ART OF DISPLAY

The walls are painted, the light fittings intact and the furniture is all set. However, for a space to be extraordinary needs to determine that one piece of special something that would bring up the visual interest of the entire space.

According to principal architect Amit Aurora of groupDCA, “The Art of Display is unique to every individual and space. It cannot have a set rule that fits all, as it needs to reflect the personality of the individual”. Successful displays are about character, composition and a pulled-together palette. It should reflect the dynamics of the user as well as space. Within the modern context, in addition to the essential need of optimal use of space, art of display is increasingly recognized as an important element; the eclectic fusion or mélange of elements should be one of the prime focuses for the architect/designer.

The Residence for Anands by DCA showcases these intrinsic qualities. The simplistic color palette accentuates the effect of all the other physical elements like the furniture and the artifacts. The balance in the arrangement of these elements is remarkably soothing. This is also an example of how lighting is of paramount importance to enhance the art of display and how all the elements in the art should complement each other to create a homogeneous story. It can be composed of varied elements but they all need to be woven together.

The Aggarwal residence also exemplifies the harmonious ensemble of displays. The striking contrast used with the dark toned artifacts and the light colored background helps in bringing out a powerful outcome of the overall composition.

Certain spaces can have a hero component where as other spaces may require a bunch of components that need to be consolidated to form one complete story. For example, the double height volume in the Gujral Residence by DCA has been ornamented with a stunning chandelier which hangs down and gives the space a whole new definition. No other element is evidently needed to support the magnificent effect rendered by the light fitting.

The Art of display needs to be well thought of, yet natural & progressive, it cannot be forced. The elements should not be artificial rather they should have a soul of their own and a relationship with the over all space. The flow and authenticity of elements should be the focus, only then can one create a conformation that is pleasing to the eye and can be truly called a master of innovating for blank canvasses.

- Amit Aurora & Rahul Bansal

SMALL SPACES SPEAK VOLUMES….

Over the years, ‘space’ as an expression has acquired multiple meanings and has evolved in terms of its perception and design. Spaces may need to be dramatic & emphatic, warm & calming, straight & functional, or minimalistic & simple. Different users derive different usage out of a space. In a day and age where large spaces are either very few or very expensive, the importance of  ‘relevant design’ and ‘value-engineering’ has become paramount.

While macro spaces are perceived as a combination of the larger ambience, spaces surrounding it and its use by masses, micro spaces witness a more personalized and customized approach. In today’s era of specialization, modularity and flexibility, spatial designing and multi-functionality have become a common and detailed phenomenon

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Designing and Articulation of pre-existing small spaces is recommended in a manner that it creates a fresh definitive space, yet also maintains a relation to the previous meaning / experience lent by the space. The driving factors to instill the same come from a variety of elements that can be used to ornament a space. Factors such as highlights, contrasts, harmony and balance could be inculcated through the conscious choice of material, lighting, color palette etc.

Small spaces also need to be versatile in order to compensate for its limitations in structural changes and volume. Multifunctional items like modular tables, which combine together as conference tables and/or storage in offices, sitting that couples up as storage, or kitchen work-tops that are adaptable as dining spaces in homes – increase the efficiency of a space. Use of elements like glass, mirrors and green plants lend a spacious & positive feel.

A simple office corner cubicle with elements like ambient lighting, glass partitions, a neutral color palette and a touch of green could do the trick.  Greenery could be infused from even a small potted plant, but it will permeate to give a completely different experience as compared to a cubicle left bland, dull and mono-functional. Additionally, incorporating art (as per the likes of the user) gives a warm-personal feel to the space. Detailing of elements in a small space has the capability to impact a user to a great extent.

To sum up, the productivity of a space can be judged from the satisfaction its user derives from it and a designer is called proficient if he/she is able to ensure the same.

- Amit Aurora & Rahul Bansal

Reformulating Design with Simplicity

Group DCA have portrayed their ingenuity and originality in architectural and interior design in the hospitality sector . The restaurant projects undertaken by Group DCA have carved a niche in terms of modern , minimalism . One of them is the very popular Amour Bistro situated in the Diplomatic hub of Delhi , Malcha Marg. The restaurant draws its inspiration from an enchanting European bistro and is infused with a Mediterranean feel, not only in its décor but also its food. The design is such that one feels he is sitting in a cocoon of Mediterranean ambience amidst the hustle and bustle chaos of  a chaotic city. The design enhances the dining experience.

Amour Bistro has been designed magnificently yet the earthy tones, rustic touches and minimal elements speak volumes about its simplicity. It is  elegant and exudes luxury , its warmth and familiarity is inviting to anyone who dines here. Certain  design elements that have been so artfully put together to accentuate the above . Low wooden slatted ceiling with textured plaster white wall on one side and full length glass windows on the other allows passers-by to catch a glimpse of the interiors.  A trio of musician statues above the kitchen counter and a wine rack on the double height wall are two installations that catch the eye of the visitors.

The Euro-Mediterranean essence is further brought to life through the furniture made of fine materials with rustic colour finishes . They  are subtlety offset by a brick backdrop, painted in white. The dining space has black painted metal dining chairs interspersed with some sand blasted custom-made seating and bespoke wall lights. The chandeliers are made in wrought iron. All elements have been woven together to give you a bistro of fine dining with the feel of luxe and warmth.

Town Hall, situated in the middle of the central wing of Khan Market in New Delhi is another famed project by Group DCA. The location and the shell of the building which is distinctly colonial are the keys factors in the construction of its theme. The firm, truly adhered to the roots of the building and designed the restaurant in a post-colonial and post – independence theme. The furniture, the patterns and textures adopted are very classical and provide an authentic flavour to the space keeping alive the an old-world Charm of the 50s.

Another quintessentially charming place that has come to life by the firm is “Backyard”, situated amid the buzzing and busy streets of Green Park, New Delhi. As the name suggests it a little place where one can enjoy a ‘time out’ from the busy streets and feel relaxed and happy  . The design approach here went beyond the mainstream and the emphasis was on creative utilization of materials  are obsolete  or thrown away in one’s backyard. This out of the box design approach gave the café a distinct identity of its own.

 

The brilliantly creative team of Group DCA  has put in individuality, character and uniqueness in each of their projects through their artistically thought over designs themes. Whether it’s an experience of sitting in a European bistro, or enjoying a dining experience in the post-independence era. Whether the ambience is  colonial or it amounts to  experiencing a much-deserved timeout in place which would feel like your own backyard , each is beautifully and effortlessly designed to impart a feeling  of relaxation and ease.

Group DCA has simply put life into the inanimate.


Group DCA is a product of a partnership spread over 20 years of two ambitious and multi-talented architects Amit Aurora and Rahul Bansal. Graduating in 1993 from the esteemed School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), New Delhi, they are visionaries adept in the field of architecture and interior design. This award winning, interdisciplinary firm was founded in 1996, over the years it has acquired national and international acclaim for its out of the box ,contemporary design methods. They redefine spatial structure by enhancing aesthetics keeping in mind the client’s sensitivities and cost effectiveness. Their functioning is in sync with the “make in India” ideology, hence there is a conscious use local, Indian – sustainable materials/technology, along with minimizing the impact on the environment. The firm has self aggrandized in the field of design architecture through its accomplished projects. The firm is involved and has achieved success in a variety of projects such as commercial spaces and complexes, residential, salons and spaces, luxury retail outlets and restaurants.

-Amit Aurora and Rahul Bansal

DCA Architects

DCA Architects is an award-winning design consultation firm of New Delhi, India. Founded in 1996, the firm has accomplished design projects across diverse scales over the last two decades and is headed by two Partners, Amit Aurora and Rahul Bansal.

With a unique ethos of Dream.Design.Discover.Deliver, the DCA Group provides services in Architecture, Interior design and Design Coordination across a wide range of building types including Offices, Residential, Retail/ luxury retail, Hospitality and Brand Identities. Via research and collaboration, the objective is to always create value through design that maximizes the project’s complete potential. Driven by its team of experienced project managers, DCA Architects is equipped with the expertise, experience and capacity to deliver design, planning and interior design solutions and development/implementation of brand identities. Through their individual expertise, each of the partners has contributed towards the firm’s robust image in the industry with a distinct focus of delivering Design excellence and innovation. 

Every project is a successful result of a structured collaboration between the design team, clients and the spaces, thereby crafting innovative and sophisticated design solutions. Working with all the relevant stakeholders, each project is designed to meet specific needs and conditions that create an exclusive product. Design as a tool is optimized to transcend the client’s vision to create a ‘unique architecture’, tailored to the aspirations of the client. Creativity is key to the design process, and delivering within the commercial and qualitative parameters is imperative to operations. Today, the firm has to its credit, remarkable, award-winning projects such as restaurants, salons, residences, retail outlets and other commercial work that has been implemented pan-India, both in the realm of architecture and interior design. The design studio and its projects have won many national awards and have been published in various design journals.

-Amit Aurora and Rahul Bansal