wolkem office building

Udaipur, India

Photo © vir.mueller architects

Architects: vir.mueller architects

Year: 2007

The design solution for the new office building for Wolkem India Ltd, in Udaipur – Rajasthan, emerged from simple principles – all employees must have direct access to natural light and ventilation, the materials used should require minimal maintenance, and the energy efficiency of the building should be maximized.

Our aesthetic vocabulary amplifies these principles. The east and west facades are designed as insulated cavity walls, while the north and south elevations incorporate insulated glazing systems and deep balconies that are screened by sandstone louvers. The facades are clad in local sandstone, contrasting with the exposed concrete beams and slabs. The executive wing, sited in the north east corner of the site, has a view of the desert hills. Sited in an arid climate, the building remains grounded in a courtyard oasis – with trees casting dappled shadows on stone walls, and the sound of water echoing from a reflecting pool.