EARTHEN SPIRIT
RETROFITTING, COMPLETED 2022
This project undertook the transformation of an obsolete warehouse into a vibrant co-living space, capitalizing on its strategic proximity to burgeoning tech parks. The warehouse had fallen out of use due to rapid urbanization, which restricted access for the heavy vehicles that once supplied materials. However, the same urbanization drove a significant demand for living spaces among young professionals, making the location ideal for repurposing. To maximize the site's potential, two additional floors were constructed. The original structure was strengthened with additional reinforced concrete columns, ensuring stability and safety. The unique angular external walls were skillfully incorporated into the new layout, optimizing the number of rooms without compromising design integrity. A notable feature of the redesign is the airy, open terrace, which houses a cafeteria and gym. This space is crowned with Mangalore clay tiled roofs featuring glass tile inserts, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the day. The newly designed staircase enhances the sense of space with its double-height design, creating a striking play of volumes within the structure. The warehouse's historical character was preserved through exposed brickwork, both on the façade and as feature walls within the rooms. This element, combined with cement-finished walls and patterned flooring tiles, defines the interior material palette, blending industrial charm with modern aesthetics. Sustainability was a guiding principle throughout the renovation, emphasizing the importance of reusing, repurposing, and reprogramming existing structures. This approach not only conserves resources but also breathes new life into historical buildings, aligning with contemporary urban living needs. By reimagining the warehouse as a co-living space, the project addresses the pressing demand for modern, community-oriented housing while celebrating the building's architectural heritage. This blend of old and new creates a unique living environment that resonates with the area's industrial past and its dynamic present.
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