This project entailed the development of the Architects’ own studio in a Colonial-era bungalow dating back to 1931, in which significant heritage elements had been modified over the last few decades by previous owners. To maintain the structure’s heritage significance, it underwent thoughtful conservation and restoration before the development of the incoming studio. The interiors of the studio infuse contemporary elements and heritage nature of the space, not overpowering the essence of the place. The design rather blends in a manner that makes the contemporary and heritage elements co-exist in perfect harmony, blurring the sub-conscious boundary between the two.
The Interiors of the Studio Infuse Contemporary Elements and Heritage Nature of the Space | Urban Tree
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The architectural character of the structure served as the starting point for the overall design, which resulted in a two-phase project strategy that included restoration and conservation followed by appropriate interior design.
During this process, certain modifications were made in the original circulation pattern of the space, such as the switching of the primary entrance to a room in the corner, which was originally through a door in the verandah.
Also, this corner room was split in two by the addition of a partition, which allowed it to be used as a reception as well as a meeting area in a flexible manner.
The verandah now became a buffer between the public areas of the office and the private studio for the architects, with it’s timber jaali framing the shaded yard and buzzing street beyond.
The design and furniture of the Principal Architect’s cabin were developed such that the space could also be used for presentations and larger gatherings.
The material palette of the design is derived from the structure itself, with the primary material being the restored timber in its’ varied forms – the doors, windows and the ornamental jaali in the verandah. Chevron-pattern tiles, contemporary through it’s strong geometries, and historic through it’s glorious past, helps to seamlessly bind the heritage and the contemporary sensibilities of the space.
The load-bearing slab above has also been blended with the design narrative by accentuating it’s structural elements in black and white, which completes the minimal material palette, with the only exception being a bright red discussion table in the studio, a nod to the practice’s earlier logo. Most of the furniture has been inspired by the arch in the central bay, which is now the studio. Each piece of furniture is unique in its design and expresses the arch in a modern way.
As all these elements combine together, they form a project that becomes a contemporary reinterpretation of a heritage structure – an endeavor to discover how rich, historic architectural structures can find their place in today’s times, adding a value that cannot be sufficiently ascertained, but is subconsciously felt.
Fact File
Designed by : Urban Tree
Project Type : Restoration & Office Interior Design
Project Name : Architect’s Studio in colonial Pune
Location : Pune, Maharashtra
Year Built : 2021
Duration of the project : 4 Months
Plot Area : 1295.91 Sq.ft
Principal Architect : Ar. Nakul Rege
Team Design Credits : Ar. Nikita & Drishti
Photograph Courtesy : Hemant Patil Photographer
Products / Materials / Vendors : Lighting – HYBEC / Sanitaryware – Kohler / Paint – Asian paints
Firm’s Website Link : Urban Tree
Firm’s Instagram Link : Urban Tree
Firm’s Facebook Link : Urban Tree
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