In today’s fast-paced urbanization, the construction industry often overlooks waste generation and existing infrastructure. Yet, a significant shift is underway—reimagining the future of built environments through adaptive reuse.
CCBA Designs, led by master architect and planner Prof. Christopher Benninger, exemplifies this approach with their corporate structure project: the Forbes Marshall New Corporate Office in Pune. This brownfield redevelopment challenges conventional practices and encourages us to think about spaces more intelligently and sustainably.
Editor’s Note: “Known for its adaptive reuse and sustainable design, the Forbes Marshall New Corporate Office transforms an old industrial structure. The design of this office brings together the ancient with the modern through passive cooling techniques, solar energy, and rainwater harvesting, thereby creating a cohesive modern workspace focused on functionality and environmental responsibility.” ~ Anusha Sridhar
A Corporate Structure Reimagines Built Spaces Through Adaptive Reuse | CCBA Designs
The site is an old industrial complex of Forbes Marshall dating back to the late 1950s. Decades of gradual additions resulted in a structure that was a patchwork of materials, forms, and heights. Moreover, some areas are built with RCC columns and metal roofing, others with load-bearing walls and concrete slabs.
Tasked with converting the chaotic industrial structure into a modern corporate headquarters for 300 employees, the firm took on the challenge of unifying the disparate elements into a cohesive whole.
The adopted design strategy honoured the original structure while giving it new life. The design retained and reinforced much of the existing structure’s skeleton using advanced techniques. The original RCC columns, which had grown weak, were strengthened with carbon wrapping. Additionally, the existing plinths were retained.
Steel jacketing and bracket installations ensured the building’s structural integrity and enhanced safety for its occupants. Additionally, the design employs innovative materials like Aerocon slabs, complemented by sustainable cooling systems.
The design emphasizes simplicity, featuring a predominantly white colour palette. The layout thoughtfully organizes into four bays across two levels, with a spacious double-height atrium at the center that invites abundant natural light into the interiors. Glass partitions further enhance this openness. Thus, allowing light to flow freely while fostering a sense of connection and transparency between spaces.
The building’s facade, a blend of glass and vertical aluminium fins, creates an elegant aesthetic while serving a practical purpose. Furthermore, these elliptical fins, angled to manage heat and glare, establish a lightweight yet dynamic outer shell, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding gardens.
“Sustainability is not an add-on. It is a way of life.” -Prof. Christopher Benninger
The project showcases this ethos by employing passive sustainable design features in both form and function. At its core is a passive cooling system, with radiant cooling integrated into the floors. Moreover, it significantly reduces the need for traditional air conditioning. Additionally, low-volume fans and evaporative cooling further minimize energy use.
The insulated metal roof, featuring a clip-on system, enhances thermal efficiency and supports solar panels that generate renewable energy. Efficient water management is achieved by harvesting rainwater from the roof, which is stored in an underground tank to meet landscaping and flushing needs for up to a month.
By breathing new life into an ageing structure, CCBA Designs has not only preserved a piece of history but also forged a path for the future. Moreover, this project serves as a powerful reminder to architects that even the most neglected spaces can be transformed into enduring symbols of resilience and thoughtful design.
Fact FileDesigned by: CCBA Designs
Project Type: Office Architecture Design
Project Name: New Forbes Marshall Corporate Headquarters
Client: Forbes Marshall
Location: Kasarwadi, Pune, Maharashtra
Year Built: 2021- 2024
Project Size: 64583.46 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Christopher Benninger
Design Team: Ar. Daraius Choksi, Ar. Yogesh Jatkar, Ar. Tarun Kumar Varma and Ar. Siddha Regilla
Photograph Courtesy: Ramprasad Akkisetti
Mentors: Rahul Sathe and Ramprasad Akkisetti
Text Credits: Venessa Thomas
Firm’s Website Link: CCBA Designs
Firm’s Instagram Link: CCBA Designs
For Similar Projects >> Workspace With Unique Curves That Add A Contemporary Vocabulary To The Office Design
Scarlett Designs Pvt. Ltd. (SDPL) blurs the boundaries between structure and nature with the conceptualization and design of the elemental villas at Ananta Spa and Resort, Ajabgarh. Nestled amidst the majestic Aravalli ranges, the design of the resort draws inspiration from the vastness of its surroundings and natural elements. Each villa type, including Earth, Lagoon, […]
The design of Habitat 0 begins with the central concept of a vacation home community organized around a circular form. This layout places individual spaces radially around a central circular courtyard, creating an environment where every space has access to expansive views of the surrounding greenery. The circular design is essential in fostering a deep […]
Nestled in the tranquil village of Thenipalam, Malappuram, Aman is a 2,800 sq. ft. residence, manifesting its Urdu namesake, meaning peace, sanctuary, and security. Designed by Vaktra Architects, this traditional Kerala home is a testament to simplicity, blending Kerala’s tropical ethos with contemporary elegance. This Traditional Kerala Home is Rooted in Simplicity and Modern Elegance […]
Pranjali – The Doctor’s Bungalow is a peaceful and practical modern bungalow design located in Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The name Pranjali, meaning “a graceful offering” or “a gesture of respect,” reflects the spirit of this residence—a calm, humble, and thoughtful space created for a doctor couple seeking balance in their busy lives. The design goal […]
The contemporary style architecture house is located in the lively urban context of Thaltej, Ahmedabad nestled within a private cluster of four bungalows. Though the home enjoys the benefits of community, it also maintains a high degree of privacy and seclusion. This is achieved through a carefully considered spatial arrangement, despite the proximity of a […]
Screenwriter and director Megha Ramaswamy approached Fractal Chaos to design an organic home as a weekend retreat in Pasli Gaon, Velhe—a village about 150 km from Pune. The site is located between the Deccan Plateau and the Western Ghats, which gives it a unique ecology with 4 seasons. Drawn to the land by a bordering […]
Situated in the bustling residential neighbourhood of Koorkenchery, Thrissur, Dr. Lakshmi’s residence stands as a refined architectural response to a narrow 15.53 cent plot. The 4214.07 sq ft home is a seamless blend of modern traditional kerala house, with an Indonesian inspired grey white exterior that exudes sophistication. The design strategically employs linear planning, integrating […]
Imagine a home that breathes with the breeze, where sunlight filters through lush foliage, and the vibrant hues of nature are an extension of your living space. Tropical houses are architectural marvels; a profound dialogue between human habitation and the natural world, born from centuries of adapting to warm, humid climates. Far from rigid structures, […]
Kerala style homes have courtyards surrounded by rooms on each side. Traditional Kerala-style homes have a central courtyard known as Nadumuttam surrounded by rooms. These homes promote natural light and ventilation according to the region’s climate. These homes, due to the feature of courtyards as their core spaces, offer beautiful opportunities for social gatherings. This […]
Aangan is a modern residence that seamlessly integrates with the lush environment of Kerala, showcasing a tropical home design. Designed to embrace the region’s warm climate, the house features a striking sloped terracotta roof at varying levels, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency. The structure is enveloped in a vibrant tropical landscape, adorned […]