The changing faces of spaces… Part 1

With the advent of AI a lot is changing if it hasn’t already. Some are concerned about job losses, while others welcome the speed with which things are accessible. I was recently asked to introduce a business colleague using a poem composed by ChatGPT. I found it too cumbersome and wrote my own in 8 lines which covered everything that was essential and added a touch of humour too! As an Architect, I’ve noticed the feel/human touch is irreplaceable. AI is an excellent tool to be used as per one’s convenience and necessity. As long as we keep THAT in mind we should continue to be happy that we have yet another gadget to simplify AND complicate our lives!

This set off a train of self-exploratory deliberations that made me want to do a trip down memory lane of my work. So, I thought, why not share it with everyone? Starting this week, I’m checking through my designs of different spaces done over the years (some are done in the pre-mobile phone era as well!), compared to how I deal with them now.

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This is an office of a well-known elevator company that started its operations in Pune in the 90s at the Software Technology Park, Bhosari, Pune. Persistent Computers was on the same floor. Modular furniture was making its debut in several set-ups here. It was a prominent feature as it occupied considerable space and visual volume. False ceilings were discouraged as a precaution against fire. Light fixtures played a crucial part as their placement had to be perfect to ensure zero shadow. Laptops weren’t in the picture so bulky desktops were accommodated on 24” table tops. Yes, the space was adequate and comfortable for the employees… had AI been born then how different would this space be??

Cut to 2023 at a software office in Phase 2 Hinjewadi. Sleek is the default mantra now, be in furniture, partitions, chairs and computers. We decided to use the company logo as the only accent for colour. Modular furniture now is extremely streamlined and minimalistic permitting the designer to add elements at will and not worry about crowding the space. We avoided a false ceiling as we wanted the users to experience the volume and feel the space. The slender light fixtures are an enhancing visual element even when not in use. Happy to say both spaces have aced their uses!

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