RMR Marmo Pvt. Ltd., a showroom and sales office for a premium stone dealer in a famous stone market of Delhi was conceptualized with a showcase of stones that extends beyond conventional wall mounts and rack displays. Something out of the box was required for the design. The dealer was keen to achieve something out of the ordinary to display the different varieties of stones he had to offer.
Concept
After many iterations, the solution determined was to create a world map on the floor where each country will be made out of a different stone, preferably a native one. But this was technically challenged as this project was constructed during the era when computer-controlled machines did not exist. So precision and fit were not easy tasks. The project asked for skills and workmanship combined with design to enhance the visual appeal of the entire showroom.
With foreground of the site containing stockyard, the building was placed towards the rear side with a grand entrance lobby. The world map was designed as the flooring pattern. The map takes most of the area in a double lighting atrium and around the map are the dealing offices, MD’s cabin, pantries, and other utilities. The ceiling of the center of the map has diamond-shaped facets which are lit from below.
When the light hits the diamonds, the dispersion created a glare free illumination inside the atrium that also allowed for experiencing the stones in a better manner.
The acoustics in the lobby were improved as well. Corporate offices were designed on the ground and first floors. The project was covered and praised in various publications.