The Mortar House: A Harmonious Workspace in Gujarat, India
Nestled within the vibrant cultural milieu of Gujarat, India, the Mortar House emerges as a testament to innovative design and functionality. This office space, shared by architect Anuj Kapoor’s firm, Logic Design + Build, and an e-commerce start-up, elegantly blends aesthetics with practicality. Kapoor envisioned this project not merely as a workspace but as a creative environment catering to diverse needs.
A Vision of Comfort and Collaboration
In an era where the workplace has evolved to foster community and collaboration, Kapoor’s philosophy was clear: “We wanted the office to feel comfortable, inviting, humble, and collaborative.” Instead of opting for two distinct office spaces, the goal was to create a shared workspace that solved functional issues while promoting interaction among its users.
Revitalizing a Fragmented Space
Occupying a 280-square-metre area within a low-rise office building, the Mortar House originally featured a series of cramped and fragmented rooms. The design transformation began with removing existing partitions to maximize natural light and enhance the connection to outdoor terraces and dual courtyards. This initial phase laid the groundwork for a more open, inviting layout that encourages creativity.
Balancing Light and Heat
A crucial aspect of the design was controlling natural light and preventing excessive solar heat gain. Kapoor explained, “The most innovative aspect of our design is the way the spaces flow into each other and also act as invisible partitions.” By strategically re-framing existing openings and introducing new ones, the architects ensured that natural light permeates various areas, fostering a bright and airy atmosphere throughout the day.
The Artistic Touch of Brick Arches
One of the most striking features of the Mortar House is its brick-framed arches. These arches not only guide movement but also frame picturesque views, adding a textural contrast to the building’s masonry construction. Kapoor’s attention to detail is reflected in how these arches enhance the spatial flow while introducing a unique aesthetic.
Vivid Colour Palette Inspired by Art
Drawing inspiration from the renowned Dutch artist Piet Mondrian, Kapoor infused vibrant hues into the workspace. The use of primary colours in stained glass partitions adds a playful yet sophisticated dimension. “We wanted colour to pop against natural textures,” Kapoor elucidated, highlighting how these colours resonate with the identities of both companies sharing the space.
Materiality: Purity and Functionality
Driven by a tight budget and a stringent four-month timeline, the project adopted a pared-back approach to materials. The palette predominantly features clay brick, lime plaster, birch ply, and leather, achieving an understated elegance. Through thoughtful material selection, the workspace establishes a hierarchical essence, distinguishing between different areas such as leadership rooms and collaborative spots.
Functionality Meets Craftsmanship
The design ethos extends to the furniture, as much of it was customised by the Logic team. Individual desks and shared work tables come equipped with built-in charging points and storage, seamlessly merging utility with aesthetics. Furthermore, offcuts were creatively repurposed into functional elements, reflecting Kapoor’s belief that “specially designed furniture, nooks, objects and cabinetry should combine forces and make an impact together.”
Incorporating Community Spaces
Beyond mere workstations, the Mortar House accommodates areas for interaction. A breakout zone encourages relaxation and conversation, alongside shared amenities like washrooms and a coffee area, fostering a sense of community among colleagues.
Reflections of Indian Architectural Heritage
The architects didn’t overlook vernacular Indian architecture; subtle nods are present in features such as concrete cornices adorning the brick arches. These details resonate with local architectural practices, merging tradition with contemporary design.
Outdoor Connections and Natural Elements
Enhancing the workspace’s expansive feel, the design includes a central lift lobby that leads to different zones, adorned with a marble panel exhibiting the logos of both companies. To deepen connections with nature, openings were integrated, allowing light, air, and greenery to permeate interior spaces. The inclusion of two plumeria trees, surrounded by built-in seating on the terrace, beautifully embodies the architects’ intent to merge the built environment and the natural world.
Final Thoughts
The Mortar House stands not just as an office but as a vibrant ecosystem where design, function, and community converge. By thoughtfully navigating challenges related to space, light, and materials, Anuj Kapoor and his team have created a workspace that is not just visually compelling, but also supportive of creativity and collaboration.