Credits
From Anurag Bhandari
PROJECT XH2O: The designers at Ek Kalakaar Studio have truly outdone themselves with their innovative and sustainable approach to office design, by upcycling the space and preserving the environment for future generations. The design of the space features a unique blend of materials, with 50% sourced from waste or upcycled sources, 30% from sustainable materials, and 20% from antique materials.
Project CONCEPT: Taking into account the client's Waste Water Business, they endeavored to create an organic flow within the space, with blue hues as the primary color. Each room boasts a unique design that is influenced by the availability and characteristics of the chosen materials. Different materials in each room are employed, leading to diverse designs that were connected using a consistent color and design language to ensure cohesiveness. Functionality was also a top priority in our design approach, as they crafted not only aesthetic but also practical furniture that catered to the working behavior of an office.As we delve into the description of this remarkable space, the design has been meticulously crafted using an array of materials, ranging from scrap and waste to sustainable and antique elements.
MATERIAL in Play:Material selection played a crucial role in the design, with choices based on the availability of scrap materials sourced from the client’s factory itself. Remaining waste was taken from residence, and local waste markets. The range of waste/recycled materials used included metal scrap, corrugated metal sheets, plastic pipes and cartons, FRP grits, cable trays,granite, cutouts of kota stones and marble pieces from the client's recently constructed house, upcycled old doors and windows, reclaimed wood from the client's farm house from a fallen tree. Some new materials that were extensively used included Birch Plywood and Agriculture waste wood. The agricultural waste wood is a special sustainable future material new in this industry, which is made out of agriculture waste like Rice Husk. In essence, the materials used in this project were the fulcrum of the design.
END: The biggest challenge was to design this office entirely without any masterplan. They had to incessantly brainstormed about optimizing the available materials at the right place in the best possible manner. "We are proud of the fact that most of our products are made out of trash. Each product is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship, and we take pride in showcasing this work to the world" says Mr. Anurag Bhandari.
Their products are often imbued with a sense of authenticity and individuality. Each of their offerings is innovative, one-of-a-kind, and environmentally conscious, setting them apart from the masses.