Author: AU News Bureau

 Sustainability is redefining India’s commercial real estate market, with green-certified office spaces commanding rental premiums of up to 50%, according to a new report by Altre Digital, a commercial real estate consultancy. The study, which reviewed 3,000 buildings and 1 billion sq. ft. across India’s top seven cities, shows that occupiers and investors are increasingly prioritizing ESG (environmental, social, and governance) goals when selecting office space. Conventional office buildings with green certifications now earn 18–22% higher rentals, while certified flexible workspaces fetch 47–50% more. “Buildings are now valued not just by location or design but by their ability to conserve…

The Canadian Interiors magazine has announced the winners of its 28th Best of Canada Awards, recognizing excellence, creativity, and innovation in interior design projects and products across Canada. A total of 28 winners were chosen through a rigorous jury process by industry experts. Project of the Year: – Lantern House by Leckie Studio Architecture + Design Inc. The Lantern House offers a refined and contemporary take on the classical Nine-Square Grid, balancing formal clarity with contextual sensitivity and a deep sense of intimacy. Its quiet rigor makes it a deserving Project of the Year, according to Dominique Cheng of Nonument.…

Somany Ceramics Ltd. has acquired a majority stake in Durabuild, a Delhi-based manufacturer of construction chemicals, marking its strategic entry into the rapidly expanding construction chemicals market. This acquisition is a pivotal step in Somany’s long-term strategy to transform into a total building solutions provider, offering products that not only elevate aesthetics but also strengthen the core of built structures as per a press release. Durabuild, founded in 1998 by the late Dr. Dhananjoy Ghanti, brings a strong legacy of R&D-driven innovation and a product portfolio of over 200 SKUs across waterproofing systems, concrete admixtures, tile adhesives, and more. With…

CP Kukreja Architects is designing the new Civil Enclave at Bagdogra Airport, West Bengal, envisioned as a sustainable aviation hub connecting the Eastern Himalayas. Drawing inspiration from Kangchenjunga and Darjeeling’s tea estates, the terminal’s façade features parametric aluminium fins that echo the regional topography. Designed to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, the airport integrates advanced storm-water management systems to address its flood-prone site. With a built-up area of 1.2 million sq.ft., the project exemplifies a harmonious blend of ecological sensitivity and infrastructure resilience, positioning Bagdogra as a model for future-ready, contextually rooted airport design in India. Typology: International Airport Name of…

BuzzWorks, the managed and flexible offices arm of Brigade Group has announced its latest pre-eminent centre at Mindspace Business Park, HITEC City, Hyderabad, spanning over 50,000 square feet. This launch, which adds 1000 seats to its existing desk bank, marks yet another strategic expansion beyond Brigade-owned developments. It also underlines the brand’s growing footprint and commitment to delivering premium managed workspaces in high-demand commercial locations. Located in the thriving IT corridor of Cyberabad, the centre will be equipped with a full spectrum of amenities including a cafeteria, a wellness room, collaborative zones, recreational areas, phone booths and a common boardroom…

FPG has introduced its new Impulse Series Refrigerated Display Cabinets, designed for high-velocity retail environments. The cabinets deliver chilled convenience, merchandising impact, and energy efficiency. According to Robert Darroch, CEO and Head of Product Innovation at FPG, “Impulse is built for retail environments where product speed matters. It keeps food fresh, drinks ice-cold, and customers coming back for more.” The Impulse Series features two models: Impulse Slim (466mm depth) and Impulse Plus (600mm depth). Both models maximize product facings and allow retailers to create visually compelling displays. The cabinets have integral refrigeration systems with R290 natural refrigerant, delivering plug-and-play functionality…

The Musée du Louvre has launched an international architecture competition as part of its ambitious EURO400 million “Nouvelle Renaissance” initiative—aimed at reimagining the museum for the 21st century. Central to the plan is a EURO 270 million design competition focused on two major projects: a new entrance via the historic Perrault Colonnade and a dedicated underground gallery for the Mona Lisa. Announced by President Emmanuel Macron earlier this year, the initiative addresses critical issues including overcrowding, outdated infrastructure, and climate control. With attendance nearing 10 million annually—double what I.M. Pei’s iconic Pyramid entrance was designed for—the Louvre is overdue for…

Prayag India, a leading name in premium bath and kitchen fittings as well as plumbing solutions, has announced the launch of its latest innovation — the CP Faucet Colour Range. This new collection reimagines traditional chrome-plated faucets by introducing a refined palette of colour options that combine visual appeal with high functionality. Responding to the growing demand for personalised and design-driven spaces, Prayag’s CP Faucet Colour Range has been carefully developed to cater to the evolving preferences of homeowners, architects, and interior designers. The range features a variety of stylish finishes, including classic chrome, matte black, and brushed textures, making…