How Smart Commercial Spaces Drive Growth

Research shows that well-designed commercial spaces significantly impact productivity, customer satisfaction, and employee well-being. Employees in thoughtfully designed environments report 67% higher productivity, while 61% of consumers are willing to pay more for products in aesthetically appealing spaces. These statistics reiterate that design is not an exercise in aesthetics—it directly influences the overall experience, shaping how we work, shop, and engage with the built environment. Thoughtful design goes beyond visual appeal; it creates harmony between functionality and emotion, transforming spaces into powerful tools for connection and growth. When design aligns with purpose, it not only enhances interactions but also leaves a lasting impression, driving both efficiency and satisfaction.

Effective commercial design goes beyond surface appeal, combining function with form. Every element must serve a purpose, whether an office, a retail space, or a hospitality venue. The design should support the activities the space is meant for while creating an atmosphere that promotes comfort, creativity, and efficiency. Design should thus enhance how the space works for those who use it.

Then there is the emotional impact. A well-designed space creates feelings—whether the calm vibe of a hotel lobby or the cosy warmth of a café. These reactions are crafted through appropriate lighting, colour, material, and layout choices. When people connect with a space emotionally, they want to return to it.

Flow or movement is equally vital in creating impactful spaces. The design should naturally guide users from one area to another. Whether moving from a meeting room to a lounge or from a retail display to the checkout counter, seamless transitions are essential. A well-organised layout enhances practicality and user experience while navigation, ensuring the space feels intuitive and effortless.

Lighting and materials are central to shaping the ambiance of any commercial design. Natural light can make a room feel open and airy, while carefully chosen artificial lighting can create warmth and intimacy. Similarly, materials selected like the cool elegance of marble, the warmth of wood, or the texture of the fabric—add layers of sensory experience, elevating the space beyond a mere tangible look.

In a recent project that is a 14-story mixed-use development, Citadines in Gurugram seamlessly blends work and leisure. Designed to cater to business travellers and tourists, the space includes meeting rooms, a buffet restaurant, and alfresco dining areas with stunning panoramic views. The design expertly balances functionality and inspiration, focusing on materials and spatial flow. Thoughtful planning ensures that each area serves its purpose while creating a welcoming atmosphere. By providing productive and relaxing spaces, the design fosters a dynamic environment that supports diverse user needs and leaves a lasting impression.

Designing commercial spaces is about more than just creating an attractive environment—it’s about making an investment that brings value. A well-designed space elevates the user experience, boosts functionality and productivity, and drives business performance. In an era where every square foot counts, design is the prime factor in creating spaces that provide long-term tangible value. At groupDCA, we understand that great design is not just an experience but an investment that pays dividends over time.

World Architecture Day with GroupDCA

On October 7, 2024, we marked World Architecture Day—a reminder of architecture’s profound yet unnoticed influence on how we live, think, and interact. At groupDCA, this day is a commitment to continuously pursue a built environment that meets current needs and anticipates a better future. As architects, our decisions extend beyond aesthetics or function; they shape lives, communities, and the world we leave behind.

Designing with People, for People

Space can only resonate with users if the design is inclusive. We embrace an approach where we share ideas among design professionals and local communities whose wisdom informs our practice. By collaborating with artisans and experts, we tap into time-honoured techniques and materials that are contextually relevant, blending traditional methods with innovative solutions. This collaborative spirit ensures that our projects are built for the present but are deeply rooted in the cultural and environmental context.

Sustainability Beyond Aesthetic Trends

Sustainability is not a trend but a mind-set that shapes our decisions. Less is more does not prescribe minimalism but rather simplicity in purpose and form. When a design aligns with its context—using local materials, responding to the climate, and reinterpreting traditional construction methods—it inherently becomes sustainable. At GroupDCA, we take this further by utilising adaptive techniques that reuse and upcycle to breathe new life into existing elements.

Local Essence, Global Vision

In an interconnected world, architecture is a bridge between the local and the global. For impact, our designs must resonate on an international platform without losing their essence. We advocate for architecture that retains a strong sense of place while integrating modern technology and materials in ways that honour local heritage. This approach allows us to reinterpret vernacular forms—fusing familiar elements, like reclaimed architectural features, within forward-looking design to create spaces that are at once timeless and contemporary.

Navigating Challenges as Opportunities

The road to sustainable, adaptive design is not without its challenges. The need to innovate while remaining resilient presents a complex task, yet one filled with possibilities. Opportunities are in learning from diverse practices, pushing the boundaries of design, and constantly evolving toward more thoughtful solutions.

Towards a Shared Vision

As we reflect on World Architecture Day, we celebrate the role of architecture in shaping a more inclusive, adaptable, and environmentally conscious world. At GroupDCA, we see each project as a shared vision for designs that focus on spaces and the lives shaped within them.

The Power of Vintage Design to Transform Retail Spaces and Brand Messaging

Vintage designs for retail have become a compelling tool for storytelling among brands. They are pivotal in communicating brand values, shaping customer expectations, and influencing behaviour and purchasing decisions. Despite the market being flooded with online portals to shop, people find it pertinent to walk into a store, experience the brand and the product, and buy it.

By weaving elements of the past into contemporary spaces, brands evoke a sense of authenticity, nostalgia, and a distinctive aesthetic that resonates with customers seeking meaningful connections and helps them drive their sales. At groupDCA, we help our clients design such spaces. The essence of such designs lies in the harmonious interplay of thoughtfully crafted spatial volumes, interior details, artefacts, colours, and materials.

Details that whisper tales of a bygone era

The design for Neeru’s Emporio in Hyderabad, a boutique store for wedding shopping, is rooted in this concept. Since the client wanted the design to imbue a princely and vintage inheritance, the inspiration came from the Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad and American and British universities in the twentieth century. The entrance features an antique chandelier that highlights the generous volume of the space. There are intricately carved details on the doorway and railings. The geometric patterned marble flooring adds elegance, while the vibrant decor evokes Victorian imagery, welcoming visitors.

The store features two floors connected by an elaborate staircase adorned with marble and gold foiling. The colossal columns that stand tall between these floors are also covered in marble and gold foiling and add a sense of opulence and nostalgia to the space. An interactive arrangement resides amidst the circulation areas where the weavers and artisans are weaving. They demonstrate the classic and authentic process behind crafting exquisite designs. The customers can also directly interact with the artisans and help them create their designs. This strategic location and innovative design installation are central to bridging the gap between past and present in the context of retail designs.

Retain vintage elements and mix them with contemporary designs

The design of the Akbarally Men Store in Mumbai embodies the principle of vintage charm in retail design differently through the innovative use of materials and construction around the old and existing structural elements. The store, located in a heritage zone, not bound by heritage norms, celebrates the existing structure and its history by retaining the old arches, broken cornices, and various structural systems to demonstrate the authentic character of the novel aesthetic. Materials like old wood flooring used in its raw and rustic form enhance the spirit of the bygone era. Props crafted from old ship and machine parts have been displayed along the circulation areas to augment the crude yet chic aesthetic. Shelving and display areas use nuts and bolts to create a flexible display system that meets contemporary retail needs. Additional elements, like light fixtures and mirrors, are used in the space to enhance the user journey further and connect them to the classic era in which the brand is rooted.

How to craft timeless spaces?

At groupDCA, we masterfully blend classic and contemporary elements to create environments that tell compelling stories and forge emotional connections. In this competitive market, all brands need design as a tool to embody their identity and ethos. As architects and designers, we should seek design inspiration from the history of brands and the story of their evolution. By keenly observing the experiences that inspire them, we can discern the elements of space-making that create those experiences. This approach enables us to craft a journey through time wrapped in elegance and authenticity.

Sensory Alchemy: Turning Spaces into Immersive Experiences with Design

Our perception of the world is deeply rooted in our senses. Each sense interacts with one another, triggering and enabling others to create an experience. Have you ever noticed how a meal tastes even better when served on a meticulously arranged plate with soft music playing in the background? Or how do we feel more at ease in a space with natural light and a comfortable temperature?

We at groupDCA, believe that by thoughtfully considering and orchestrating sensory stimuli, we can influence how people feel, behave, and remember experiences. This impact extends to how individuals engage with their built environments. Engaging in sensory stimuli enhances emotional connection, deepens the user experience, heightens the sense of awareness, increases social interaction, and improves well-being.

But what is Sensory Design?

It is a holistic approach to crafting experiences that stimulate all our senses. It goes beyond the aesthetic of a space and combines how it feels, sounds, smells, and even tastes sometimes. This multi-sensory approach evokes specific moods and responses, creating a deeper connection between people and their environments. However, there can be many ways to combine sensory designs with spaces; we have listed a few that will help you think outside the box and make designs more dynamic.

In sight and in Mind!

Visual aesthetics play a pivotal role in sensory design. From colour palettes, patterns, and lighting to spatial composition, we can leverage sight to evoke emotions and influence behaviours. For instance, one of our projects, Khi-Khi in New Delhi, uses vibrant colours to create a playful atmosphere for a restaurant bar. The colours in the threads that weave to form a ceiling, the lively rug used as a wall panel, and the furniture’s upholstery help the space embody laughter, or Khi-Khi, named after the Hindi word for giggling. Moreover, ambient lighting from lamps adds to the formal aesthetic of the culinary setting, elevating the sophistication.

 

Vibrant carpet panels bring dynamic character to the walls of Khi Khi, New Delhi

Colourful threads weave the ceiling at Khi Khi, New Delhi, smartly concealing services and enhancing the ambiance with subtle lighting

Edible Ambiance

One rare factor in space design is the incorporation of taste. In a project like Khi-Khi, a restaurant, the food naturally ties in with the space. However, other types of spaces can also evoke this sense. For instance, office spaces can feature cafeterias or small snack stations. Many organizations can host food exhibits or serve food during meetings. School and college buildings can incorporate their own vegetable gardens and plant fruit-bearing trees across the campus for people to enjoy as they walk through them.

Tactile Journey

The tactile elements, including materials, textures, and temperatures, significantly contribute to the overall sensory experience. The surfaces of floors, walls, furniture, room temperatures, humidity, and ventilation embody these sensory stimuli. In one of our projects, Citadines in Gurugram, a solid narrative for the design became a crucial differentiator for retaining footfall in a competitive world of buffet cuisines. The materials used are balanced to exude sophistication and warmth in equal measure in a space that falls at the intersection of work and leisure.

For instance, the slender brass arches that frame the plush bar complement the wooden panels that form the backdrop of the cozy dining areas. While the mirrors in the ceilings enhance the verticality of the space and reflect light, giving it the formality of a culinary setup, the plants that separate the circulation spaces add a hint of softness to the space, making it more welcoming. The materials and their textures create a holistic experience for the people traversing through the space.

Textures of brass arches and wooden panels complement to balance sophistication and warmth at Citadines, Gurugram

The design strikes a balance between the gleaming textures of ceiling mirrors and the soft, soothing touch of plants.

Scents and sounds that trigger emotions

Scents and sounds profoundly impact emotions, evoking memories, influencing moods, and heightening perceptions of space. Incorporating these sensory elements into the design helps people remember space in ways beyond the visual. At Citadines, the space layout helps to trigger the sense of smell and sound, enhancing the overall dining experience. The open kitchen fills the space with the aromas of freshly cooked food, while the coffee shop permeates the air with the rich scent of freshly brewed coffee beans. Additionally, the sounds of a coffee machine and sizzling vegetables in a live kitchen are integral to this sensory design, creating a multi-dimensional experience at Citadines.

The strategic placement of the coffee area and open kitchen at Citadines infuses the space with calming aromas

Sensory design transcends traditional design approaches by emphasising the integration and interaction of multiple senses to create immersive spaces. By understanding and harnessing the power of sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste, we can craft environments that profoundly affect how people feel, behave, and remember experiences. The principles of sensory design, which include avoiding sensory overload and ensuring inclusivity and adaptability, are crucial in creating spaces that cater to diverse needs and preferences. As GroupDCA continues to explore and apply these principles, we open the door to more meaningful, engaging, and emotionally resonant experiences in our built environments. Sensory design enhances aesthetic appeal while facilitating well-being, comfort, and connection, ultimately deepening our interactions with the world.

Homes for all Ages: Building for Longevity and Comfort

Designing contemporary spaces for longevity and inclusivity is vital in an increasingly urbanising world where each square foot of land is precious. Residential architecture is at the heart of this discussion, furthering close-knit bonds and familial intimacy in sprawling ancestral homes.

We believe that a culturally rooted house that adapts to the multigenerational needs of its occupants, ages with the inhabitants, is rooted in sustainability, and still attempts to be futuristic in its making is the ideal home for all ages. Designing a space such as this entails a conscious modus operandi in planning and interiors. There is more to it that goes beyond the aesthetic look of the space. At groupDCA, we envision timeless spaces that are flexible enough to adapt to evolving needs.

Aalay, one of our residential projects in New Delhi, embodies the concept of a ‘home for all ages’ with a multi-generational family living harmoniously under one roof. From the eldest grandmother to the youngest child, the design caters to the diverse needs of its occupants that span four generations. Spatially, it features a versatile multi-functional area that serves as an informal gathering space and study, anchored by an inviting blue couch that contrasts with warm, earthy tones, fostering comfort and intimacy. This space is enhanced by a concealed bar unit and storage, maximising its practicality. The open-plan layout seamlessly integrates the living room and dining area, enhancing spatial flexibility. Further, the space adorns neutral shades and hues of fabric, flooring, and furnishing that create a serene and timeless ambiance in the house.

Multi-purpose study in Aalay, New Delhi (left and right)

 

Additionally, a daybed sits in a snug corner of the plush couch, which offers the grandmother a dedicated spot to enjoy television. Even the utility areas, like the kitchen of the house, have been designed with futuristic solutions pertinent to the evolving lifestyle of the family and have adopted tech-enabled solutions for the same. In its manifestation, this house is inclusive of the changing spatial needs of the family and its varying demographics.

Living Room and Kitchen in Aalay, New Delhi (left and right)

Another residential project, Barkat, imbues the idea of homes for all ages in its design differently. In terms of its layout, the adept introduction of selected furniture helps differentiate amidst various spaces while connecting them visually without using substantial physical partitions and bringing flexibility to the space. For instance, a central bar console sits at the median shared between the connected living and dining areas. In terms of the aesthetic language of the spaces, every object and piece of furniture is designed in tandem with the home’s exclusive needs, exploring a palette of hues and materiality that endow Barkat (prosperity) with a minimalist yet opulent essence. A pared-down palette of colours and luxe finish that balance each other and outlive market trends.

 

Console connecting living and dining areas in Barkat, New Delhi

Neutral hues in fabric and furniture in bedrooms in Barkat, New Delhi

Sustainability and nature-centric living always go hand in hand. Designing spaces that focus on the holistic well-being of their occupants is pivotal to planning for longevity and prosperity. Spaces that allow natural air and ventilation, access to verdant vegetation, and panoramic views are always timeless and will ensure the longevity and well-being of everyone using them.

Spaces overlooking verdant greens outside Barkat, New Delhi

Balcony in Barkat seamlessly blends indoors with nature, offering a serene space to unwind and enjoy lush greenery, New Delhi

 

Building a house, for most people, is often a one-time activity; As architects and designers, we should aim at designing spaces that transcend trends and stay relevant to the functional and aspirational needs of the occupants for a long time, ensuring their value for money. Designing spaces inclusive of all evolving needs, demographics, and the well-being of the occupants is the most stylish trend we follow at groupDCA.

The Art of Biophilic Designs: Elevating Workspaces

Biophilic design plays a significant role in redefining corporate culture, one space at a time. In the bustling landscape of modern corporate environments, where the boundary between work and life can often blur, groupDCA works towards a holistic design philosophy that enhances the human-nature connection and makes the built environment more palatable.

Primarc Office, Kolkata

 

We firmly believe in the transformative power of biophilic design for corporate spaces, recognising its profound impact on physical and mental well-being, creativity, and productivity. The biophilic designs integrate natural elements into the built environment, accentuating the connection with nature using natural light, plantations, earthy materials, textures, etc. It enables seamless functioning and also improves the quality of space. Many studies have shown that it reduces stress, enhances cognitive function, and inspires innovation. However, there is more to it that transcends the mere aesthetic—something more experiential and sensory.

 

Our project, Visage, a corporate office in Noida, successfully implements this concept. Here, we have seamlessly integrated natural elements to enhance functionality, quality of space, and aesthetics. The innovative use of adjustable fins on the building facade optimises natural light and controls interior temperatures, creating a dynamic and inviting workspace that adapts to varying weather conditions and makes for comfortable interiors. This design enhances productivity and promotes a sense of well-being for occupants.

Visage, Noida

Moreover, natural materials such as wood and stone used in their raw forms, contours, and textures add visual appeal and establish a tactile connection with nature, enriching the sensory experience for the user. The organic flow of the layout and expansive vistas further contribute to a sense of openness and offer connectivity within the office. The circulation spaces, like corridors and stairs, are crafted with organic shapes and forms, promoting a seamless flow. Various plants are used in the space to improve the aesthetic appeal and the air quality throughout the workplace. Furthermore, details like furniture accents made from natural materials like cane weaves and fabrics with earthy hues and textures subtly reinforce our approach, infusing the workplace with the warmth and tranquillity of nature.

Additionally, there are nuanced design elements that go beyond surface aesthetics, like the ones we have used in the Primarc office in Kolkata. Polished concrete and textured wood flooring establish an earthy palette that resonates with the textures of nature. Strategic planters create breathing partitions that infuse life and greenery within, while carefully curated pause points offer spaces for reflection and rejuvenation amidst daily activities. Artworks and finishes selected for their organic textures and nature-based themes deepen the connection between occupants and their surroundings, offering overall well-being.

Jamun Grove, Gurgaon

At groupDCA, biophilic design is more than a design trend; it’s an approach that integrates human needs with the natural environment, creating workplaces that inspire creativity, collaboration, and a deeper connection with nature. As architects and designers, we must devise innovative and creative solutions to integrate nature into buildings. It will help users to boost vibrancy, innovation, creativity, and productivity. Biophilia thus benefits both buildings and their inhabitants, fostering a symbiotic relationship between nature and architecture.

Building a Sustainable Future: The Collective Pursuit of Environmentally Mindful Design

In the collective pursuit of genuine sustainability, at groupDCA, we are focusing on a journey that extends beyond just looks and passing fads. The commitment spans from the initial concept to the final execution, with the aim of minimising environmental impact while fostering harmony with nature.

To achieve this, we must adopt a holistic approach that considers every aspect of the design process; from site selection to material sourcing and building operation. This includes prioritising passive design strategies to reduce energy consumption, selecting sustainable materials with low environmental impact, and incorporating features that promote water conservation and biophilic design. We must also focus on designing buildings that are adaptable and resilient to the impacts of climate change, engaging with stakeholders and communities throughout the process to ensure the needs and concerns of all parties are addressed.

Central to this approach is the thoughtful selection of materials. Prioritising locally sourced treasures such as wood, stone, and high-quality fabrics allows for achieving timeless elegance and superior durability. This practice not only reduces transportation costs but also significantly lowers carbon emissions. Embracing innovative materials like cardboard or chipboard panels further promotes circular practices and reduces the ecological footprint.

For us, sustainability aligns closely with our personal design values and ethics. We see sustainable design as a way to create spaces that not only function effectively but also contribute to the health and happiness of occupants while respecting the natural environment. Our larger goals are driven by a desire to leave a positive legacy and to be stewards of the planet for future generations.

Environmentally mindful spaces can also be created with pragmatism, recognising the growing demand for sustainable design solutions from clients and the broader market. Today, with burgeoning cities, it is a necessary aspect of practice to do meaningful work, stay relevant, and compete in an increasingly environmentally conscious world.

Overall, the design fraternity embraces the notion of crafting environmentally mindful spaces infused with sustainable design principles with enthusiasm and dedication. This can be achieved by understanding the role of sustainability in shaping the built environment and committing to making choices that prioritise sustainability, both now and in the future.

Crafting Unforgettable Brand Experiences: The Impact of Retail Design

Crafting Unforgettable Brand Experiences: The Impact of Retail Design

In the world of luxury, every detail matters. From the texture of fabrics to the ambience of a space, each element contributes to crafting an unforgettable brand experience. At groupDCA, we understand the pivotal role that retail design plays in shaping these experiences, and we’re passionate about using it to redefine luxury retail design.

When we talk about retail spaces, we’re not just about making things look pretty. We’re talking about creating spaces that tell a story—a story that resonates with customers on a deep level. Whether it’s a flagship store, a boutique, salon, or a speciality store, our goal is to use design to convey the brand’s values, heritage, and identity.

For instance, the Anand Jewels store in Bhopal exemplifies this philosophy. Drawing inspiration from India’s rich heritage, we crafted a space that blends traditional charm with contemporary design, immersing patrons in a journey of discovery. From the vibrant hues inspired by Indian weddings to the meticulously detailed bespoke elements, every aspect of the store has been thoughtfully curated to evoke opulence and luxury. Similarly, the Panerai Jio World Plaza boutique in Mumbai captures the essence of the renowned watch brand, creating an environment that reflects its spirit of innovation and adventure. These examples illustrate the power of design in creating spaces that showcase products, tell a compelling story, and connect with users on an emotional level.

One of the fundamental principles of good design is simplicity. True luxury lies in simplicity in a world filled with noise and clutter. We strive to create clean, elegant, and uncluttered designs and want our spaces to feel calm and serene, like fresh air in a chaotic world. On the contrary, simplicity doesn’t only mean boring; we also believe in the power of architectural ingenuity. Luxury is about innovation and creativity, and looking for new ways to push the boundaries of design is needed at every step of the way. Whether experimenting with new materials, exploring innovative layouts, or incorporating cutting-edge technology, the design fraternity constantly strives to create beautiful and functional spaces.

Longevity is another significant value for us. Luxury shouldn’t be disposable—it should stand the test of time. That’s why focusing on creating timeless and enduring designs is essential. Spaces should be curated to feel just as relevant and inspiring ten, twenty, or even fifty years from now as they do today.

Lastly, the value that binds all values discussed above is the power of emotion. Luxury isn’t just about what you see or touch but how you feel. That’s why designers put so much thought and care into every aspect of their designs, from the lighting and furniture to the colours and textures. They want their spaces to evoke a visceral response, to make people stop and think, “Wow, this is special.”

In conclusion, retail design’s impact on brand experiences must be balanced. From conveying values and identity to evoking emotion and inspiring awe, retail design plays a central role in shaping how people perceive and interact with luxury brands.

The Art of Dining: How Restaurant Decor Shapes Customer Experience

The Art of Dining: How Restaurant Decor Shapes Customer Experience

In today’s competitive culinary landscape, restaurants are evolving beyond mere purveyors of sustenance. They are transforming into experience-driven destinations, vying for customer attention in a crowded marketplace. Unlike utilitarian spaces such as offices, restaurants are now offering a unique experience, making them inherently customer-centric. To truly stand out, restaurateurs are placing a strategic bet on the power of decor. This focus on design transcends aesthetics- today, it is all about carving out a distinct niche and forging a memorable narrative through a multi-sensory approach that resonates with the diners.

A thoughtful and engaging restaurant design is one that strategically curates visual intrigue, sound, aroma, and even tactile elements – it orchestrates a symphony of senses that elevates the dining experience beyond the plate. Spatial branding in restaurant decor acts as a crucial differentiator, shaping the brand narrative and fostering a seamless connection with the diner. Much like how a club relies on its distinctive atmosphere to cultivate its identity, a restaurant requires a robust design language to elevate its brand and etch itself in the customer’s memory.

Adhering to this strategy is our design for ‘Khi Khi,’ a restaurant celebrating modern Indian cuisine. The brief for this project demanded a seamless fusion of contemporary and traditional Indian elements. To achieve this, the design emphasised juxtaposing vernacular wall art with an emphasis on handcrafted carpets. This interplay within the restaurant’s interior reflects the brand’s very essence – a confident embrace of Indian heritage with a contemporary, global outlook.

A successful restaurant design hinges on a deep understanding of the surrounding context. Respecting the existing space, the chosen theme, the target audience, and the desired overall experience is crucial. Every project presents a unique set of challenges, which underscores the importance of open communication with the client. To bridge the gap between the designer’s vision and the restaurant’s users, a clear understanding of the target clientele is crucial. This necessitates a well-defined brief and an explorative design approach. For instance, a key initial step involves identifying the type of restaurant and its service style. One such example is our design for ‘Haldiram’s,’ a restaurant chain previously known for its quick-service cafe-like ambience. To broaden its appeal and target a new clientele, it was crucial to consider the venue size, operational needs for efficiency, and the new target demographic – working urban professionals. This led to a multi-pronged design approach across different locations, ensuring each space retained its unique character while still reflecting the brand’s core identity.

In a crowded market, where branded experiences are becoming increasingly popular, this approach offers a discretionary indulgence, necessitating a customer-centric approach. Ultimately, the challenge lies in achieving a harmonious balance between form and function, and crafting an inviting space that caters to both the restaurant’s operational requirements and the diner’s experience.

Beyond the Cubicle Farm: A Canvas of New-age Workplaces

Beyond the Cubicle Farm: A Canvas of New-age Workplaces

 

Imagine a workplace no longer confined to rows of identical cubicles. Instead, visualise a vibrant tapestry woven from focus rooms with soundproofing and adjustable lighting for deep concentration, collaborative zones featuring integrated whiteboards and mobile furniture to ignite brainstorming sessions, and comfortable lounge areas perfect for informal meetings and impromptu idea exchange sessions. This design approach has rapidly become the norm for ‘new-age workplaces.’

 

The hallmark of multifunctional design lies in its ability to offer a symphony of spaces, allowing employees to choose their work environment based on the task at hand, fostering not only efficiency but also a sense of agency and control. The contemporary Indian workplace in tier-1&2 cities is undergoing a metamorphosis, transitioning from rigid, compartmentalised spaces to a dynamic arrangement that celebrates multifunctionality and inclusivity. This shift envisions a vibrant ecosystem that caters to diverse workstyles and individual needs, ultimately enhancing productivity and employee well-being.

 

The monotonous cubicle farm is a relic of the past. Designing a variety of workspaces and prioritising inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and empowers employees. This, in turn, fuels collaboration, innovation, and, ultimately, a more robust company culture. Modern workplaces embrace a free-flowing layout, segmented into distinct yet interconnected zones through strategic furniture placement and designated areas. Functional zoning catering to a spectrum of work styles helps employees choose their environment based on the task at hand, providing agency and ownership over their workday.

 

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of multifunctional design. This concept extends beyond open-floor layouts and contemporary aesthetics, demanding the creation of a space that caters to the diverse needs of its occupants. For instance, accessible workstations with adjustable heights and integrated assistive technologies ensure comfort and functionality for individuals with varying requirements. At the same time, designated DND rooms and sleeping pods acknowledge the importance of time management and well-being for a broader range of employees. Ultimately, the responsibility to orchestrate this symphony of multifunctional and inclusive spaces is manifested through strategic planning. It transforms the workplace into a genuinely community-focused space and ensures that every employee is valued and their well-being is prioritised.

 

The Primarc office in Kolkata exemplifies the successful implementation of multifunctional and inclusive design principles. The design employs a free-flowing layout cleverly segmented into functional zones through strategic furniture placement and room dividers. Expansive windows bathe the workspace in natural light, fostering a connection with the outdoors. The extensive use of biophilic design principles further strengthens this connection with nature. Lush greenery strategically placed throughout the office is an aesthetic element that purifies the air, reduces stress, and enhances cognitive function.

 

Strategic positioning of workstations leverages panoramic views while minimising reliance on artificial lighting. Earthy, locally sourced materials like polished concrete and recycled wood create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The three-storey workplace spans over 2650 sqm from the 7th to the 9th level, transcending the traditional model of cubicles and fluorescent lights. Instead, it embraces a symbiotic relationship with nature, prioritising employee well-being and environmental responsibility.

 

As architects and designers of the modern era, we are responsible for embracing innovative design solutions per the requirements of current situations. Today’s workspaces are a vibrant orchestra of areas, each catering to a specific work style and fostering a sense of belonging for a diverse workforce. This shift towards a multifunctional and inclusive approach can create workspaces that enhance productivity and celebrate the unique rhythm of every individual within the community. In doing so, we pave the way for a future of workspaces that are not just functional and accessible but truly inclusive and human-centric.

Residential Projects in Delhi

groupDCA works on a wide scale of residential projects, ranging from contemporary design to classic architectural.

GroupDCA is one of the best residential architecture firm in Delhi, having executed some state of the art residential designs in the country. GroupDCA designs bespoke residences with an artistic edge and varied architectural design sensibilities. The home is for their resident which is a paradise of color, material, texture and surprising elements in every nook and corner.

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

Having acquired rich expertise in architectural materials & products, groupDCA plays the role of a catalyst in achieving the client’s yearnings and desires through their architecture and designs. The resulting space is always unique.

One of the finer examples of this is the Arora Residence in Sainik Farms, New Delhi.

Embracing varied spatial design sensibilities, groupDCA shaped the interior design of this residence at Sainik Farms inspired by the unconventional artistic taste of the client. Richly detailed, the contemporary residence provides a sumptuous visual feast with interest in every corner. Colors were selected according to the mood of the space. The aesthetics of the completed home could be described  as a fusion of multiple interior design elements that merge into one space while simultaneously celebrating each object’s individuality—a marriage of ideas enhancing and complementing one another which births a unique balance. The home abounds with an array of textures, colors and materials—the creative use of MS  sheets, unfinished and raw  wood in most  of  the furniture pieces, and rough textured  white paint  in  the study are all elements that add a vintage yet eclectic ambiance to the spaces. The client beautifully sums up the experience of this striking contemporary residence when he says: “It is the cultivation of many thoughts which fused to form one story.”

groupDCA provides high end, convenient interiors, designed such that opulence is not restrained by the budget and is felt in all the residences. The layouts of the interior spaces  is highly modern, well lit and a spacious place. The ceiling height, is kept high in areas like drawing rooms and dining rooms – adding to the grandeur and is kept low in areas like bedrooms and 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. Our beliefs, knowledge & experience have helped us in making beautiful homes with quality interior design and architecture for very satisfied clients.

DCA Salons | Architecture & Interior Design.

A Salon’s design reflects the spirit, avant-garde and democracy in its aesthetic approach luring the guests.

groupDCA’s is one of the best architecture firm in Delhi who has carved a niche in retail store design. They have created spaces which could amalgamate comfort into its design, giving an individual personality of each creation, makes it client friendly.

groupDCA has designed various top hospitality designs, like the franchises of Looks Salon in Delhi – NCR. The custom designed styling for each salon based on the client brief along with incorporation of significant aesthetically pleasing ideas steals the show. The ceiling colors and lighting sets a dramatic tone that introduces the customers to the fashionable atmosphere. The main space is huge, utilizing the walls with mirrors on either side giving users a feeling of openness. The reflecting image is purposefully positioned and the mirrors will allow customers to follow up with their procedures in detail.

Looks salon,Chattarpur, has an earthy color combination with wooden flooring. The walls have been paired up with bricks and Kota stone keeping a basic culmination of classy yet clean interiors.On the contrary, the black ceiling with intense lighting makes it modern, making the users more comfortable and at ease.

Built on an area of 97 sqmt in the year 2016, Enrich Salon, Mumbai has been designed providing adequate space to all the services taking place in the premises. With an independent approach, each area has been designed to have an experience different from the others. A combination of exposed brick work, wood and basic color gives richness to the spaces soothing the eyes of the guests.

Wooden louver ceiling and glass partitions in certain areas are the details giving it a warm and tranquil feel enhancing the salon’s timeless look. With versatility in concepts and an entirely new design language, Mirrors Salon, Gachibowli, Hyderabad was built. Inspired by mirrors, this monochrome salon, built on an area of 3625 sq. ft., was planned keeping function, form and aesthetics at the same level.

The idea in mind while creating Mirrors Salon was to make an oasis of luxury for the users, yet affordable to everyone. In addition to superior interiors, it is a widely planned space. A grand welcoming reception with display counters on one side and seating on the other, oval shaped ceiling with chandelier to greet the guests. The circulation area has been kept on the back side followed by the Reflexology area creating a buffer between the two spaces. With the thoughtful rectangular planning with profound interiors the salon aims to cater the desire and fulfill every need of its guests.

DCA’s ambition in designing salons was to make best hospitality designs that blends the relaxed, welcoming feel of a high-end salon, giving fluidity of movement to every space, offering extensive facilities for the locals and beyond. With an uncomplicated style and elegance, DCA’s salon designs have always had a dazzling effect on the visitors.