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    • Design

    Architect Ruchir Sheth’s Vadodara studio is a voluminous space underlined by an industrial palette and contemporary flair

    NOV 14, 2020 | By Aneesha Bhadri
    Grey matte textured flooring—chosen for being durable, eco friendly and water resistant—is seen throughout the office. Herman Miller’s modular customisable furniture is used in this open plan workplace; Photographs courtesy Ruchir Seth
    The curated library offers a collection of over 300 books. A cluster of furniture pieces from Gulmohar Lane coupled with inhouse furnishings decorate the space. The ceiling features HYBEC surface light fittings; Photographs courtesy Ruchir Seth

    Dramatic, industrial and eclectic are the three words that best describe Design Studio—architect Ruchir Sheth’s simply named office in Vadodara. It experiments with spatial volumes and an indoor-outdoor layout that creates a light and airy look despite the black monochrome interiors.

    The 7,000 sq ft studio is spread over four floors and offers city views through its glass facade. Accessed from the double-heighted reception area are the conference room, work stations and storage.

    Meanwhile, the second floor accommodates Sheth’s cabin, waiting area and library. A statement mural on the wall behind his desk and ergonomic furniture make up the cabin.

    Bespoke lighting above the reception desk is composed of an array of metal pipes. It is offset by the vibrant stairway and human figurine sculptures by Milan Bhatt of Design360; Photographs courtesy Ruchir Seth

    An open-plan workspace characterises the third level. On the top floor, a freeflowing narrative between indoor and outdoor spaces emerges, enabling Sheth’s team to unwind and socialise. Here, the pantry-cum-cafeteria opens onto the landscaped terrace garden with paved stone pathways, mood lighting and alfresco seating on the wooden deck.

    This waiting area houses furniture from Gulmohar Lane and a custom chandelier by The Art Room; Photographs courtesy Ruchir Seth

    The office’s material palette of ash brick art, exposed ductwork, leather, concrete, wood, glass and metal is influenced by a modern industrial outlook. “It resonates with our ethos—the warmth of wood, brutalist finish of concrete and sophistication of Italian stone come together in a neoteric design language that captures our approach,” says Sheth. We love how the grey matte textured flooring unifies the monotonal space that’s punctuated with a custom crimson staircase, vibrant furnishings and glimpses of greenery.