Contemporarily Indian

D&C Developers’ corporate office in Ahmedabad has been designed by ‘u design studio’; with this project the design and architectural firm has gone ahead and redefined the meaning of Indian contemporary by adding just the right pinch of traditional sensibility to a dish mainly imbued with modern flavour.

- Ar. Priti Kalra

“Whether a retail property or an office space, the designer’s responsibility is to enhance its brand value by providing the best possible design solutions,” says Umang, principal designer of the studio. He firmly believes that the work environment in an office needs to be properly established and be devoid of any distraction points.

Located opposite the Mahatma Gandhi Labour Institute in Ahmedabad, this 5000 sq ft office sits on the fifth floor of Kairos, a commercial building designed by Umang’s brother Pratik. The clients envisaged a timeless design amalgamating modern aesthetics with native Indian elements.

Umang drew inspiration from the rural setting of Indian villages and decided for the material palette to consist predominantly of natural materials. The core essence of the concept was to create a soothing work experience amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

The entry to the office has been designed based on the concept of ‘atithi devo bhava’ a traditional Indian sentiment that puts a guest on the same pedestal as God. A gokhla at the reception and teak jaali work on the main door form the focus of the foyer space.

The jaali work continues in the form of partitions throughout the office, creating a unifying thread of indigenous elements. A custom-cut sandstone logo of the company coupled with polished kota stone flooring ensures a natural, rustic feel while the detailing maintains the contemporary edge.