U-Solar Office

Designed for U-SOLAR, a renewable energy start-up, this project transforms a neglected 6,000 sq. ft. office and adjoining 3,000 sq. ft. rooftop into a flexible workplace that reflects the company's commitment to innovation, sustainability and employee well-being. Conceived as two complementary environments, the office provides a calm, minimal setting for focused work, while the landscaped rooftop functions as a vibrant pavilion for collaboration, recreation and informal meetings. Large sliding glass doors dissolve the boundary between the two, allowing natural light, greenery and fresh air to extend deep into the workplace.

The existing office presented significant constraints, including a limited 2.8-metre floor-to-ceiling height and immovable washrooms shared between two landlords. A custom expanded metal ceiling system was developed to conceal air-conditioning, electrical and networking services while exposing the original concrete slab, preserving the industrial character and creating visual depth. A central circulation spine organises the workplace, ensuring intuitive movement despite the fixed planning conditions.

Every workstation was custom designed in polished birch plywood with integrated power and data access, creating a functional and uncluttered environment. On the terrace, the ageing metal roof and sloping floor were retained, with a raised WPC deck establishing a level surface. Handcrafted bamboo screens and suspended leaf-like ceiling panels, developed through collaboration with local artisans, soften the industrial shell and create an immersive garden-like setting. Inspired by Bengaluru's roadside tea stalls, the cafeteria kiosk reinterprets the familiar lifting shutter as a contemporary architectural feature. Together ,architecture, landscape and craftsmanship create a workplace that empowers employees with flexibility, comfort and a strong connection to nature.