What are the major shifts in office space design?
Ashok Kularia: In a technology centric universe in a state of perpetual flux, the way we access, perceive and process information continuously changes, and with it, the ergonomics, anthropometrics and aesthetics that govern the design of workplaces. The domain of workplace design is rendered even more nuanced when we bring in aspects of a brief that are intangible, and yet implied. Consider the projection of company ideals, ethos and aspiration that ought to resonate through a space, towards the creation of brand identity. Add to the mix the milieu of local context, traditions and culture that remain an essential part of any project, we have a delectable palette of ingredients, which, when served right, is a treat for the senses and directly impacts the productivity of a workforce.
Which are the aspects considered while executing commercial projects?
AK: Commercial projects entail the involvement of different stakeholders, invested in the enterprise within a complex framework of interests and aspirations. As designers, we take these factors into consideration, and infuse it with our experience and intuition, which dictates what qualities in a space can engage the intended patronage. Real estate costs and budget allocation on the client’s front, of course, dictates the look and feel of a space but, as a creative unit, we consistently endeavor to leverage our know-how to ensure minimal compromise on the vision we want to propagate.
How do you adapt technology to its benefit?
AK: We make it a priority to not only stay abreast with the latest innovation across a wide spectrum of technological offerings but also conduct thorough studies on how these may be incorporated into built elements to augment and enhance spaces. We advise clients on innovations that can seamlessly integrate functional elements and help optimise processes — from information access and storage to communication and presentation. An office that adapts to and adopts technology is efficient, active and energetic, vibes we wish to imbibe into every space we design.
What are the typical challenges faced during a project?
AK: The client, the designer, vendors, consultants and contractors are part of an ecosystem of stakeholders — all of whom stand to benefit from the successful execution of a project. Despite their vested interest, each comes with his/her own opinions and constraints, which is part of a hierarchical chain of further resources that they are responsible and liable for. To coordinate the successful and timely completion of a project entails the coming together of all these myriad stakeholders with clockwork-like precision to minimise human error and accident, and the vetting of skilled workforce and efficient on-site labour.
How do you work around budget and time constraints?
AK: Budget and timelines do not have to be a restraint. Our designers are experienced enough to tailor the vision and blueprints to the constraints of the communicated budget, without major compromise on the envisioned storyline. If the client’s expectations vis-à -vis budget allocation are unrealistic, we offer professional advise at the very start, so that every stakeholder is in agreement over what best can be achieved. Similarly with timelines, the rule of thumb is to not commit to an unrealistic deadline and to iron out any creases at the start. A well drawn-out contract and timeline document goes a long way in ensuring that a project proceeds without any glitches.