An Office in the Mountains – Studio Detail Architects for MindEscapes

Studio Detail Architects shaped a 100 feet deck workspace in the mountains of Nilgiri fostering productivity with 180-degree panoramic views.

Situated in the mountains of Nilgiri, Studio Detail Architects designed a one-of-a-kind workspace along a linear expanse, measuring 100 feet long deck and cantilevering 15 feet into the valley offering a 180-degree panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Specifically curated for professionals such as businessmen, writers, musicians, composers and others seeking to untangle their thoughts which is simply not possible in the city’s bustling chaos. Surrendering to the calming embrace of nature, these individuals find inspiration in this serene environment, giving rise to fresh concepts and visions.

The space transforms into an exclusive vantage point with expansive glass windows, offering a view of enchanting sunsets and the evolving beauty of changing seasons. These sunsets paint the sky in warm hues, transitioning from fiery oranges to tranquil purples. As daylight starts to emerge during dawn, mist delicately drapes the landscapes, blurring the boundaries between sky and landscape. The rhythmic change of seasons unfolds a captivating narrative, showcasing nature’s constant transformation.

The changing colours of the sky, coupled with the vibrant green surroundings inspired our selection of interior colours. These color palettes incorporated into the interior not only enhance the aesthetic but also have a positive psychological impact on individuals, boosting productivity and creativity among individuals working in the office space. The intentional use of colours creates an environment that fosters a sense of well-being and inspiration for everyone in the workplace.

Setting up the project on a valley, dealing with the contours of the mountain and adapting to changing seasons presented challenges that affected the construction pace. Consequently, additional time was dedicated to forming a skilled team, including local labour that underwent specific training to meet the desired finish. Additionally, the site’s location at a higher altitude posed difficulties in material transportation, leading to the exclusive utilization of local resources.

Project Planning

The user’s mindset and productivity are significantly influenced by the ambience of the space. Therefore, every aspect from space arrangement and colour choices to lighting and furniture is purposefully designed to prioritize user comfort and its psychological impact. Guided by colour psychology, the intentional choice of interior colours goes beyond aesthetics as each space is crafted to present colour tailored to specific activities or purposes.

Project Details

As one enters the workspace through the wooden door, individuals are guided along a passage wall narrating about Ooty’s time and place, connecting to other spaces. Serving as a portal, this wall recounts Ooty’s 200-year journey, from the days of colonization and the trade of tea and coffee to the intricate art of Toda Embroidery, locally known as Pukhoor. Despite its contemporary design, the workspace remains firmly rooted in its origin, showcasing the rich legacy, culture and various eras of Ooty. The waiting area, intentionally adorned with a library, aims to captivate and engage individuals awaiting entry, providing access to books for gaining the knowledge of the surrounding world or their respective domains.

The sequence of spaces is strategically planned in order to direct the projects through multiple phases of refinement. Starting with the pause which is created as a breathing space for casual conversations serving as a platform for individuals to exchange views and share fresh ideas. These ideas are further taken to the conference room and as per assigned tasks, teams are formed for discussions. This conference room accommodates 20-25 people, immersed in a calming green ambience and furnished with a long conference table and elevated seats creating an optimal setting for discussions of fresh ideas and fostering team bonding.

Transitioning to the brainstorming room, the utilization of the Blue Egg Chair doubles an individual’s creativity, enabling the analysis of ideas for solutions and improved concepts. The ideas are subsequently presented in the collaboration room, equipped with yellow seats within an illuminated space. This intentional arrangement aims to cultivate collaboration among participants and engage in further discussion to enhance decision-making. The incorporation of the colour red, known for enhancing strength and attention to detail, takes form in a lounge seat. Following the conclusion of the ideas, further it is taken to the detailing stage as individuals delve into the project’s depth, ensuring precision for the final product.

The intentional positioning of vibrant furniture, juxtaposed with the adjacent wooden flooring and false ceiling in a well-lit space, enhances the visual dynamism and aesthetic appeal of the spatial composition. A louver beneath the glass window serves a dual purpose, ensuring proper ventilation by allowing cool air from outside to enter inside while simultaneously expelling hot air from interiors through the ceiling vent.

Products 

Schneider Electric 

Daikin 

Vitofloor  

Saint-Gobain  

Overall Project Results

The workspace is crafted not just as a traditional office design but as a deliberate platform to curate experiences where individuals feel inspired, engaged, and empowered. The Design integrates with the user cultivating productive work and encouraging creative thinking. 

“Architecture is the thoughtful making of spaces. It is the creating of spaces that evoke a feeling of appropriate use.”- Louis I. Kahn.

Contributors:

Architect – Rohit Mohite

Contractor – Jadee Interiors

Project Manager – Ronald

Light Designer – Studio Detail

Design Team

Rohit Mohite

Shri Asvin

Photography

Dishank Shah