Office for HDFC Life

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