Our visionary needed a temporary office space for seven years before the planned redevelopment of its existing 80-year-old building. The only available space was a redundant basement, which posed significant design challenges—its fragmented layout, multiple descending levels, and a mere 6.5-foot clear height made it an unlikely candidate for an efficient workspace. However, the project aimed to transform these limitations into opportunities, creating a functional, aesthetically refined, and cost-effective office that prioritized productivity, brand identity, and user comfort.
One of the primary structural challenges was the age and condition of the basement’s slab. Before any design interventions, MS girders were introduced to stabilize the old structure, ensuring safety and longevity for the seven-year occupancy period. Simultaneously, the interior layout was reimagined to create a sense of openness. The existing space was an agglomeration of small rooms, which were strategically demolished to establish fluid spatial connections that followed natural movement patterns.
Given its underground setting and low ceiling, the design placed special emphasis on maximizing natural light intake. Openings were carefully positioned to allow as much daylight as possible, while the material palette further enhanced brightness. Light grey and white tones were used extensively, while reflective surfaces such as lacquered glass helped distribute light efficiently. This approach reduced dependence on artificial lighting, creating a more sustainable and comfortable work environment.
Aqua blue, a color synonymous with pharmaceuticals, became a defining element of the space. The company’s branding was emphasized through a backlit signage installation on lacquered glass, which served as a focal point in the reception area. The small conference room, constrained by its low height and compact dimensions, featured an aqua blue lacquered glass whiteboard, also backlit, reinforcing the company’s visual identity.
Budget efficiency was a key factor in material selection. One of the cheapest available terrazzo tiles was chosen for the flooring, balancing durability with affordability. Perforated metal sheets, sourced from a wholesale market at minimal cost, were creatively repurposed for furniture elements such as tables and partitions. To add warmth and sophistication, dusky wood tones were introduced, creating a harmonious contrast against the cooler color palette.
Despite the constraints, the office was designed to foster productivity and engagement. Light grey and white tones established a calm and focused work environment, while carefully curated artworks added vibrancy to the interiors. The transparent conference room, enclosed with glass, maintained visual connectivity while ensuring functionality within the limited available space.
The reception area, featuring a “kesariya” marble-clad table, became a statement of understated elegance, subtly balancing raw materiality with a refined aesthetic. Every design decision was made with careful consideration of cost, efficiency, and brand alignment, ensuring that the space not only served its immediate purpose but also reflected Alembic Pharmaceuticals’ legacy and forward-thinking approach.
In essence, this project is a testament to intelligent, resourceful design. It transforms an overlooked basement into a workspace that is efficient, brand-conscious, and inspiring—achieving maximum impact with minimal expenditure. The result is a space that transcends its temporary nature, demonstrating how architecture can elevate even the most constrained environments into dynamic and meaningful experiences.