Knowledge Center Pilots One-Day Design Lab for Architects

22 Jul 2025 CW Team

The Lab offers five interconnected spaces tailored to different design needs. A hands-on Material Library lets architects and clients physically compare finishes, eliminating screen-based guesswork. The Catalogue Library centralises product data, replacing the usual chaos of scattered brochures and email trails. The Reference Library supports design rigour with access to legal codes, working drawings, and case studies. Meanwhile, a Networking Café fosters informal collaboration, and fully equipped Conference Rooms allow for alignment and approvals.

According to Ankur Jain, founder and CEO of Knowledge Center, “We’re calling it a beta, but it’s already working. We’re observing how people use the space—what triggers momentum, where friction still exists—so that we launch something truly useful, not just exciting.”

KC reports that studios have been using the Lab to conduct material walkthroughs, finalise client selections, and coordinate with vendors—tasks that usually require weeks and multiple platforms. Designers have noted the speed at which decisions are made when tools and samples are readily available. Builders have responded positively, exploring the Lab as a neutral zone for all stakeholders. Educators too have expressed interest in using the space for critique sessions and industry exposure.

KC plans to soon launch a digital prep tool for session planning and introduce a flexible membership model, enabling studios and consultants to access the Lab on demand.

Currently in quiet preview mode, the One-Day Design Lab is expected to formally open in the coming weeks—marking what could be a paradigm shift in how design work gets done.

A new model of collaborative design is being tested in Gurgaon as the Knowledge Center (KC) soft-launches its One-Day Design Lab, a physical space designed to streamline architecture workflows. Without the fanfare of a grand launch, the Lab is quietly welcoming select studios, developers, and educators to experience its integrated, frictionless setup—compressing weeks of planning into a single day. The Lab offers five interconnected spaces tailored to different design needs. A hands-on Material Library lets architects and clients physically compare finishes, eliminating screen-based guesswork. The Catalogue Library centralises product data, replacing the usual chaos of scattered brochures and email trails. The Reference Library supports design rigour with access to legal codes, working drawings, and case studies. Meanwhile, a Networking Café fosters informal collaboration, and fully equipped Conference Rooms allow for alignment and approvals. According to Ankur Jain, founder and CEO of Knowledge Center, “We’re calling it a beta, but it’s already working. We’re observing how people use the space—what triggers momentum, where friction still exists—so that we launch something truly useful, not just exciting.” KC reports that studios have been using the Lab to conduct material walkthroughs, finalise client selections, and coordinate with vendors—tasks that usually require weeks and multiple platforms. Designers have noted the speed at which decisions are made when tools and samples are readily available. Builders have responded positively, exploring the Lab as a neutral zone for all stakeholders. Educators too have expressed interest in using the space for critique sessions and industry exposure. KC plans to soon launch a digital prep tool for session planning and introduce a flexible membership model, enabling studios and consultants to access the Lab on demand. Currently in quiet preview mode, the One-Day Design Lab is expected to formally open in the coming weeks—marking what could be a paradigm shift in how design work gets done.

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