Location and Climate:
Nestled within a burgeoning new IT infrastructure development in Sector 83 Mohali, an elegant and minimalist office building emerges as a testament to innovation and design prowess. The office for Outline Systems graces a narrow linear plot of 22,500 sq. ft. The site faces the northeast direction, with a wide road at its front, giving a nod to accessibility and visibility.
The composite climate of the region presents a unique challenge, necessitating meticulous planning which skillfully fuses function with the form, crafting an environment that guarantees optimal working environment and efficiency year-round.
Brief by the Client
The client brief required us to design a self-use office space to accommodate 600 working staff along with an associated support environment. The layout was ingeniously designed to optimize the available space, ensuring that every workstation served its purpose effectively. Spaces were carefully organized to accommodate both the bustling energy of daylight hours and the calm, focused ambiance of nighttime operations.
Concept and Inspiration:
In crafting this office space, our central focus was unwavering: functionality. Catering to a young and dynamic staff, we embraced a modern theme that would resonate with their energy and aspirations.
Façade
The façade of the office building is modern with a minimalist palette of materials and colors, with a mix of clean lines and sharp angles. The northeast façade was generously treated with panels of insulated e-glass, a strategic choice that invited copious daylight while shielding the interior from the harsh glare and heat of the sun.
Aluminum Composite Panels and ceramic façade tiles were chosen, not just for their aesthetics but also for their durability and low maintenance. The South façade is enveloped in brick walls with minimal fenestrations, and optimized light intake that minimizes solar insolation. These walls were finished with a textured paint finish, adding a touch of texture to the visual appeal.
The Interior Space:
The interiors seamlessly resonate with the contemporary language of the exterior. The first floor level of the office space served as a welcoming reception area for visitors, setting the stage for what was to come. The stilt level, ingeniously, was transformed into surface parking, optimizing the use of space. The first level was conceived as the primary reception area, not just for visitors but also for office staff. Here, aesthetics took a front seat, Elements like solid surface cladding, baffle ceilings, and high-gloss tile floors came together to craft an atmosphere that exuded sophistication and style. The open floor plan fosters collaboration and communication among employees. Each floor space was thoughtfully structured to provide a column-free plate for the optimal placement of workstations. The presence of two meeting rooms on each floor, one big and one small, recognized the need for both formal and informal group discussions, promoting a culture of dynamic idea exchange.
The large corner conference room became a focal point, boasting a unique stretch ceiling as its major design element, complemented by three-sided glass walls. Expansive windows punctuate the interior, amplifying the perception of space and allowing natural light to flood the workspace.
Every element, from tiles and carpets to ceiling systems and wall claddings, was carefully curated to evoke modernity. The integration of glass systems introduced transparency and visual connectivity, enhancing a collaborative environment.
Details: Elevating Sustainability and Efficiency:
The orientation of the building was a strategic move to maximize the benefits of natural light. Expansive windows, strategically placed, became the conduits through which sunlight poured in, reducing the dependency on artificial lighting during daylight hours and resulting in significant energy savings. The commitment to energy efficiency extended to the selection of the latest technology in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems.
Efficiency-rated plumbing systems were incorporated, which significantly reduced water wastage. Moreover, it enhanced insulation, making the workspace more energy-efficient by reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. The integration of state-of-the-art building management systems intelligently regulates the temperature, lighting, and energy consumption. They ensured that the building operated at peak performance while minimizing its carbon footprint.
Beyond the office spaces, the building offers a plethora of amenities that elevate the overall experience. The rooftop cafeteria and terrace beckon as a tranquil escape where employees can unwind, the space acts as a nexus of social interaction.
In summation, this modern office building stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of form and function, architecture, and efficiency.
Team:
Architect: Design Three Sixty
Photography: Nakul Jain
