SDME, or the shree dharmasthala manjunatha education society, a well known organisation runs several well reputed educational institutions. the organisation had a preexisting office in central bangalore, which had become insufficient for the effective working of the organisation. upon acquiring the adjoining office, the client asked akfd to extend the same, with minimal changes to the existing office. a seamless interface was worked upon, which did not involve any major reworking, and almost no downtime. what we gave to the client was clean open workspace, which, while having an old world charm, needed to be very efficient. the spaces were united by a seamless micro-concrete floor and a muted palette of oakwood, white, gray and pale pink.
The Entrance
as one steps out of the elevator, one is greeted by a wood paneled wall, with plantation and a fluted glass wooden door. the wooden paneling continues inside of the reception, where a liberal mix of modern and vintage furniture defines a new aesthetic for the contemporary office. one side is flanked by beautifully made oakwood sofa benches, and the other side with a bold round marble topped table, surrounded by vintage looking chairs. a 120 year old cabinet houses publications and other objects of interest, keeping the visitors engaged. minimal artwork and clean white walls give the space an old world charm.
the conference room is a beautifully lit space, with large windows overlooking the bangalore skyline. a large embroidered pichwai adorns one wall, and a custom made chandelier, made in alabaster and brass hangs from a dome inset in the ceiling. the large oak wood table with in-built wiring takes the price of place in the small, but very functional conference room.
Conference Room
the two directors cabins were essentially retained from the original layout, with one taking the place of the previous conference room. the rooms were reorganised with furniture and new carpeting, making sure that they had enough space for larger groups, also for casual sitting. new art was introduced with prints and paintings, livening up the space.
Director’s Room
Pantry’s Room
the casual pantry are, instead of being tucked in is put out in the open and integrated into the workspace. with an ebb and flow of employees and trainees, the dining table makes for a good impromptu meeting table or a work desk. an interesting chandelier hangs from the exposed ceiling above an organically shaped terrazzo table, with adjustable stools around it. the adjoining sit out and large sliding doors bring the fabulous Bangalore weather into the pantry/workplace.
the wonderfully lit work spaces extend the language of the previously existing furniture. generous glass fronted storage allows the work spaces to be clean and organised. large trees have been planted inside the spaces bringing the famed gardens of Bangalore into the work area.
