Header: Nakul Jain
Basics Architects has set out to redefine what an industrial space at Sector 63, Noida, can be. The humongous space spans across a 4,440 sq m site with 1,80,000 sq.ft of warehouse, including 36,000 sq.ft of commercial office space. What began as an idea to build an industrial facility turned into a nature-embracing, user-oriented venue. It all started with a question: how can industry and human experience coexist while centring nature?
Two in one: A warehouse and a functional office space
The new complex made for Fybros Electrical combines a unique office space with a modern, fully-functional warehouse. The client, an electrical product company, requested a space that reflects their key values such as sustainability, efficiency, and durability. The key values of Fybros align perfectly with the Basics Architect’s Nature-Integrated design that emphasises Habitability and Sustainability. Sustainability is embodied in energy efficiency and water conservation, while making a positive impact on the future. Habitability focuses on users well being, including ventilation, natural light, and biophilia.
Following Ancient Vastu principles
Looking ahead, the architects integrated likely changes in zoning and land use into their design. According to the client’s wishes, the architects also incorporated Vastu principles into the design, layout, and space arrangement. Ancient Indian texts referring to five elements known as tatvas (Earth, Fire, Water, Air, and Sky) were included through an array of modern interventions. The façade is painted in lively terracotta colour, providing an earthy version of the Fybros signature red colour palette. Green walls and lush plants in the interior strengthen the relationship with nature.
Water element is embodied through rainwater harvesting and porous hardscaping. A biodigester system recycles sewage into greywater for irrigation, while an alkaline drinking water system improves health. Fire is expressed in heat management, which minimises energy use and heat gain, through energy efficient LED-lighting, glass, polystyrene roof installation, and heat reflective paint. Fresh air systems with advanced filtrations Low-VOC finishes, and natural ventilation in the warehouses keep air quality high even during citywide pollution spikes. Large curtain walls and high windows allow for natural illumination while providing a panoramic view of the outdoors, reducing the need for artificial light. Skylights bring in soft, natural light across the workspace.
Welcoming warehouse design
Most warehouses aren’t welcoming spaces, but Basic Architects’ design aims to change that by focusing on the comfort, convenience, and well-being of warehouse workers. Circulation routes connect all areas with toilets, water stations, and parking that are easily accessible. Metallic canopy covers the loading areas, while shades on balconies and refuge areas protect workers from heat. Louvred and screened facades provide natural ventilation supported by large ventilators.
Modular office design
Office space design, spanning over two floors of the South Block, adds a dynamic human-centric layer to the building. A separate entrance brings the visitors through a pre-reception area on the stilt floor. The double-height office reception is flooded with diffused sunlight from south-facing windows. A sculptural staircase connects the reception with the central space.
The office hosts more than 150 modular workstations, executive offices, the Director’s suite, and HR, IT, and Accounting offices. The workspace is arranged in smaller clusters of desks to improve privacy and productivity. A showroom, a boardroom, and several meeting rooms are accompanied by guest accommodations and amenities (a cafeteria, a café, a recreation zone, and a town hall). These meeting and breakout zones are tucked between clusters, allowing easy access from any desk. Two courtyard-style lounges reside under a large skylight with wide views of the sky, lush plants, and floors made of wood, tiles, and decorative pebbles.
The Twin Habitat revolutionises architecture with Basics Architects’ Nature-Integrated Design philosophy. The building is resilient to harsh temperatures and air pollution by combiningcross ventilation, breathable materials, and air filtration systems. Energy efficiency, reducing water use, green facade, and climate-responsive design reduce the Twin Habitat’s bioecological footprint. These approaches result in a comfortable workplace and a cleaner, more resilient city.
Project Information
Typology: Warehouse and Commercial space (office)
Location: Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Name of Client: Fybros
Architecture Consultants: Basics Architects
Principal Architect: Vinod Singhi & Ranju Singhi
Design team: Vinod Singhi, Ranju Singhi, Sudeshna Ganguly, Nishant Kumar, Akshay Chachra, Nikita Saini, Harapriya Behera
Photographer: Nakul Jain
