At Penguin Random House’s new office in Gurugram, the boundless delight of reading hardcover volumes beckons at every corner. With the introduction of SJK Architects’ hybrid-friendly office, the area takes a fresh turn.
Interiors present a story of literary legacies, with functionality as the main character. The resimercial design of the area, a hybrid of residential and commercial, documents the varied requirements of the esteemed publishing firm. Under the direction of Shimul Javeri Kadri, SJK Architects, along with colleagues Vaishali Mangalvedhekar, Sarika Shetty and Roshni Kshirsagar, meticulously designed the interior, where bookshelves covered in mementos cast a nostalgic aura and act as doorsway to a surreal universe. However, the client’s corporate calling is clear from the flexible work arrangement.
“The office spans 6,850 sq ft and is located in Gurugram, New Delhi. We worked consciously with the existing structure without altering it too much,” reveals Roshni.
The land has been divided into three clusters for the endeavor, which are kept connected by ornate passages that function as literary chronicles of the client’s past. These clusters, which have movable seating patterns, promote a refreshed, efficient workforce.
Without holding back, the entrance’s core cluster declares the brand identity right away. Penguin silhouettes and a bespoke cement screen that looks like a book put the “pen” in “Penguin Random House.” On the other hand, the cluster to the east resembles a living room, complete with a swing and additional furnishings to encourage creative endeavors and storytelling. The western cluster, which caters to more relaxed demands, has an amphitheater for bigger team talks and a coffee bar for private conversations.
It was no small task to create a holistic workspace that storytellers frequented. Nevertheless, SJK Architects demystified the oxymoronic criteria of a corporate yet welcoming environment through the use of architectural detailing and space planning.
