Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Society Office
SDME, or the Shree Dharmasthala Manjunatha Education Society, is a well-known organization that runs several reputable educational institutions.The organization had a pre-existing office in Central Bangalore which had become insufficient for its effective operation.
Upon acquiring the adjoining office, the client asked AKFD to extend the space with minimal changes to the existing office. A seamless interface was developed that involved no major reworking and almost no downtime. What we delivered to the client was a clean, open workspace that maintained an "old-world charm" while remaining highly efficient.
The spaces were united by a seamless micro-concrete floor and a muted palette of oakwood, white, gray, and pale pink.
Location
Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Commissioned By
SDM Educational Society
Designed & Curated By
Ayush Kasliwal Design Studio (AKDS)
Furniture By
Ayush Kasliwal Furniture Design (AKFD)
Year
2023
As you step out of the elevator, you are immediately greeted by the warmth of a wood-paneled feature wall, softened by lush indoor greenery and the elegant texture of a fluted glass door. This refined paneling continues into the reception, where a curated mix of modern and vintage furniture establishes a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic.
To one side, handcrafted oakwood sofa benches offer comfortable seating, while the other side features a striking round marble-topped table paired with vintage-inspired chairs. A centerpiece 120-year-old cabinet displays curated publications and objects of interest, offering visitors a tactile connection to history. With minimal artwork and crisp white walls, the space perfectly balances modern efficiency with a sophisticated, old-world charm.
The conference room is a beautifully lit space, with large windows overlooking the bangalore skyline. a large embroidered pichwai adorns one wall, and a custom made chandelier, made in alabaster and brass hangs from a dome inset in the ceiling. the large oak wood table with in-built wiring takes the price of place in the small, but very functional conference room.
The two directors cabins were essentially retained from the original layout, with one taking the place of the previous conference room. the rooms were reorganised with furniture and new carpeting, making sure that they had enough space for larger groups, also for casual sitting. new art was introduced with prints and paintings, livening up the space.
The casual pantry are, instead of being tucked in is put out in the open and integrated into the workspace. with an ebb and flow of employees and trainees, the dining table makes for a good impromptu meeting table or a work desk.
An interesting chandelier hangs from the exposed ceiling above an organically shaped terrazzo table, with adjustable stools around it. the adjoining sit out and large sliding doors bring the fabulous Bangalore weather into the pantry/workplace.
The wonderfully lit work spaces extend the language of the previously existing furniture. generous glass fronted storage allows the work spaces to be clean and organised. large trees have been planted inside the spaces bringing the famed gardens of Bangalore into the work area.
