Author: AU News Bureau
The Architects’ Journal (AJ) recently launched the 30th edition of AJ Small Projects, celebrating outstanding architecture on modest budgets. The annual awards recognize schemes with contract values of ยฃ399,000 or less, encompassing home extensions, workspaces, pavilions, and small houses. Since its inception in 1995, AJ Small Projects has honored innovative, budget-friendly designs. This year’s competition follows the success of Hayatsu Architects and Grizedale Arts’ 2024 win for The Farmer’s Arms Cold Food Store. The jury praised the project’s cultural exchange and community engagement. Other notable winners included Artefact’s Triangle House, Topo Architects’ The NewBridge Project, and Commonbond Architects’ Gardenhide Studio.…
Ajay Kapur, CEO of Ambuja Cements, forecasts a 4-5% growth in cement demand for FY25, driven by robust infrastructure activity and ongoing housing and commercial sector needs. “Strong infrastructure demand and ongoing needs from housing and commercial sectors will boost cement demand in H2FY25,” Kapur stated. The government’s focus on infrastructure development and initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Urban Housing II will contribute to this growth. Ambuja Cements aims to increase its green power capacity, targeting 60% of its total power mix. The company will invest Rs. 10,000 crore in 1GW solar and wind power projects and add waste…
Shriram Properties Limited (SPL) has signed a Joint Development Agreement for a prime 6-acre land parcel in Undri, Pune, with an estimated revenue potential of โน700-750 crores. The mixed-use project, spanning over 1 million square feet, will comprise 650+ apartments and retail/commercial spaces, to be developed over four years. The project promises effortless access to IT/ITeS spaces, retail, premium educational institutions, and central parts of the city. SPL Chairman & Managing Director, Murali Malayappan, stated, “This investment aligns with our asset-light strategy for accelerated growth. Pune is a promising market, and we see significant potential for large, established brands like…
Kolkata-based real estate player Merlin Group recently launched its new corporate brand identity, reflecting rapid growth and commitment to quality, innovation and customer satisfaction. “The new identity embodies our mission to accelerate growth and deliver exceptional real estate solutions,” said Saket Mohta, Managing Director, Merlin Group. “We’re dedicated to transforming dreams into reality, creating value, and fostering a sense of belonging.” Sushil Mohta, Chairman, Merlin Group, added, “This rebranding reaffirms our commitment to excellence, built over four decades. We pioneered corporate branding in real estate and will continue innovating.” The group boasts 20 million square feet of landmark projects, including…
By Ashish Kakkar, CEO, Harmony Systems In today’s fast-paced world, where most of us spend a significant portion of our day at work, the design of our workspaces has a profound impact on our health, productivity, and overall well-being. Ergonomics, the science of designing environments to fit the people who use them, plays a crucial role in creating office furniture that supports these goals. By combining ergonomic principles with aesthetic appeal, businesses can cultivate a workspace that not only looks good but also enhances the efficiency and satisfaction of employees. The Importance of Ergonomics in Office Furniture: Ergonomics is often…
Alumil India, a subsidiary of Alumil Group, successfully piloted the ‘Knowledge Without Borders’ training program for Indian fabricators. The program aimed to bridge the gap between European and Indian construction standards for aluminium window and door frames. “We created this program to improve construction and product quality… This pilot project helped us understand our partners’ expectations and challenges. We’ll design a training program tailored to India’s needs and launch the Architectural Aluminium Academy (AAA) next year,” said Theodoros Axouristos, Managing Director, Alumil India. The AAA will offer continuous professional training, advancing the construction industry. Participants received certificates and technical guides.…
Flipspaces, a commercial interior-design tech venture, is nearing a Rs 400 crore revenue run rate, driven by tech innovation and profitability. The venture is gearing up for further expansion through acquisitions in India and the US. “We are looking to partner with legacy companies in new geographies with a similar client persona and focus on profit. This acquisition strategy also extends to acquisition of businesses in adjacent categories like hospitality, healthcare, and education, where Flipspaces sees an opportunity to scale rapidly by building on the expertise and vintage of these firms,” said Kunal Sharma, Founder & CEO of Flipspaces. The…
In a groundbreaking architectural feat, Chongqing, China, has officially welcomed “The Crystal”, the world’s longest horizontal building, stretching 300 meters across four skyscrapers at the Raffles City complex. This marvel of engineering addresses the city’s growing need for innovative, sustainable, and community-driven spaces. Designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie and engineered by Arup, The Crystal boasts striking aesthetics, state-of-the-art insulation, and ventilation systems. This multi-use hub features restaurants, an observatory, sky garden, and entertainment venues, offering breathtaking views of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. As a testament to innovative design, The Crystal seamlessly integrates connectivity, sustainability, and natural beauty. Its…