What was the brief from the client?
The brief was to design a chartered account office in the Dhule MIDC area with an occupancy of 85 people. As per the hierarchy, the workstation required 60 numbers, 3 managers, a ca manager cabin of 7 nos. and a head CA cabin of 3nos, an antichamber room, ample file storage, and space for relaxation. This brief was for accommodating a 6000 sq.ft. space intertwining function with aesthetic values.
How did you translate it into the design?
After thoroughly reviewing the design brief to grasp the project requirements, objectives, target audience, budget constraints, and any other pertinent details we conducted research into the project context, industry trends, user preferences.
Brainstorming and generating multiple design concepts that align with the project goals and client preferences. Consider factors such as functionality, aesthetics, feasibility, and scalability. Afterwards designing and developing detailed technical specifications.
What sets the project apart?
Designing a well-appointed office structure with interiors for a Chartered Accountant (CA) office in an MIDC (Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation) area of Dhule, particularly surrounded by fabricated structures, presents a unique opportunity to create a standout project. Understanding the needs and preferences of the occupants through user research and feedback to tailor the design to their specific requirements.
Creating a workspace for 85-90 people keeping in mind that it’s going to be their everyday surrounding. Giving a subtle idea of digits as a concept through the interiors and not letting it be an overwhelming element that indicates the correlation of client and their profession.
Can you describe the space planning and function?
Entrance with reception is centrally connected to both the workstation and the cabin zone of the whole office
Big area of the space is dedicated for accommodating the 60 employees. This office space belongs to chartered accountants, who work in the numbers, as a design strategy we thought of using numbers as a concept. However, we decided to use roman numbers in particular which creates an interesting feature, and same time they are indirectly representing the numbers.
The roman numbers are reflected in the reception table, glass partition, award display unit, courtyard ceiling frame, and in the passage ceiling led lights. Various scale and proportion were used while designing these spaces. This concept binds the entire office in one design language and creates a unique identity for this office.
- Functional :
Focusing on the functional aspects of a Chartered Accountant (CA) office involves creating a space that facilitates efficiency, productivity, confidentiality, and professionalism. Designed a welcoming and organized reception area where clients can check in, wait comfortably, and have access to necessary amenities like seating, reading materials, and refreshments.
Creating private consultation rooms where CAs can meet with clients to discuss financial matters, tax planning, and other confidential information. Ensure these rooms are equipped with appropriate furnishings, technology, and security features. Ensuring these spaces are adaptable and can accommodate varying group sizes and needs.
- Program
- Specific Challenges + Solutions
Keeping the track of the ongoing work on the site from a distance and handing over the project without compromising on quality of the work was a challenge initially but with efficient team we came through.
- Spatial Planning
We divided the floor plan into 9 grids (3x3) and marked the ideal locations for each occupant as per Vastu. The head ca's are placed on the south side and the north side is kept for the staff. Reception and conference were positioned in the center of the space which allows easy connectivity between the visitor and the internal staff. Center courtyard is designed to bring the maximum natural light into the building, straight passages were designed to ease the circulation and during an emergency, it is easy to move towards the exits. The columns are planned to the outer periphery of the building to get clear internal space without any obstruction, especially in the staff area.
- Morphology
Embracing the symmetry of the site while also considering elements of balance within the design. Distributed visual weight evenly across the structure to create a sense of stability and harmony. Tried variations in texture, color, and materiality to break up the monotony of the square form and create visual intrigue on the front facade.
- Unique Features
Using roman letters decently in many elements in the structure indicating that it’s a CA office. These roman numbers are pretty clearly visible for an active observer but in the courtyard area we have a contrast pattern of tiles and artificial grass in flooring indicating the mathematical signs depicted through the artificial grass which needs an eye to be noticed.
Please describe each area of the project in brief
- Interior Design
Designing a commercial space starting with a welcoming reception to accommodate 5-7 visitors waiting area having seating with 2 receptionistsTalking about the number of spaces overall 60 workstations ,7 CA manager’s cabins, and 3 managers cabin were needed. Along with conference room in between the employee workspace and the head CA’s cabins. Provided all the services like washrooms, rest rooms, pantry, server and electrical roomWorkstations for almost staff of 60 with their desks and storage that promote ergonomic comfort, minimize distractions, and optimize workflow efficiency. Provided ample storage, ample lighting, and easy access to necessary equipment. All theConference room accommodating 10-12 people with suitable technology integration. Overhead warm lighting3 Head CA cabins with appropriate sitting arrangements are designed. Shades of brown and patterns in that brown are creating tunefulness in the head CA cabin. Ample storage room is provided for all the data collection and history database
- Landscape Design
A chafa tree is incorporated in the courtyard space behind the Goddess Saraswati idol. This gives the moment of freshness to the passerby. And the tree with time is going to flourish with the company marking its existence.
- Design of Services
i. Heating, Ventilation, Air-conditioning Systems
ii. Water Management : Appropriate Slopes are given on the terrace floor for the rain water harvesting connecting to collecting pipes and 2nos. of underground water tanks are provided.
iii. Waste Management : Septic tank is provided
iv. Energy Management : Solar panels are provided
What is your favorite element of design in the project?
Simply using the vibrant colors in the hanging lights in the workstation eliminates the dullness in a workspace.
What do you think is the USP of this project?
An intelligently designed spatial layout facilitates efficient workflow by organizing work areas, meeting spaces, and support facilities in a logical and accessible manner. This layout allows for smooth movement of staff and clients, minimizing bottlenecks and optimizing productivity
Incorporating collaborative spaces such as meeting rooms, conference areas, and the courdyard space as breakout zone encourages teamwork, brainstorming, and knowledge sharing among CA professionals and support staff. These spaces foster communication and collaboration, leading to improved problem-solving and decision-making processes
The USP of this office project can be framed around creating spaces that not only meets the functional needs of the profession but also stands out for its design and user experience. In our opinion the project exudes professionalism and sophistication with clean lines refined finished which convey trust
Anything else you would like to tell us about the project?
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Concluding statement
Incorporating all the creative design inputs into a CA office project, we created a space that not only meets the immediate needs of the clients but also serves us chance to showcase our expertise, creativity, and commitment to excellence.