Excerpt: DH-Quickfin, an interior design project by INI Design Studio, focuses on creating a contemporary, sustainable, and functional workspace that balances openness with privacy. A minimalist palette, seamless integration of lighting and services, and curated local art enhance aesthetics and productivity. Natural light, energy-efficient solutions, and a landscaped terrace contribute to a harmonious and inspiring work environment.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] The design and aesthetics of an office play a crucial role in elevating the brand image of the organization and creating a conducive and productive work environment for the employees. This office, located on the 9th floor of a corporate office tower building in a high-end business district of Ahmedabad city, is a family-owned financial services provider. The design brief for the team was to create a contemporary, progressive work space, in the 2120 sq ft of built-up area, through a low-maintenance and sustainability-driven design. The client desired a workplace ambiance that emulated an open-plan office layout, while also incorporating private cabins that provided both acoustic and visual seclusion. The scope of the project included interior design, lighting design, MEPF engineering, execution, PMC and procurement management.
After intensive meetings, brainstorming and 3D visualizations, the result is a design that focuses on creating a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetics. The space is utilized optimally through a blend of open sitting areas, glass-walled cabins for private meetings, designated areas for collaborative work, and individual workstations. Natural light floods the space through large windows, enhancing the airy and spacious feel. The use of light-coloured walls and floors, paired with minimalist furnishings in muted tones, contributes to a sense of tranquillity and calm. The design is minimalistic which exudes elegance and sustainability through a paucity of colour and material, attention to detail and use of high-end materials like certified wood, veneers, fabric, leather and stone.
The ceiling features an open aluminium baffle system designed to provide ease of access for service and maintenance of plenum spaces. Lighting is provided through an eclectic combination of unobtrusive ceiling-mounted fixtures as well as hanging lights which double up as pieces of art, all integrated seamlessly with the ceiling design. The sustainability quotient is upped by installation of lighting and CO2 sensors, which result in significantly reduced energy consumption.
The austere and functional interior space is infused with vitality by colourful art pieces, strategically placed, to provide inspiration and creative energy. The impressive collection of contemporary art installations is a result of collaboration with local artists and a deliberate effort to promote emerging artists. They add a sense of playfulness and whimsy, as also opportunities for quiet contemplation.
The adjoining terrace has been turned into a tastefully landscaped sky garden, which provides a great outdoor collaborative as well as dining space. The design involved revising the high-side building utility routes and duct configuration for efficiency and enhancing the terrace space’s utilization.
Sustainability was a crucial aspect of the design approach, with green-certified materials and products used throughout the space. Low-flow plumbing fixtures, insulating walls, and highly reflective two-layer window treatments and exterior fins were installed to reduce cooling loads. Drip irrigation ensured water conservation and efficient maintenance of greens. This approach has resulted in a sensitively-designed space that is low-maintenance, energy-efficient, and promotes productivity, creativity, and well-being.
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