Author: AU News Bureau

Foster + Partners has unveiled a comprehensive masterplan for Gaafaru Island, addressing the critical challenges posed by climate change, rising sea levels, and social inequalities. The sustainable plan, developed in collaboration with the Maldives Fund Management Corporation, aims to ensure a resilient future for the island. The masterplan incorporates six guiding principles, balancing environmental protection with community prosperity. Key design elements include sustainable land reclamation, green buffer zones using native plant species, and minimal environmental impact through innovative dredging methods. The plan also features Marine Protected Areas, a marine institute, and luxury resorts with floating platforms for energy and local…

Alliance Flooring Summit brought ten stores together to host and share best practices in one location for this educational, networking event. All members were invited to this Summit to attend breakout sessions and discuss topics that will propel their businesses forward. In addition, Alliance Flooring also showcased suppliers featured in their Perfect Home selling solution along with their best product specials. The Summit also highlighted the announcement of the addition of new vendors to the Perfect Home program. Before other groups truly understood the power of networking, Alliance Flooring, the parent company for CarpetsPlus Colortile and Carpetland, recognized the benefits…

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has recently unveiled its design for the Alisher Navoi International Scientific Research Centre in New Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The cultural and educational facility will feature a museum, 400-seat auditorium, research center, and residential school for 200 students. Inspired by Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage, the arched façade and interiors will be built with locally produced bricks. The sustainable design incorporates passive architectural principles, minimizing energy consumption while maintaining optimal indoor conditions. Natural ventilation, thermal chimney effect, and solar shading ensure comfort throughout the year. Landscaping inspired by traditional Shashmaqom music features terraces, amphitheaters, and shaded pavilions for community engagement…

Bathroom solutions company Aquant recently launched an immersive bathware experience centre in Mahalaxmi, Mumbai. Spread over 2,800 sq. ft, this elegant, immersive space offers visitors a first-hand experience of Aquant’s luxurious bath fittings, cutting-edge sanitary ware, stylish faucets, and indulgent spa concepts. The opening of the display centre is part of the brand’s ongoing expansion across India and commitment towards setting new standards in bathroom luxury. “Aquant has always been about bold designs. We believe in creating strong statements – be it through our products or display centres. This one-of-a-kind space allows us to reinforce that notion,” says Saajid Patel,…

The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) recently welcomed Stuart Turner Group, a leading name in water-boosting technology, as its newest member. Stuart Turner Group, which was founded over 115 years ago and manufactures water pumps and other water-boosting products, says it is dedicated to educating consumers on better water management, providing solutions that reduce water consumption and cut down on waste. It sees joining the BMA as ‘a significant step’ as it looks to ‘push the boundaries of what is possible in the bathroom and water management sectors’. Tom Reynolds, Chief Executive, BMA,  said, “We are thrilled to welcome Stuart Turner…

At the recently held Kolkata Dealers Meet, Alder unveiled its latest collections and growth strategy, marking a pivotal moment in its journey. Speaking at event, Aditya Chadha, Director, Alder Furniture, said, “At Alder, we don’t just manufacture furniture, we create solutions. Our knockdown furniture, with its lifetime guarantee of unlimited assembly and disassembly, speaks to the needs of Indian families who want practicality without sacrificing elegance. We are here to redefine how Indians think of furniture—by making it stylish, adaptable, and affordable.” Alder’s design ethos combines aesthetic appeal, usability, and affordability, making it a one-stop shop for all furniture needs.…

Students from GITAM School of Architecture, Hyderabad recently participated in the fifth edition of the IIID Hyderabad i3 series, organized by the Institute of Indian Interior Designers (IIID) at Lakhotia College of Design. The event served as a bridge between architecture students and seasoned professionals, offering a valuable opportunity for learning and engagement. Esteemed architects, including Naveen Panuganti, Shamila Meeran, and Amit Shah, shared their professional journeys, design philosophies, and strategies. Their insights into the field highlighted the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and innovation in architectural design. The platform allowed GITAM students to interact through meaningful Q&A sessions, giving…

Somany Ceramics recently collaborated with Sushant University on a project titled “Transforming Broken Tiles into Trendsetting Style”. This innovative initiative is aimed at promoting recycling of waste tiles into pieces of art and captivating murals, fostering a culture of sustainability while addressing waste reduction. 60 talented architecture students showcased their art and technical expertise in repurposing discarded tiles into breathtaking works of art, serving as a testament to their commitment to sustainability and innovation. Anshuman Chakravarty, Head of Marketing, Somany Ceramics, said, “We are thrilled to see such enthusiasm for recycling and sustainability among India’s future architects. At Somany Ceramics,…