Workspace Design – Illumination and Well-being in Workplaces

groupDCA strives to craft workplaces that reflect the brands ethos whilst fabricating an environment that promotes employee well-being, facilitates collaboration and spawns inspiration. With 70% of one’s day spent in the office, stressful environments are induced by boxy and commercialized infrastructure, undermining one’s health and social conditions. In the midst of planning and designing an office layout, tangential components of design – such as lighting schemes – are often overlooked.

A good illumination scheme is a crucial player in sustaining personal health, ultimately steering motivation and production. Lighting structures a vital part of visual ergonomics and perceptions, shaping workplace productivity. Natural light protects vision, boosts concentration and creates healthy working conditions. Poor and misplaced lighting can cause visual discomfort, fatigue and gloominess, taking a toll on employee efficiency. Combining effective daylight harvesting with efficient artificial lighting constructs an optimal illumination system. Natural light if supplemented with strategically placed and adequately numbered table lights, floor lamps and ceiling fixtures can uplift aesthetics and yield positive outcomes.

The layout of Primarc Office evolves along two opposite walls endowed with long windows,
optimally utilized for natural lighting

Primarc Office by groupDCA reinforces the same paradigm by fabricating the design around this principle. The layout of the office evolves along two opposite walls endowed with long windows, optimally utilized for natural lighting and vistas to various spaces such as reception, cafeteria and work-stations. The design of this office not only incorporates efficient lighting but also recognizes the challenge of an often disregarded phenomenon – over-lighting a space. The meeting rooms, conference rooms and private cubicles have been tactically shielded from excessive daylight that may disrupt visual presentations. The dynamic design of this office facilitates an effective assembly of natural and artificial lighting, brought together to suit the vibrant and dramatic tone of the office. Energy efficient LED lamps reduce heat emission, energy consumption and minimize the load on artificial lighting systems, aiding the sustainable approach embarked on by groupDCA.

The meeting rooms, conference rooms and private cubicles have been tactically shielded from excessive daylight that may disrupt visual presentations

Contemporary workspaces are about efficiency, mobility and flexibility. Ditching closed cabins to open plans, not only reduces the barriers that obstruct natural light from coming in but can also position strategically planned landscape and open areas amidst the built form. Materiality, arrangement and treatment of surfaces also influence the lighting level of a space. A bright, illuminated office, deployed with adequate lighting levels, strategically calculated and arranged, enhances the visual appeal of a space whilst augmenting optimal efficiency of the employees. Endeavoring to put together the right narrative to craft engaging experiences, the deliberate process of light selection and customization to create the perfect lighting ambience forms a crucial part of groupDCA’s design ethos.

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

Crafting Engaging Spaces

DCA works on a wide scale of residential projects, ranging from contemporary to classic architecture.

A residence-being a dream, a haven, a place of comfort for any individual. The client’s aspirations are given utmost importance and are pivotal in shaping the design of a residence. All residential designs of DCA have their own inherent character, reflecting upon the owner’s disposition. 

With the vast knowledge of materials & products and experience on possibilities, DCA plays the role of a catalyst in achieving the client’s yearnings and desires through their designs. The resulting space is always unique.

One of the finer examples of this is the Aggarwal Residence at Chandigarh, Punjab.

Clean geometrical compositions for the facade with a culmination of exposed brick work and beige colored extensions make the elevation and entrance look modern yet organic in nature. Color schemes are kept simple to emphasize on the form of the built mass. The material used in the façade is such that promotes least maintenance and longevity. The scale of the built is kept such to make an individual feel the grandeur at the entrance. The relation between the inside spaces and the outside; inter-woven with the landscape at various levels, is given a lot of importance to enhance the user’s experience while residing in the building. The fenestrations are wide with clean lines and glazed glass, so as to promote airiness and make for an exhilarating affair. Wooden flooring has been given in most of the areas to retain the harmony with earthen feel of the space.  Art works that speak have been encouraged in open spaces, walls of bedroom, study and other areas, so each space speaks of its relevance & importance in the residence.

Function and aesthetics are believed to be the two pillars of the design process. While DCA gives importance to design, it lays equal importance on its functionality, practicality and budget. Residence designs for Mr. Ahmed at Noida and Mr. Mehra at GK-1, New Delhi, hence are such that foster multi-functionality of elements. For example: window sills are used as platforms for the planter boxes. Spaces are designed strategically on the basis of locality and climatic conditions. Here the location of windows is such that it restricts the harsh sun in summers and welcomes it in winters. While doing this, it also ensures sufficient natural light in the residence at all times.

Whether its plotted residences or large scale housing (Mount View Apartments, Faridabad, being a fine example) DCA provides highly luxurious, comfortable and captivating interiors, designed such that opulence is not restrained by the budget and is felt in all the residences. The layouts of the interior spaces are done in a way that manifests it into a highly modern, well lit and a spacious place. The ceiling height, wherever possible, is kept high in areas like drawing rooms and dining rooms – adding to the grandeur and is kept low in areas like bedrooms and family lounges adding to the cozy feel of the space. Each space is highly personalized as per the individual utilizing it. The colors and finishes of the walls and floors are generally kept muted with the intent of giving due emphasis to the pieces of furniture and art in the room. This also ensures the client the flexibility of changing color schemes and look of the place as the time goes by. All details like color scheme, floor skirting, selection & design of furniture, drapes, art, wall murals, lights, landscaping & foliage etc. go through an extensive design development process as per the current fashion, set budget and the client’s desires.

Our beliefs, knowledge & experience have helped us in making beautiful homes for very satisfied clients.

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