Designed by Puran Kumar of Studio PKA, the A91 Partners’ venture capital Mumbai office is a reflection of the
ethos of the firm. “The founders at A91 Partners came to us with a clear brief: they needed a space that could define who they are as a firm as well as speak of their core values and sensibilities,” says Kumar. “Transparency and accessibility were major tenets for the client, symbolising their values and culture of the workplace, which are translated into the design through the careful use of materials like glass and a non-hierarchical demarcation of zones respectively,” he continues.
Spread across 4500sqft, and with 12ft high ceilings to contend with, Kumar takes advantage of the openness of the space. The materiality add to the intriguing allure of the space. “Exposed surfaces and finishes add to the tactility and ultimately the character of the workspace – a melange of rough and smooth textures invite the visitor to touch and experience the same,” explains Kumar.
The entire office exhibits an understated canvas of glass, concrete, and wood. Colour pops in through furniture, minimal accents, and plants. The sculptural lighting enhances the tactility of materials, while at the same time guides you through the natural flow of the space. The various zones are demarcated through clever use of custom-built furniture. Art plays a prominent role in this office making discreet yet powerful appearances in each of the zones.
The office is divided into two zones, with numerous smaller zones. The space was orchestrated in a way that it navigates disparate zones with distinct functionality without compromising on the openness of the design. The intent to maintain a clear visual connect is obvious throughout the office space. The office connects to a terrace on the 10th floor, the exterior space adds another dimension to the workplace acting like a spill out area. The terrace, overlooking the bustling streets of Worli Naka, is perfect for meetings, gatherings or even a quick lunch or tea break.
FACT FILE
Project: A91 Partners
Project Location: Worli, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Architect’s Firm: Studio PKA
Principal Architect: Puran Kumar
Project Team: Shruti Todankar, Noel Woodward
Built Area: 2,000 Sq Ft
Year of Completion: 2022
Photographs: Niveditaa Gupta
Ar. Puran Kumar, Principal, Studio PKA
Puran Kumar established his design studio in Mumbai in 1993, after working for a few years on a diverse range of corporate projects. An advocate of uncomplicated design expressions, he supports and practices the use of natural building materials that lend an everlasting appeal to any design. From large corporate offices to residential projects that range from apartments and bungalows to villas, Puran has an expansive repertoire. An IIT Roorkee alumnus, Puran believes in flowing with the tide and making the best of what life offers, and enjoys whatever phase of creativity he is in.