d+a | Issue 115 • Apr/May 2020

/ COMMERCIAL / 34 help it to stand out from the terracotta-red aluminium composite panels used for the sculptural office space. “We deliberately designed the sculptural office space to contrast with the rest of the building, creating an interesting juxtaposition of colour, volume and geometry,” Puri points out. FUNCTIONAL AND PRACTICAL Unique look and identity aside, the building was also designed to suit the climate and be energy efficient. The temperature in Ahmedabad averages 35 degrees Celsius or higher for eight months out of the year, so to reduce heat gain and keep the office spaces cool and well-ventilated, Puri planned the layout to include large, north- facing terraces and small recessed windows on the southern side. Thirty per cent of the offices open out onto landscaped terraces. Furthermore, all the terraces are connected to a rainwater-harvested tank, and all the water is recycled and reused. Solar panels harness the abundant solar power that the city receives. ABOVE. Inspired by origami, the sculptural office space contrasts with the rest of the building, creating an interesting juxtaposition of colour, volume and geometry. SANJAY PURI, SANJAY PURI ARCHITECTS