Aheli is a workspace for an upcoming wellness brand in the commercial center of New Delhi. The design takes clues from the brand principles of being environmentally sensitive, ever-evolving, and user-oriented. The zoning takes inspiration from the traditional Indian haveli wherein there is a central discussion space or an 'angan' with smaller entities along the periphery. For the site is in a commercial tower with only one source of natural light, the cabins were placed such that we could have an uninterrupted influx of natural light into the entire space.
The waiting lobby with the graceful wicker bench sits right next to the conference area and the reception. Bright mustard chairs and a huge Rhapis palm planter complements the seamless barrisol ceiling to fill the space with faux natural light and helps to create a discussion-oriented atmosphere for the conference room.
The earthy texture, 'mitti’, on the wall helps maintain a visual connection between the various spaces and binds them together. Connected to the conference are the two director cabins, full of natural light and a clean material palette that are strategically located to be in the center of the entire workspace for better approachability. The hearing bone flooring acts as a circulation marker along with the varied greens that are spread around the office space.The material palette for this project was carefully chosen to reflect the design brief clearly.
The slim aluminum glazed partitions help negate the sense of spatial boundary, a subtle hint of color in the floor helps break away from the otherwise solid floor plate, the crackled hand-glazed tiles in the restrooms try to replicate the brand's delicate production process. All the services were concealed with a bare teak false roof in the cabins, this allowed us to have a service-free central workspace and utilize the overall height of the suite.
In essence, Aheli is a free-flowing space that encourages conversations, provides a pleasant atmosphere for the users, and encourages an environmentally sensitive approach in life.