The ideology behind this architectural project was to create an environment that would boost the spatial beauty of the existing site while also creating a vast space washed by natural light resulting in a warm, sober, and relaxing atmosphere.
The first intervention regarding this concept was to model the entire space using a single homogenous material, the I.P.S (Indian Patented Stone). Next, dark grey tones and textures were chosen, which helped create a sense of weightiness, order, and rhythm, mimicking the duskiness of the basalt surfaces in rock-cut cave temples located around Nasik.In addition, black basalt was used for the flooring of the entrance court and steps, adding a different feel of tactility to the quality of space.
The second intervention used the varying daylight conditions at the site, which would help create a sense of drama during the changing seasons. To this effect, the entrance court features dense vegetation and an immense circular skylight framing the sky and creates a semi-shaded congregation space. It also mimics the courtyards of medieval Indian houses found in the inner city.
From the court, a narrow passageway with a somewhat low ceiling leads to the studio space, which also features a slender split of the skylight, adding to the linearity and spaciousness of the design. Between the passage and studio is a small informal waiting area that showcases a smaller circular skylight. Finally, a water court, featuring pergolas and a landscaped court on one side, is a central space of the architecture, for it can be accessed from any area of the studio.
Considering the cultural and organizational intentions behind the project, the aim was to set up an architectural office that could collaborate with various events within the city. Hence, the third and final intervention involved having a flexible floor plan that could shrink and expand as per the engagement requirement. With regards to this, sliding-folding enclosing devices were installed, which enable the entire studio space to remain open for reconfiguration during an event.
Lastly, all the furniture used for the studio was manufactured using up-cycled Indian teak wood, keeping in mind its grain’s directionality and tangible quality. Adjustable louvered windows were also installed in the meeting area to cater to different climate conditions.
