Nestled within the sturdy embrace of time and in the heart of an urban landscape stands the office space of Ikigai Studio- a true testament to the power of transformation and design. Boasting a rich history, the firm’s office is housed on the ground floor of a forty five-year-old vintage bungalow, which at the onset was nothing more than a single expansive room with an adjoining smaller one.
Project Name: Ikigai Office
Studio Name: Ikigai Studio, Pune
Completion Year: 2023
Area: 850 sqft
Flooring: Office flooring from rangoli ceramics, pune and cabin flooring from Morbi, Gujarat
Wall Paint: Arava texture by Kemtex
Lighting: Oorjaa Designs
Brass Decals: Kalakari Haath
Artwork: Rudranee Chiman
Fixtures: Hafele
Furniture: Crafted on-site
Photographer: Hemant Patil
Styling: Krei Studios by Salonee Thakre
The Entrance
Upon entering the premises, one is greeted by an outdoor oasis, adorned with the company’s emblem and verdant planters. It serves as a welcoming space for guests and a cosy spot for the staff to unwind during their well-deserved breaks.
The entrance features a sleek black veneer door flanked by a slatted wooden partition bearing the company logo. The curvaceous design of the partition adds an intriguing touch to the ambience.
Behind the entrance partition, tucked in a serene corner, is the Mandir finished in Arava
texture.
The Working Space
Upon venturing further, a long table finished in Indian granite adorned with two elegant pendant lights crafted from banana leaf paper emanates a captivating aura. The lengthy 18-foot table is the workstation for the designers at Ikigai, with chamfered edges for convenience. The furniture is equally bespoke, with chairs made on-site, showcasing a mix of Teak wood and Rattan, and ergonomic cushions for the ultimate comfort.
Dotting the office are charming knotted Pachira plants, adding a splash of greenery to the office’s earthy ambience. The working area fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie, promoting fluid communication and collaboration among the team with its open concept.
The pendant lights hanging from a vaulted ceiling initially posed a design challenge for the architects. Ancient beams with a formidable depth of 1.5 feet posed a threat to the lofty 10-foot ceiling height. However, ingeniously working around these structural hurdles, the central working area has become a sanctuary of design with a vaulted ceiling, allowing the retention of precious height while introducing a mesmerising design element.
Large, classical sliding windows bring a flood of natural light. A thought-provoking neon sign, “What’s your IKIGAI?” adorns the left wall, inviting guests to contemplate their purpose. It’s a subtle but powerful reminder of the firm’s commitment to understanding the essence of its clients and creating spaces that resonate with their very souls.
The floor is dressed in jet-black tiles, with skirting reaching a remarkable 2 feet, lending depth to the space. Earthiness takes centre stage with textured walls throughout the office.
The Cabin
A remarkable piece of art graces the passage, serving as a captivating focal point. Upon turning left, one can discover a small pantry and a bathroom designed with equal attention to detail.
A full-height glass partition with extra-clear glass and slim wooden accents offers a glimpse into the company’s inner sanctum. The cabin door is a full-height glass marvel that seamlessly integrates with the overall vision of wheelchair accessibility with a 180 degree hinge. Inside the cabin, a stunning Indian marble table in Panda white takes centre stage. While hand-blown glass pendant lights dance above the table at various angles, infusing a sense of playfulness. An elegant leather chair graces the workspace, while rattan chairs are thoughtfully placed for guests.
Behind the desk, artistry meets history, with rustic artwork, clay work, vases, pots, and a collection of accomplishments framed for posterity. Adorning the wall is a stunning collection of brass decals by Kalakari Haath, adding a touch of elegance to the office.
The team’s commitment to a warm inviting atmosphere shines through every detail. Vintage brass switchboards, carefully selected, add an extra layer of character to the space. State-of-the-art wall fans marry functionality with style in the workstation area. While the central space embodies a spirit of collaboration and openness, where creativity knows no bounds.
The Ikigai office isn’t just a space; it’s a narrative, a story told through architecture and design. Each element weaves its chapter, composing a symphony of creativity and warmth, embracing the past while propelling the future.
