PATHFINDERS
Commercial Design | September 2019 | 55T
he coworking segment is rapidly gaining
traction, primarily due to the reduced cost
such spaces offer over traditional ofÀce
spaces. Sarda believes that factors like workplace
productivity and employee happiness are also
key factors contributing to the growth of shared
workspaces. ́:e have various recreational activities
and community engagement programmes that
ensure our members stay productive as well as
energetic in ofÀce,μ he shares.
Smartworks’ focus has always been on increasing productivity and
employee happiness at work. Their ‘Smartweekenday’ programme provides
networking and collaboration opportunity through its array of regular events
— from pet therapy, indoor games and tournaments, and stand-up comedy,
among others.
Sarda says that the company focuses on creating the right environment
that caters to the needs of today’s India by understanding the mindsets of
the working class. Facilities like crèche, gyms, meditation, chair yoga, pet
therapy, yoga classes, /I9( music and other concierge services ensure an
overall productive ofÀce e[perience across Smartworks’ centers.NEJEEB KHAN
MD, KGD ArchitectureNEETISH SARDA
Founder, SmartworksK
GD strongly believes that, as an
architecture and interior design institution,
there is an opportunity to create a positive
impact on the environment by intelligently planning
spaces for utility, not only for those using it but
communities at large.
Khan accepts that it is imperative that architectural
design today is sustainable and hence every task
is skillfully and sensitively drawn to comply with
the principles of socio, economic and ecological
sustainability. ́It is the Àrm’s ongoing effort to bring innovations in design
technology and engineering that improve the sustainability quotient in every
project. Good work aims at minimising every step that could affect the building
framework and environment in future and KGD’s projects focus on sustainable
design,μ says Khan.
The practice also adopts an integrated project delivery approach, using
%I 0 to ensure precision-based deliverables and smoother project e[ecution.
Design services are combined with engineering services, including mechanical,
electrical, plumbing and lighting along with landscape design, assuring a
seamless, coordinated solution.