Baldiwala Edge designs a Singapore-based ship broker’s office in Mumbai as a torch collector’s paradise

The Olympic torch that we see today has not been the same forever. It has evolved over the years—from a bowl with a silver ring and a leather handle in 1980, designed by Don McFarland, to the Paris 2024 torch, which features themes of equality, water and peace, designed by French designer Mathieu Lehanneur. The fervor for torch collecting is nothing short of intense and is truly leagues apart from the world of collecting sports cards or uniforms.

This South Mumbai office by Baldiwala Edge, belonging to a Singapore-based ship broker and a passionate torch collector, takes one through the evolution of Olympic torches over the years, all while providing a breathtaking 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the Mumbai skyline from halfway up. The ask- “an office that lets everyone be in touch and see everything that is going on around the space” says Baldiwala. “This was achieved with ample roaming light that bounces off the muted materials and natural wood used across, lending warmth to tones of whites and beiges – something that his wife was very keen on.”

Retaining the unhindered ceiling height opened the space to the uninterrupted panoramic views of the cityscapes. The space is characterised by a restrained palette and clean lines, offering a calming contrast to the typical professional chaos of an office environment. The executive cabins, conference area and lounge are thoughtfully arranged around the building’s perimeter, offering expansive views through large windows. Meanwhile, glass partitions ensure that those in the waiting room and common workstations can also enjoy the same impressive vistas.

Designed for an appointments-only system, this space eschews a traditional reception in favor of a striking Albanian stone-clad wall that gracefully curves into a brass metal storage unit. This fluid curvature is reflected in the refined mid-century sofa and table, while the ceiling, adorned with translucent Barrisol fabric, casts a soft ambient light.

The conference room is distinguished by a bespoke 10-seater table, crafted to evoke the sleek form of a ship. One leg is artistically shaped like a cone, while the other adopts an elliptical silhouette, both finished with a refined cement stain polish.

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Taking up an alcove, the cabin frames the triangular layout with an executive table against a transparent oakwood partition. It includes a two-seater sofa, storage for artifacts, and yellow artwork that stands out against the muted tones. Not to miss the fiddle fig plant that surely owns up the space.

For Baldiwala, designing this space would have been like playing Tetris; plotting and aligning spaces for it to flow with the wall. The second cabin is a rendition of contemporary design—a custom all-oakwood table and Chandigarh chairs, complemented by abstract wall art.

With simple wall textures, black and white art with golden details and mid-century furniture, the executive lounge takes up one angular corner, pointing out of the imaginary boundary.

Torch repository on the 39th floor of a skyscraper—the executive cabin is a muse for most, especially the collectors. With a corrugated design marked with MDF panels, not to mention the brass accents with engraved country names, that takes you through the years of the Olympics in just a few footsteps. The handcrafted table in the center takes up the shape of an inverted pyramid, forming a diamond shape. There are 15 tables in the workstation area, each consisting of 5 tables supported by a substantial metal frame beneath and topped with natural wood and laminate surfaces. The legs are crafted from solid oakwood and secured with sturdy brass clamps that connect to the metal frame. Unlike standard modular furniture, these custom-made tables are both durable and visually striking, offering a sleek and tidy appearance. The partitions between the workstations feature oak frames and glass.

The coffered ceiling above the workstations is equipped with linear LED lights integrated into its grooves, maintaining a clean, uncluttered look while illuminating the area. With the torch burning in its full flame just ten days ago at the Jardin des Tuileries, it was the perfect time to visit this Olympic-inspired office, and it could not have been any better.

FACT FILE:

Project Name: The Winner’s Perch

Design Firm: Baldiwala Edge

Location: Mumbai

Photo courtesy: Talib Chitalwala