The Inside Track February 2015

INSIDE TRACKTHE

CONNECTING THE DESIGN COMMUNITY

Volume 9. Issue 02. February 2015 Rs. 25/-

Now view our web edition at www.theinsidetrack.in

continued on page 2

Cover Story A Smart And Secure HomeThe simplicity of control granted by modern home automation systems now ensures a safer and convenient way of living. BY SHIBANI PUNEKAR

Home automation is all about ensuring comfort, security, convenience and

energy saving techniques in your lifestyle. It can control entertainment, lighting, security system, appliances, internet, networking, HVAC systems, irrigation, home spas and pools along with many other related systems which are designed to be an integral aspect of the home. All these very convenient assets can be controlled with a mere touch of a finger thanks to new age innovations in the home automation and security segment.

We will look at various home automation and security solutions that will transform your home to better suit your lifestyle, bring in substantial comfort and safety for both residents and their belongings.

Electric FencingYou can now enjoy round the clock vigilance with minimum maintenance cost thanks to the new electric fences available in the market. Power fencing is the latest technology in perimeter protection. These active fences punish the trespasser the moment he touches or tries to tamper with the fence. They give a sharp but safe shock to create psychological fear in the intruder. In case of any tampering, the alarm in the system gets triggered and the residents of the protected area are alerted.

Pet Friendly SensorsPet owners can now install motion sensors without any apprehensions. The new pet friendly motion sensors can distinguish between an intruder and your beloved pet by allowing animals weighing up to 100lbs to move around without raising an alarm. This new technology allows you to also view live videos of your pet at any time of the day. It can also alert you through text messages or emails when the dog walker or pet sitter does not show up.

Electroshield by Godrej Security Solutions punishes a trespasser with a sharp but safe shock to create psychological fear

Talking RemotesWith latest innovations in technology, gadgets can now communicate with us. Home automation systems can now be controlled by remote controls that verbally update us. You can manage the security systems, lights, appliances, garage doors and many other systems with a single click. The talking remote controls have provided us with an extra level of convenience, comfort and peace. These remotes communicate in English and are easy to operate.

Automated CookingNow you no more need to reach home and wait for your dinner to be ready, at the end of a tiring day. Add flexibility to your dining schedule with new-age smart cooking systems. Enjoy remote access to your slow cooker’s functions, wherever you are.

After the food is cooked, the system automatically shifts to the warm mode to keep the food warm until dinner time. All this can be achieved by simply downloading an app on the phone and using it to control the system from anywhere in the world.

Your Phone - A Universal Remote ControlDevices are now available to turn your Android or iOS mobile device into a universal remote control, while playing the role of a Bluetooth music streamer for existing audio systems.

These devices can be operated with a simple mobile app. From the

2 THE INSIDE TRACK February 2015

INSIDE TRACKTHE

Smart Cities 4

Smart Apps For Your Home 6

Automate With Schneider 8

Tiling Haven 9

The Story Of Light 10

The Eurasian Confluence 12

Exhibitions and Fairs 20

Restyle Your Bathroom With iSpecify 22

Kludi Launches New Concealed Cistern 23

Sustainability, Made In India 24

CONTENTS FebruAry 2015

A Smart And Secure Home 1COVerSTOry

Owner, Publisher & Printer Mr. Anish R. Bajaj for Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd. Printed at Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd., B 62, 1st Floor, Cotton Exchange Building, Cotton Green Road, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033. Published at B 62, 1st Floor, Cotton Exchange Building, Cotton Green Road, Mumbai 400 033 Tel (022) 23736133/1 editor Mr. Anish R. Bajaj THe INSIDe TrACK Volume 9. Issue 02. February 2015. English - Monthly. This issue contains 24 pages including both covers.

Creative Director Natalie Pedder-Bajaj Assistant editor Shweta Salvi, Sub-editors Vikas Bhadra, Rehana Penwala Content Writer Shibani Punekar Layout Design Asif Shayannawar, Darshan Palav, Snigdha Hodarkar Marketing: Mumbai Rakesh Kini (Digital), Ganesh Gurav, Vivek Jadhav B 62, Cotton Exchange Bldg, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033 Tel: (022) 32656823, 23736133, 32958501 Fax: (022) 23743069 Email:[email protected] Delhi Ms. Sumita Prakash, Flat F 304, Rajasthan C.G.H.S. Ltd,Plot No. 36, Sector 4, Dwarka, New Delhi Tel: 9899179540 Email: [email protected] Chennai Mr. S. Venkataraaman, Flat No. 2, 3rd Flr, E Block, Hansa Garden, 30 Madampakkam Main Rd, Rajakilpakkam, Chennai 600 073 Tel: (044) 22281128 Mob: 9444021128 Email: [email protected] Kolkata Mr. Subrata Mazumder, 2, Nabapalli (Bidhanpalli). Kolkata 700084 Tel: (033) 2410 4296 Mob: 9831131395 Email: [email protected] Europe 282, Rue du Noyer, bt 16, 1030 Bruxelles, Belgium.

marvel infomediapVt ltd

REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE

Recycling old magazines and newspapers is one of the easiest ways to help the environment. To increase the supply of recoverable wood fibre and to reduce the demand on the world’s landfills, THE INSIDE TRACK urges its readers to actively participate in recycling efforts.

app, you can create a custom remote control pad for each device in the home, download local information guide for cable, broadcast and satellite TV and even control window panes.

Smart Locking SystemsThanks to new age technology, locking your home with a simple touch of your phone is now possible. Smart locking systems can be accessed from anywhere through Bluetooth. These smart locks also lock the door automatically behind you within a span of around 20-30 seconds leaving you stress free.

Widgets For The SmartphoneYou can now control everything from CCTVs, climate, lighting, pool or spa zone to security, home theatre and shades by simply installing these widgets on your smartphone. You can watch the live coverage of your home from anywhere in the world using these. Create the perfect ambience for a sit-down dinner or for a party or even for bedtime from anywhere in the world by simply clicking on your mobile phone using this revolutionary technology.

Modern Dimmers And SwitchesA break from boring age-old switches,

modern dimmers and switches appear sleek and swanky. The simple, intuitive design and effortless operation of this new technology sets a new standard for lighting control. These new dimmers come without any knobs, sliders or buttons. You can control all the lights in the house by simply touching the LED light bar anywhere to set the lights to the desired level of brightness.

Energy Display TechnologyThe amount of energy that appliances are consuming can be analysed using energy display mechanisms. All you need to do is connect a maximum of three appliances to a metre that will display the quantity of energy used by them. This will help you to greatly control energy usage. Apart from this, it also displays the room temperature. Contactwww.godrejsecure.comwww.belkin.com

CrockPot® by Belkin can be operated using a mobile app


Spot Light

In the modern era of technology, apart from our gadgets, our cities are getting a lot smarter.

A smart city uses digital innovations to reduce the use of resources

Smart Cities A sneak-peek into the smartest cities of the world and what makes them so unique. BY SHIBANI PUNEKAR

Songdo IBD, a technology-driven smart city is being constructed on 1,500 acres of reclaimed land in South Korea along Incheon’s waterfront

Podcars are small, automated public transport systems operating on a network of guideways

and to enhance the lifestyles of its inhabitants. These cities are designed with the ambition of creating maximum convenience for people, allowing them to better manage their time to optimise their productivity.

A very important aspect of the infrastructure of a city is the publ ic t ranspor t . Smar t cities are connected by smarter transportation systems.

Fo r example , Podca r s o r Personal Rapid Transits are gaining popularity all over the world. This is a public transport system consisting of small automated vehicles operating on a network of guideways built specially for the purpose. These are sized for individual travel or for small groups, usually carrying more than 6 passengers per vehicle. Guideways are located in a network with all the stations located on sidings with several merge points.

Podcars provide uninterrupted travel from location to location in severa l smar t c i t i e s . The oldest and most advanced PRT system is in Morgantown, West Virginia operating since 1975. A newer network of these fantastic automated transport systems is seen at Masdar City, UAE and at London Heathrow Airport.

People are now feeling the need for greener lifestyles resulting in interesting arrangements like electric car-sharing services. This kind of new car-sharing service has been launched in Paris in the name of Autolib, short for ‘automobile’ and ‘liberté’. The system comes with smart features

like kiosks where you can register via video chat. To ensure that the cars stay charged, the clock does not stop on the rental until the car is plugged back to the charging point.

People are now working on the move and require better connectivity even while travelling. Smart cities are looking at providing just that even at public spaces. London is now

catching up with major cities like Paris and New York in this segment. It is aiming at providing residents with the biggest Wifi zone in the world. London’s service will be powered by apparatus installed on lamp-posts and other standing structures on the street.

Smart cities have also made activities like donating money to charity very convenient. Zander Whitehurst, a 22 year old Oxford University graduate, has invented a system using which subway riders can just swipe their cards against a

specific RFID-reading panel to donate extra change.

Smart cities are being constructed all over the world, right from scratch. We take a look at some automated cities in different parts of the world.

The Smart-Township Project - Fujisawa CityThe township project in Fujisawa city by Panasonic, is not simply a state-of-the-art smart town, but a town seeking the ultimate in automation and security. The Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town or Fujisawa SST is a joint venture between the private and public sectors.

The major feature of the project is that it is an actual smart town with 1000 households. It is not only based on advanced technology-based infrastructure but on actual lifestyles. The town management company is working on this project taking into consideration the views of the residents to incorporate new services and technologies and evolve the town into a sustainable space making people’s lives easy and smart.

Songdo - South KoreaSongdo IBD is being built on 1,500 acres of reclaimed land in South Korea along Incheon’s waterfront, 7 miles from Incheon International Airport and 40 miles from Seoul. Developed by Gale International and Korea’s POSCO E&C, the super metropolis is a model of innovation and technology. The first phase of the smart city opened in August 2009.

The smar t c i ty has been designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, an international architectural firm recognised for their brilliance in

design throughout the world. The project includes everything from commercial office spaces, residences, retail shops, hotels as well as civic and cultural facilities.

Songdo has sensors installed to monitor temperature, traffic and energy usage. These are capable of alerting you personally when your bus is expected to arrive or even informing authorities about any issue.

The design pays special attention to the environment. For example, charging stations for electric cars, water-recycling systems that avoid clean potable water from being used to flush toilets.

The highlight of Songdo is the garbage disposal system. All the household waste is sucked from individual kitchens through a massive network of underground tunnels. It is then automatically sorted and deodorised to be harmless to the environment.

Masdar, Abu Dhabi - A Carbon-Neutral CityThe oil-rich United Arab Emirates is home to an emerging eco-city named Masdar.

The most interesting feature of Masdar is that 21st century engineering is blended with traditional desert architecture to deliver zero-carbon comfort. It will play abode to around 50,000 people, 1,000 business ventures and a university.

It is being designed by British architects, Foster and Partners and is sponsored by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi.

The negative point of the desert - the sun - is being used as the greatest resource. A massive solar farm has been built to power the smart city.

The transport system is unique, wherein cars have to be parked at the entrance gates and the further distance can be covered by foot or using podcars.

These driverless vehicles are guided by magnetic sensors, powered by solar electricity, and they stop automatically if an obstacle appears. They are programmed to go where you ask.Contactwww.panasonic.netwww.songdo.comwww.masdar.ae

Adv

erto

rial


Spot Light

Smart phones have made our lives much easier, allowing us to manage several tasks from anywhere

in the world. From managing spa appointments to getting dinner ready, all of it can be done with the help of a single touch.

Android mobile phones and the iPhone have launched several apps that make it easier for us to ensure a smart and secure home. We take a look at some of these:

Home Security Apps

Salient Eye Home Security Alarm:You can now turn your Android system into a motion detector burglar alarm system. Salient Eye application uses the phone camera to detect motion and alerts the residents with the help of alarm sounds in case of a break-in. The app captures images of the intruder and sends them to you via email or SMS.

The iSmartAlarm App For Smarter Home SecurityThe iSmartAlarmTM is an outstanding application available on the iPhone to ensure complete home security.

Smart Apps For Your Home Android mobile devices and iPhones now have fantastic apps that allow you access to your home and security systems from anywhere in the world. BY SHIBANI PUNEKAR

The app is designed for the modern home and is constantly progressing to enhance the security of your home. It allows you total control of the home, with the in-home installation and self-monitoring and control on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. It alerts you when family members leave or return.

The device to be installed at home is wireless, compact and instantly notifies you of opening doors, windows and storage.

iSentryiSentry lets you use the home computer and it’s web camera as a

surveillance system. Whenever any motion is detected, the app notifies you on the phone. The free app allows you to snap photos from the video stream and also gives you live video feed of the selected room. It also helps you protect your pets and ensure that they do not escape in your absence.

The Dropcam App To use this free app, a Dropcam camera needs to be installed and linked to your iPhone or iPad. The installation procedure is simple and takes less than a minute. When activated, the video footage can be recorded and sent directly to your

phone or be saved for later viewing. Dropcam is equipped with a two-way sound system. This helps you talk to family members in the room, drive away burglars, attend to guests or communicate with your pets while you are away. It has a digital zoom, allowing you to focus on any part of the room. You can also share the video stream with your friends using this app.

Home Automation Apps

The WithBaby AppYou can now leave your baby at home without any care or concern.

Whether it is lighting, heating, curtains or anything in the house, you can take total control of your home in a few clicks thanks to the Loxone app

With the Dropcam App, the video footage can be recorded and sent directly to your phone or can be saved for later viewing

The iSmartAlarmTM allows you to monitor visitors from anywhere using a simple application on your iPhone

With the Withings Smart Baby Monitor, you can view your baby from any location with an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch

7THE INSIDE TRACK February 2015

Thanks to the Withings Smart Baby Monitor, you can view your baby from any location with the iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. The WithBaby app is free and helps you hear the baby at any time of the day. The app also instantly notifies you about changes in the humidity, temperature, movement, etc. in the baby’s room.

The Loxone AppWhether it is lighting, heating, curtains, blinds or anything in the house, you can take total control of your home in a couple of clicks. The application is free and is available for android systems, iPhones and iPads.

The app is constantly evolving; introducing new features and updates to ensure that the house remains user friendly and keeps up with evolving times. It is pleasing to the eye, while remaining easy to use and very intuitive.

R a c h i o I ro’s Sm a r t Wa t e r ControllerRachio Iro has attempted to save water and time with the new Iro Smart Sprinkler Controller that allows you to manage your lawn

sprinkler system using a mobile phone. All you need is a Wifi connection and a smart phone. The centralised sprinkler system adjusts to the weather automatically trying to use as little water as possible, keeping the lawns looking healthy and fresh.

The Control4 AppThe Control4 app provides an effective way to turn your smart phone or tablet into a familiar interface. The Control4 app gives you more ways to control the home automation system. While at home, the app allows you to use a Wifi connection and while you are away, you can connect to the system with ease using the 3G cellular services. It lets you control the light, temperature, cameras with ease and flexibility.

PintofeedYou can now head to work or for a nice vacation without the guilt of neglecting your pet. Pintofeed, Inc of Pasadena, California has developed a wireless pet feeder that can be controlled from your iOS or Android smartphone. The feeder is a bowl that is connected to an

alarm clock. It dispenses food either on a set schedule or by a command on the phone. It also monitors the pet and sends you alerts about the amount of food dispensed, portion consumed, etc.

The Vivint AppThis free application is available for iPhones, iPads and Androids. You can not only monitor your home security systems but also lock and unlock doors, set the thermostat

or turn on and off your lights while at work or on vacation. The app works with only Vivint home security products.Contact www.salient-eye.comwww.ismartalarm.comwww.apple.com/in/www.vivint.comwww.loxone.comwww.rach.iowww.control4.comwww.petnet.io

The new Iro Smart Sprinkler Controller allows you to manage your lawn sprinkler system using a mobile phone

Pintofeed has developed a wireless pet feeder that can be controlled from your iOS or Android smartphone

The Control4 app provides an effective way to turn your smart phone or tablet into a familiar interface


Co. Profile

Schneider Electric India Pvt. Ltd (SEI) is a 100% subsidiary of Schneider Electric Industries

SAS, a global specialist in energy management. With a strong force of over 17,000 employees in the country, the company is well known for its unique vision and progressive management.

Automate With Schneider Schneider Electric India Pvt. Ltd is an integrated home automation provider offering products that enable monitoring, controlling and management of spaces. BY SHIBANI PUNEKAR

Schneider Electric is a partner that provides products, solutions and systems for all sectors of the energy supply chain. Their purpose is to ensure that the energy supply is safe and reliable, protecting people and their assets apart from guaranteeing security and uninterrupted power especially for critical applications.

They work at providing energy efficient solutions to fulfil specific needs of every market. Expanding the u se o f au tomat ion and connectivity, Schneider provides environmentally friendly services throughout an installation’s life.

T h e b u s i n e s s u n i t s t h a t Schneider operates in are: Energy Business Unit, Partner Business Unit, Building management BU, IT Business Unit and the Industry Business Unit. These units offer different solutions.

The Energy Business Unit of Schneider delivers integrated power management systems that allow businesses to improve the reliability of their electrical distribution systems. It helps ensure that the electrical distribution system works seamlessly from utility service entrance to plug. The solutions provided by the Energy Business Unit include power management systems, energy optimisation, power availability and reliability and renewable energy conversion.

The Partner Business unit manufactures switchgears, Mcbs, Rcbs and panels. It provides smart grids and comes up with solutions and infrastructure required to set up smart cities.

The Building management BU provides building management systems that improve financial p e r f o rmance and o c cupan t satisfaction by integrating all building systems on one network across all enterprises from a single software platform. It provides optimal HVAC solutions that e n h a n c e p e r f o r m a n c e a n d ensure energy efficiency along with l ight ing solut ions that range from centralising lighting control to automating lighting of access at home. It also provides security management systems like video security and intrusion detection equipment.

T h e I T B u s i n e s s u n i t provides IT room solutions that meet availability targets while minimising utility bills. Its specialist solutions include network closet solutions, server room solutions, pre-fabricated power and cooling data centre modules, public and private cloud physical infrastructure and management.

The Industry business unit gives safe, reliant, affordable and green energy for industrial plants. It provides security management systems like video security and intrusion detection equipment.

Schneider Electric is a globally

acclaimed name when it comes to energy efficiency and management and is known to provide both strong services and smart solutions to deliver significant savings.

Smart city solutions by Schneider are the latest developments in the energy management sector and promises to be a path breaking technology. Apart from smart city solutions, Schneider Electric also specialises in toll management, automatic fare collection, port management and renewab le energy conversion.Contact www.schneider-electric.co.in

Mr. Anil Chaudhry, MD and Country President,

Schneider Electric India Pvt. Ltd

EZinstall3 TruRetrofit Lighting Control System is a technology platform for lighting control which has helped customise the art of fine lighting

Wiser Home Control provides a simple user interface The Harmony™ XB5R - the wireless, battery less push button by Schneider Electric


Event Review

Somany Ceramics Ltd, the flagship company of H.L. Somany group, is a leading brand in

the tiles and sanitary ware industry. It has recently been recognised as “Asia’s Most Promising Brand” in the ceramic tile industry. It has also been awarded “The Power Brands Award” for 2010-11.

Somany Ceramics Ltd, launched a studio for tiles in Kolkata on 27th

January 2015. The Somany Studio was inaugurated by Mr. Sujit Mohanty, General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Somany Ceramics Ltd.

On the occasion, Mr. Mohanty said, “We are delighted to expand our presence in Kolkata. Kolkata is an urban city and is growing progressively. Somany is endeavouring to keep pace with this growth which is accompanied with demand for tiles that are a blend of traditional craftsmanship and international styling.” He added, “Somany is committed to providing the finest in designs and applications in products that reflect evolving lifestyles and workspaces. Our latest offerings in digital and large format tiles are being well received by households and business consumers across India.”

Somany Ceramics is focused on satisfying demands of their customers. This new addition to Somany Studios will allow the company easy access to consumers, offering them a wide range of technology enabled designs and multiplicity in the use of tiles.

The newly launched studio has been developed to give people the choice of finely crafted tiles at their door step.

The studio has on offer a wide range of products and exhibits the choice in product applications through state-of-the-art displays, allowing customers to

Tiling Haven Somany Ceramics launches a new studio in Kolkata showcasing their exquisite range of tiles. BY SHIBANI PUNEKAR

envision how the space will appear and feel with the products.

Somany studio showrooms are located all across the country including cities like Delhi, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Patna, Ranchi, Lucknow, Guwahati and Gangtok. More Somany showrooms shall soon be opened in more parts of the country. The showrooms offer exclusive tiles, sanitary ware and bath fittings. With a variety of offerings, Somany as a brand, is focused on providing products in accordance with the latest designs, technology and concepts to cater to diverse customer needs.Contact www.somanyceramics.com

Mr. Sujit Mohanty, General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Somany Ceramics Ltd. launched The Somany Studio in Kolkata


Spot Light

The Story of Light festival, an initiative of The Story of Light Foundation, in

partnership with the Corporation of the City of Panjim, was conducted from 14th to 18th of January 2015. It is India’s first science meets art festival.

The Story Of LightThe Story of Light, a science meets art festival, displayed light installations and studied its influence on human life. BY SHIBANI P.

The Story of Light, a science meets art festival, was held in Goa in January(Photo credits: Mitwa A. V.)

The concept behind this event has been developed under the guidance of The International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies, 2015 (IYL 2015), a project of the United Nations that aims to raise awareness about the breakthroughs in light science and its importance to humankind.

For the first time ever, SOL had arranged a common platform for scientists, artists, educators and philosophers to collaborate on translating cutting-edge science and the wonders of our universe into interactive installations,

workshops and performances to educate and enlighten the common man.

The five day long initiative in Panjim, witnessed entries from many parts of the world including Australia, Brazil, The Czech Republic, Italy, Japan, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, the UK and the USA. The curators selected 45 projects based on the concept and its resonance with the festival, the influence of the work on education and the execution capacity of the participating team.

The festival was held along the picturesque stretch along the

river Mandovi turning the nearby historic locations and gardens into an educational and recreation zone. A children’s area with unique educational activities, a screening tent and a concert stage was created. The program included visual plays, dance performances, installations with light and colour, photography workshops and live projections, all aimed at teaching people more about the universe in an interactive yet entertaining way.

Some of the festival highlights included the Czech Republic duo Archibio, unfolding the beauty of

microscopic worlds enlarged to a magnificent size in public spaces through videomapping; a UK-India collaboration to make the world’s longest cyanotype (an old photography technique and printing process) involving the public in exploring our relationship with sunlight. An Australian team of poets, musicians, sound and video artists present Elemental, a unique exploration of science, mind and the infinite universe displayed beneath a spectacular dome theatre of the planetarium.

The festival included a panel discussion, Configuring Light, by the London School of Economics Cities. The meet was attended by government officials, urban planners, lighting companies and the public.

The non-profit event was free for all and was witnessed by many visitors including school and college students, local residents and tourists, both foreign and national. The festival committee worked hard on project sponsorship and raised a part of their funds through an interesting crowdfunding campaign. The event proved to be a great success thanks to the organisers’ strong belief that every attendant shall leave with a fresh perspective of light, science and life.Contact www.thestoryoflight.org

Arjun Rathi’s project explores the concept of ‘light beings’ and the ‘chakras’ that compose them

ArchiBio videomapping unfolds the beauty of microscopic worlds enlarged to a giant size in the public space

Installation by Ar. Arjun Rathi

Adv

erto

rial


Spot Light

There are few spaces in the world where confluence is a synonym and Istanbul is

definitely in this list; the largest city in Turkey, it features a cosmopolitan diaspora and has been one of the favourites in the international traveller’s itinerary.

In the backdrop of this global ambience, Tüyap in association w i th the Turk i sh Ce ramic s Federat ion (TSF) and Trade Association for Sanitary and Building Supplies (TİMDER) will hold the 27th Edition of Unicera International Ceramic, Bathroom and Kitchen Fair at the Tüyap Fair and Convention Center, Büyükçekmece, between February 24 and 28, 2015.

The Eurasian ConfluenceUnicera, Turkey’s premier ceramic, bathroom and kitchen fair returns for its 27th edition in Istanbul.

Unicera brings together a large number of ceramic purchasing delegations from different parts of the world

A globally-recognised fair, Unicera is closely followed by architecture and design circles. This year too keeping in mind the increased participation from the architecture and design sectors the fair will have relevant programs like Design Talks 01 - Transparent Solutions conference with Professor Alpay Er (Chairperson, Dept. of Industrial Design, Ozyegin University, Istanbul), Defne Koz (Designer) and Tamer Nakışçı (Designer).

T h e I z n i k T i l e A r t i n Architecture will feature Timur Bilir (Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, Traditional Turkish Handcraft Department, Old Tile Restoration Instructor) and Nejla Anıl (Tile Designer) who will discuss contemporary uses of Iznik tiles in architecture, tile design, production and assembly. The Turkish Tile Art Exhibition an experimental tile art exhibition will offer a visual celebration of traditional tile art in the foyer section of the venue.

W h e n i t c o m e s t o t h e

commercial needs of the industry Unicera serves as one of the leading events where international brands launch their new products; likewise buyers and the decision makers of the industry consult Unicera for the best products before making an informed choice.

With over 53% growth in foreign visitors in the last four years, Unicera continues to increase its market share with international e xh ib i to r s f rom 16 fo re i gn countries including United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, Bulgaria,

Slovenia, Serbia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Ukraine, India, China and Taiwan.

Unicera brings a large number of purchasing delegations from the Middle East, Baklans, Eastern Europe, Black Sea, Europe and Africa to Turkey, playing a large part in the development of the Turkish ceramic industry.

In the last edition, procurement groups from 28 countries were invited to Unicera in 2014, making the event critical for buyers in the ceramic industry.

This year too with 67,229 professional visitors from 91 countries across 10 halls and 86,000 sqm of indoor exhibition space, Unicera will feature an impressive array of products; from floor and wall coverings, ceramics, granite, marble and natural stone to mosaic, bathroom and kitchen furniture, sinks and embedded equipment, vitrified products, fixtures, radiators and towel racks, Unicera will cater to a diverse set of needs.

Additionally the Ceramictech Ceramic Processing Technologies specialty section in Hall 9 further expands the scope of the event with chemicals, raw materials, ceramic machinery, machinery spare parts and components.Contact www.unicera.com.tr

The Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center

Adv

erto

rial


It Products

Xightor Pro By Schneider ElectricXightor Pro Entrance Control system adds a touch of class to traditional entrance control

New Cooking Hobs By Fisher & Paykel

Fisher & Paykel’s new introduction is an epitome in cooking versatility. Each zone of the induction hob is equipped with “Power Boost”, a function that provides intense or gentle heat instantly. The flat ceramic glass surface of the hobs makes it convenient to maintain their hygiene, with an easy wipe away cleaning.

The hob offers more exciting features like “Pan Detection System”, which will alert you if the hob is turned on without a pot or

Royal Range Of Lamps By The Great Eastern Home

The Great Eastern Home has introduced its diverse collection of lamps, chandeliers and wall lights that assure a touch of elegance and pride guaranteed to leave your guests awestruck.

These elegant opal or frosted glass shades give the lights a neat and beautiful appearance that lends a uniform illumination to your room.

Lampshades By Idus

With shades of light, the atmosphere of a space can be transformed with ease. Keeping this in mind, Idus, a home luxury store in India offers an infinite range of lampshades. These lighting solutions come in ornamental designs, different styles and colours allowing you to make a style statement on floors,

systems. It features touchscreen controls and is designed to blend in seamlessly into the décor while the door station and call management software ensures round-the-clock security for occupants.

The Xightor Pro comes with a flat flush mount design and a standard 86mm x 86mm wallbox that makes installation more convenient, as no protrusion racks are needed for mounting the touchscreen onto the wall. Contact www.schneider-electric.com

pan on it. It also switches itself to zero in case of no response. Similarly, it will also switch the hob to zero if the pan being used isn’t suitable for induction cooking.

The surface hot indicators featured in this cooktop ensures the light glows until the zones surface temperature is cool enough to touch. This enhances the factor of safety in the kitchen.Contact www.fisherpaykel.com/in

The Great Eastern Home lights are one-of-its-kind and magnificently crafted in brass with gold wash and coloured glass. Classical décor styles reworked by contemporary designers to give a cutting edge feel to it, adds a sense of panache and eclecticism that goes wonderfully with up-market stylish homes. Contact www.thegreateasternhome.com

consoles and side tables.These decorative lamps are

designed to enhance the beauty of the décor in your offices, dining rooms, living rooms and entrance halls. The new lamp collection by Idus is both unusual and appealing.Contact www.idus.in

Adv

erto

rial


It Products Minta Collection By Grohe

Modern, timeless and beautiful, Grohe’s successful kitchen range Minta takes another step forward with their latest innovation. The Grohe Minta Touch comes with a small but distinctive difference with its EasyTouch technology. It reacts instantly to the slightest touch, letting you turn it on and off without leaving any marks.

You can simply tap the wrist or forearm for complete

Godrej Security Solutions, one of the leading providers of security solutions in India, announced the launch of its new video door phone Seethru 7. The innovative product uses your landline to call your mobile phone in case you want to talk to a visitor when you are not at home. The 7” screen VDP has a TV out option, can support multiple outdoor units, indoor monitors, CCTV cameras and contains a removable SD card for records.

Video Door Phone By Godrej Secu-rity Solutions

In the development of Seethru 7, the needs of the target audience were identified - as the need to be able to communicate with people who visited when no one was home to shield the elderly and children from unknown visitors.Contact www.godrejsecure.com

control instead of turning the lever every time. This practical, hygienic technology is seamlessly integrated so that Minta retains its gorgeous looks year after year. It is available as a C-shaped swivel-spout with a pull-out mousseur spray or the striking L-shaped swivel spout with a pullout mousseur.Contactwww.grohe.com

Godrej Interio Presents Reborn

Reborn by Godrej Interio is a unique seven pressure zone mattress. The product has been designed keeping ergonomic principles in consideration, to correct bad postures and provide differently assigned pressure zones.

It is made using a 100% latex material which is biodegradable and naturally elastic to provide

support and comfort. The fabric is made of organic cotton which is environment friendly. The mattress has anti-dust mite properties and is vacuum packed for easy transport.

Reborn also provides self-ventilation which keeps the user comfortable and is long-lasting and durable.Contact www.godrejinterio.com

L90 Faucet Collection By Roca

Roca, a global leader in premium sanitary ware solutions announces the launch of its L90 faucet collection. The range is differentiated by its pure, minimalist and geometrical contours. The range is inspired by the linear ‘L’ form; the faucets have been designed specifically to complement avant-garde architectural bathroom spaces.

The range is available in chrome and chrome black ice finish infusing any bathing

space with unparalleled sophistication. It offers various handle options allowing a choice between upper and lateral handles for washbasins and bidet faucets. The hybrid range is equipped with outstanding features making the faucets stand-out. Produced following a strict manufacturing process, each piece is a study in perfect finish and long-lasting performance.Contact www.roca.in

It Products

Osim India Launches The Osim Ulnfinity Massage ChairOsim India has introduced its latest massage chair called Osim Ulnfinity offering a humanised massage experience from head to toe. Apart from mental relaxation, it eases strain from the neck and shoulder. The ‘download massage’ technology offers the widest choice of massage programs for the ultimate experience.

It allows the user to download the latest lifestyle

massage programs with a simple bluetooth connection to a smartphone. You can also download latest massage programs into the Ulnfinity app in your smartphone. You can listen to music thanks to the built-in stereo speakers while you lie back and enjoy a holistic experience.Contact www.osim.com

Bring in a little Portuguese luxury into your bathing space and enjoy the comfort of fine bath towels. Maishaa, a luxury home fashion textile brand launches for the first time in India, ‘luxury towels with AirDrop Technology’.

The set of hand, face and bath towels from Maishaa are soft, suitably sized, highly absorbent, quick to dry and lightweight. They are designed and made in Portugal and are created

Maishaa Introduces AirDrop Towels

using advanced technology that converts conventional cotton yarns, resulting in an incredibly soft, plush and lightweight towel.

Maishaa towels are designed by an international design team to give it a premium look, superior thickness and comfort. These are available at all Maishaa stores and leading lifestyle retailers across India.Contact www.maishaa.com

Grandeur brings a quiet elegance to the Indian dining space with sleek tables from one of Italy’s finest furniture makers, Pianca and Bonaldo.

The slender, airy furniture

Grandeur Launches Elegant Din-ing Tables

lends a light feel and creates the perfect ambience for family get-togethers. The range is inspired by clean cuts of industrial design and uses minimal space to ensure enough room for free interactions. Designed especially for contemporary living spaces, this collection of tables adds a subdued elegance with its single-tone colours and neat composition.

The light weight chairs are comfortable because of their deep seats. The dining tables accomodate six to eight chairs and you can choose between the various polished glass tops or compact wood covers.Contact www.grandeurinteriors.com

THE INSIDE TRACK February 2015 17

INSIDE TRACKTHE

CONNECTING THE DESIGN COMMUNITY

Volume 9. Issue 01. January 2015 Rs. 25/-

Now view our web edition at www.theinsidetrack.in

continued on page 4

Cover Story Fisher & Paykel On A Bullish PathThe company’s recent 100% subsidiary in India will allow better control on the brand and facilitate delivery on demand. BY ULKA MANJREKAR

Known for its human-centred design and innovation, Fisher & Paykel, the New Zealand

based pioneer of kitchen appliances, announced its 100% subsidiary in India.

Fisher & Paykel has been designing products since 1934 and has grown into a global company operating in 50 countries and manufacturing in the USA, Mexico, Italy, Thailand and New Zealand. In India, the brand has expanded its footprint to 15 key Tier I & II markets over the last two years, and has already laid the groundwork to expand to another 10 key markets by 2015, totaling 25 pan India.

In India, though the luxury market is still young and growing to its full potential, Fisher & Paykel has received an overwhelming response and therefore, the brand is keen on building a long-term association to cater to the country’s demand.

Fisher & Paykel has set up a warehouse in Maharashtra to exercise greater flexibility and timely delivery. This venture will also aid in effective dissemination to their partners, especially for real estate and luxury home projects.

Andrew Paykel, COO, Fisher & Paykel Appliances, said, “Though this is a relatively new market for us, India is a very important market given its untapped potential. Over the last two years, Fisher & Paykel has received great

response here and we want to embrace that confidence by investing ourselves in a long-standing relationship with the country. Establishing a 100% subsidiary in India is only the first step towards this goal.” Andrew is a member of the founding family, and was in the capital to announce the brand’s independent entry.

The brand marked its entrance into the Indian market through a dealer network in March 2012. This initiative allowed them to study

Keen on building a long-term association with India, Fisher & Paykel announces a 100% subsidiary

consumer requirements, expectations, as well as region specific product design customisation. With this in-depth research, Fisher & Paykel now seeks to strengthen this relationship through a product range that addresses these findings.

Speaking on the impact the wholly owned subsidiary will have on operations, Mr. Sanjeev Wadhwa, Managing Director, Fisher & Paykel (India) Pvt. Ltd, said, “This advent allows better control on the brand entity

and services, along with speed to deliver on demand. Entering the country as an independent body permits us to pay more attention to customised requirements - of what our customer

really needs. Now that we understand the market, we have a huge focus on service, as well as on how to further innovate our technology to cater to the Indian demographic”.

Fisher & Paykel recently announced the launch of 70 new products, its largest product rollout in 80 years.

Andrew Paykel, COO, Fisher & Paykel Appliances

&

SubScribe to the inSide track and Stay connected

the inSide track reServeS the right to extend, cancel or diScontinue the offer without giving any reaSon or prior notice

I am enclosing a cheque/DD No _________________ Dated __________________ drawn on ( name of bank ) __________________________________________________favouring“Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd.” for Rs.___________________________________________ ( Add Rs 40/- for non Mumbai cheque/DD )YOUR DETAILSMr/Mrs/Miss/Ms_____First Name _________________surname _______________________Address_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________City____________________________________________State__________________________Pin Code_________________________________Phone _______________________________ Email___________________________________Occupation____________________________

No. of Issues You Pay You Save

36 + 8 Free Rs. 900 20%

24 + 4 Free Rs. 600 16%

12 Rs. 300

Please fill up this coupon and send it along with your cheque/DD to:Marvel Infomedia Pvt. Ltd., B 62, 1st Floor, Cotton Exchange Bldg, Cotton Green, Mumbai 400 033. Tel (022) 23736133/1, 32958501Fax (022) 23743069Email [email protected] www.theinsidetrack.in

&&

It Products Simpolo Introduces Outdoor Porcelain Tiles

Simpolo has introduced outdoor porcelain tiles with a thickness of 16mm for the first time in India. This collection is available in 2 sizes, 600x600 mm known as Rockdeck series and 1200x800 mm called the Riverstone and Cemento series. The tiles are tough and can withstand heavy loads without any damage. They are non-porous and require no maintenance. Since these are full

Tattva Hardware recreates magic with the uniquely designed and stylised collection of Mortise handles, each one more special than the other.

Mortise Han-dles By Tattva

Apart from stunning looks, the Mortise handles are high on the ergonomic front. The company introduces the users to the textural and metaphorical interfaces.

The range comprises of door knobs, handles, peep holes and tower-bolts. The range of handles and other accessories are available in five glorious finishes which include matt gold, antique brass, matt nickel, antique copper and green patina.Contact www.tattvahardware.com

body homogenous tiles, they can not only take heavy wear and tear but can be also used on steps with bullnose or deep chamfering as well as granite or other stone slabs. Fired at high temperatures, these tiles are non-porous, slip resistant, scratch resistant, fireproof, fade proof and are resistant to frost expansion. Contactwww.simpolo.net

Bleu Concepts Launches The Iceberg Kitchen

Bleu Concepts, the global leader in modular kitchens, wardrobes and storage solutions has recently launched their state-of-the-art kitchen concept “Iceberg Kitchen”, a revolutionary concept for kitchen storage.

Bleu has developed Iceberg Kitchen that maintains a fine balance between design and functionality. The rear wall is specially designed using customised fittings and shelving

system accessories to address different storage requirements.

The entire back unit is aesthetically illuminated using LEDs. The overhead shutters are made of lacquered glass set in an aluminium frame and the base units are finished in a hi-gloss paint imported from Italy. The kitchen system is available in 30 finishes.Contact www.bleuconcepts.com

Chic Sofas And Chairs By Visionnaire

Visionnaire, a furniture and furnishings brand has launched sophisticated and luxurious furniture crafted from contemporary materials. The Italian luxury brand has introduced a new collection of uber chic sofas and chairs in India. The range is a blend of sculptural curves, intricate details and refined finishes to create a fresh interpretation of luxurious Italian furniture.

Visionnaire offers a stunning

collection of exquisite sofas in 4-seater, 3-seater and 2-seater options along with elegant upholstered high back chairs, chic armchairs, large single seater chairs and chaise lounges detailed with sensuous upholstery. The colour palette ranges from sparkling whites to off whites, tones of fauns and browns and dark hues of black, purple and grey.Contact www.visionnaire-home.com



Fair News

Design Indaba Date 25 - 27 February 2015Venue Cape Town, South AfricaContact web: www.designindaba.com

Design for change. Design for good. Design for a better world. These are the ideals that fuel Design Indaba’s drive for a better world through design, creativity and innovation. Dubbed “the conference on creativity”, the Design Indaba conference is all about how design, creativity and innovation can positively impact the world.

The Design Indaba conference is a forum fuelled by inspiration that breeds ideas, ingenuity and innovation. In the words of the organisers of Design Indaba Conference “Creativity is our currency and a better future our agenda”. The conference is a wonderful opportunity to learn from and be inspired by the world’s foremost creatives, thought leaders, entrepreneurs and trendsetters.

The annual Design Indaba Simulcast shares the Design Indaba Conference experience with a broader audience countrywide, its part of Design Indaba’s mission to make creative education and inspiration more accessible, in the hopes of creating a better world through creativity. 2015 sees the conference broadcast via live simulcast to a second venue in Cape Town, as well as Johannesburg, Durban, PE and Potchefstroom.

Surface Design Show Date 10 - 12 February 2015Venue London, UKContact web: www.surfacedesignshow.com

Explore the latest trends in materials for the built environment at Surface Design Show 2015, taking place at London’s Business Design Centre. Over 130 exhibitors will be showcasing and launching new products at the show giving visiting architects, designers and specifiers the opportunity to discover forthcoming fashion in surface design.

Fairs & ExhibitionsDate 25 -26 February 2015, Sustainability in Design & Construction (SIDC) 2015Venue Mumbai, IndiaContact web: www.nispana.com/sici2015

Buildings consume about 35% of total energy in India alone, and as a result of rapid economic and population growth, this consumption is likely to rise at an alarming rate. Keeping this in mind Sustainability in Design & Construction was introduced since 2010 to discuss varied topics like inclusion of aesthetics in built and unbuilt spaces, holistic construction, retrofitting and energy efficiency and all the key topics on sustainability. Every year it created a robust platform for the top architects, construction companies, developers and consultants to meet, network and gain knowledge.

The highlight for this year is going to be regulatory and government’s policies concerning sustainability in construction, including best practices, successes, barriers and recommendations for further implementation towards mitigation of climate change impacts. This conference will attract over 1000+ members from across the globe ranging from decision makers to world class solution providers and industry veterans, giving a wider perspective to the issues in focus.

Maison&ObjetDate 10-13 March 2015Venue Mariana Bay Sands,SingaporeContact web: www.maison-objet.com

UniceraDate 24-28 FebruaryVenue Istanbul,TurkeyContact web: www.unicera.com

Home to the latest designs and technological innovations of leading global brands, the 27th edition of Unicera, the International Ceramic, Bathroom and Kitchen Fair will be held at the Tüyap Fair and Convention Center, Büyükçekmece, Istanbul. Unicera will host more than 350 exhibitors from 17 countries in 11 halls showcasing a wide range of products,the Ceramictech Ceramic Processing Technologies specialty section further expands the scope of the event with chemicals, raw materials, ceramic machinery, machinery spare parts and components.

With experienced professionalism in organizing B2B and lifestyle design trade shows, Maison&Objet works with brands in looking to expand on high-growth markets in the Asia-Pacific region. The new annual trade event Maison&Objet Asia provides effective solutions to customers in search of excellence and uniqueness. Maison&Objet Asia aims to propose an annual event for Asian visitors, every year, in March.

In 2014 Maison&Objet Asia gathered a selection of 270 brands, representing the upscale spirit that has made Maison&Objet Paris such a success. In 2015, the show will have the ability to expand into an additional hall and therefore be able to meet the applications received right after the first edition.

Adv

erto

rial


Spot Light

The Hansgrohe company is based in Schiltach in Germany. With a heritage of

more than ten decades, the company has acquired a reputation of being a successful innovator in technology, design and sustainability in the sanitation sector. Their mixers, showerheads and shower systems are original products that make bathrooms functional, comfortable and aesthetically appealing.

The new Hansgrohe website ‘ i Sp e c i f y ’ p r o v i d e s d e s i g n p r o f e s s i o n a l s w i t h a l l t h e information they need about Axor and Hansgrohe products. After a

Restyle Your Bathroom With iSpecifyHansgrohe launches the ‘iSpecify’ website for architects, interior designers and other design professionals for better access to specifications of Axor and Hansgrohe products. BY SHIBANI PUNEKAR

tedious development procedure that lasted eight months, iSpecify was successful ly launched in October 2014.

About the development process, Mr. Nicholas Matten, Director of Global Project Business at Hansgrohe SE, explains, “During the development process, we

continuously collected feedback from architects and inter ior designers in order to better align the services ‘iSpecify’ could provide with the needs of this specific target group.”

With the new timesaver called iSpecify, the user can begin planning and designing using an easy-

to-follow navigation bar on the homepage. It enables inspiration by simply browsing through a selection of global references. Apart from this, the user can view different bathroom areas or search for specific product details.

If the user clicks on one of the pre-specified bathroom situations for

the shower or washbasin, the program instantly recommends a choice of appropriate Axor or Hansgrohe products and the links to their technical data and dimensional drawings.

The unique feature of iSpecify is that the user can create complete projects, which lend themselves to modification as desired and then can be viewed and worked on by the concerned Hansgrohe project consultant.

This helps to avoid planning mistakes, saving a great amount of time and efforts. User data can be stored in personalised profiles ensuring that after a simple registration process, every person has their own private space.

Hansgrohe’s iSpecify is available in English since October 2014. German and Chinese user interfaces shall be launched in a second launch phase.Contact www.ispecify.hansgrohe.com

On a single click, iSpecify instantly recommends a choice of appropriate Hansgrohe products along with their technical data and dimensional drawings

iSpecify helps design professionals avoid planning mistakes, saving a great amount of time and effort

23

Interview

Kludi is a global player for bath fittings, with manufacturing facilities spread across Europe.

Kludi as a manufacturer offers its customers products and services of high quality.

Kludi is equipped with the latest German technology which enables intelligent use of water. Evolutionary designs by Kludi, like the newly launched concealed cisterns, are set to take the idea of bathroom architecture to the next level of excellence.

In an exclusive interview with The Inside Track, Mr. Ajit Tendulkar, Head - Technical Services, Kludi India Pvt. Ltd. spoke to us about their latest addition to their range of bath products.

Kludi LaunchesNew ConcealedCisternWith the introduction of the new concealed cistern, Kludi has added another product to their bouquet of exciting offerings.

THE INSIDE TRACK February 2015

Kludi has recently launched a new range of concealed cisterns. What was the fundamental idea behind this India launch?

The concealed cistern has become a core product in the product proposition of all major bath fitting players, be it products or retail. There is a big shift in its consumption since people are opting for these, over traditional flush valves to conserve water.

As a part of our continuous efforts to offer innovative and quality products

The Kludi Amba line of bathroom mixers embodies understated, high-end design in hand-crafted quality

Mr. Ajit Tendulkar, Head- Technical Services,

Kludi India Pvt. Ltd.The new concealed cistern by Kludi

and to complete our product offerings, we decided to introduce this product in our portfolio in India.

How do you see the category of concealed cisterns playing a role in the future prospects of Kludi in India?

We see this product singularly giving us great leverage in competing with our peers and providing a wholesome package to the customer. All over India, six lakh pieces are sold every year in the organised market, with three multi-national brands cornering bulk of the market share. We are focusing on grabbing at least 1% market share in 2015.

Our long-term plan is to be in the top five brands of the concealed cistern market in India and we see this product category contributing at least 10-15% to our top line.

How is this range different from others available in the market? Could you share details about the collection and tell us about its advantages?

The concealed tank measures 78mm and is made of high grade

HDPE material. Tank and supply sleeve are protected with poly foam which avoids water condensation on the outer surface of the tank and sleeve.

This ensures that there is no dampness in the wall and tiles are always well protected. Also, flush volume can be adjusted as per requirement which makes it suitable for water conservation. The tank is easy to install and maintain and the accessories can be removed easily.

Are there any other products/categories that you plan to launch shortly in the Indian market?

Yes, we do have plans of offering new product ranges to the Indian market in the near future. We shall launch self-closing (push) taps and accessories shortly.

Which are some of the products by Kludi that have gained popularity in India?

Our award-winning “Amba” and “Balance” range of faucets and accessories and the Fizz shower range have taken the market by storm, gaining immense popularity.

Another technically superior product, our high flow diverter that gives 72 ipm at 3 bar are very ideal for body shower concepts. This product has great relevance in the Indian conditions of low water pressure and gives the highest possible discharge offered by any product of any brand in the Indian market.Contactemail: [email protected]: www.kludi.comphone: 09987672490

Plane surfaces and clean lines complement each other in Balance, the single lever mixer by Kludi


Postal RegistRation no. MCE/129/2014-16 Rni no. MAHENG/2007/19853. WPP liCense no. MR/TECH/WPP-266/EAsT/2015. PosteD at MUMBai PatRiKa CHannel soRting oFFiCe, MUMBai g.P.o. 400001. Date oF PUBliCation: 15tH oF eVeRY MontH, Date oF Posting: 15tH & 16tH oF eVeRY MontH

Spot Light

The Holcim Awards seek l ead ing pro j ec t s f rom industry professionals and

bold ideas from the “next generation” that contribute to sustainability within architecture, building, civil engineering, landscape and urban design, as well as construction materials and technologies. Entries can only be made online.

The winning entries of the 2014 Holcim Awards for Asia Pacific region were announced earlier at a ceremony held in Jakarta. The sole Indian winner at the Holcim Awards for Sustainable Construction 2014 was a community centre in Tatiba Baraibura

Sustainability, Made In India A community centre in Tatiba Baraibura, Jharkhand receives acknowledgement at the Holcim Awards 2014. BY VIKAS BHADRA

The low cost structure combines local materials and traditional craftsmanship with modern technology

in the West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand. The architect of the project, Mr. Madhusudhan Rao Chalasani of MADE, Hyderabad was one of the five equally-ranked Acknowledgement prizes recipient at the awards.

The community centre in Tatiba Baraibura is comprised of a residential school for 400 students, vocational training program and medical centre for 14 villages in the West Singhbhum district.

The project is financed by a mining company as part of its social responsibility program. Local rough laterite stone is used as the main building material of the four parallel

walls that comprise the building’s load bearing structure.

A light roof with substantial overhang made of industrialised steel ensures shading and natural ventilation. The low cost structure combines local materials and traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.

The jury was highly impressed by the elegance of the proposed structure - a building of unassuming poetic expression. Straightforward means are put to work to form a highly adaptable system of walls, openings, access routes, open courts and indoor as well as outdoor spaces.

These elements are all assembled according to the rules of time-honoured architectural principles - a building both traditional in the way it is made and modern in its appearance. Notwithstanding the design’s aesthetic quality, the project adheres to most criteria elucidated in the “target issues” for sustainable

construction, merging economic, social, contextual and environmental a s p e c t s i n t o a s i m p l e y e t sophisticated building.

The independent jury of distinguished international experts was led by renowned Indian architect Rahul Mehrotra who is presently Professor of Urban Design and Planning and Chair of the Department of Urban Planning and Design at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design.

Also on the jury was well-known Indian architect and progressive conservationist Brinda Somaya. Other jury members included Marc Angélil (Switzerland), Donald Bates (Australia), Momoyo Kaijima (Japan), Forrest Meggers (Singapore), Geeta Mehta (USA), Stephen Siu-Yu Lau (Hong Kong/China), Davy Sukamta (Indonesia), Yue Zhang (China) and Ian Riley (Holcim China) as Holcim’s representative.Contact web: www.holcimfoundation.org/Awards

Mr. Madhusudhan Rao Chalasani of MADE, Hyderabad

Documents

The Inside Track February 2015