Fidelitus Projects has designed a functional yet aesthetic office for Stelis Biopharma in Bengaluru.Flexibility is undoubtedly the buzzword in commercial projects today, encompassing everything from casual settings of varying privacy levels to wellness and quiet spaces that ensure a dedicated space for every employee to breakout zones for respite. And flexibility was exactly what Stelis Biopharma needed.The biopharmaceutical arm of Bengaluru-headquartered Strides Pharma Science, Stelis Biopharma has been in the news for manufacturing Sputnik V, the Russian COVID-19 vaccine in India. After acquiring this major contract, the company needed a bigger office space to accommodate 250 employees and hired Fidelitus Projects to design its office within a stipulated timeframe of 75 days.Well-versed in designing smart and vibrant workplaces, Fidelitus Projects has designed many noteworthy projects. For this project following a Design-Build methodology, the team followed a disciplined approach of programmatic planning of the client’s requirements, site condition and site analysis while designing the layout, which laid emphasis on functionality of space and freedom of movement. “The important task was to make the space employee-centric and user-friendly,” explains Sanjana Singh, Vice President - Projects & Business, Fidelitus Projects. “The office has been skilfully zoned into public interactive spaces, which include the reception, the ‘Wall of Fame’, visitor meeting rooms and cabins, a breakout area in the form of an amphitheatre, a pantry and a natural green wall with a flowing waterfall, as well as focused work zones such as manager cabins, conference rooms, meeting and discussion rooms, and an AV-equipped training room.”Design processThe construction of this 18,000 sq ft office was carried out sequentially – by adding layer by layer of amenities to the base core-shell. First, utilities like HVAC, plumbing and cables required for electrical/safety systems were laid out. The second stage involved defining spaces by building partition walls and laying tile flooring and attractive patterned carpets. Last, an aesthetic touch was provided by adding wallpaper, digital vinyl communications, window blinds and textured paints in key areas.Construction softwareTo achieve accurate detailing and finishing, the team used AutoCAD, SketchUp and Lumion software for conceptualising and visually representing the design. The 3D software played a major role in visualisation of the whole project. “Planning started with a basic zoning plan in sketch form, which was evolved into a drafted technical drawing on AutoCAD capturing all the client’s programmatic requirements,” adds Singh. “Approvals on all the 3D renders, material finishes and technical specifications were taken prior to execution to increase efficiency and smoothness of project delivery.”Speciality servicesWith regard to the speciality services adopted, Singh shares, “Mechanical, electrical, plumbing MEP coordination was conducted through a ‘sequential comparison overlay process’. The functional design was prepared by our consultant engineer, while the detailed design for each was developed by speciality contractors. These separate drawings were separately reviewed and then coordinated into a reflected ceiling plan (RCP) to try and identify potential conflicts.”Material paletteSkilful and precise selection of innovative materials (green, local materials, recyclable) for different zones, keeping the heavy traffic and long-term maintenance in mind, was a priority. Hard flooring like marble and vitrified tiles have been used in the reception area, washrooms and other wet areas. For the work zones, carpet tile flooring adds much-needed vibrancy and also absorbs unwanted noise. Lending an aesthetic touch to the overall look is the painting pattern used in key areas. Apart from the aesthetics, paint is used to provide a protective coating that will preserve the surface of materials and provide a finished look to the space. The colour scheme was selected based on the company’s logo and brand identity. The deft integration of services on the ceiling and MEP ducts and conduits ensures that the ceiling height looks expansive.“Lighting is one of the underrated design elements that can transform a space definitively,” adds Singh. “Lux level calculations done beforehand and prototypes carried out at the time of execution ensured the achievement of sufficient illumination for tasks at hand. For the generation of a specific ambience, designer lights were composed into the overall schema.”Ceiling and HVAC detailsCeiling and aluminium grid jaali has been used for the reception area. The open ceiling concept accentuates the height in the reception and lends a spacious look. The hanging linear lights and hanging octagons on the wall make for a playful visual effect. For the cabins, the gypsum and grid ceiling make the area soundproof. A hybrid system of 110-tr packaged air conditioner with elliptical ducting of round diffuser for the main workstation area and 38-hp VRF system with cassette AC for all the cabins was designed to provide energy-efficient cooling.Fire protection and securityA four-zone fire alarm system with smoke and heat detectors, manual call points and electronic sounders in combination with strategically placed fire extinguishers and illuminated emergency exit signages take care of the safety aspect. A state-of-the-art automation and security system has been incorporated that provides easy access control systems to secure spaces and restrict access to authorised personnel. Executive cabins are equipped with automated remote-controlled window blinds for ease of use. Following strict compliance with the standards of planning and construction defined by the National Building Code, this project strikes the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics.Project detailsArchitect/planner: FCPLDesign & construction software: FCPL, AutoCAD, SketchUp and LumionManufacturers of materials: SPACES (workstations), Blue Star, WiproMEP contractor: FCPLHVAC and air-conditioning contractor: FCPLWelding and fire-protection: FCPLWaterproofing and insulation: FCPL