The office of Studio Uli in Calicut is exemplary in reshaping the conventional and inviting all to experience a truly visionary workspace

Welcome to a space where boundaries blur, and collaboration takes centre stage – a hallmark of Studio Uli’s visionary approach. In the panorama of shared spaces, Studio Uli stands out as a rare gem. Unlike many, this architectural studio graciously invites the public into their workspace, embracing the ethos of collaboration.

Situated in the nucleus of the city, Studio Uli’s column-free collaborative space spans 4,500 sq.ft. and is located on the first floor of a five-storey building. “Studio Uli office is a place where we celebrate art, music, enriching conversations, and much more”, emphasises Ar. Mohammed Fazil, the principal architect of the architectural firm. “We wanted to create a space where burgeoning startups come together to share their inspiring stories, keeping us consistently informed and inspired”, he adds.

Their office design is a testament to this openness, a finely crafted environment fostering creativity and shared innovation. Greeting through an arched entrance, the frame gracefully widens, strategically tilted to reveal the reception’s central space upon arrival, avoiding the immediate view of room corners.

Adding to the enchantment, the room is adorned with two sculptures, Incanto and Alabris, fondly named by the designers, infusing an artistic aura into the space. Aesthetic sophistication prevails in this area, courtesy of the bespoke sculptural furniture boasting understated yet captivating hues and finishes.

Nestled right behind the reception, the amphitheatre emerges as the keystone space for collaborative endeavours within Studio Uli. Open for rental by anyone, this versatile area is designed to be multifunctional, facilitating a spectrum of social activities.

From engaging talks and public interactions to indoor games and captivating conversation series featuring professionals from diverse disciplines such as photographers, film-makers and artists, the amphitheatre serves as a dynamic hub. It also transforms effortlessly to host cultural events like movie screenings and art exhibitions, embodying Studio Uli’s commitment to cultivating dialogues within a shared and vibrant space.

Venturing deeper into the space reveals a workspace of remarkable heterogeneity, seamlessly blending various open and closed configurations. Enclosed cabins, designed for Studio Uli’s team members, stand as dedicated sanctuaries, strategically avoiding a connection to the ceiling. This innovative approach was adopted to address the challenge of low ceiling height while also imparting a sense of spaciousness, creating an intriguing visual effect.

The cabins appear as distinct objects within the overall space, contributing to an open and uncluttered ambiance. The outer surfaces of these alcoves double as curated canvases, providing a showcase for artists keen to display their creations. The studio’s essence of warmth gracefully unfolds through its carefully curated colour and material palette.

Immersed in a monochromatic spectrum of earthy hues and rustic finishes, it weaves a narrative of cozy charm, enveloping the space in a welcoming atmosphere. The walls come alive with the artisanal touch of local painters, skillfully applying custom-made dual-tone textured paints. Beneath, the cool oxide flooring, achieved through a clever blend of cement, marble powder, and titanium powder in precise proportions, creates a refreshing ambiance. Thoughtfully placed lighting fixtures in diverse forms grace the entirety of the space, casting a comforting glow and orchestrating a workspace that seamlessly merges practicality with a welcoming atmosphere.

Acknowledging the necessity for a peaceful retreat amid the active workspace, the designers intentionally fashioned a serene balcony. Positioned strategically to overlook the verdant surroundings, the space features a fibre pot that cradles the essence of a lotus pond. Around this aquatic poetry, silver-coated pouffes become silent companions, inviting one into a cocoon of tranquil repose.

The office caters to all essential facets of a modern workspace, housing a conference room for collaborative discussions, learner’s desks for skill development, a staff area for administrative tasks, and a congenial dining area fostering communal breaks and connections. The thoughtful integration of diverse working zones underscores Studio Uli’s commitment to providing a versatile and conducive environment for their team as well as outsiders.

In the spirit of generosity and innovation, Studio Uli has striven to weave together seamless creativity and collaborative ingenuity in every corner and detail of the workspace. Notably, it stands as one of its kind, pioneering the integration of public values and communal activities within its working confines.

FACT FILE

Name of the project: Studio Uli

Design Team and Designation:  Ar. Mohammed Fazil (Principal Architect), Safwan KC , Mohammed Shijil

Photography: Abhimanyu K V

Website: studio-uli.com

Location of the project: Calicut

Area (Sq.ft): 4500

The author is an Assistant Professor at School of Design and Innovation, RV University, Bengaluru