Jamun Grove

“We turn towards Nature as our guiding force at Jamun Grove,” Amit Aurora and Rahul Bansal, Partners at groupDCA revealed how they designed their office.

At first glance, the low-rise outfit looks like a cluster of cosy cottages, one that will not bring to mind a working environment. But who is to say how or what an office should look like in today’s climate, both meteorologically and contextually? Over the past three, four years, have we not seen how personal and professional domains have ‘crossed over’, sometimes blurring lines and design formats?

LYING LOW, TAKING CUE FROM NATURE

Adopting a fragmented scheme, the layout comprises four low-rise structures: a reception; a studio block; the principals’ cabins; and a pantry and office space. Conceptualised around the existing trees, the blocks have views to the greenery on-site, so that that each team member is never far from the natural surroundings. Oriented along the east-west axis, the blocks are constructed with rubble masonry walls to shield the interiors from harsh sunlight. The north-facing walls are porous, accommodating large, glazed windows and open out onto shaded verandas that can be used throughout the year, shaping informal break-out spaces or workstations.

To further ensure optimal comfort, the southern walls are punctured with small fenestrations, modulating heat and glare. These design strategies ensure the studio is unaffected by the scorching summers while welcoming the gentle winter sun.

The blocks are, therefore, well-lit by diffused natural light absent of heat and glare, open organised spaces that help to foster clear thinking and refreshing views. Along with the well-insulated roofs and walls, and the surrounding greens, the studio embraces Nature to cultivate a serene work environment.

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PROJECT DATA

Read more stories from FuturArc 4Q 2024: Tempering Temperatures!