World Architecture Awards 10+5+X Submissions

Bangkok Bank Private Banking redefines understated luxury by balancing sophistication with privacy, creating a rhythmic pulse that guides clients through their banking experience. The design concept, centered on "timeless rhythm," is achieved through curved pathways and corridors that facilitate a dynamic journey within the bank. These architectural elements not only enhance movement but also contribute to a unique, memorable visit. Central to the design is the use of Mahogany wood veneer, known for its durability and classic beauty, which adds a sense of permanence and elegance, aligning with the theme of timeless luxury. This choice enhances both the aesthetic and tactile experiences for clients. The integration of thoughtful space planning and high-quality materials ensures a welcoming, functional environment that resonates with the values and expectations of clients. To address practicality, comfortable seating and efficient transaction spaces were incorporated, focusing on a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Overcoming challenges such as aligning intricate design elements with client expectations involved extensive collaboration and iteration, ensuring every detail was perfected to redefine the perception of luxury banking. Bangkok Bank Private Banking stands as a testament to innovative design and functional elegance, setting new standards in the financial sector by enriching the client experience through a sophisticated, rhythmically inspired space.

Approximately 1,700 sq.m.
dwp Lifestyle and Workplace Team

Located in the city of The Taj Mahal, Agra, Grand Mercure tells a story of the heritage and grandeur of the city through its mesmerizing design and contemporary approach. Woven in the threads of the past, the hotel takes every guest into a fantastical dream of the history of the city. Spanning across a large area, the structure unveils a haven of contemporary comfort rising above the conventional, creating an unforgettable stay. Designed by the visionary Ar. Anil Badan, Principal Architect at Studio B Architects, the hotel showcases a modern design while fusing it with traditional and local designs, making a bold statement in the historic city. With a brief to create space that tempts travelers with a charming and inviting hotel experience, Grand Mercure stands as the epitome of luxury with opulent rooms, food & beverage venues, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces.

The idea of luxury can be experienced as soon as one approaches the entrance porch. A sense of grandeur and elegance envelopes, beckoning guests to embark on a journey of unparalleled opulence. A grand canopy tops the porch, welcoming the guests with style and sophistication. Adorned with curves in the ceiling, the design breaks the vertical and edgy monotony of the facade, while providing a distinct design statement to the space. Warm lights and surrounding greenery here curate a serene atmosphere, allowing the guests to rest at ease after a tiring journey.

Upon entering through the airlock lobby, the guests are greeted by a double-height space featuring a modish furniture setup along with a sense of splendor. The ground floor accommodates the main lobby, guest lift lobby, a small tea lounge, and a coffee shop with perfect circulation, guiding the visitors with ease. The space exudes the idea of magnificence with exquisite materials, thoughtful composition, and a plethora of decor items. Bespoke furniture enriched in various upholstery, hand-crafted consoles, along with cane and brass chairs, infuse every corner with unparalleled style. Each element on the floor emanates a distinct sense of sophistication as if it were specially tailored to the exact preferences of the user, offering a feeling of exclusivity and luxury. Moving further inside, the front office is artfully done with an opulent counter topped with onyx, resonating with the idea of luxury. Backed with curved aluminium profiles and grey-painted MDF panels on top, the design elevates the area into a palatial feel. Towards the left is the luggage area, placed against a backdrop of decorative, exquisite mirrors, and chic lights, embodying opulence in the space. A cosy corner is created in the lobby area with metal chairs in yellow and a coffee table in bright pink, bringing in a sense of contrast in the overall ambience. The back panel is painted green with arch motifs along with the shelves on the adjacent wall accompanied by yellow glass accents and other decor elements. An iconic chandelier in curved design casts a warm glow surrounded by calligraphed walls and cove lights, breaking the volume of the tunnel-like interiors.

The entire hotel exemplifies bold, big and captivating design with subtle regional nuances. The public areas are interlinked with a connecting corridor that exemplifies robust attributes with sparkling lighting design, stimulated by Mughal architecture. Making a way into the tea lounge on the same floor, the space features modern furniture adorned with plush upholstery and sleek design. Backed against red-painted MDF, accents of wood in curved arches, and profile lights, lie the pastry counter with an eye-catching display, creating a mesmerising focal point in the lounge. An accent wall is created in the space with yellow-painted panels and bevelled mirrors in a pointed arch shape, reminiscent of the magnificence of Mughal architecture. With a sense of indulgence and an aura of the historical design, the tea lounge provides guests with their perfect cup of tea. Further, the coffee shop reflects a fusion of modern and traditional designs, resonating with the concept of the overall design. The walls of the shop are embellished with captivating artwork, a metal jaali screen, and moulded panels, showcasing an eclectic fusion. Bracket lights and sumptuous sofas in neutral hues emanate a calming atmosphere while accents of blue and green in chairs and sofas add a contemporary flair to the space.

The spatial finesse is visible in the carefully crafted restaurant on the upper floors, epitomising contemporary elegance with a nod to tradition. The expansive seating area boasts bespoke tables and chairs furnished with vibrant yellow, green, and blue accents, to create a lively and inviting atmosphere. Decorative lighting fixtures illuminate the space and cast a warm glow over the walls adorned with traditional artworks and motifs. The buffet area is designed to showcase an array of food items that captivates the guests and invites them to embark on culinary journey. Green-painted MDF walls with curved detailing and wooden rafters add depth and texture to the space, while the use of premium materials like marble and wood, add a touch of sophistication. With hints of traditional architecture and elevated design elements, the restaurant offers a dining experience that offers guests a visual delight and a satisfying gastronomical experience.

The guest rooms of the hotel are designed to offer tranquility and luxury, with a fusion of traditional aesthetics and modern amenities. The layout offers twin rooms and King Master suites to cater to various types of guests. The twin room is a fusion of elegant furniture crafted from rich woods and sumptuous fabrics, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled comfort. Windows offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape while traditional textiles take over the flooring in regal red and greys. The headboard and walls are envisioned with digitally printed Indian motifs and profile lights, imbuing a warm aura in the room. Transitioning towards the King’s Suite room, the design justifies the essence of grandeur with a spacious layout and a sumptuous bed. Regal carpets, digitally printed wall panels and sleek consoles add to the overall design, fusing styles effortlessly. Luxurious marble bathrooms are designed in both typology of rooms with state-of-the-art fixtures and indulgent amenities, providing guests with a spa-like retreat within the confines of their rooms.

In addition to the architectural splendour, the hotel offers a plethora of world-class amenities designed for the guests. A cutting-edge spa offers an array of rejuvenating treatments inspired by ancient wellness traditions and a fully equipped gym allows guests to maintain their exercise regimen while away from home. Lush gardens dotted with fragrant flowers and tranquil water features create a peaceful retreat where guests can unwind and relax. Smart features allow guests to control lighting, temperature, and entertainment systems with the touch of a button, along with high-speed internet connectivity that ensures communication for business travellers, making the design a nod to modern technology.

In conclusion, Grand Mercure in Agra stands as a testament to the allure of traditional design fused with contemporary sensibilities. From its majestic facade to its opulent interiors, every detail is crafted to create a setting of unparalleled beauty and sophistication, mirroring the essence of the city.



Name of the project: Grand Mercure
Design Team: Anil Badan and Shikha
Location: Agra
Area (Sq.ft): Not Specified
Initiation date: February 2023
Completion date: September 2023

Ar. Anil Badan

Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust had a small semi - dilapidated Guest House at their port in Navi Mumbai.
They wanted a refurbishment done to make it look modern and comfortable. The vision was to have a state of the art guest house where not only employees and visitors can check in, but will also be used by senior Govt officials and VVIP’s as well.

When we surveyed the site for the first time, we immediately understood the design challenges. The structure didn’t have a canopy which will make a statement and also protect the foyer with harsh Mumbai weather. The structure didn’t have a elevator. Also missing was a guest bedroom for the physically challenged.

Our design started with architectural intervention where we added a large canopy which was imposing and became the main feature to welcome the guests. The canopy starts from the slab of the second floor as such it covers the first floor terrace and gives rise a to a semi covered area for yoga or a sit out. One additional column in the reception was removed after careful structural analysis as it was fouling with the interiors and sightlines. We also removed a staircase in the double height atrium which was un-necessary. By removing the same we could achieve a grand double height sit out space.

Managers room was added in the layout and the positioning of the same was done in a strategic way to be able to have a visual connection with the lobby and foyer.

Guest rooms were designed for comfort and eleganz. also the main criteria was low maintenance materials.

The first floor has a sloping roof. The earlier defined guest house has maintained a flat false ceiling not respecting the structure. We decided to keep the profile of the sloping roof thereby giving a grandness for the VIP suits

As far as materials are concerned, the facade was cladded with ACP sheets and Aluminium windows. For interior materials, a large canvas was used - right from italian marble, to vitrified tiles, decorative wall papers, laminates, veneers, wood, corian and many other finishes, a delicate balance of which is now responsible for the final product that you see.
Chirag Thakkar, Gopal Ade, Vishal Makam

In the heart of Mahalaxmi, Mumbai, lies Lodha Excelus, housing the head office of HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers. The idea was to move from the conventional and traditional cubicle-style design aesthetics and transform the workplace by shifting from the standard type to the vibrant, from the conventional to the agile.

Creative challenge: Combining two zones
Beyond Design Architects took on the challenge assigned not only to create a visually appealing space but also to foster a culture of collaboration and motivation. They took on the task of developing a collaborative and inspiring work place by designing an aesthetically pleasing environment. The goal was very clear: go beyond convention, add colour and energy, and reinforce an atmosphere of maturity—a very fine balancing act.
 
The experience starts at the reception, where elegance and simplicity coexist. The tone is set by white walls and muted grey marble flooring, which are broken up by colourful seating combinations. The real test, though, was ahead of them. The design team faced a unique problem when they were required by fire rules to create a five-meter-wide tunnel that separated the office into two distinct zones.

That's when creativity took centre stage. The passage morphed into a vibrant hub, a link of collaboration and interaction. Decorative ceilings, bright hues, and an array of flexible furniture breathed life into the space, seamlessly binding the two halves of the office.

Harmonising sophistication with dynamism 
Going a step further, the focus turns to the actual workstation. White furniture and ceilings preserve a feeling of refinement, and vibrant, patterned rugs bring a dash of energy. Every collaborative space is a brilliant pop of colour, thoughtfully positioned to enable creativity and teamwork.
 
The open office plan is all about variety, with a wide variety of workstations to suit any requirement. Employees have a plethora of options, from communal tables to linear configurations, which greatly improves their everyday work experience.

Nurturing collaboration
In the midst of the vibrant redesign of HDFC Life's office, a core principle emerged: collaboration. Beyond the aesthetics and functional layout, the essence of facilitating collaboration became the heartbeat of the workspace. Every design choice, from the layout of communal areas to the integration of flexible furniture, was carefully curated to encourage interaction and idea-sharing among employees. 

This emphasis on collaboration not only enhances productivity but also cultivates a sense of unity and collective purpose among team members. As the physical barriers between departments dissolve within the colourful and dynamic environment, the spirit of collaboration thrives, pushing HDFC Life into a new era of innovation and success.

Embracing agility
But the transformation goes beyond aesthetics. The very essence of work culture underwent a revolution. No longer confined to rigid desks, employees welcomed an agile mindset, freely moving between collaborative zones and personal workstations. This newfound flexibility not only boosted productivity but also enabled a sense of ownership and empowerment among the workforce.

Moreover, the office became more than just a place to work. It evolved into a community hub, hosting events, brainstorming sessions, and informal gatherings. An office that was once cluttered with people working in silos is now buzzed with energy, creativity, and harmony in collaboration.

Shaping the future of work
A new chapter unfolds. It's a story of resilience, innovation, and transformation. A true testament to the power of design in shaping culture and driving progress. Welcome to the future of work, where colour meets maturity, and collaboration knows no bounds.


1) Project: HDFC Life
2) Location: LodhaExelus, Lower Parel, Mumbai
3) Client: HDFC Life
4) Clint team : Vibhash Naik, Gary Grover, Dilip Naik
4) Architect: Beyond Design Architects and Consultants
5) Project Area: 15,000 sft

Design team: Chirag Thakkar, Gopal Ade, Vishal Makam, Gabriel Malachi

The design and implementation of the executive offices of Onur Ambalaj, located in Düzce, were completed in 2024 by Yalın Tasarım Architecture. This project was meticulously planned to reflect the corporate identity of the company while addressing the specific needs of its users. The workspaces of three executives were individually designed to materialize their unique personalities, while maintaining a cohesive and unified corporate design language. This design approach prioritized both functional utility and the creation of aesthetic harmony and continuity between the spaces.

During the architectural planning phase, providing executives with a comfortable working environment was a fundamental priority. Accordingly, the offices were designed to offer personal privacy while also accommodating spaces suitable for hosting guests and conducting meetings. Alongside functionality, the inclusion of refined aesthetic details was emphasized, thereby creating a high-quality and conducive working environment for the executives.

The interior design aimed to establish a minimalist, high-quality, and impactful language that emphasized the use of natural materials. Materials such as natural wood veneer, lacquered surfaces, and marble panels were meticulously selected to achieve a sophisticated harmony within the spaces. Incorporating these materials further facilitated the creation of an atmosphere that is prestigious, high-quality, and user-friendly. A high-end design language was adopted for the executive offices, with all walls clad in natural wood veneer and lacquered surfaces to ensure visual continuity throughout the spaces. Simplicity was preferred in delicate details which were further enhanced with carefully selected materials such as marble, metal, and leather.

And also, all executive offices incorporated elements bespoked to reflect the personalized and professional requirements of their users. These details, distinguished by the use of marble, lacquer, and leather, contributed to the unique character of each office with user. For instance, in one executive’s office, vibrant lacquered surfaces were utilized to create a more colorful and dynamic ambiance. At the same time, other, darker-toned wood and leather elements were employed to establish a classical and sophisticated atmosphere, suitable for a more experienced executive. Hidden design features, high-end craftsmanship, and meticulous material selection were carefully integrated throughout both the design and implementation phases. Concealed design elements within desks, bookshelves, and cabinets ensured the consistency of the overall design principles, characterized by modernity and a clean aesthetic across the spaces.

Project Name: Onur Ambalaj Executive Offices
Project Location: Düzce, Turkey
Function: Office
Area: 140 sqm
Lead Architect: Sinem Serhatlı
Architects: Adnan Doruk Namyeter | Mertcan Eken