PUNE
workspace by the mills
AREA: 32,000 SQ.FT.
STATUS: COMPLETED
This large managed workspace in Pune is an expression of the Studio’s curiosity to explore the boundaries of design. Contemporary sensibilities that a modern day workspace demands, has set the tone for the space, muted with the use of natural materials. Materials are chosen by design for their likeness in colour and the variety they can bring in through texture; the harmony this creates is deliberate.
The L-shaped office space has the main workspaces planned in its two perpendicular arms, and the lounge at the junction where they meet. The hierarchy in the planning of these spaces, arrays out from the most community oriented space – the lounge, to the meeting rooms and subsequently the workstations on the periphery. This large space, has workstations designed to accommodate over 750 people, meeting rooms of varying sizes, breakout spaces, restrooms, phone booths, a gym, crèche and a huge lounge with pantry and a pool table. Multiple break out spaces are planned through the entire office as mood modifiers. Some of these are private alcoves with bespoke banquette styled seating for people to lounge. A play area that can double up as a crèche is a small feature crafted with different type of seating arrangements with games that have been mounted on the walls that allow more room for people to linger.
Wood, grey lime plaster, veneer paneling, glass and stone has been used extensively though the entire space. The stylistic diversity in the use of colour and texture in each space is measured. For instance, the dark amber colour felt sofas and the veneer paneling in the meeting rooms or the grey lime plastered walls and the use of polished stone for tables. These tactile and textured materials of the palette bring in a tangible quality to the space.
The design creates a story between the inhabitants and the space with the motivation to create an environment that is not daunting or monotonous.