Angular Geometry

Compiled by Marina Correa

Photography: Sebastian Zachariah & Ira Gosalia (Photographix); courtesy the firm

Read Time: 2 mins 

Office Ideas showroom (inset) KNS Architects Lto R: Ar. Neemesh Shah, Ar. Kanhai Gandhi, Ar. Shresht Kashyap

KNS Architects crafts a gallery-esque high-end chair showroom for Office Ideas in Mumbai, where the products are showcased as works of art…

Zeroing in a hexagonal form as the primary design inspiration, different geometrical shapes are derived to break the symmetry of the 2,000 sq. ft. area of the commercial outfit by stretching and pulling the form for a playful variation.  

 

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These variations are then stacked at different levels to create platforms of variegated sizes, highlighted and differentiated with the use of 3-D solid and translucent surfaces. Designed to add movement and character to the space, these pedestal-esque platforms dramatize set-ups for display of fanciful residential and commercial chairs.

 

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Diligently crafted in tandem with a series of lighting experiences, these Corian and frosted glass platforms elicit a keen sense of awe and intrigue, whilst the scenography provides a neutral yet animated backdrop in an artistic blend of material and forms.

“Since natural light was almost absent, artificial lighting became the key element of design,” emphasizes Ar. Neemesh Shah of KNS Architects. Keeping the overall shell dimly lit, spotlights show off the colours and textures of the products in their true form. In addition, reconfigurable LED track lights are used to enable a modular and flexible store layout.

 

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But what really impresses is that despite the site being static, the architects have created a suspended ceiling with mezzanine levels and overhung pods that augment spaciousness, drama and interest. The cantilevered volume houses the back office and meeting rooms in addition to enhanced display options.

 

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Use of clear glass fosters a visual connectedness and openness within the overall space, whilst materials such as wood, white laminate and mirror harmonise a unified feel. To add a sense of depth, horizontal wooden bands are positioned as angular planes running along the length of the entire showroom, augmenting depth; whereas grey mirrored surfaces anoint the back wall – creating an illusion of additional space. The neutral river-washed black granite flooring sustains the simplicity of the material palette with LEDs inserted into the flooring to subtly differentiate various brands offered by the company as well as further amplify the perception of depth. Deliberate use of glass for the façade allows a passer-by a peek into the store and the intriguing mezzanine area, arousing just the right amount of curiosity for perhaps, a casual walk-in.

Fact File:

Client: Office Ideas

Design Firm: KNS Architects

Principals: Ar. Neemesh Shah, Ar. Kanhai Gandhi, Ar. Shresht Kahsyap

Design Team: Ar. Neemesh Shah, Mr. Bhavesh Mewada

Site Area: 2,000 sq. ft. 

Location: Andheri West, Mumbai