Surface Design Awards – Complete

• COMMERCIAL BUILDING - EXTERIOR
  Commercial Buildings that are used for commercial purposes, and include retail, hospitality, workplaces, factories and warehouses and buildings where commercial services are provided. At least 50 percent of the buildings’ floor space will be used for commercial activities.

Nestled within the bustling heart of central Bangalore's Mamulpet, a district characterized by its narrow roads and ceaseless commercial activity, a daring architectural endeavor has emerged. In an area where the architectural landscape is defined by organic and often stereotypical facades, A.J Architects has embarked on a bold mission to redefine the skyline with a contemporary and striking structure. This building stands as an oasis amidst the urban desert, a testament to innovation and modernity within an otherwise traditional context.
The architectural composition rises to a height of seven stories, comprising a ground floor and six upper levels. The lower three floors are thoughtfully designed to accommodate smaller commercial spaces, catering to the vibrant local market. In contrast, the upper floors are dedicated to providing office spaces, offering a vertical blend of commerce and professionalism that defines the building's functional stratification.
At the core of this architectural endeavor lies an unwavering commitment to sustainability. In a city where the sun's rays can be unrelenting, the design ingeniously minimizes the direct impact of harsh sunlight on the west facade. This is achieved through the creation of additional projecting surfaces and strategically positioned voids between the walls. The varying depths of these projections serve as an elegant solution to angle the sun's rays away from the interior spaces, effectively reducing the ambient temperature within by approximately 2 degrees centigrade.
This not only enhances the comfort of occupants but also significantly reduces the building's reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems.
The projected surfaces themselves are not mere functional appendages; they are architectural statements in their own right. Adorned with a curvilinear pattern, these projections are brought to life through precision CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutting. The CNC cut design adds a layer of aesthetics and sophistication to the building's facade, transforming it into a work of art in the urban landscape.
The treatment of these projected areas extends to the use of 3m x 1m, 3mm thick tile panels. These panels, finished in staturio marble, impart a sense of grandeur and opulence to the facade. Beyond their visual appeal, these panels serve a dual purpose. They not only enhance the building's overall aesthetics but also contribute to its energy efficiency by providing an additional layer of insulation. The juxtaposition of luxury and functionality exemplifies the architectural approach in this project.
The interplay of light is another facet that enhances the building's visual appeal. Cove lights concealed behind the projected panels delicately illuminate the facade, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. This feature not only accentuates the building's presence but also transforms it into a luminous beacon within the congested surroundings.
However, the realization of this architectural vision was not without its challenges. The small, congested roads of Mamulpet posed significant obstacles during the construction process. Erecting the large-sized tile panels and achieving the desired intricate pattern on the facade required meticulous planning and precision.
Yet, these challenges were surmounted through meticulous logistics and the application of advanced construction techniques.
In essence, this architectural endeavor in Mamulpet stands as a testament to the power of design to transform and elevate urban spaces. It defies the conventional architectural typology of the area, creating a bold and modern statement amidst a sea of traditional structures. More than just a building, it represents an oasis of innovation, sustainability, and aesthetic finesse in the heart of a bustling commercial hub.
This project is a shining example of how architectural vision can reshape a neighborhood and set new standards for urban development, leaving an indelible mark on the city's skyline and the collective consciousness of its inhabitants. The project concluded on November 22, 2019, with a total cost of 5 Crore.

The careful selection and strategic deployment of materials in this architectural project exemplify a meticulous balance between aesthetics and functionality, significantly enhancing the building's overall impact. Central to this design approach are the 3m x 1m tile panels, boasting a sleek 3mm thickness, and adorned with a staturio marble finish.
This choice of material immediately imparts an air of opulence and grandeur to the building's facade. Staturio marble, renowned for its elegant white and grey veined appearance, conveys a sense of timeless luxury and sophistication. It not only elevates the visual appeal of the structure but also injects a touch of elegance into the congested urban landscape, setting the building apart from its mundane surroundings.
The 3mm thickness of these tile panels, while appearing delicate, serves a dual purpose. It effectively reduces the overall weight of the facade, ensuring structural feasibility while providing ample support for the decorative elements
Behind these meticulously installed tile panels, the integration of cove lighting introduces a captivating nocturnal allure. Concealed within the facade, these lighting elements create a subtle and enchanting illumination effect.
In conclusion, the materials employed in this architectural masterpiece, from the staturio marble finish tile panels to the cove lighting and the CNC-cut curvilinear patterns, serve as both functional and aesthetic elements. In the urban context, these materials transform an ordinary building into a luminous and sophisticated architectural gem, serving as a beacon of design excellence and setting a new standard for urban aesthetics.

At the core of this architectural endeavor lies an unwavering commitment to sustainability. In a city where the sun's rays can be unrelenting, the design ingeniously minimizes the direct impact of harsh sunlight on the west facade. This is achieved through the creation of additional projecting surfaces and strategically positioned voids between the walls. The varying depths of these projections serve as an elegant solution to angle the sun's rays away from the interior spaces, effectively reducing the ambient temperature within by approximately 2 degrees centigrade.
The integration of porcelain tiles and CNC (Computer Numerical Control) technology in architectural projects offers a multitude of sustainable benefits. Porcelain tiles, celebrated for their durability and longevity, reduce the need for frequent replacements, conserving resources over time. Crafted from natural materials like clay and sand, many porcelain tiles are recyclable, diminishing the reliance on virgin materials and curbing waste. Furthermore, the end-of-life recyclability of porcelain tiles further reduces their environmental impact.
The energy efficiency of porcelain tile manufacturing has evolved with time, employing innovative technologies that slash energy consumption, subsequently lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
In parallel, contemporary porcelain tile manufacturing processes prioritize water conservation, aligning with sustainable design principles emphasizing responsible water usage.
In sum, the astute incorporation of porcelain tiles and CNC technology into architectural projects embodies a holistic commitment to sustainability, encompassing material efficiency, recyclability, energy conservation, water usage reduction, precise design execution, and overall resource optimization.
These practices contribute to environmentally friendly and efficient buildings while enhancing design flexibility and precision, propelling architecture toward a more sustainable and responsible future.

Within the intricate tapestry of our architectural endeavor, we encountered formidable challenges that tested the limits of craftsmanship and precision. The primary challenge that loomed large was the erection of the framework, a pivotal structural element that formed the backbone of our design. Erecting this framework required a level of precision that left no margin for error. The slightest deviation from the architectural intent could have had far-reaching consequences, compromising the overall integrity of the project.
Furthermore, achieving a uniform level for this framework was paramount. In a project where aesthetic harmony was a key goal, ensuring that all elements aligned seamlessly at the same level was a meticulous and painstaking task.
The alignment of the framework not only had a direct impact on the structural stability but also played a critical role in the visual coherence of the entire structure.
Handling the delicate 3mm tiles presented another formidable challenge. These tiles, while adding an exquisite finish to the facade, demanded the utmost care and finesse during installation.
Their thinness made them susceptible to breakage, requiring the craftsmen to exercise the highest degree of caution and precision. The process of pasting these tiles was a meticulous dance of skill, ensuring that each tile was flawlessly integrated into the design while maintaining uniformity and alignment.
The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutting of the panels introduced yet another layer of complexity. The precision required in this intricate process was nothing short of surgical.
The craftsmen had to execute each cut with unwavering precision, as any deviation could disrupt the delicate curvilinear pattern on the facade. It was a test of skill and patience, demanding a level of artistry that elevated the building's aesthetic appeal to new heights.
Despite the inherent challenges posed by the use of large-sized tile panels, the project team overcame logistical and construction obstacles with precision planning and coordination.
The small, congested roads surrounding the project site necessitated careful transportation and handling of these oversized materials, demonstrating the resourcefulness and resilience of the project team.
In essence, these challenges were not mere obstacles but opportunities for craftsmanship and innovation. They exemplified the unwavering commitment to architectural excellence that permeated every aspect of the project.
Through meticulous planning, expert craftsmanship, and a dedication to precision, we overcame these challenges, ultimately achieving a level of architectural finesse that stands as a testament to the enduring power of design and craftsmanship in the built environment.