While all architecture and interior design revolves around the form and function equations, corporate office interiors are much more about a synthesis of aesthetics and productivity. There is a definite ‘output’ that the workspace must aim to achieve through efficient planning, effective lighting, appealing colours, comfortable furniture, formal and informal meeting areas and interesting break-out spaces. 

That is the essence of corporate office interior designing - translated beautifully in the new office of Sleek International. Relocating from the earlier premises spread across various levels and units to a single large contiguous space, where all the departments had to be accommodated, the 18,000 sq ft office for the leading modular kitchens manufacturer has indeed turned out as a stunning workspace!

Choosing a colour palette and a material board which allows using a lot of materials from the company's own manufactured products lends an essentially industrial aesthetic; to which a classy, corporate ambience is added. Thus the 'white-and-steel' look is complemented with bright hues of yellow, mainly - and others offsets of orange and blue in the main open office arrangement. 

“The relocation of the office to the new set-up coincided with the company being acquired by one of the country’s largest corporations in the construction services business – Asian Paints. This provided a unique opportunity both to the owner who is still managing the company to help put together a vision for the future,” explains Anant about the brief given to him. “The move allowed them to put together a new DNA for the new entity that embodied the best of who they were and who they would be. This was the basis of the brief given by the client.”

The reception area itself starts showcasing the company's character and ideology - the finishes and detailing exemplifying the company's focus and commitment to deliver the same levels in their own products. The foyer is designed as an interactive space for the company’s staff to greet dealers and designers; and thus is utilized as the first impressive space highlighting the durability and aesthetics of their products.

Complemented with ARID’s philosophy to create tailor-made spaces specific to client’s needs and vision – the result was bound to be smashing. Of course, the project was full of challenges. The site conditions and approved plans posed its own set of challenges, and a complete make-over in terms of company culture had to also reflect in the physical space. 

“It was no easy task to create a new space that spoke of a new culture where competence and capability were the basis of the future. Through constant dialogue with the management to help the design team understand the needs of all the stakeholders, we evolved the concept. To start with, we eliminated all cabins except for the top three in the management.” Thus a truly open office space was created; with formal and informal meeting rooms, and areas demarcated for working, interaction, training and collaboration.

Integrating the best practice principles to create a healthy atmosphere and a more sustainable environment with relaxed and communal surroundings and improved services, the designers have used spatial design to facilitate the new corporate collaboration. “This is then not just a workplace for now but for the future, an agile environment adaptable to change and growth. The workplace is now a powerful symbol, a place for all to come back and a sense of belonging.”