‘Ironside’ is a 6600 sqft duplex office space designed to embody the industrial design office roots of a metal manufacturer. The concept focuses on reflecting the raw, rugged nature of the client’s business through a cohesive blend of materials, architectural elements, and a functional yet visually striking layout. By weaving together these elements, the space balances utilitarian purpose and aesthetic depth, creating an environment that mirrors the core identity of the business, much like the traditional Indian house interior.

Editor’s Note: “Ironside, though ‘rooted in metal,’ is also made for people. As light filters through the geometry, it balances industrial form in moments of lightness, warmth, and human rhythm. Moreover, the office becomes a living sculpture, carving space for people, possibilities, and pauses.” ~ Anusha Sridhar

‘Ironside’ Embodies the Raw Aesthetic of an Industrial Design Office | Studio Dashline

Communal Workstations

At the heart of this design are the communal workstations, positioned around four structural columns. Each unit accommodates eight people, with four seated on either side. These workstations, crafted with a focus on industrial authenticity, feature a metal I-section as the structural backbone.

The work surfaces, made of marble, fan out gracefully like aeroplane wings on both sides, creating a striking interplay between the rawness of metal and the elegance of marble. This detail echoes throughout the workspace, reinforcing the industrial theme and maintaining a refined aesthetic that flows seamlessly from one workstation to the next.

Central Workstation Area

The ground floor cabins and meeting rooms encircle the central workstation area, embracing an open layout that fosters collaboration. Positioned along the periphery, each cabin offers expansive views of the cityscape while featuring custom-designed furniture and storage solutions.

Frosted film in a patina finish, matching the metal accents, provides privacy while adding a layered visual depth to the space. Metal accents are present in the bespoke hanging lights, adding a raw, metallic edge to the cabins.

Storage within these spaces follows a unique, functional approach inspired by kitchen counter layouts, with upper and lower units flanking a central countertop. The two-foot dado serves as a versatile space for displaying personal items or housing everyday necessities such as coffee machines and printers.

This integrates with a concealed air conditioning system, hidden behind a metal grill, ensuring practicality while enhancing the walls’ overall minimalist aesthetic.

Industrial Materials Beyond Furniture

This focus on industrial materials extends beyond furniture to the architectural elements themselves. The design celebrates structural columns and ceiling capitals as features rather than hiding them, further anchoring the space in its industrial roots.

Corten steel accents, chosen for their warm, weathered patina, pair with cement-finished walls, grounding the space with their raw, unrefined texture.

In contrast, the sleek black grid ceiling hides essential services while maintaining a sense of modern sophistication. Together, these elements work in harmony, balancing the ruggedness of the design with an underlying sense of elegance.

The flooring choice also plays a crucial role in adding texture and depth to the space. Instead of competing with the more prominent design elements, the floor is laid with four shades of grey tiles. These tiles are arranged in thick, angular lines, creating a subtle yet impactful design.

Sense of Movement

This creates a sense of movement and subtle gradation, contributing a quiet drama that enhances the otherwise minimalist interiors. As a result, the floor becomes a supporting player, adding complexity without overshadowing the overall design.

At the heart of ‘Ironside’ stands the sculptural, angular metal staircase—a bold statement in form and function. Bathed in light from a triangular skylight above, the staircase glows as shadows dance along its sharp, industrial lines.

The light forms an almost ethereal halo on the floor below, where its presence is felt, but its source remains unseen. The cuts of the staircase fold into a built-in bench, merging art with practicality.

This metal centerpiece binds the two floors, creating a dramatic yet seamless flow within the space. Moreover, it embodies the raw elegance of the industrial design.

The upper level introduces a shift in tone, balancing the industrial rawness with spaces dedicated to rest and rejuvenation. Leadership cabins provide privacy while maintaining a connection to the collaborative energy of the office below.

Terrace Cafe

Additionally, the terrace café, at ‘Ironside’ offers a tranquil retreat with stunning views of Bangalore’s skyline. The linear layout features bench seating along the edge, framed by a metal pergola with cutouts for transparency and vertical depth.

Sandstone tiles underfoot enhance the outdoor vibe, while lush greenery adds a touch of nature. The minimal, black furnishings complement the industrial aesthetic, providing a relaxed space for employees to unwind.

The contrast between the verdant outdoor space and the rugged interior creates a dynamic balance. As a result, even in a workspace built on industrial principles, there is room for relaxation and human connection.

Fact File

Designed by: Studio Dashline

Project Type: Office, Workplace, Commercial Design

Project Name: Ironside                     

Location: Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Year Built: 2024

Built Up Area: 6600 Sq.ft

Principal Designer: Dheeraj Bajaj, Pranav Dakoria & Shriya Sohi

Photograph Credits: Yash R Jain

Firm’s Website Link: Studio Dashline

Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio Dashline

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