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Photographs: Andre J. Fanthome

New Delhi-based Studio IAAD has designed the Corporatedge Office, a commercial project spread over 11,800 sq. ft. The client had emphasised efficiency and budget, as the historical building itself is one of the most expensive real estates in the NCR region. Located opposite the British Council Library, facing the Hindustan Times building and the Rajeev Chowk flag, the site is set amidst colonial architecture. The modern workspace accommodates individual and group employees and the service is centrally located to allow ease of accessibility.

Working spaces are placed alongside the periphery of the rectangular platform, optimising natural light and ventilation into the most-used areas. The library is strategically placed towards Rajeev Chowk, constantly reminding the inhabitants of their national legacy. The open café is located alongside the corridor, allowing people to glimpse from all the points throughout the passage.

Columns are a signature element, and the furniture comprises pouffes, armchairs and low tables. As all the gates in Lutyens’s Delhi have globe lights, similar lighting fixtures are installed in a similar repetitive pattern. These globe lights are a primary design element in the office washrooms, as they are suspended from the ceiling and punctuate the otherwise longitudinal space.

Chessboard patterns are featured on the flooring, with wallpaper that reminds one of the classical eras. All the rooms enjoy ample natural light with a stepped ceiling tapering towards the exterior, which maximises the daylight. Green walls at the end of the rooms make up for the lack of natural greenery, and the window frames are painted in dark tones to resemble picture frames. Italian flooring finishes are complemented by carpet vinyl that resists microbial buildups and is durable. Ceilings are left raw with exposed services added to the industrial vibe, which ensures easy repair and maintenance. Corridors feature glazing with mullions that add to the royalty of spaces.