Making a difference

V-Guard, one of the most affluent businesses in Kerala, is changing the way we look at our office buildings. Winner of the 2009-2010 Gold Leaf Award for architectural excellence: state level in the public and semi public category instituted by the Indian Institute of Architects Kerala Chapter, the V-Guard office in Vennala is a 12 storied green spectacle. Plants spill out from every floor turning the structure into a vertical garden. As it is the only tall structure in the neighborhood, the building enjoys uninterrupted view of Cochin.

Kochouseph Chittilappilly, the man behind the organization, wanted an office away from the noise and traffic of the city.  Architect Roy Antony was in the middle of researching office buildings when Mr. Chittilapilly came to offer him the project. They both agreed that the building should be environment friendly. Having looked at several office spaces in the tropical regions of the world, Architect Antony formulated a building that would use natural light and ventilation. With the floors being cantilevered from a centralized core, the spaces became a blank canvas for the architect to render. Verandahs of 2.5m width were designed for the circumference of every floor. These verandahs could be used as walkways and would have planter boxes creating another layer to the façade. The south and the west of the building would have more plants to block the sun. The green-screen would be equipped with drip irrigation so that when the air passes through, it would become cooler. Therefore the office does not use much artificial lighting or air conditioning. The façade of the building becomes an interesting play of lines, planes and plants. The V-Guard office has rainwater harvesting plants, water treatment plants and solar panels which have cut down the bills to 1/4^th of what they could have been. “The client took so much interest in the project and gave me a free hand. He was with us every step of the way, asking questions and looking at details. Clients like him are rare.  I had just one draughtsman and a computer at that time. It was an exciting opportunity for me” says Achitect Antony.

Much has been said about the building and its architecture. The first look at the building as you walk in from the gate is soothing to the eyes. You can feel that the atmosphere is cooler. But has it actually influenced the environment in the office? Has it enhanced their work culture? The answers to both those questions are yes.

Lessons in light and ventilation

Entry to the building is through a double height reception with massive pivoted wooden doors. The reception is simple, with a display wall of awards they have won. As you walk into the office space from the lift, you notice that there is no glare from a tube light nor the stale air of an air conditioned office. The atmosphere is fresh and no fans or lights are switched on. There is copious amount of light flooding through the window, though one would not expect that after seeing the building exterior. “The old office was a quarter of this one. Now the workplaces are so spacious. I am proud to show people around. I see visitors look around in wonder.” says Mr. Ratish, Chief Officer of Corporate Communications. Outside the window is lush vegetation and a beautiful view of Cochin irrespective of which floor you are on. The work spaces are arranged to be as nearer to the windows as possible. The concept of only corner offices having a good view is made irrelevant. The green area on every floor invites birds and so far has not had an insect problem. There is a considerable gardening team to maintain the plants. Shoulder high dividers partition the office into private spaces. There is a conference room on every floor and seating areas for visitors. All the employees are quick to remark that the natural atmosphere has definitely improved their efficiency. “There is a feeling of openness. It is very conducive to work. I feel less tensed and taking a break from the computer screen to look at all those plants is soothing. We are also able to work better as a team.” says Sheeba from the purchase department. You can certainly feel the camaraderie and energy in the space. Fresh air and natural light really does do wonders.

Exploring the interiors

The interiors are simple with a neutral colour palette, creating a stark contrast to the flowering plants in the verandah. “The building is well crafted. I love the little gardens. You need to take small breaks from work and they help a lot. It has certainly contributed to the work culture here. The interiors give you enough lee way to be creative. Normally you are confined to your work space. Here you can move about. You won’t notice the heat of the summer while you are here” says Mr. Nandagopal, Senior GM Corporate Communications. From around 6 square feet per person in their old office the space is now ample for an employee and two visitors. Enough storage is provided at the desk. “We were really cramped in the three storied office before, though that meant I was familiar with every person from every department. Now each department has been segregated into different floors. It is not as easy to maintain contact but the refreshing feeling that the new office has is exemplary.  I don’t realize the time flying” says Sumesh, Marketing Manager who has been with the firm since 2004. Both Mr. Nanadagopal and Mr. Sumesh are vehement about the monsoons. They exclaim that the office is the best place to enjoy it and you can see the rain approaching from miles away.

Keeping active

The view of Cochin from the 12^th floor is breathtaking. The top floor is an open space with a garden, seating area and space for a gathering.  Competitions are held every year between teams from each floor. The staff declares it is a matter of pride and trophies are displayed in the winning floors. Team building activities and motivational seminars are conducted atleast twice a year. There are facilities for staff to play badminton. Yoga is conducted three days a week. A treadmill has been provided. Other facilities include guest rooms, a library, and an airy canteen.

The work culture inspired by the management and the architecture is exemplary. The encouraging and motivating atmosphere provided by the employer makes the employees proud to be part of the company. Their sense of loyalty and dedication is a result of that. There are employees who have been with V-Guard for over twenty years. The architecture inspires efficiency and productivity. V-Guard is planning another building with all the lessons learned from the Vennala office because where there are good spaces there are motivated people.

What to look at while designing offices

• Carryout a staff survey
• Do a utilization study
• Stress on increased ventilation and natural lighting
• Extra care must be paid to regulating intensity of task lighting and general lighting.
• No more windowless offices, introduce greenery
• Invest in ergonomic furniture
• Safety of staff should be a priority
• Relaxation areas and places to innovate
• Facilities for wholesome development
• A conducive atmosphere for work

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