One of the most significant departures from conventional industrial and minimalist office design is the factory’s facade. Each project is a unique opportunity to craft tailored solutions, and we enjoy exploring alternative materials and custom details that resonate with the distinct character of each space. We believe that an exceptional design meets both functional and aesthetic requirements through minimal intervention, allowing the essential elements of a space to shine.
This Minimalist Office Design of the Factory Embraces Less is More | The Design Umbrella
The site’s exterior aims to define a renewed visual collaboration between architecture and the environment. Dense planters and open spaces around the front facade become enticing, user-friendly spaces while significantly improving employees’ work conditions.
Conceived around the doxa of the traditional science of Vastu Shastra and disrupting the confines of a box-like brutalist industrial form, the facade of the minimalist office design features a sloping roof that runs from south to north over the shop floor and from north to south over the stacked programs, mirroring each other and creating a subtle balance in the elevation.
The front of the house conducts itself as the main entrance for visitors. It takes on a more open and inviting approach with a scooped-out double-height porch, large glass windows, open terraces, and lush planters. Moreover, it successfully conceals the stacking effect. However, this dual facade approach not only enhances the building’s visual appeal but also reduces its perceived bulk, adding a layer of sophistication.
The arrival area of the office within the factory premises is designed as a double-height reception and waiting area bathed in natural light. It offers views of the outdoor planters, styled in vibrant, refreshing tones. From this point, guests and corporate employees can access the 10m x 50m office space on the upper level.
The staff working area is equipped with thoughtfully positioned ribbon windows, providing a visual connection to the shop floor. Meanwhile, it ensures a generous influx of natural light. The height of these windows is strategically calibrated to maintain focus, remaining just above eye level to minimize distractions for the team. Moreover, the overall design language of the space is firmly rooted in the “form follows function” ideology. It presents a minimalist aesthetic with no superfluous elements. Cool pastel tones add a gentle vibrancy, enlivening the space subtly without compromising the calm, conducive atmosphere essential for productive work.
The detail addresses the integration of a worship space within a corporate office environment. The objective was to harmonize the spiritual essence of a temple with the formal, professional atmosphere of the workspace.
The conference room’s design prioritizes acoustic performance, incorporating baffles as a strategic response. Additionally, these elements are seamlessly integrated with indirect lighting and display units. Furthermore, it enhances both functionality and aesthetics. The custom false ceiling is constructed on-site using recycled sugarcane fibre boards, reflecting sustainability in material choice.
The cabins for both managing directors have been meticulously crafted to embody their unique personalities and roles within the factory.
The cabin for the Sales and Marketing director showcases a sophisticated monochromatic palette. Additionally, it incorporates warm beige and natural wood finishes to create an atmosphere of calm and refined professionalism.
In contrast, the cabin for the Design Development director embraces a more vibrant aesthetic, featuring custom graphics, playful patterns, and dynamic shelving units.
This design choice reflects a creative and energetic environment. However, it fosters innovation and inspiration in alignment with the director’s role in design and product development.
This cabin is tailor-made for a young, second-generation entrepreneur, embodying a fusion of practical functionality and minimalist design principles. As a result, a sleek, modern, and uncluttered space that balances aesthetic sophistication with purposeful efficiency, reflecting a forward-thinking approach while ensuring an environment conducive to productivity.
The central breakout zone strategically positions itself between the staff area and the management functions. Moreover, it serves as a transitional space that fosters collaboration. To balance out the typical formal office ambience, we have incorporated playful design elements that introduce a sense of dynamism and creativity, ensuring this area contrasts with the otherwise structured environments surrounding it. This approach encourages informal interactions and enhances the overall workplace experience.
At the architectural level, one of the defining challenges of the design process lay in the intentional departure from conventional factory aesthetics—often characterized by cold, brutalist expressions and a lifeless atmosphere.
Instead, the design sought to instil a sense of warmth and vitality throughout the space. Another significant architectural endeavour was to harmonize two distinct functions: the corporate office and the production unit and achieve a visually cohesive environment that allows each area to fulfill its role without interference.
A central challenge in the interior planning process was to disrupt the inherent perception of linearity dictated by the space’s proportions—a long, narrow expanse measuring 10 by 50 meters. Thoughtful interventions break up the visual continuity, creating a dynamic layout that counteracts spatial linearity and enhances both functionality and the spatial experience within this elongated footprint.
Fact File
Designed by: The Design Umbrella
Project Type: Office Architecture & Interior Design
Project Name: RH CENTER
Location: Vatva, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Year Built: 2024
Duration of the project: 3 Years
Project Size: 1,05,885 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Mudra Shah
Team Design Credits: Tej Mankadiya, Gaurav Kumar & Ayush Kankane
Photograph Courtesy: Zotagraphy
Text Credits: Nishi Shah & Mudra Shah
Structure Engineers: Aarambh Consultants
Project Managers: Kalpesh Bhai
Environmental &Sustainability Consultants: Vanabhu Sustainable Solutions LLP
Products/Materials/Vendors: Finishes – LAMINATE, NATURAL STONE, VENEER, POLYURETHANE, PVC SHEET, Corian / Wallcovering / Cladding – Hindalco Industries / Lighting – lightinside Furniture – VISHWAKARMA interiors / Sanitaryware – cera / Facade Systems – Pixcerra By IPH Glasses / Windows – fenesta / Flooring – Seron Granito Pvt. Ltd. , Asian Granito India Ltd / Paint – Asian Paints, Birla Opus Paints / Hardware – Hettich, godrej / Wallpaper – Studio House
Firm’s Website Link: The Design Umbrella
Firm’s Instagram Link: The Design Umbrella
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