sarika Shetty, Poonam Sachdev

“My attitude towards so many things in life, outside of work, has changed due to everything that I have learned here and the way I have grown here.”

“I joined SJK Architects as a 22-year-old; I was between jobs at that time. A friend who was working with the firm asked me if I would like to attend the ‘12 on 12’ event that year; they had an extra ticket and the entire office was travelling to Ahmedabad where Shimul and the SJK Architects team were among the presenters. I was familiar with the format of the event, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. The overnight train journey, during my return, was when Sarika did an impromptu interview with me. It lasted through the night. When I reached home the following day, I got an official interview call—and the rest is history.”

“Much later, we realised that it was Vaishali’s ticket that I travelled on since she had to change her plans. It feels incredible to look back now and see how everything aligned for me to find my spot here.”

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 41

SR Cover Story SOME PHOTOS FROM THE PROJECT VISITS BY SJK TEAM

SURFACES REPORTER wishes Team SJK Architects all the best!

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 42

SR Advertorial

CenturyPly’s New Central Distribution Center Another step towards sustainability

L-R: Mr. Rajesh Agarwal; Mr. Sabyasachi Bhattacharya (Spectrum & Teletech; Mr. Vijay Saroff (Gopal Plywood); Mr Anirban Sanyal; Mr Dinesh Patel (The Centuryply Hub; Mr Keshav Bhajanka

C

entury Plyboards (India) Ltd. (CPIL), one of India’s largest manufacturers of wood panel and decorative industry, inaugurated a 35000 sq. feet Central Distribution Centre (CDC) with a stocking capacity of 4,00,000 (Four lakhs) sheets of Laminates & Veneers at its Joka plant in West Bengal. The stocking capacity can be increased further by 50% with redesigning of racking system.

Faster Stock Replenishment With the start of CDC operations, the overall replenishment time is expected to be reduced by 40%. Due to the faster stock replenishment, the service level at Regional Distribution centers will be maintained above 95%.

One of the biggest advantages of this CDC facility is the equipped modern Warehouse Management System, through which all stocks can be identified and traced in one click.

Around 1000 finished goods SKUs will be stocked at the new CDC. At CenturyPly, this initiative will bring a structural

Mr Keshav Bhajanka, Executive Director, CenturyPly

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 44

Surfaces Reporter One of the biggest advantages of this CDC facility is the equipped modern Warehouse Management System, through which all stocks can be identified and traced in one click. change in the supply chain distribution model and increase the pace of service fulfillment. This supply re-networking will bring an operational saving of 1 crore annually.

New Sustainability Benchmark The CDC will help to bring stock visibility across the entire supply chain network. It will increase the rate of production efficiency and reduce wastages due to planned and advanced lot sizing. Thus, this initiative will completely uplift and take the company’s height to a new benchmark of sustainable development.

Mr. Keshav Bhajanka, Executive Director, CenturyPly said, “The mission statement of CenturyPly has always been to be the best of all and aligning with this goal, we have further taken a significant step towards increasing customer satisfaction by coming up with the single largest distribution centre for laminates in India. The CDC, that is going to be established in our Joka manufacturing unit in Kolkata will have State-of-the-art infrastructure, which is going to be driven by one of the most technologically advanced supply chain algorithms, a pioneering movement in our industry. Our objective is to maximize the reach of our products to consumers at the right time.

We will achieve this by changing the business module from order to stock driven manufacturing, which will enhance our customer experience by leaps and bounds.

Our endeavor is to provide quality service in a shorter duration to our consumers who’ve shown continuous faith in our service over the years and we believe this will help us gain even happier customers going forward.”

Why CenturyPly Century Plyboards (India) Ltd. (CPIL), the first ISO 9002 Company in India for plywood and veneer, started its operations in 1986; CPIL also received ISO 14001 Certification in 2004. Shri Sajjan Bhajanka and Shri Sanjay Agarwal formed the company. In a very short span, it has established itself as the market leader in this sector.

Mr Keshav Bhajanka, Mr. Bhagwati Prasad Agarwal (Shivkhori sales Pvt. Ltd)

L-R: Mr Keshav Bhajanka; Mr Dinesh Patel (The Centuryply Hub); Mr Ajay Baldawa; Mr SP Jain; Mr. Sabyasachi Bhattacharya (Spectrum & Teletech); Mr Shankho Chowdhury; Mr Umesh Gupta (Balaji Sales & Anjanee Décor Pvt Ltd)

CPIL has its manufacturing units at Kolkata, Chennai, Guwahati, Karnal, Kandla, Hoshiarpur, Myanmar, Gabon and Laos. CPIL today manufactures the entire range of Plywood (commercial, marine, shuttering), Laminates, Veneers, Doors, MDF, Prelam, Fibre Cement Boards, PVC, Exterior Grade Laminates.

The brand is synonymous with quality and has a history of customer focus and innovation, starting with Borer Termite Proof Plywood, Boiling Water Proof to the recent nano technology based properties like Virokill, best Firewall Technology or an QR code application to test if its products are genuine, the company is well poised to grow in the branded wood panel and decorative business.

L-R: Mr Dippaman Samanta; Mr Keshav Bhajanka; Mr SP Jain; Mr Shankho Chowdhury.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 45

SR EVent

THE FUTURE OF ALUMINIUM COMPOSITE PANELS (ACP)

FROM THE LENS OF ARCHITECTS, FABRICATORS & DISTRIBUTERS Awareness Partner: Eurobond ACP Telecast Partners: Surfaces Reporter & Ply Reporter

WATCH THE VIDEO

/SurfacesReporter

/SurfacesReporterMagazine

S

urfaces Reporter and Ply Reporter recently hosted a live webinar discussing the potential of Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) in the industry.

In the presence of eminent speakers and experts from the industry, Ms Vertica Dvivedi, Editor-in-Chief, Surfaces Reporter and Mr Pragath Dvivedi, Founder, Ply Reporter and India Interior Retailing hosted the panel discussion in two segments with the motive of raising awareness about ACP, its relevance and evolution and its stance in the current market. Ms Dvivedi hosted a tete-atete with the architect panelists, while Mr Dvivedi helped in understanding the industry and trade perspective of the humble material that ACP is.

Ms Madhurima Chowdhury, Executive Editor, Surfaces Reporter co-moderated the session and introduced the esteemed panelists beginning with the architects

panel including Ar CS Raghuram, Principal Architect, CR Narayana Rao Consultants, Founding Partner, Trilogue Studio, Chennai; Ar Kshitij Limaye, Executive Director, Sankalpan, Mumbai and Ar Ajay Gupta, Founder, Knowledge Squirrel, Former Exec Director, KGD Architecture, Bengaluru; followed by awareness partner Eurobond ACP’s (Euro Panel Products Ltd) Whole Time Director Mr Divyam Shah; Mr Rajesh Shah, Chairman and Managing Director, Eurobond and Mr Rahul Gada, COO, Eurobond. Mr Atmabandhu Gupta, Ganesh Associates, Telangana; Mr SK Bali, CEO, Hectafine Alusystems India Ltd; Mr Harpreet Singh, MD, Truewall Specialities Pvt Ltd; and Mr HC Jain, Mahaveer Corporation, Bengaluru formed the prominent panelist that showcased the industry aspect of ACP.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 46

Surfaces Reporter ARCHITECT’S PERSPECTIVE Ms Chowdhury handed over the moderation to Ms Dvivedi who further discussed ACP – a material that is used, overused and abused over the years – from the eyes of an architect. The architect panel laid down the evolution of ACP, challenges and future design forecast of the material.

The Challenges Ar CS Raghuram, Principal Architect, CR Narayana Rao Consultants, Founding Partner, Trilogue Studio, Chennai, finds ACP as the go-to material. For him, the material offers a lot of variety and diversity in terms of availability, ease of installation and price value. “Nothing can beat ACP,” cited Ar Raghuram.

Ar Kshitij Limaye, Executive Director, Sankalpan, Mumbai further talked about the different aspects of ACP. He strongly believes that for an architect, the facade or the skin of the building speaks the nature, time and place of the building.

ACP offers a contemporary and modern appeal. According to Ar Limaye, “ACP can be used in a non-limiting way in terms of complex building forms. It is not just the new buildings but also old buildings that have started getting wrapped around ACP. As an architect, saying ACP is a bad choice of material would be a flawed argument.”

However despite ACP being in the market for years, Ar Raghuram feels that the emergence of two sets of challenges would threaten the material. “Facades have changed a lot over the years. Materials such as glass, clay tiles, porcelain and even fabric are included in facade now. There is an emergence of materials that is touted as an alternative to external and internal cladding. The biggest challenges are the emergence of these alternate materials over the past couple of years and the other important aspect, is the energy efficiency aspect of building,” he added.

Further elaborating on the challenges of ACP, Ar Ajay Gupta, Founder, Knowledge Squirrel, Former Exec Director, KGD Architecture, Bengaluru strongly opined that ACP has been abused more than used, especially in India. “We have the habit of mimicking the west anyhow. When the IT boom happened in India, we had to mimic the same buildings that were constructed in Europe to get the MNCs to come to India. This way, we lost the idea of architecture somewhere because we just started mimicking and ACP flooded the whole market. It became the Xerox of photocopies,” he added. According to him, architects have stopped conceiving buildings with ACP and started fixing buildings with it.

“We are using ACP as an undulating block work. I think that’s the biggest challenge that I have seen and secondly it is the architect’s fault and our manufacturers who are pushing the product,” he commented and suggested that designers need to think creatively with ACP.

The architect community has to be told what the product can offer. I think the product manufacturers should sell the product as a whole system (though they might not be manufacturing the entire system) where the product is the principle skin of the material.

This way, architects will be educated and they will be able

The Model Solution

to apply the material in a better

Ar Raghuram pointed that when the installation is not done properly, people blame the product and not the team who has done the installation. “Manufacturers need to have a robust monitoring and training where we can have people on the field to correct the application of ACP. That said, I would like some studies, researches and innovation on the sustainability aspect of ACP,” he informed.

way. The crux of the problem is

On a positive note, Ar Limaye suggests that as architects, the most important decision is the materiality of the facade, and therefore, material should never be blamed. While educating about the product, he said, “At the end of the day, one has to take a judicious approach considering all the factors such as sustainability, materiality, environment, the context and fire resistance. We need to defy the myopic of beauty and embrace an approach that

faulty application!

Ar. Ajay Gupta Founder, Knowledge Squirrel, Former Exec Director, KGD Architecture, Bengaluru

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 47

SR Event is sort of beautiful, functional, elegant, maintenance and construction friendly and contemporary and sustainable as well.”

Despite the challenges at hand, Ar Gupta sees potential for the architect community to conceive buildings with the ideology of ACP as a design element and not as an infill element. “The architect community has to be told what the product can offer.

I think the product manufacturers should sell the product as a whole system (though they might not be manufacturing the entire system) where the product is the principle skin of the material. This way, architects will be educated and they will be able to apply the material in a better way. The crux of the problem is faulty application,” he informed. Agreeing with Ar Gupta, Ar Limaye added, “When one sees things in a new light, approach to creation changes. So we have to make effort to reinvent ourselves, be the leaders in the thoughts, challenge the concerns and mainly unlearn to learn again. In this process, we have to defy conventions, stereotype and the mundane character and reevaluate what modern really means.

It will add a lot of value in terms of tangible change that we wish to see in this particular material.”

When installation is not done properly, people blame the product. Manufacturers need to have a robust monitoring and training where we can have people on the site to correct the application of ACP. That said, I would like some studies, researches and innovation on the sustainability aspect of ACP.

On concluding the first segment of the webinar, Ms Dvivedi hands over the moderation to Mr Pragath as she “looks forward to some positive changes for the product as well as the entire fraternity. As a media (Surfaces Reporter), we take this as responsibility to ensure that architects get educated on this subject. As a community including manufacturers, architects, other stakeholders, fabricators and fabrication installation consultancy, we have to bring about a holistic development in this segment.”

Ar. C S Raghuram Principal Architect, C R Narayana Rao Consultants Founding Partner, Trilogue Studio, CHENNAI

When one sees things in a new light, approach to creation changes. So we have to make effort to reinvent ourselves and reevaluate what modern really means.

Ar. Kshitij Limaye Executive Director, Sankalpan, MUMBAI

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 48

Surfaces Reporter INDUSTRY, TRADE AND FABRICATORS PERSPECTIVE Moderated by Mr Pragath Dvivedi, the second part of the webinar was discussed in the presence of distributors of ACP talking about the quality of ACP, its standardization, current market and future growth.

Sharing his insights on the innovations taking place in ACP, particularly at Eurobond, Mr Divyam Shah, Whole Time Director, Eurobond ACP (Euro Panel Products Ltd) said, “In terms of design and colours, we are constantly developing new colours for the rustic range which is currently the new trend in order to achieve raw metal looks, wooden and zinc ranges. We are also adding colours in marble and stone finishes so that is a constant development which goes on every six months.” However, the main product shift for the company is to keep innovating the new products such as manufacturing honeycomb panels, fire safe facades and EURAMAX coated products in India with 20 years of warranty.

Commenting on the variations of quality, Mr SK Bali, CEO, Hectafine Alusystems India Ltd feels that manufacturers must concentrate on quality and not just create products. “Even the specifications coming from the architects or consultants are not proper. All they want to do is wrap things in ACP. Very few architects are concerned about the quality of the product but what happens is that as a fabricator or as a contractor, we have to stick on to the quality demanded.”

Another aspect that he highlighted was the price cutting which is hampering the quality of the product. Although in between the material was getting ‘copy pasted,’ in the past seven years, the material has witnessed a lot of innovations, as per him.

Mr Bali suggests that coating quality, skin of the composite panel and the alloy of the skin which is used in ACP needs to be strongly addressed by the manufacturer if we have to stop the ‘copy pasting’ which is happening in the market. On the other hand, Mr Singh further informed that quality check is limited. “As far as quality check, physically on sight there are two three aspects which we can check. We can test the thickness of the panels, thickness of the skin and a peel off check. However, most of the tests are conducted in a

Our main product shift is getting more innovative products such as honeycomb panels in India, fire safe facades and EURAMAX coated products in India with 20 years of warranty.

Mr. Divyam Shah Whole Time Director, Euro Panel Products Ltd, (EUROBOND ACP)

At present, we have reached nearly Rs 200 crore and we predict an estimated growth of 25 per cent. The exports also look bright!

Mr. Rajesh Shah Chairman & Managing Director EUROBOND ACP Euro Panel Products Ltd

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 49

SR Event

I expect a growth of nearly 15-20 per cent in the coming three years as there is an infrastructure spending from the government with a rise in real estate projects.

Demand is rising as projects which were at a halt due to COVID-19 are now on track.

Mr Rahul Gada

Mr HC Jain

COO, Eurobond ACP’s (Euro Panel Products Ltd)

The end use of the product has to be defined properly with correct specifications to overcome inspecting challenge.

Mr. Harpreet Singh MD, Truewall Specialities Pvt. Ltd

Mahaveer Corporation, Bengaluru

laboratory. Therefore there is a little scope for on sight inspection of the quality aspect of ACP,” he elaborated.

That said, he believes that the end use of the product has to be defined properly with correct specifications. On a similar note, Mr Bali added, “Fabricators have to follow the right system to install ACP in facade including the framework and size. It has to be designed properly and applied. And currently, no rules are being followed.”

Future forecast Statistically pointing out, Mr Dvivedi stated that ACP segment is a fragmented one with more than 50 players at present and more are yet to join the league at an alarming speed of 14-15 per cent. The Rs 4000 crore industry, which has grown up and has evolved over the past 20 years, alongside the fabrication industry together forms a Rs 15000 crore industry. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for ACP has been constant, informed Mr HC Jain, Mahaveer Corporation, Bengaluru. “Although it hasn’t improved post COVID-19 but it is improving. New demand is coming up and new applications are made. I expect a growth of nearly 1520 per cent in the coming three years as there is infrastructure spending from the government and real estate projects are coming up,” he cited. Similarly Mr Rahul Gada, COO, Eurobond ACP (Euro Panel Products Ltd) informed that the projects which halted due to COVID-19 are now on track along with many newly-launched government projects such as metros, airports, highways, etc.

As for Mr Atmabandhu Gupta, Ganesh Associates, Telangana, ACP has started invading residential and interior projects.

He elaborated, “We have seen a 10-30 per cent growth in interiors

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 50

Surfaces Reporter

Manufacturers are not concentrating on the quality. Fabricators have to follow the right system to install ACP in facade including the framework and size. It has to be designed properly and applied. And currently, no rules are being followed.

Mr SK Bali CEO, Hectafine Alusystems India Ltd

About Eurobond ACP (Euro Panel Products Ltd) Highlights from Mr Dvivedi’s candid conversation with Mr Rajesh Shah, Chairman and Managing Director, Eurobond ACP (Euro Panel Products Ltd)…

Eurobond is headquartered in Mumbai and its factory at Umergaon efficiently caters to a global clientele and ensures fastest deliveries. It has an installed capacity of producing 10,000 sqm of ACP every day, thereby making it one of the most reliable ACP company in India for supplies of ACP cladding/ aluminium cladding, ACP panels and solid aluminium composite sheet.

We have seen a 10-30 per cent growth in interiors for ACP, especially in places like Andhra Pradesh and Hyderabad.

Mr Atmabandhu Gupta

Commenting on the shift toward ACP, Mr Shah said, “I think as humans, we want to grow and do some good work. We are into the distribution segment of the panel industry, and in distribution there is always a limit. We weren’t producing products but selling people’s products that too in Maharashtra. We tried reaching our goals and we wanted to grow and take up new opportunities.”

Recollecting the early days when he came to know about this wonderful product, he said, “I didn’t even know what ACP is.

On my work trip to Dubai, I was amazed to see these buildings which were skinned in ACP. I consider myself lucky to get a pioneering brand like Eurobond which was already 10 years old in the market.”

On questioned about his journey so far, an elated Mr Shah said, “We have learned a lot on the way about the product and the market. The legacy that we have gained was good and we have continued to live up to that deliverance. In the initial years, we started with one machine. Today, we have four machines in production. We aim to bring coating in the future.”

Ganesh Associates, Telangana

for ACP, especially in places like Andhra Pradesh where there are termite issues and the entire interior demands an ACP. In Hyderabad, in the past, ACP was used in commercial projects but now you see it in the residential high-end projects as well.

Opportunities are coming up in new segments and untapped markets.”

Mr Dvivedi gave a vote of thanks to the esteemed panelists and industry experts. “We should think for the betterment of quality, and workmanship for enabling the best that this product has to offer. We look forward to come up with more insightful webinars in the days to come,” said Mr Dvivedi as he signed off.

Eurobond ACP (Euro Panel Products Ltd) had reportedly opened their IPO listing on December 14 with a fixed price of Rs 70 according to the face value of Rs 10.

The company is expected to raise Rs 45.50 crores this IPO under the 2,882,000 equity shares public issue. Elaborating the company’s roadmap, Mr Shah said, “We see a lot of growth. At present, we have reached nearly Rs 200 crore and we predict an estimated growth of 25 per cent. The export side looks bright as well as currently we are exporting to 10 countries even without any trade shows and exhibitions.”

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 51

SR Launch Pad

Aristo India Launch of the O’Series WARDROBES Tele c ast Par tner : SURFACES REPORTER WITH LIVE TELECAST OF ARISTO BANGALORE SHOWRO OM

Evolving Residential Interiors: Focus on Bedroom Designs

“Bedrooms are very personal and people realised that they have spent a lot of time there after the COVID 19 pandemic. They want to carve Sumessh outNisha Behzad Kuruvilla a space in the bedroom as a Menon Jamvwal Kharas Kurian study area. They have increased Sumessh Menon Designer, Columnist, The BNK Group Director, Associates Influencer, Luxury ARISTO India expenditure on it since they spend Brand Consultant more time in the bedroom and want to make it more comfortable.

Launch of Over the years the format of the bedrooms has changed.”

- Sumesh Menon

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 52

(MODERATOR)

Vertica Dvivedi Editor-in-Chief, SURFACES REPORTER

Surfaces Reporter

T

he topic for discussion was “Evolving Residential Interiors focussed on bedroom designs” alongside the launch of O’Series Wardrobe by Aristo India. The panelists include Sumessh Menon (Sumesh Menon Associates), Nisha Jamvwal (Designer, Columnist, Luxury Brand Consultant and Influencer), Behzad Kharas (BNK Group), Kuruvilla P Kurian (Director, Aristo India), moderated by Vertica Dvivedi.

The most important aspect of bedroom design at present is the current shift in taste and requirement for clients. According to Mr. Menon, bedrooms are very personal since people spend a lot of time especially after the COVID 19 pandemic.

Ms. Jamvwal added that people want their bedrooms to be able to perform multiple tasks. In her opinion, “I don’t believe that a bedroom must be monopolised by a bed”. She talked about including a breakfast table, a space for attending Zoom meetings, and studying to name a few. She also mentioned about designing the bedroom as a space for relaxation to deal with anxiety.

Ar. Kharas spoke about wardrobes and mentioned that people want it to be more than a storage space for clothes and accessories. The designs of today make it possible for clients to blend in the functions of a bed, a wardrobe, and a study table. Mr. Menon mentioned that clients require more storage space and thereby asking for sliding doors. This was followed by asking Mr. Kurian about the new line of wardrobes launched

by Aristo India.

Mr. Kurian responded by sharing Aristo’s 30-year long history of making normal wardrobes. They have decided to make other kinds of wardrobe as well, thereby creating the O’Series.

To enhance the definition of wardrobe, it is no more just a storage space for clothes and accessories. It is a unit where you entertain as well as educate. Wardrobes today incorporate TV and built-in screens as well as your study material and dresser especially in urban spaces. Everything gets integrated in a wardrobe.

Behzad Kharas The BNK Group

The wardrobe is the largest object in your bedroom and visible to everyone which is why we must work on it. Also, we are in an era of specialisation and that interior decoration is a long-term investment. Therefore, one should always seek out a specialist.

Kuruvilla Kurian

Director, ARISTO India

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 53

SR Launch Pad Talking about making openable wardrobes, Mr. Kurian stated that they are compatible with the customer needs. To quote him, “If you design the openable wardrobe really well the number of design aspects and combinations you get are really huge”. He went on to discuss about how people can categorise the storage into different sections. Customers are also concerned about how the wardrobe looks and want it to suit their style and personality.

Mr. Menon suggested that opening the wardrobe should feel like a surprise, like it’s a jewellery box. He believes in “Spoiling the client” for choice and advocates lockable shutters. Today of course the locks have changed in the form of fingerprint lock or a lock with a PIN. Ar. Kharas made an interesting observation regarding clients wanting a dog house or being able to display their 100 pairs of sneakers in the wardrobe. He said, “It becomes a statement to show off when their friends and guests come over”. They are also looking for durability. Mr. Kharas also advocates the use of one master key.

Bedrooms are very personal and people realised that they have spent a lot of time there after the COVID 19 pandemic.

They want to carve out different spaces within the bedroom. The expenditure on bedroom has increased since they spend more time there and want to make it more comfortable.

Sumessh Menon

Sumessh Menon Associates

This was followed by the launching of the O’Series LIVE from the Bangalore showroom. Mr. Thomas George, one of the directors of the company, showed through the collection of O'Series Wardrobes by Aristo. It started off with the Decolux wardrobe, a luxury wardrobe with a high glass finish and an integrated routed handle with a veneer inlay. There was another shutter inside which was part of the Urbanage collection. It came with a routed and integrated handle added with a lacquer finish on the surface and inside the handle.

The next wardrobe included add-on units with open shelves and integrated lights making the product user-friendly and multipurpose. Another interesting concept is the Infinity wardrobe which in the Decolux series has gone up to 10 feet in height. It comes with a push-to-open mechanism so that it’s user-friendly and doesn’t have any protruding handles.

This was followed by the classical series with nice grooves running along the surface of the wardrobe having a solid wood handle and a matte finish. The wardrobe has lights integrated with censors. There are different layouts which can integrate

A very important element of the bedroom is to bring in a little bit of greenery in it to deal with the anxiety and stress. The current trends make the bedroom a multidimensional diva of the home.

Nisha Jamvwal

Designer, Columnist, Influencer, Luxury Brand Consultant Nisha Jamvwal Design

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 54

Surfaces Reporter

WATCH THE VIDEO

/SurfacesReporter

/SurfacesReporterMagazine

Home may be where the heart is but the bedroom is where our soul resides. No wonder we invest so much of our time in choosing the perfect bedroom designs.

In bedrooms, wardrobe design plays a significant role and we see that the concerns for storage, style and comfort are primary.

Vertica Dvivedi

Editor-in-Chief, SURFACES REPORTER

different kinds of accessories for different requirements of the customer. Some of the wardrobes also integrated a study unit with a wardrobe making it user-friendly. This was the Gen Z collection of wardrobes with a puzzle pattern on the surface of the shutters for the kids. Other shutter designs included world maps being embedded on them and integrated with veneer handles.

Mr. George went ahead to show the sliding wardrobes that Aristo India has been making for over 10 years now. The latest collection is with a lacquered glass and a veneer finish along with a variety of panels. There is a lacquered finish that goes up to 9 and half feet height, also available in matte and veneer finish.

After the live tour was over, all the panellists were asked to express their thoughts on the designs they saw by Aristo India.

Mr. Menon was impressed by the custom-made aspect of the wardrobes. He liked the lacquer finish especially and expressed his desire to work with them soon.

Ar. Kharas was intrigued by the shutter-in-shutter concept of displaying. He was rather curious about the 10 feet shutters and how they are made. To that Mr. Kurian attributed the quality of the wardrobe to the material, the construction, and the hardware used for the entire thing.

Towards the end of the discussion, the panellists were asked to highlight one mistake in wardrobe design that people must avoid.

According to Mr. Menon, lighting the wardrobe is very important. It should not be missed. It can be censor based or there can be a micro-switch.

Ar. Kharas spoke about considering the height of the client while making the wardrobe. To quote him, “Ultimately, we are designing for them”.

The discussion came to conclusion with a message by Mr. Kurian for the designer’s fraternity. He said that we are in an era of specialisation and that interior decoration is a long-term investment. Therefore, one should always seek out a specialist.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 55

SR Trend

What's in Store for 2022 - Experts' View

Ar. Manash Sinha Roy

Director, Practice Design, Kolkata

Integration of greenery earlier taken as a luxury, has now become an integral part of a project be it interior or architecture. Particularly post pandemic, integrating greenery, sustainability, working on a better air quality has now become some of the crucial components of any projects and not mere add-ons.

Ar. Kaushal Sinhal

Mr. Ashwani Khanna

Principal Architect, Manoj Singhal & Associates, Kolkata

VP-Marketing, Fundermax India

The design trend for the

The façade market

year 2022-23 aims towards

in India stands at

prefabricated construction which is

approximately 100

a technology driven aspect wherein

million square meters,

the modules are factory made

and the HPL share is

reducing the time of construction

about 10% of the overall

and money integrated with

potential. It is only going

biophilic vernacular architecture

to grow in the coming

which aims to incorporate nature

times as the concept

into the structure and also using

of sustainability is in

prefabricated vernacular

demand in modern-day

materials which blends with the

facades.

surrounding environment.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 56

Surfaces Reporter

Mr. Manish Kumat

Ms. Shaily Ganatra

Ar. Sanjay Goel

Founder, Manish Kumat Design Cell

Founder and Principal Designer, The Auura Design Studio, Rajkot

Principal, Designex Ludhiana

There is a shift in the design language for the ultra luxury segment. Of course, it would not be a detailed, ornamental and classical style, yet the design will retain its classical mood with a touch of modernity.

Luxury homes are a great asset to be acquired. Market trends are also predicting that corporate buyers will be more interested in investing in the luxury home market as it’ll play a critical role as serving as a secondary income source during an unstable market.

In 2022-23, the construction industry including the architects and designers are expected to get busier with the influx of new and older projects that were stalled during the last two years. Smart City Mission, one of Govt’s most ambitious projects will also get a boost. Similar boost is expected for the health infrastructure as well.

The volatility is

Most of the developers

see a good growth in the year

here to stay for a

are focusing on digital

2022-23 also, as the real estate

while until industry

transformation which has

and construction industry will

shows a steady sign

led to increase in online

have the spurt in demand.

of recovery along

sales for at least 55% of

Additionally, the growth from

with other sectors

them and are adopting

smaller Tier 3 & 4 towns is going

like manufacturing,

new technologies like VR.

to increase for the reason of

hospitality, FMCG,

Interestingly, 39% of the

home improvement due to WFH

infrastructure, leisure

developers are doing 25%

and remote location working

and so on.

sales online which we

The domestic tile market will

think will increase

being continued.

substantially this year.

Mr. Vivek Gupta

Mr. MV Harish

Sr. GM -Retail, Franchise, Strategy, Growth & Marketing at Somany Ceramics Ltd

Executive Managing Director, Project Development Services, JLL India

Mr. Harsh Vardhan Patodia

President, CREDAI

Read the Complete List of Top Trends in Construction, Architecture and Design in 2022 on Building Materials & Products Magazine, Jan-Feb issue December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 57

Surfaces Reporter

Experience the new ‘green’ Palladio has come out with an exclusive collection called “Forest” which contains beautiful designs made with different hues of Greens www.surfacesreporter.com/brand/2200/palladio

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 61

SR Showcase

PVC 3D Panels by Black Cobra Transform your interior space with the stunning range of decorative 3D Wall panels, uniquely crafted, with inspiration drawn from nature.

Base Materials: 5mm to 8mm for 3D panels. | Finishes: Raw ready to paint* These 3D panels come in White color and can be painted or polished to suit customer needs.

Standard Panel Sizes: 2400mm X 1200mm (interior and exterior materials) Which can be cut down to suit your needs.

Pattern Orientation Patterns can be oriented vertically or horizontally for greater design flexibility.

More info: info@blackcobra.org www.surfacesreporter.com/brand/2178/black-cobra

BCS-1035

BCS-1036

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 62

BCS-1037

BCS-1038

Surfaces Reporter

90 Degree Bendable 1.25mm PVC Laminates by Black Cobra Used Laminate BL 14011

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 63

SR Showcase

Natural stone with handcrafted metal Collection: Flora Collection Brand: ORVI SURFACES Flora Collection features a classic interplay of natural stone with handcrafted metal. This collection offers a series of exquisite metal inlays depicting stylised branches, vines, daisies and other floral forms embedded in natural stone.

According to the brand, “The silvery sheen of stainless steel and the golden glow of brass set in vibrant varieties of white and grey marble or darker limestone variants like Gris Foussana and Nero Sangemini, bring an uncontrived vitality to walls or floors.”

Price: Price on request www.surfacesreporter.com/brand/2111/orvi-surfaces

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 64

Surfaces Reporter

Digitally Designed Very Peri Coloured Wall Coverings

by Taplab Wall Covering

Collection: Dature collection by Taplab Wall Covering Designer: Anglo-Egyptian designer Karim Rashid USP: In shade of Pantone Colour of the Year 2022 (Very Peri), contemporary graphic art, digitally designed, bright colours (almost fluorescent), sinuous and soft shapes with five repeatable patterns and five non-repeatable mural versions in three colourways each Applications: An example of new media art, this collection of wall covering can be applied to any environment, residential or contract, with a total guarantee of quality and result over time www.surfacesreporter.com/brand/2219/dature-wallcovering-by-taplab

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 65

SR Showcase

Recyclable Marble Tiles

by Flais Granito USP: Resistant to extreme climatic conditions, durable, versatile, easy to clean, waterproof, chemical, stain, scratch and fire resistant, and are 100 per cent natural and recyclable.

Material: Natural stone | Finishes: Matte and glossy Dimensions: Sizes 1200 X 1800 mm and 800 X 1600 mm; thickness 9 mm www.surfacesreporter.com/brand/2228/flais-granito

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 66

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 67

Surfaces Reporter | Spaces & Material Poetries

Ar Vinay Babar & Ar Kalpana Babar Principal Architects, Technocraft

Indore

Houses like people, have personalities, and like the personalities of people, they are partly molded by what has happened to them. Technocraft firmly believes that every house should have a character, which is representative of the owners. Technocraft was started in 1988 by Vinay and Kalpana and has many interesting and varied projects to their credit. Vinay has a master’s degree from S.P.A. New Delhi and Kalpana is a Gold medalist from J.J. College of Architecture Mumbai. Vinay is also a painter who dedicates his Sundays to create vivid horses, vibrant Indian men and women of Rajasthan along with other subjects.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 68

Surfaces Reporter Project: Panjwani Residence Architect: Technocraft, Indore Principals: Ar Vinay Babar and Kalpana Babar

House connected with Nature

A

ccording to the architects, “Having designed their flat a decade ago, we knew the family well. The lady of the house is a nature lover, and is very methodical in all things she does while he is a connoisseur of wines, besides being very fond of Barbeque food.”

House with a water body A lot of thought has been given to openness and connectivity with nature. The porch accommodates two cars, and a green wall welcomes you as you enter. Keeping longevity and ease of maintenance in mind, all the materials have been carefully chosen.

The drive way is done in granite blocks, while the verandah in granite slabs.

A house is incomplete without a water body, so one has been provided right at the entrance, which has stepping stones to the lawn serving also as the ground floor party area. The house is replete with murals and artworks (paintings all done by Vinay). A Ganesha mural greets you in the porch, another one in the foyer, the foyer is artistically lit with a lotus chandelier. The shoe rack in the foyer looks more like a console with an exclusive wall clock with human figurines.

On the left, a compact office for him serves his business purpose from home. On the right the formal drawing room is approached

by stepping wooden trunks, placed in white pebbles from Haridwar. The drawing room is a cozy place with genuine leather sofas and a real wood floor. A metal horse sculpture by a young and upcoming artist Deval Verma, is the focal point.

The ceiling boasts of hand crafted leather tiles. Separating the formal area from the private areas is a large glass partition allowing visibility and privacy both.

Ground Floor Ground floor further accommodates one bed room, which is for parents, a spacious kitchen in the agneya kone connected to a store and utility, a pooja room in the Ishan kone , a powder room and a huge living and dining room. The pooja room is very serene calming with an all white theme accentuated by “Pachikari” on the floor and the background.

The living room has a double height and has a “Tree of Life” mural in yellow sand stone. All the common areas are done in Statuario marble with grey William complementing it at places. Though all rooms are equipped with a TV, the biggest one is in the living room with a small bar to the left and a crockery unit to the right.

The Living is the most happening place with the warmth of an orange sofa and a grey one to compliment it. Three of Vinay’s oils adorn this hall.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 69

SR Spaces & Material Poetries

Dining Area

First Floor

The dining area has a large French door connecting it to the sit out overlooking the garden. The dining basin has been carved out of a single statuario block and needed a crane to place it in. Stairs are naturally lit with a vertically continuous glass window on the North side, has an interesting mosaic mural on the lift wall, lift is conveniently adjacent to the stairs. The space beneath the stairs is tastefully landscaped with artificial plants and pebbles.

The first floor houses three bed rooms, first on the left; as you alight from the stairs; is the daughter’s bed room. The void over the living room is spanned with a glass bridge taking you to the family lounge, the master bed room to the right and a guest bed room to the left. Daughter’s bed room enjoys a fantastic view of the fields beyond and even has a balcony at that end. Done in peach, light grey and white, this room is very contemporary with a matching dressing and a toilet.

Beyond the glass bridge, a spacious family lounge with a sit out acts as a meeting point between the master bed room and the guest bed room. All external openings have been provided with automated rolling shutters, when opened they allow an unobstructed view of the vista, yet provide the much needed safety.

As you alight on the first floor, on the right is a well equipped bar, with an illuminated counter and hand crafted revolving stools.

The sit out, outside the bar provides yet another place to be with nature with natural lawn and plants. The hut like wooden ceiling in the bar gives a very cozy feeling, the quaint vintage posters neatly framed and put on the bar wall; exude an old time charm.

Beyond the glass bridge, a spacious family lounge with a sit out acts as a meeting point between the master bed room and the guest bed room. All external openings have been provided with automated rolling shutters, when opened they allow an unobstructed view of the vista, yet provide the much needed safety. All shutters are provided with burglar alarms, the house has wi fi switches on all the floors , the inverter batteries are charged with solar power and the power supply to the house has been provided with a 50 KVA voltage stabilizer.

The entire house has central air conditioning and the water is centrally heated with the state of the art heat pump. All the equipments sit on the second floor roof with easy access for maintenance. The luminaries have been carefully chosen and are all colour tunable, all outdoor lights confirm to IP 65 grade for good weather protection.

Guest Room The guest room is done in a fresh Turquoise and white combination, which continues in the dressing and toilet. Another

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 70

Surfaces Reporter

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 71

SR Spaces & Material Poetries

All the common areas are done in Statuario marble with grey William complementing it at places. Though all rooms are equipped with a TV, the biggest one is in the living room with a small bar to the left and a crockery unit to the right. The Living is the most happening place with the warmth of an orange sofa and a grey one to compliment it.

original of Vinay’s oils takes the pride of place in this room.

A backlit headboard over the bed replicates the patterns on toilet tiles.

Master Bedroom

have been deliberately placed to fulfill this wish of hers. They have been repeated on the furniture as well. The room again hosts eight of Vinay’s digital paintings. Being fond of playing cards, the couple spends a lot of time here. The room opens on to a beautifully landscaped terrace with natural plants and artificial grass.

The master suite on the right of the lounge has been done in a regal ivory and gold combination with accents of dark wood that immediately spell class. She is fond of reading, so book shelves flank a beautiful window seating area, situated in the south west corner; it commands a good view, excellent breeze and warm winter Sun. The adjacent dressing is done with accents of printing blocks on wardrobe shutters. Gold PVD on s.s. frames continues throughout the suite. The master toilet is done in Tanzania Onyx with a matching ceiling, is equipped with body showers and steam in the shower cubicle. A walk in wardrobe provides additional storage for the day to day clothing. The bar is connected to the suite.

Terrace

Card Room

As the client had given a completely free hand, the project was a sheer pleasure in designing and execution. It was done in a record time of two years with four months of lockdown included. It is a good example of combining art, architecture and technology, for which Technocraft has earned its name.

The lady of the house was explicit in her specification for the second floor cards room, she wanted a pleasant shock to the visitors, with a riot of colours. The handmade tiles on the floor

The terrace has two canopies with toughened laminated glass roof and customized cane furniture. One canopy houses a barbeque and a sitting Buddha, the Buddha screening off the spiral stairs ,which link the servant’s quarter with the utility and terrace. The servant’s quarter smartly tucked away behind the guest room and is not visible from any angle. The other canopy has a cluster of all weather sofas done in white cane. Three murals adorn the terrace, the piece de resistance is Van Gogh’s “Starry night”, done in acrylic and back lit. Hope our clients enjoy many starry nights in this heavenly abode of theirs.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 72

Surfaces Reporter | Spaces & Material Poetries

AR. Anirban Bhaduri & Sanjay Mandal Architect & Founding Partner, INNATE

Kolkata

INNATE is Eastern India based group of architects, designers, urbanists, landscape professionals, interior and product designers. From the timid and humble beginnings, way back in 2005, through the ever-competitive journey, transformation is what INNATE has gone through. Headed by Ar Anirban Bhaduri and Ar Sanjay Mandal, INNATE has a continuous and deep presence in major architectural scenarios in various spheres of the country. INNATE’S architecture emerges out of a careful analysis of how contemporary life constantly evolves and changes. The philosophy is to believe that the work of a designer is really at the intersection of commerce and culture.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 73

SR Spaces & Material Poetries

T

Kreepanidhi

he site for this project “ Kreepanidhi “, meaning Grace, is located in a pristine Jain Ashram named Veerayatan at Rajgir which is an ancient city in Nalanda district in the Indian state of Bihar. The city of Rajgir was the first capital of the kingdom of the Mauryan Empire. Both Mahavira and Buddha taught their beliefs in Rajgir during the 6th and 5th century BCE and it became one of the Buddha’s most important preaching locations.

The ancient Nalanda university was located in the vicinity of Rajgir.

natural light and ventilation considering the predominant wind flow with a local microclimatic setting due to the 300metre high adjacent hills.

MATERIALS

The project was envisaged as a Resort for the visitors to the Ashram in a very picturesque setting overlooking the Rajgir Hills.

The accommodation facilities were required to be state of the art for the very esteemed profile of the devotees visiting Veerayatan, however, would be in line with the basic principles of the Ashram.

Vernacular and locally available materials has been used purposefully to make the architecture fuse with the settings.

Red bricks, available in the Local Kilns is the primary material.

The façade and interiors are entirely exposed brick, providing the minimalist look. The vertical surfaces have been played with different textures rendered by varying patterns of brick and brick ‘jalis’. Natural stones like Jaisalmer yellow and Kota stones have been extensively used in flooring. The earthy flavour is ensured also by the use of concrete textures and wood.

THE CONCEPT

THE DESIGN

The Veerayatan Ashram expands over more than 100 acres adjacent to the beautiful Rajgir hills. The built form was conceptualised as a low-key architecture using vernacular materials, contextual and respectful to the majestic settings.

The principle of ‘opulence through simplicity’ is practised in the design.

The two wings of the building are placed at right angles for exposure of the maximum vertical surfaces towards the existing natural features. The wings merges to a central entry block, which rises to a voluminous cylinder in the centre, providing a sense of direction, highlighting the entry experience. The central block diverges to the naturally illuminated corridors leading to the well-appointed rooms for guests. The facilities like the Prayer Hall, Restaurant, the Multi-purpose hall, the Children Activity area are located towards the inner side of the ashram overlooking the temple, the congregation areas and gardens.

All the existing trees were kept intact in the design, exploiting the view corridor, ensuring every room to overlook the imposing and alluring Rajgir hills. The orientation also ensures maximum

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 74

Surfaces Reporter

Central Block: The Twelve beams converging to a central pillar rising to the zenith of the structure symbolises the Jain belief of Principles of ways of life culminating to the eternal truth.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 75

SR Spaces & Material Poetries

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 76

Vernacular and locally available materials has been used purposefully to make the architecture fuse with the settings. Red bricks, available in the local klins is the primary material. The façade and interiors are entirely exposed brick, providing the minimalist look.

The central block is a spacious welcoming entry lobby with an imposing height and structure bound to create a sense of reverence in the minds of the visitors. The concept of the entry hall is visualised as a pseudo domical structure. The ribbed beams curves and tapers towards the centre supporting the huge built span and giving a feel of a dome scooped out from a cube from beneath. The Twelve beams converging to a central pillar rising to the zenith of the structure symbolises the Jain belief of Principles of ways of life culminating to the eternal truth. The stark concrete finish with strategic illumination during the day and lighting at night lends a sense of inspiration.

The room interiors are a combination of the exposed brick finish and use of wood textures with the furthest end of the room with a large balcony overlooking the hills. The ground floor rooms enjoy an additional private patio extending from the balconyfusing with the central landscape. Use of exposed brick both in the façade and the interiors required meticulous planning of all MEP services well camouflaged with varying patterns of brick.

Natural illumination has been planned in every area with intelligent detailing, allowing sunlight to come even to the lower floor. Extensive use of Brick – Jali for filtered sunlight to create a pattern of light and shade within the spaces created.

The façade illumination has been conceptualised to create an entirely exposed brick façade of varying patterns to exuberate a sense of poetic magic. Kreepanidhi is just completed and had been acclaimed and accepted by the venerable Jain Sadhvis of Veerayatan, where the project symbolises the pristine way of providing world class facilities in the most simplistic, subdued and contextual architecture.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 77

Surfaces Reporter | Spaces & Material Poetries

Ar Mitali Aharam Principal, Crafted Spaces

Hyderabad, Tel angan a Ar Mitali Aharam graduated from C.S.I.I.T,Secunderabad in 2010. After gaining experience with firms including Shilpa Sindoor Architects, Bengaluru and Aparna Karve Design Consultants, Hyderabad, she started up Crafted Spaces. In her own words, “I have always been fascinated and passionate about Design and being an Architect was always on the cards for me. My design foundation is based on the belief of ‘Less is More’. The joy of transforming a Space from Nothing to Something Sacred to Someone is what drives me to keep Designing. Simplicity and functionality blended with character, quirk and eclecticism is what I try to achieve. Design is all around us, we have to learn from it, try and improve upon it and know what needs to stand out and what needs to blend in.”

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 78

Surfaces Reporter

The Ochre House

T

his Villa is located in a gated community in Gachibowli, Hyderabad. Two plots were combined as this family of 4 wanted a bigger garden and landscaped area for the kids to play in. This home is spread across 2 floors with an area of 6000 sft. As you enter the home, you are greeted with a Mint Stone Breezeblock partition that acts as a focal point and also serves as a privacy screen to the dining area.

Pop of colour Ochre The Ochre Home has pops of the colour ochre in the flooring from Bharat Floorings that was the base and start of the design process, it ties the space together, keeping the walls neutral and allowing the family to add memorabilia from their travels in the future.

The flooring was treated as a carpet under the seating and dining areas to add the pop of colour the client wanted, that was off set with marble flooring in all the common areas and walkways. A double height space was created to fill in the space with light and air, the main goal was to create a bright and light filled uncluttered space.

The Ochre Home has pops of the colour ochre in the flooring from Bharat Floorings that was the base and start of the design process, it ties the space together keeping the walls neutral and allowing the family to add memorabilia from their travels in the future.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 79

SR Spaces & Material Poetries

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 80

Surfaces Reporter

Stone- The main design element The dining table was placed strategically under the double height and skylight to have an experience of dining under the stars.This home is a play of stone, wood and pops of colours. The client wanted elements of warmth in the home that could also serve as feature walls.

The main design elements on the feature walls were done in Stone making those walls the focal points. The 3 main focal points being the mint stone partition at the entry, the slate stone mosaic cladding along the double height of the staircase and the Buddha Mural in slate stone on the double height dining wall. A lot of the client’s old furniture that was sentimental to her was reused and refurbished.

Project Name: The Ochre Home (Villa No.50) Location: Myscape Courtyard, Financial District, Gachibowli, Hyderabad Architect: Mitali Ahram, Principal , Crafted Spaces, Hyderabad

The main design elements on the feature walls were done in Stone making those walls the focal points. The 3 main focal points being the mint stone partition at the entry, the slate stone mosaic cladding along the double height of the staircase and the Buddha Mural in slate stone on the double height dining wall.

Date Of Completion: Jan 2020 Area: 6000 SFT, G+1 Photographer: Ricken Desai Client Name: Harita Rao December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 81

SR Stone Story

Natural Stones in Architecture and Design ARCHITECTS’ Perspective & MarkeT Trends

Marble Pool created by ZZ Architects

T

he love for natural stone and marble is undeniable; for ages they have been used to create timeless designs with impeccable aesthetics and beauty that doesn’t withered even after spending centuries exposed to the elements. Every historic city around the world is full of monuments created with variety of stones including marble, granite, limestone, sandstone, travertine, quartz, clay, slate and others. From Stonehenge to the Red Fort, the timelessness of stone is a story in itself that doesn’t need an author to tell.

In the recent years, natural stone market has witnessed an unprecedented growth owing to factors like booming real estate

market, spurt towards sustainability and use of stone in decorative elements. SURFACES REPORTER finds out how the natural stone and marble market is performing and the latest trends from the industry.

Natural Stone & Marble pegged for growth According to the Fortune Business Insight, in its report titled, Natural Stone and Marble Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Granite, Limestone, Marble, Sandstone, Slate and Others), By Application (Building & Construction, Monumental, and Others), and Regional

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 82

Surfaces Reporter

Rapid growth in construction activities in developing nations is expected to speed up the expansion of this market.

The study particularly notes that the boom and exponential growth is led by rising construction industries of Asian countries particularly India and China.

A four- storey space created by Studio Saar for youngsters which is a flexible exhibition, performance and meeting space that is surrounded by gokhra and jali screens created with Marbles.

Forecast, 2020-2027, the global natural stone and marble market size is projected to reach USD 62.58 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.57% during the forecast period.

Rapid growth in construction activities in developing nations is expected to speed up the expansion of this market. The study particularly notes that the boom and exponential growth is led by rising construction industries of Asian countries particularly India and China. The demand for exquisite marble is also likely to increase in the near future in these countries with the improving standards of Living making customers to augment their properties by choosing premium materials. In addition, with the rising awareness about sustainable architecture and its

benefits towards nature, stone is getting much more preference than any other natural or artificial materials.

The report also suggest that with USD 33.52 bn at its behest, the Asia Pacific region reigns the natural stone and marble market in 2019 and will continue to do so attributed to the large variety of stones being found in India and China that hold huge demand in the world market. India being the largest exporter of Granite, also holds vast reserves of sandstone, limestone and marble. Marble querried from Makrana, Nagpur is one of the most coveted varieties of the marble found around the world and hence hold great importance.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 83

SR Stone Story

Inside the The Circle Hyatt Regency Zurich Airport Hotel stands the Iris Bar. Here the star is the scenographic bar counter, a custommade creation by Prisma, featuring highly functional elements. The materials alternate to give shape to a ‘luminous’ configuration.

The back of the Prisma Bar counter is made of elements on wheels equipped with superstructures and glass shelves for storing bottles and glasses a practical and flexible solution that can be easily moved according to the needs.

Material- Stainless steel and Blue Agate.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 84

Surfaces Reporter

Outdoor stone design by Pinewood

Why Stones are our forever favourite choice Stone is an ageless material. However, for the last few decades, with the launch of many man-made materials, natural stone lost its sheen with people opting for other materials. Nonetheless, the rapid awareness of sustainability has proved a boon for the natural stone industry Natural stone is fast emerging as one of the preferred green building materials owing to its wide eco-friendly properties. Furthermore, research conducted by the Centre for Clean Products at the University of Tennessee showed that natural stone does not emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are known to be one of the largest contributors to urban pollution. Even more significant is the ability of lightcolored natural stones to lower a building’s “heat island” effect, as these stones can reflect heat, and not absorb it like concrete.

Thus, using natural stone and marble bolsters the movement toward establishing sustainable architectural practices and complements the growth of this market.

New Innovations with Stones With the development in technology, there are many innovations being done in the way we use stones. Along with hand chiselling and carving, 3D Technology is being used on stones and marble to get the shape, colour and sizes. Some of the most popular stone finishes now-a-days include, sanded, leathered, honed (satin), polished, chiselled, brush hammered, sandblasted, 3D finish.

In fact, with the use of CNC machine, any desired design can be easily chiselled on a stone surface with gold and silver leafing to add on to the design element.

Another important invention of natural stone is Stone Veneers.

As one of the most important aspects of stones is the weight associated with it which sometimes makes it unsuitable for many purposes, Stone Veneer does the job with equal propensity. Thin sheets with thickness spanning from 4-1mm are cut from natural stones and with a support backing of materials like fibreglass, can be stick to any surface using a laminate grade adhesive. Giving a

Meghna Dhulani Founder and Principal Architect, The Pinewood Studio

While lime stones like Tandur, Kadhappa and Kota are here to stay for long, we are now experimenting with sandstone due to the variety of colours, for example pink, peach, beige and yellow.

These colours can bring life and joy to the space and make any space look trendier.

Slate and quartzite have also been some of our favourites too.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 85

SR Stone Story

Ar Krupa Zubin and Zubin Zainuddin Principals, ZZ Architects, Mumbai

Stone can give various experiences through its timeless appeal and the availability of textures and colours. As a firm, we like to experiment with different interpretations of materials and surfaces. Stone is always something that we gravitate towards for its exquisite quality and range while being maintenance-friendly. Its feel in response to elements like light and ambience is perennial. We use a variety of stones in our projects as an external facade, flooring, wall cladding, furniture, staircase and for elemental purposes. Recently, we have been using quartz extensively such as for a pool in a private bungalow in Jaipur that turned out beautifully. Currently, I think that matte and honed finishes are quite a drift. Non-porous stones and more tactile finishes shall make an impression for the coming year.

Stone in Facade - Vriddhi Bunglow by ZZ Architects, Mumbai

proper natural look, such veneers can be moulded into any shape, a property hardly found in stone and backlit too giving an added aesthetic to any surface.

Natural Stone in 2022-23 Natural stones and marbles are going to be a big hit in the next few years with the booming real estate and home renovation activities that were halted for last two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition as people are looking to spend more, they look for more exquisite and exclusive surfaces and as we all know, no two natural stones or marbles are alike. Hence the degree of exclusivity is much higher in the case of natural stones and marble as compared to any other surfaces that are easily replicated in factories. With a pandemic at large, people are returning to nature as they spend more and more time at within the four walls of their homes. Therefore, using natural materials as the décor surfaces becomes a natural choice, as the sentiment echoed by architects and designers as well.

SURFACES REPORTER (SR) also foresees a push towards natural stones and marbles in 2022 and we will soon showcase some of the interesting experiments being done by architects and designers with natural stones and marbles at its core.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 86

Tiles of Spain Awards | SURFACES REPORTER

Tiles innovation 2022-23 Tiles have become an integral part of the architecture and design world with loads of innovations happening in terms of design and usage. SURFACES REPORTER (SR) presents to you some of the latest innovations being done in tiles based on the Winners of Tiles of Spain Awards 2021. Tile of Spain is an association representing over 100 Spanish tile manufacturers. The objective of the Tile of Spain Awards is to promote the use of Spanish ceramic tiles in architecture and interior design projects (both in Spain and abr The panel of judges was led by renowned architect Carlos Ferrater founder of the Office of Architecture in Barcelona (OAB. Other judges in the panel were Fermín Vazques, Director of b720, Jamie Sanahuja, Director of Sanahuja & Partners, Alicia Fernándes, Interior Designer at Alicia Fernández Interiorismo, José Ma Marzo Director of Tectónica and Ángel Pitarch President of the Colegio Territorial de Arquitectos de Castellón (CTAC). Let us know what you think about the same by writing to us at press@surfacesreporter.com

Winning Project - Architecture

Long Format Tiles on Facade Project: New headquarters of the Valencia Construction Sector Employment Foundation Architect: MRM Architects’ Studio

The new headquarters of the Valencia Construction Sector Employment Foundation is set in an industrial district in Valencia, Spain. In keeping with the region's physical and cultural backdrop, a decision was taken to use ceramic tiles for the construction of the employment center as this material is one of the Valencia’s flagship manufacturing products.

The jury praised the use of large-format tiles as a quintessential feature of the building’s façade. They also highlighted the use of a single surface material, applied as an exterior cladding to support the sustainability and hygiene throughout the facilities interior and exterior environments.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 87

SR Tiles of Spain Awards

Architecture-Special Mention

Tiles in Architecture Project: Malaga University’s Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy Architect: Llps Architects’ Studio The jury highlighted the innovative glossy continuous ceramic skin that was developed for the whole building, using round glazed tiles and other smaller ones in the gaps. To facilitate their installation, a mesh-mounted system was used. The layout of the whole building and its cladding overcome possible problems with meeting points, relinquishing the need to cut the tiles or use special tiles.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 88

Surfaces Reporter

Winning Project- Interior Design

Interior Design with Tiles in a restoration project Project: Living in a Coderch | Architect: Estudio Vilablanch “Living in Coderch” was a full renovation of an apartment in the emblematic Banco Urquijo building nestled in Barcelona, Spain. During the restoration of the flat, Estudio Vilablanch recaptured the essence of José Antonio Coderch’s architecture and contemporary style.

Here, the jury celebrated the interior design scheme that enhanced the spirit of Coderch’s unique aesthetic. The judging panel also noted the exceptional choice of materials and meticulous care with which the design plan was executed.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.SURFACESREPORTER.com | 89

SR Tiles of Spain Awards

Interior Design -Special Mention

Tiles in Interior Design Project: Cal Garrofa Design: Julia Tarnawski & Albert Guerra In this case, special note was made of its radical conceptual philosophy, used to revive a traditional looking home, in addition to the heavy use of colour and ceramic tiles to create a space with strong poetic connotations.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 90

#SRRisingStars

SURFACES REPORTER’S

RISIng Stars Kunal and Pinal Engineer, Inceppt, Surat

What is the concept behind Inceppt?

‘Inceppt’ means starting off something new. We conceptualised Inceppt in 2012. We are grateful to be working on a variety of projects over the years and are blessed with a great clientele and supporting staff.

Working in this field, we learn something new every day.

Tell us about your experience of working with renowned names in architecture and design?

We have earlier worked with some interesting names from Surat and Mumbai, including Sumedha Gore Architects, Utopia Design, Studio Essteam etc. There are many reasons why you should work under someone before embarking your own practice journey.

Your first project?

Kunal and Pinal Engineer, Inceppt, Surat INCEPPT - The Design Studio is a professional organization which was conceived in 2012 by Ar Kunal Engineer and Designer Pinal Engineer. Nourished by a team of competent techno crafts, like-minded professionals. They firmly believe in collaboration between Client and architect, as well as Landscape designer, Engineer and Artist, who can ensure the realization of building and Landscape as places of clarity and beauty.

Our first project was a residential set up with a built up area of around 4,900 sq ft. The brief of the project was that the space was meant to be created for two brothers and their respective families who have different requirements and likings. Therefore we had the similar floorplan but two different concepts for their respective spaces. It was a quite a good scale in terms of being the first project and we learnt a lot from it. It is a milestone project for us and we still get appreciation for the same.

What are the mistakes young architects must avoid ?

Young architects and designers should stop being stubborn in terms of their design aesthetics as sometimes being too rigid means losing out on building lasting relationships which is very crucial for them.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 92

Surfaces Reporter

Many architects and designers start their practice as a fresh graduate without taking any experience in the field.

Without the experience of management and the process of working, many times, they make fatal mistakes.

What are the Materials and techniques you love to work with?

We try to add a lot of details in our furniture or space which lend it a distinctive aesthetic value and functionality. We also love to add a pop of colour to bring liveliness in the entire space. As a designer, I feel that one should always stay updated and enthusiastic to changes in applying techniques and materials in his work and not stick to one kind of material or technique that restrict you.

We use a lot of natural materials including wood, brass, stones etc, that doesn’t lend an artificial look to the project.

They also have lesser restrictions for usage and are ecofriendly as well.

Surat is a city famous for its diamonds and textiles. It is also a growing hub for architecture and design.

Architects and Designers here are playing the role of Lifestyle creators.

Tell us about the current status of Surat and Gujarat in terms of design and architecture.

Surat is a city famous for its diamonds and textiles. It is also a growing hub for architecture and design. Architects and Designers here are playing the role of Lifestyle creators and fortunately, we have a lot of notable names working in and around the city who are doing appreciable work. It has grown a lot in the last ten years in terms of architecture and a lot of growth is expected in the coming years. It is becoming a hub for architecture and designers.

What are some of your current projects?

We are doing an extensive range of projects right now including villas, residential, commercial, salon, immigration offices, super speciality hospital etc. I personally like to work on the residential premises as it helps you to get closer to a family and know them better. It’s about stepping into their shoes and understand what they will like and what not and ultimately design something that they will cherish for the rest of their lives.

The current project that we are working on is a Villa with 12,500 sq ft built up area. It has around four bedrooms, home theatre, two lounges, pool area, gym along with other amenities. In this particular project, we are exploring a lot of materials and techniques. It’s a huge area and we are creating spaces keeping in mind the different requirements of the family members. For instance we are using stone, brass and wood in the floor and once completed, it is going to be a masterpiece. The villa will feel like a home yet retain its lavishness and luxury in true sense.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 93

SR Rising Star

Tell us about creating Work-Life Balance while working on multiple locations?

When you are new in the field, it is difficult to create balance.

While we work on multiple locations, we try and divide the responsibilities among the team which helps in running the operations smoothly. We schedule everything including site visits in advance and take the maximum use of technology to keep the communication going even when we are at remote locations.

What is Pinal’s experience of working in the field as women designer?

There is no discrimination in the field as far as my experience is concerned. However, there are few workmen who get a bit challenging when accepting directions or orders from a woman. In fact, clients get more convinced if a women architect or designer explains them any idea.

Your advice for young architects and designers?

Nothing comes easy. While passion fuels your drive to work, dedication and hard work are equally necessary elements to reach your goals. I would advice young architects and designers to be passionate and dedicated towards their work and keep up with the eagerness to learn something new

Nothing comes easy.

While passion fuels your drive to work, dedication and hard work are equally necessary elements to reach your goals.

every day. Also, a successful firm is a result of team efforts.

Therefore, you must learn team efforts as well while gaining maximum experience at the same times.

Message for Surfaces Reporter We would like to thank Surfaces Reporter for giving the opportunity to share about us. It is a great platform where even a rising architects like us get the opportunity to showcase our work along with the master architects. It is always good to listen to like minded people and it has been a great experience indeed.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 94

Surfaces Reporter

EARTHY SHELL

PROJECT BRIEF The client, a diamond merchant, has an exquisite lifestyle. The main requirement for his dream house is to have a mix of modern and contemporary style. Each and every detail of design plays a vital role in overall design of the house.

IDEA The architects say, “As aesthetic and functional, our sleek and stylish designs are ideal to make best use of every inch of storage space. We incorporated the area into functional spaces. Making the most of compact space saving furniture that are igneous and innovative.”

SPATIAL ORGANISATION Taking clue from the client’s brief, they went with the idea of open planning, where the movement from one space to another is seamless.

The site for the family was an apartment tapped in for ample natural light and cross ventilation. On entering the house, is the living room being the heart of the house which is defined by natural light and ventilation through balcony and temple on one corner.

The adjoining spaces moves forward to the dining area core but constantly feed it with light, air and liveliness. On the east side of the family room is the kids’ bedroom.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 95

SR Rising Star

The house is kept simple, spacious, and comfortable. It reflects the individuality of the people living in the house. Considering the client’s requirements and needs, a personalized experience was hence created.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 96

Surfaces Reporter As aesthetic and functional, our sleek and stylish designs are ideal to make best use of every inch of storage space. We incorporated the area into functional spaces. Making the most of compact space saving furniture that are igneous and innovative.

- Kunal & Pinal Engineer

Post, the space has the dining room to enjoy the evening tea, with the guest bedroom and kitchen on either sides.

Further, the space is divided into two private suites, i.e., Master Bedroom & Parent’s Bedroom.

The house is kept simple, spacious, and comfortable.

FACT FILE Project: “EARTHY SHELL” Architect: “INCEPPT – The Design Studio”, Surat Location: Pal, Surat, Gujarat Design Team: Ar. Kunal Engineer, Id. Pinal Engineer, Id. Mousami Doshi, Id. Hinal Gajjar Area: 1800 sqft.

Project Category: Residential Apartment Interior Initiation of Project: January 2020 Completion of Project: September 2020 Photo Courtesy: Nikhil Patel

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 97

SR Rising Star

White Frames PROJECT BRIEF White Frames is a renowned Makeup Lounge & Salon which is the best-in-class in a network of beauty spaces combining several different functions. The main concept of the venue is co-working for stylists of different types: hair stylist, makeup artists, and manicure & pedicure technicians.

IDEA The central thought was to keep the place as zesty and crafty as possible, the fact that people in this city feel connected forms and interesting base for the thought process allowing the designer to explore and experiment.

The central thought was to keep the place as zesty and crafty as possible, the fact that people in this city feel connected forms and interesting base for the thought process allowing the designer to explore and experiment.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 98

Surfaces Reporter

FACT FILE Project: “WHITE FRAME” Architect: “INCEPPT – The Design Studio”, Surat Location: Vesu, Surat Design Team: Ar. Kunal Engineer, Id. Pinal Engineer, Id. Mousmi Doshi Area: 1800 sqft Project Category: Commercial Interiors Initiation of Project: Jan, 2019 Completion of Project: Feb, 2019 Photo Courtesy: Nikhil Patel

SPATIAL ORGANISATION The spaces faced a challenge to combine a variety of functions on the salon’s premise, dividing them into separate areas and retaining at the same time the integrity and lightness of the space. To achieve this effect, all main back and utility rooms, as well as makeup area spaces, were grouped and isolated at the back side of the room by a partition. The interior finishing preserves the existing concrete of the ceiling with dark background with decorative chandeliers and walls are decorated with black moldings frames which are the welcoming essence of the salon. Subtly connecting the space as a whole in a fluid way, they divide the salon into different zones, while also keeping it open to allow for a variety of services and activities to happen in a small area. The dynamic walls are also organized to create functional flow throughout, making it possible to gain access to each of the zones from more than one direction.

December 2021-January 2022 | www.surfacesreporter.com | 99

RNI NO. DELENG/2012/44605; Posted Regd NO. DL(S) -17/3488/2021-23; Licensed to post without pre-payment No. U(S)-61/2021-23