Author: AU News Bureau

Recent photos released by ZHA on social media and its website show the construction of Central Bank of Iraq HQ near the finishing line, with the 170-metre tall tapered and twisting tower completed. The building is located on the banks of the Tigris River in Baghdad and holds a covered area of 90,000 square metres. It stands on a large concrete podium with an exoskeleton that gradually tapers as it rises, its layered and rippling facade giving shade to the double glazing and meant to recreate the effect of dappled light reflecting off the nearby river. According to the studio,…

Amaran, known for its diverse lighting solutions, has announced a new app for mobile and desktop platforms that controls lights. While targeted at content creators, the app also controls Aputure lights, which are heavily used by photographers and filmmakers. Creators on the go can use the Amaran app on iOS, Android or HarmonyOS devices. At the same time, studio lighting setups can be easily controlled via the new macOS or Windows app. The app also includes Stream Deck integration. “The Amaran app is the first lighting app designed specifically with creators in mind. It brings all of the power that…

Furnitech Luxe is set to make its offline debut in India through a partnership with Pepperfry. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for Furnitech Luxe as it expands its retail presence, allowing customers to experience its products firsthand in select Pepperfry studios. This initiative highlights the brand’s commitment to enhancing customer experience through an omnichannel approach. For over a decade, Furnitech Luxe and Pepperfry have collaborated online to offer premium furniture designs to discerning customers across India. Now, this partnership is evolving with an offline initiative that enables customers to physically engage with Furnitech Luxe’s luxurious craftsmanship. The brand’s…

Alside launched its new windows series, Sovereign Windows recently. Sovereign is a fusion-welded vinyl window that balances between style and sustainability, providing year-round comfort and energy savings. “Replacement windows can make a real statement about personal tastes and design preferences when it comes to the exterior of the home,” says Adam Copel, Business Director of windows, Associated Materials. “Sovereign Windows are a luxurious, state-of-the-art product that embraces elevated comfort and enhanced durability home improvement professionals will love.” With vinyl frame and sashes, Sovereign boasts Alside’s highest quality replacement windows in seven different styles: double hung, bay and bow, sliding, awning,…

Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group said the conglomerate’s building materials business is expected to see significant growth over the next several years with cement and decorative paints poised to be a key segment on the back of housing and infrastructure boom in India recently. Moreover, the outlook of the Indian economy remains “positive” supported by strengthening of macroeconomic fundamentals, a robust financial and corporate sector, and a resilient external sector. The government’s continued thrust on capex while pursuing fiscal consolidation, and consumer and business optimism augur well for investment and consumption demand, he said. Birla was addressing the…

Construction of Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is advancing at faster pace, according to Cristiano Ceccato, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA). The renowned architectural firm, responsible for designing the airport, is optimistic about the pace and quality of the project. Ceccato highlighted that the construction of NMIA is moving forward rapidly, adhering to the ambitious timelines set for its development. The airport, which is poised to become one of India’s major aviation hubs, reflects a modern architectural vision that aligns with the country’s growing infrastructure demands. The project’s design, conceptualised by ZHA, emphasises innovation, sustainability, and efficiency. The airport’s…

Signify illuminated 25 villages in the Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh, with energy-efficient LED street lighting to enhance the safety of local citizens. The project was executed in partnership with the Indian Army and grassroot NGO, BharatCares, as part of the company’s ‘Har Gaon Roshan’ CSR program, which focuses on sustainable rural development and women’s safety across India, through lighting. This project aims to create a positive impact on the quality of life across over 1,500 households within these villages by illuminating the streets and community centres such as primary healthcare buildings, places of worship, and other public places. Despite…

US-based company, Southern Home Services acquired Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air recently. Known for their exceptional plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services, Elite Electrical, Plumbing & Air has become a household name in Port St. Lucie and the surrounding areas. “We are excited to welcome Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air into our growing family of brands,” stated Jarrod Brinker, Chief Strategy Officer , Southern Home Services. “This partnership not only further secures our contiguous coverage along the I-95 corridor between Fernandina Beach to the north and West Palm Beach to the south, but also strengthens Elite’s capacity to provide exceptional services…